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Phillies look to continue winning ways

Jul 31, 2007 - 2:59 PM Philadelphia (56-49) at Chicago Cubs (55-49) 8:05 pm EDT

CHICAGO (Ticker) - The Philadelphia Phillies have won nine of their last 10 games and will try to continue their winning ways on Tuesday night against the Chicago Cubs.

The Phillies won the first game of the series on Monday, 4-1 handing Cubs starter Ted Lilly his first loss in seven decisions.

Despite the loss, the Cubs are still just one game behind the Milwaukee Brewers for first place in the National League Central Division. The loss was only the Cubs 10th over their past 33 games.

Evening the series could be difficult for the Cubs as Jason Marquis (7-6, 4.20 ERA) takes the mound on Tuesday. Marquis has faltered to a 2-2 record with a 6.67 ERA during July.

Adam Eaton (9-6, 5.83) will start for the Phillies on Tuesday. Despite a mediocre season, Eaton has pitched well against the Cubs in the past, posting a 5-2 record with a 4.31 ERA.

Eaton's chance for his 10th win was denied when the bullpen blew a 5-4 lead on July 26 against the Washington Nationals. Eaton may feel safer this time with the return of closer Brett Myers. Myers looks to be recovered from a shoulder injury which kept him out from May 23 until July 28. The former starter picked up the save on Monday, pitching a scoreless ninth inning.