PHILADELPHIA (AP) – Carlos Ruiz singled in the go-ahead run during a six-run eighth inning and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the New York Mets 7-5 Friday night for their fifth straight win.
The two-time NL champion Phillies, depleted by injuries to key players, moved within 1½ games of NL East-leading Atlanta with their 13th win in 15 games. The Braves hosted San Francisco on Friday.
Both starters pitched well, though neither stuck around for a decision. Chad Durbin (3-1) tossed a scoreless inning for the win. Bobby Parnell (0-1) didn’t retire any of the four batters he faced in the eighth.
After pinch-hitter Mike Hessman hit a three-run homer off J.C. Romero with two outs in the ninth, Brad Lidge got the final out for his 13th save in 17 chances.