Game 57: The band is back together

PITTSBURGH -- Enough about the roster. This is what you really care about: For the first time all season, Charlie Manuel can write out a lineup with eight players he calls regulars.

The result is this:

1. Jimmy Rollins 6
2. Placido Polanco 5
3. Chase Utley 4
4. Ryan Howard 3
5. Shane Victorino 8
6. Raul Ibanez 7
7. Domonic Brown 9
8. Carlos Ruiz 2
9. Cole Hamels 1

He goes with Victorino fifth and that breaks up the three lefties (Utley, Howard, Ibanez) in the middle. Brown earns a start; he should play all weekend with three righties on the mound for Pittsburgh. Jeff Karstens (3-4, 3.58) is starting tonight.

It's the 38th lineup Manuel has filled out in 57 games, but needless to say, this one has the most promise.

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