Manuel tabs Blanton to start Game 4 of World Series

Sports Network | October 30, 2009

Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel has tabbed Joe Blanton to start Game 4 of the World Series, opting against putting Cliff Lee in after only three days' rest.

Manuel chose Blanton to pitch because of his experience last year, when he earned the win in Game 4 against the Rays. Blanton pitched six innings and gave up two runs while adding a home run at the plate.

"Blanton fits for us because I think we want to keep (J.A.) Happ in the bullpen," Manuel said of the decision between starting Blanton or Happ in Game 4. "Also, Joe pitched last year in the World Series, and he's got a little bit more experience."

Lee, Manuel cited, has never pitched on short rest in his career and has thrown a lot of innings this season. The southpaw compiled 231 2/3 innings of work in the regular season -- fifth most in the majors -- and 33 1/3 more innings in the postseason, most among all players.

The reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, Lee pitched a complete game in the opening contest of the World Series, as the Phillies won, 6-1.

"(Lee) hasn't pitched on three days' rest, although I talked to him and he told me he had, or I thought he did," Manuel said. "I also like him in Game 5 because we've got an off day Tuesday. If it goes seven games or something, that would be on his bullpen day, and he might be able to pitch."

Blanton has made one postseason start this year, pitching to a no-decision in Game 4 against the Dodgers. The righty allowed four runs -- three earned -- in six innings, and the Phillies rallied in the ninth to win the game, 5-4, and take a commanding three games to one series lead.

The 28-year-old Blanton also made two relief appearances in the NLDS against Colorado, allowing two runs in 3 2/3 innings pitched. He went 2-0 in three starts in the 2008 postseason, when the Phillies won the World Series.

The World Series is currently tied, 1-1, with Yankees starter and top all-time postseason winner Andy Pettitte slated to take on Phillies starter and 2008 World Series MVP Cole Hamels in Game 3, which takes place at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on Saturday.