It’s only March, but the Phillies’ rotation is living up to expectations. Three starters have taken the mound this spring. They have a collective earned-run average of zero. Roy Halladay worked two scoreless innings in a 6-3 win yesterday over the Toronto Blue Jays. The reigning NL Cy Young winner threw just 25 pitches — 18 for strikes — while striking out one. Placido Polanco paced the offense, driving in two runs and scoring another. Carlos Ruiz went 1-for-2 with an RBI double. Five of the Phillies’ eight hits came in a three-run fourth. So, a quick review: Cole Hamels allowed a run in two innings this past Saturday, but it was unearned. On Sunday, fifth starter Joe Blanton threw three scoreless, no-hit innings. Next up, Cliff Lee. He’ll take the mound today.Extra bases» Big BenOutfielder Ben Francisco served as DH, going 1-for-2 with an RBI. John Mayberry started at first base. Ryan Howard had the day off.» Second opinionWith Chase Utley (knee) hurt, Wilson Valdez started at second and batted ninth. He walked and scored.» No showdownKyle Drabek, centerpiece of the Roy Halladay deal, was scheduled to start for the Jays. But he was scratched with soreness in his neck.
