THE COLE, HARD FACTS
Phils say Hamels is not soft, they dictate when he pitches
LOS ANGELES - "Soft?" Phillies coach Rich Dubee said that night, nearly spitting out the mouthful of adult beverage he had just sipped. "Cole? If anything, he's the exact opposite."
It was about 2 weeks ago, after Cole Hamels two-hit the Milwaukee Brewers over eight innings in the National League Division Series. The guy is closing in on 250 innings for the season; he is the Phillies' undisputed ace. He has been great in his two previous playoff starts and will take the ball in tomorrow's Game 5.
JERRY LODRIGUSS / Staff photographer
Cole Hamels says he's eager to take ball on short rest - when Phils say time is right.
