Phillies starting pitcher Cole Hamels was solid for the second start in a row Thursday against the Cardinals, but the 29-year-old still does not have a win this season.
Hamels tossed his second quality start in a row, limiting the Cardinals to three earned runs in seven innings of work, but was not in line for a win by the time he left. He fell behind early, allowing a two-run double by Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina in the fourth inning, but the Phillies were able to work their way back from that deficit. Hamels allowed one more run in his seventh and final inning of work, and he earned a no-decision in a 4-3 loss.
Hamels struck out eight batters and walked two in his seven innings, while giving up five hits. He threw 66 of 98 pitches for strikes.
Hamels is 0-2 through four starts, with a 6.46 ERA and 20 strikeouts in 23 2/3 innings of work. Hamels will make his next start Tuesday against the Pirates, one of the league's lesser offenses. Pittsburgh ranks 25th in the majors with 51 runs scored in 14 games.