OK.  While it may not be quite this bad, something has to be said for their general lack of offense.  And let’s just say it really is this simple: better pitch selection.

Without getting into the technical jargon that A-Team loves and fondles himself to enjoys thoroughly, there is statistical evidence that the Phillies simply need to start swinging at shit in the zone.  Last year, they swung at only 24.5% of pitches outside the zone.  This year, they’ve dropped to a 27.7% mark, as part of a league-wide hackfest.  Unfortunately enough for the Phils, they’re also making contact with more junk outside of the zone.  Last year – 60.4%.  This year – 68.4%.  More crappy pitches being popped up and driven into the dirt.

Sure, some of this can be attributed to the slump.  Let’s not forget about Ryan Howard’s sudden lack of power, Jayson Werth’s journey into the abyss, Rollins being out for damn near forever, Rauuuuuuuuuuuul remembering his age, and Chooch loving too much ice cream on the sidelines, rather than on the field.  But most of all, shit happens.