PHILADELPHIA, July 6 (UPI) -- Brian McCann's grand slam homer highlighted a five-run eighth inning Friday that lifted Atlanta to a 5-0 triumph over Philadelphia.
The outcome spoiled the return of Philadelphia first baseman Ryan Howard, who had not played since the concluding game of the Phillies' 2011 season.
Tim Hudson (7-4) and two relievers combined on the shutout. Hudson threw only 79 pitches through seven innings and was lifted for a pinch-hitter to start the eighth in a scoreless game.
Atlanta loaded the bases with two away in the eighth against Antonio Bastardo (2-3) and Freddie Freeman drew a walk to force in a run. That brought up McCann, who hit an 0-1 pitch over the wall in center.
Howard, the National League MVP in 2006, tore an Achilles tendon while running to first base as the final out in a series-ending loss to eventual World Series champion St. Louis in last year's playoffs.
He had a double and single Friday, but Philadelphia produced just three other hits while losing for the eighth time in nine games.
