Every game is huge this time of year if you are in a pennant race. Heading into tonight’s game against the Cardinals, the Phils trail the Mets by 2 1/2 games in the division and the Padres by 1 1/2 in the wildcard.

Following a 3-game sweep of the Mets and an offensive explosion in the opening game against the Cardinals, tonight’s game might just decide the fate of the Phillies’ season. Yes, just one game, with plenty still to go.

That’s because ace Cole Hamels returns to the mound for the first time since coming off injured reserve with a strained left elbow.

If his arm is recovered and effective, that gives the Phillies a much needed starter who not only can get wins (he has 14 despite missing a month), but can go deep in games so the Phillies don’t have to use the worst bullpen in the majors (blew an 11-0 lead last night).

Hamels is expected to have a limited pitch count of 65-70 pitches tonight, which inevitably means he’ll be handing the ball off to one of the inept relievers before Brett Meyers might get the call (hopefully ~ because that will mean it’s for a save).

So tonight could still be a loss on the scoreboard ~ but a good one. Because what’s more important than a win tonight for the Phillies is a post-game report on Hamels’ left arm that is a winner.

Jon Buzby is a nationally-syndicated columnist who can be reached through his website at www.jonbuzby.com.