Brett Myers 2.0

For only the second time in the history of the franchise, the Phillies have opened up a 2-0 lead in a playoff series, thanks in large part to costly Brewer errors, a gem hurled by Cole Hamels in Game 1, and timely Phillie hits in Game 2. But they wouldn't be where they are without last night's outstanding performance from their enigmatic Opening-Day starter Brett Myers.

The same Brett Myers who was almost run out of town on a rail when he was accused of domestic violence in Boston in 2006.

The same Brett Myers who was closing games for the 2007 Phillies.

The same Brett Myers who verbally sparred with the media, including his regrettable "retard" comment made after blowing a save last year.

The same Brett Myers who was optioned to the minors after struggling as a starter through April, May, and June.

Myers threw seven innings of two hit ball, surrendering two runs while striking out four. Perhaps more impressive was the way Myers reacted in the face of early adversity. Myers loaded the bases and walked in a run in the first, the 32nd first-inning run allowed by Myers this season. Erratic as he has been at times, it wouldn't have been surprising to see Myers try to make a perfect pitch and give up a bases-clearing double putting the Phils in an insurmountable hole.

Instead, Myers buckled down and induced an inning-ending 1-2-3 double play, which set the stage for Shane Victorino's heroics.

He also gave the Brewers fits at the plate, extending the second inning with a walk after an nine-pitch battle with Milwaukee ace CC Sabathia in advance of Victorino's grand slam. He came back with a ten-pitch at bat off Sabathia, who could ill-afford so many pitches throwing on three days' rest.

There's really no way to quantify what changed for Myers. Was he more prepared for the playoff stage after having played in the post-season last year? Was he hurt at the beginning of this season, as speculated in some circles? Did he rediscover his mechanics during his stint on the farm? Hard to say. All I know is, the Brett Myers who pitched the Phillies to a lead in this series had a different air about him, an air of unwavering confidence.

So maybe he's not the same Brett Myers after all.