Sept. 1 -- SHOULDERING ON

MIAMI GARDENS -- Kyle Kendrick did it again.

For the 10th time in 15 starts since being rushed to the majors in June from double-A Reading, Kendrick put forth a quality start for the Phillies. OK, so, he got substantial run support and beat the free-falling Marlins last night. But, after six relievers appeared in Thursday's epic, sweep-clinching win over the Mets, Kendrick gave the Phillies exactly what they needed with seven solid innings.

For a while, though, it looked like he may not make it out of the second. Batting with runners on the corners, Kendrick squared to bunt and took a fastball from wild Marlins starter Sergio Mitre off the right shoulder. As you can see from this picture, Kendrick winced and grabbed his arm as he walked to first base.

Turns out, it looked worse than it was.

Equally painful was the ribbing Kendrick received from teammates who mocked his (over)reaction to getting hit. Brett Myers said he looked like a Little Leaguer who was about to cry. As Kendrick walked around the clubhouse after the game, Aaron Rowand, who leads the majors in being hit by pitches 18 times, squealed, "Something bit me."

Kendrick just shrugged. As long as he keeps pitching this well, his teammates can say whatever they want.

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Within the notebook, there are more details about Cole Hamels' injury. Sounded to me like Hamels is more worried about it than the Phillies are.

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I'll try to find out more today, but Scott Mathieson left last night's game for Reading after only six pitches and complained of elbow discomfort. That would be a blow to the Phillies, who are hoping Mathieson can help their bullpen down the stretch. Mathieson is 11 months removed from "Tommy John" elbow ligament replacement surgery.

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You won't want to miss tomorrow's game. Phillies hater Scott Olsen will start for the Marlins. Olsen, by the way, has entered a six-month pre-trial diversion program that will give him a chance to avoid trial on fleeing and eluding police and resisting arrest without violence. Olsen still faces a charge of driving under the influence July 21. Part of the diversion program involves Olsen participating in anger-management classes. Last September, Olsen said he "hates" the Phillies.