Rowand wears a splint on his nose and the skin under his left eye is cut, reddened and bruised like he went a few rounds with an in-his-prime Mike Tyson.

Rowand's cosmetic change was nearly as glaring as the top of the center field wall. The padding that was ordered at Rowand's request earlier this year was finally installed, likely leaving Rowand in the game - and without the facial lacerations - the next time he runs face-first into the wall.

That attitude didn't come overnight. Rowand played linebacker in high school, once ran into a cinderblock wall during his college career at Cal State-Fullerton and was a fan favorite after helping the White Sox win the World Series last year.

Pitching is also playing a role in the Phillies' resurgence. Tom Gordon, who replaced opinionated Billy Wagner as the closer, has 13 saves in 14 chances with 1.53 ERA. The starting rotation has allowed only one run in their last four starts (25 2-3 innings), and got a huge lift with the addition of top prospect Cole Hamels.

"Whatever little things can happen, it's happening for us," Gordon said. "It seems like everyone is trying to chip in and help this team win a ball game."

They've done it with several players ailing, too. Besides Rowand, Bobby Abreu (back spasms) and Mike Lieberthal (injured knee) have missed time, and Ryan Howard hit two homers Sunday after a late-night trip to the emergency room because of a stomach illness.

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