Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - Pinch-hitter Jim Thome's homer in the
bottom of the ninth inning lifted the Philadelphia Phillies over the Tampa Bay
Rays, 7-6, on Saturday.
Jonathan Papelbon (2-2) blew his first save of the season in the top of the
ninth after giving up two runs. But Thome led off the bottom of the frame
with a blast to left off Jake McGee (2-2) to make Papelbon the winning
pitcher.
Juan Pierre hit a three-run homer for the Phillies, who have won three of
four since a three-game skid. Jimmy Rollins hit a two-run home run and Carlos
Ruiz had an RBI.
Philadelphia starter Kyle Kendrick gave up three runs -- two earned -- on six
hits over four innings.
Jeff Keppinger, who was activated from the disabled list on Friday, went 5-
for-5 with three RBI and a run scored. James Shields, Sean Rodriguez and
Brooks Conrad each knocked in a run.
Shields allowed five runs on seven hits in a five-inning start. He struck out
seven and walked one.
Rain derailed the opener of this three-game series Friday, causing a day-night
doubleheader to be played Sunday.
The Sports Network