"It's one of those little details that tends to pique curiosity without holding any real significance, but Charlie Manuel still prefers to keep his methodology top secret.

The Phillies will play a doubleheader today, with Kyle Kendrick getting the start in the early game and Roy Halladay pitching the nightcap.

So, why give Halladay the ball under the lights?

"Because we want him to pitch the night game," Manuel said without further explanation.

Manuel was playing his cards close to his chest, but Marlins manager Edwin Rodriguez had no trouble explaining the rationale behind sending veteran Anibal Sanchez to the mound for tonight's second game.

"He wants to face Halladay," Rodriguez said. "He was asking (several) days ago, if we knew where Halladay was pitching. When we found out, he said he wanted that game. He's up for the challenge. That's what it's all about."

Whatever the rationale for the decision-making, it sets up an intriguing pitcher's duel between Halladay (9-3, 2.39 ERA) and Sanchez (6-1, 3.06 ERA).

But don't expect the ambiance to play much of a role in the outcome.

Pitching coach Rich Dubee said he often leaves the day/night decision up to his pitcher, but in Halladay's case, the scales didn't tip too far in either direction.

In his career, Halladay is 66-28 with a 3.32 ERA and a .254 opponent's batting average during day games and 112-61 with a 3.26 ERA and a .253 opponent's batting average after dark.

"The numbers are pretty good in the day," Dubee said. "The numbers are good at night. I don't think it really matters."

What will be significant for the Phillies, who are in the midst of playing four games in a 48-hour span before departing for the West Coast, is getting a strong start from both pitchers today.

A rainout on April 16 forced today's twin bill, and the timing couldn't be worse. They Phillies will play another day game Thursday before hopping on a plane for Seattle, where they'll take on the Mariners on Friday night."