Die Hard Sports Fan

The New York Mets (22-22) are playing Game 45 of the 2008 Regular Season against the Atlanta Braves (25-21) at Turner Field.  It’s the final game of the four-game series.  The game began at 7:00 p.m., and it was aired on SNY.

Mets Lineup: Reyes, Castillo, Wright, Beltran, Delgado, Anderson, Schneider, Chavez, Santana.

Braves Lineup: Infante, Kotsay, Jones, Teixeira, Francoeur, McCann, Diaz, Johnson, Hudson.

At the Plate

Tim Hudson (6-3) was the starting pitcher for the Braves.  In the Top of the 1st, Hudson pitched a 1-2-3 inning.  Hudson gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 1st Inning.  In the Top of the 2nd, Carlos Beltran belted a solo shot to deep right field.  Carlos Delgado hit an opposite field homer to deep left on the very next pitch by Hudson (The Carlos’ were in the lineup back-to-back, and they hit back-to-back homers).  Anderson dropped a bunt down towards third, and McCann made the out at first.  Hudson caught Schneider looking at strike three.  Chavez hit a two-out opposite field bloop double to left.  Santana grounded to short, and Infante made the out at first to end the inning.  Hudson gave up 3 Hits, 2 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 2nd Inning.  In the Top of the 3rd, Hudson retired the side with three ground balls.  Hudson gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 3rd Inning.  In the Top of the 4th, Hudson retired the side for the second inning in a row.  Hudson gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 4th Inning.  In the Top of the 5th, Hudson now retired the side for the third straight inning.  Hudson gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 5th Inning.  Hudson gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 5th Inning.  In the Top of the 6th, Castillo lined a one-out single into left field.  Wright grounded to second, and the Braves turned the inning ending double play.  Hudson gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 6th Inning.  In the Top of the 7th, Beltran grounded a leadoff single up the middle.  With Delgado at the plate, Beltran beat the throw as he stole second.  Delgado popped up to center, and Kotsay made the catch so Beltran stayed put.  Anderson grounded to short, and Beltran got caught in a rundown but bought enough time to allow Anderson to get to second.  Schneider grounded out to second leaving Anderson stranded on second.  Hudson gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 7th Inning.  In the Top of the 8th, Church lined a pinch hit leadoff single into right.  Reyes grounded the ball down the third base line, and McCann misfielded it so Reyes beat it out and Church advanced to second.  Castillo grounded to the pitcher, and the Braves turned the inning ending double play.  Hudson gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 8th Inning.  Hudson left the game after pitching 8.0 Innings allowing 7 Hits, 2 Runs, 2 ER, 0 BBs, and he had 4 SOs.

Cox replaced Hudson with Manny Acosta to begin the Top of the 9th.  Wright lined a leadoff single into left.  Beltran lined to second, and Wright got doubled up diving back to first.  Acosta gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 9th Inning.

Cox replaced Acosta with Will Ohman with two outs in the Top of the 9th.  Delgado lined out to center to end the game.  gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 9th Inning.

On the Mound

Johan Santana (5-2) was the starting pitcher for the Mets.  In the Bottom of the 1st, Kotsay grounded a one-out single up the middle.  Jones grounded to short, and the Mets turned the inning ending double play.  Santana gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 1st Inning.  In the Bottom of the 2nd, Teixeira hit a high chopper in front of the plate which caused Schneider (Error on Brian Schneider) to misfield it so the Braves have a leadoff runner.  Francoeur lined out to the left, and Anderson hit the wall as he made the catch.  McCann flied out to right.  Diaz grounded a two-out single through the hole on the right side, and Teixeira advanced to second.  Kelly Johnson grounded to second, and Castillo dove to make the stop and threw the ball offline to Schneider as Mark Teixeira came home and Diaz went to third.  Santana got Hudson looking at strike three to end the inning leaving two runners on the corners.  Santana gave up 2 Hits, 1 Run, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 2nd Inning.  In the Bottom of the 3rd, Jones grounded a two-out single through the hole on the right side.  Teixeira grounded a two-out single through the hole on the left side, and Jones went to second.  Francoeur lined out to left to end the inning.  Santana gave up 2 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 3rd Inning.  In the Bottom of the 4th, Johnson dropped a two-out single into shallow center.  Hudson grounded back to the pitcher, and Santana made the out at first to end the inning.  Santana gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 4th Inning.  In the Bottom of the 5th, Santana pitched a 1-2-3 inning.  Santana gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 5th Inning.  In the Bottom of the 6th, McCann grounded a two-out single up the middle.  Diaz grounded to third, and Wright got the force out at second to end the inning.  Santana gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, an he had 0 SOs in the 6th Inning.  In the Bottom of the 7th, Johnson lined a leadoff double into center.  Hudson dropped down a bunt towards third, and Santana made the out at first as Johnson advanced to third.  Omar Infante hit a one-out RBI single into center which scored Kelly Johnson.  With Kotsay in the batters box, Santana threw a wild pitch so Infante went to second.  Kotsay grounded a one-out single through the hole on the right side, and Infante advanced to third.  Chipper Jones lined a RBI single into right so Omar Infante scored and Kotsay went first to third.  Mark Teixeira lined an RBI single into left which scored Mark Kotsay and Jones advanced to second.  Francoeur grounded to the pitcher, and the Mets turned the inning ending double play.  Santana gave up 5 Hits, 3 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 7th Inning.  Santana left the game after pitching 7.0 Innings allowing 12 Hits, 4 Runs, 3 ER, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO.

Randolph replaced Santana with Pedro Feliciano to begin the Bottom of the 8th.  Feliciano pitched a 1-2-3 inning to give the Mets one more shot down two runs.  Feliciano gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 2 SOs in the 8th Inning.

Final Score: New York Mets 2 - Atlanta Braves 4.  The MLB.com Box Score is attached.  Johan Santana (5-3) got the loss and Tim Hudson (7-3) got the win.

Game Notes:

• The Carlos‘ hit back-to-back solo shots in the 2nd Inning.
• Santana gave up 12 Hits which is the most in his MLB career.
• The Mets were unable to manufacture runs in the 7th, 8th, and 9th Innings when runners were in scoring position.
• The Braves were able to manufacture 3 runs in the 7th Inning which was enough for them.

Series Notes:

• The Braves swept the Mets in this 4-game series.
• The Braves have outscored the Mets 27-9 in this series, which is pathetic.

Other Notes:

• Since May 1st, this is the Mets trend: w-l-w-l-l-w-w-l-w-l-w-l-l-w-w-l-l-l-l.
• It is the first time this month that the Mets lost 4 straight games.
• The Mets are now under .500 with a 22-23 record.

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Somehow, the Mets need to figure out how to win tonight so they can get back above .500.  They already got smoked three times by the Braves in this series.  They keep losing, all of this drama is going on with Willie, Church had a concussion on Tuesday, and Alou left last night’s game which makes all of this even worse.  I guess this is more my fault than the Mets fault.  In 2007 and 2008, I actually had high expectations for them.  The Mets had the biggest collapse in MLB history in ‘07, and it isn’t very sunny these days in Queens.  I’ve always been a pessimistic Mets fan so the Mets always exceded my expectations, except last year and this year.  It made me happy when I watched them because I didn’t think that they were capable of making it to October baseball.  I get really amped when they make the Playoffs.  When they go deep into the Playoffs like in ‘99, ‘00, or ‘06, it raises expectations for the franchise.  The Mets have never been an organization that has been able to sustain success over an extended period of time so it’s my fault for buying into what they are selling.  I will go back to being the old Keith, and expect nothing.  If they do nothing then I won’t get all worked up.  If they do something then I will get pumped up.

Mets.com:

Wright expresses dismay at losses - Marty Noble summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Mets need to replace outfield duo - Ryan Lavner put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Grogginess clears for Church - “Less than 24 hours after he suffered an apparent concussion, the Mets’ starting right fielder said he was free of concussion symptoms and concern about his latest medical episode.”

Alou leaves early with left calf strain - Marty Noble reported that Moises Alou left last night’s game in the fourth inning.  “The club announced shortly thereafter that Alou had a strained left calf. The outfielder will be heading back to New York for an MRI on Thursday.”

Randolph apologizes for recent remarks

Newsday:

Fan dies after fall at Braves-Mets game - The AP reported, “Alcohol was a factor in the death of a 25-year-old man who fell down a stairwell at Turner Field during the game between the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets.”  Whatta shame.  The guys fell off the escalator at Shea, and now a guy fell down a stairwell at Turner Field.

Mets’ Randolph sorry about inflammatory comments

Mets, Pelfrey no match for Braves in 11-4 loss - David Lennon also summarized last night’s Mets-Braves games.

New York Daily News:

Mets blasted by Braves again as Willie Randolph back-pedals - Adam Rubin wrote up a game summary for last night’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Man dies from injuries in fall at Turner Field during Mets Braves game

Willie Randolph apologizes to Mets, SNY

Ryan Church is OK to play

New York Post:

GETTIN’ UGLY

DAMAGE CONTROL - Willie Randolph is sorry for SNY flap and remarks on race.

PEDRO’S DAD HAD SEIZURE

THERE’S NO DOUBLE STANDARD - IT’S ABOUT WINNING

PEDRO’S RETURN ‘ON HOLD’

WILLIE SAYS HE’S SORRY

New York Times:

Mets Lose in Nine, but Their Misery Goes Extra Innings - Ray Glier summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

‘Unnecessary Distraction’ Brings Randolph Apology

With Mild Concussion, A Met Hopes to Return

The Star-Ledger:

Instant replay on the horizon in MLB?

Pedro: Not so fast

Mets fall to .500 with loss

Mets’ Randolph issues apology

Concussions a concern

Wrapping up from Turner Field - Jeremy Cothran is thinking out loud about what’s wrong with the Mets.

Final: Braves 11, Mets 4 - Jeremy Cothran summarized last night’s Mets-Braves game.

Alou leaves game

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The New York Mets (22-21) are playing Game 44 of the 2008 Regular Season against the Atlanta Braves (24-21) at Turner Field.  It’s the third game of the four-game series.  The game began at 7:00 p.m., and it was aired on SNY.

Mets Lineup: Reyes, Chavez, Wright, Beltran, Alou, Delgado, Schneider, Castillo, Pelfrey.

Braves Lineup: Infante, Kotsay, Jones, Teixeira, McCann, Francoeur, Johnson, Blanco, Jurrjens.

At the Plate

Jair Jurrjens (4-3) was the starting pitcher for the Braves.  In the Top of the 1st, Reyes grounded a leadoff single through the hole on the left side.  Chavez popped up to left, and Blance made the catch.  With Wright at the plate, Reyes beat out the throw by McCann as he stole second.  Wright lined out to second, and Reyes dove back to second safely to avoid the double play.  Beltran grounded to first, and Teixeira tagged the bag to end the inning leaving Reyes stranded on second.  Jurrjens gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 1st Inning.  In the Top of the 2nd, Delgado drew a one-out walk on four straight pitches.  Schneider grounded to second, and Delgado blocked Johnson’s (Error on Kelly Johnson) view of the ball as he was running to second so Schneider ended up on second and Delgado ended up on third.  Jurrjens fanned Castillo (Castillo has to be able to drive in runners in scoring position when the pitcher is up next).  Pelfrey grounded to the pitcher, and the ball deflected to short so Infante made the out at first leaving Mets on second and third.  Jurrjens gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 1 SO in the 2nd Inning.  In the Top of the 3rd, Reyes grounded a leadoff single through the hole on the right side.  With Chavez at the plate, Reyes beat out the throw by McCann as he stole second base.  Chavez grounded out to first, and Reyes moved over to third.  David Wright lined an RBI single into center which scored Jose Reyes.  Beltran grounded to second, and the Braves turned the inning ending double play.  Jurrjens gave up 2 Hits, 1 Run, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 3rd Inning.  In the Top of the 4th, (SNY reported that Alou left with a cramp in the left leg) Jurrjens pitched his first 1-2-3 inning of the game.  Jurrjens gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 4th Inning.  In the Top of the 5th, Reyes drew a two-out walk.  Chavez grounded to short, and Infante made the flip to Johnson to get the force out.  Jurrjens gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 5th Inning.  In the Top of the 6th, Beltran grounded a one-out single up the middle.  Anderson popped up to shallow center, and Infante made the catch.  Delgado flied out to right leaving Beltran stranded on first.  Jurrjens gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 6th Inning.  In the Top of the 7th, Castillo beat out a ground ball to short that took a bad hop to give the Mets a one-out base runner.  Tatis is pinch hitting for Feliciano, and Tatis grounded to third and beat it out because part of the bat ended up near Jones (Error on Chipper Jones) so Jones misplayed the ball while Castillo advanced to second.  Jose Reyes grounded to second, and Johnson made the out at second but Infante made a bad throw to first so Reyes ended up on second while Luis Castillo came around to score.  Chavez flied out to right to end the inning leaving Reyes stranded on second.  Jurrjens gave up 1 Hit, 1 Run, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 7th Inning.  Jurrjens left the game after pitching 7.0 Innings allowing 5 Hits, 2 Runs, 1 ER, 2 BBs, and he had 1 SO.

Cox replaced Jurrjens with Jeff Bennett to begin the Top of the 8th.  Wright grounded to third, and Gotay did not field it properly so Wright ended up with a leadoff single.  Carlos Beltran lined a no-out RBI double down the left field line which scored David Wright.  Anderson grounded to first, and Teixeira tagged first as Beltran advanced to third.  Carlos Delgado grounded to first, and Teixeira tagged first as Carlos Beltran came home.  Schneider grounded out to second to end the inning.  Bennett gave up 2 Hits, 2 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 8th Inning.

Cox replaced Bennett with Chris Resop to begin the Top of the 9th.  Resop quicly slammed the door on the Mets by pitching a 1-2-3 inning.  Resop gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 9th Inning.

On the Mound

Mike Pelfrey (2-4) was the starting pitcher for the Mets.  In the Bottom of the 1st, Pelfrey walked Jones on four pitches.  Teixeira flied out to the warning track in right to end the inning with Jones on first.  Pelfrey gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 1st Inning.  In the Bottom of the 2nd, Pelfrey hit Franceour with the pitch to give the Braves a one-out base runner.  Johnson grounded a one-out single through the hole on the right side, and Franceour advanced to second.  Blanco worked the count full before Pelfrey struck him out looking.  Jurrjens grounded to second, and Castillo made the out at first leaving two Braves on first and second.  Pelfrey gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 2nd Inning.  In the Bottom of the 3rd, (Anderson replaced Alou) Jones drew a two-out walk.  Teixeira grounded to second and beat out the throw for a two-out single, and Jones went first to third.  Brian McCann drove a two-out 2-run double that one-hopped the wall in right center scoring Chipper Jones and Mark Teixeira.  Jeff Franceour drove a two-out RBI triple off of the left field wall which scored Brian McCann.  Johnson popped up in foul ground along the third base line, and Wright made the final out of the inning leaving Franceour stranded on third.  Pelfrey gave up 3 Hits, 3 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 1 SO in the 3rd Inning.  In the Bottom of the 4th, Infante hit a two-out bloop single into center.  Kotsay grounded to second, and Castillo made the toss to Reyes for the force out.  Pelfrey gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 4th Inning.  In the Bottom of the 5th, Chipper Jones led off the inning with a solo shot to dead center.  Teixeira pulled a no-out double down the right field line, and Teixeira ended up on third because Chavez (Error on Endy Chavez) misplayed the ball.  McCann drew a no-out walk.  Jeff Francoeur lined a no-out RBI single through the hole on the left side which scored Mark Teixeira, and McCann moved over to second.  Pelfrey gave up 3 Hits, 3 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 5th Inning.  Pelfrey left the game after pitching 4.0 Innings allowing 8 Hits, 6 Runs, 6 ER, 3 BBs, and he had 2 SOs.

Randolph replaced Pelfrey with Pedro Feliciano with no outs in the Bottom of the 5th.  Johnson drew a no-out walk to load the bases.  Gregor Blanco hit a sacrifice fly, and Brian McCann tagged up and scored and Franceour tagged up and advanced to third.  Jurrjens dropped down a bunt towards the pitcher, and Feliciano got the runners to hold up before making the out at first.  Feliciano intentionally walked Infante to load the bases.  Kotsay grounded to short, and Reyes made the throw to Delgado who tagged out Kotsay to end the inning full of ugly Braves.  Feliciano gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 2 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 5th Inning.  In the Bottom of the 6th, McCann grounded a two-out single through the hole on the left side.  Jeff Francoeur blasted a two-out 2-run shot to left center scoring Brian McCann.  Johnson grounded out to first to end the inning.  Feliciano gave up 2 Hits, 2 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 6th Inning.  Feliciano left the game after pitching 2.0 Innings allowing 2 Hits, 2 Runs, 2 ER, 2 BBs, and he had 0 SOs.

Randolph replaced Feliciano with Joe Smith to begin the Bottom of the 7th.  Norton drew a one-out walk.  Infante worked himself into a full count before he drew a one-out walk.  Smith gave up 0 Hits, 2 Runs, 2 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 7th Inning.

Randolph replaced Smith with Scott Schoeneweis with one out in the Bottom of the 7th.  Kotsay flied out to center.  Schoeneweis hit Jones with the pitch so the bases are loaded (Gotay came in to pinch run for Jones).  Mark Teixeira pulled a two-out bases clearing double down the left field line which scored Greg Norton, Omar Infante, and Ruben Gotay.  McCann grounded to the pitcher and the ball deflected towards second, and Chavez flipped the ball to Delgado but Delgado could not catch it so McCann ended up with a single and Teixeira went to third.  Franceour lined out to second to end the inning with runners on the corners.  Schoeneweis gave up 2 Hits, 1 Run, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 7th Inning.

Randolph replaced Schoeneweis with Billy Wagner to begin the Bottom of the 8th.  Johnson led off with a pop fly single to shallow center.  Blanco drew a no-out walk.  Diaz grounded a no-out single through the hole on the left side, and Johnson went to third and Blanco went to second.  Infante popped up behind the plate, and Schneider made the out.  Wagner fanned Kotsay.  Gotay grounded to short leaving the bases full of Braves.  Wagner gave up 2 Hits, 0 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 1 SO in the 8th Inning.

Final Score: New York Mets 4 - Atlanta Braves 11.  The MLB.com Box Score is attached.  Mike Pelfrey (2-5) took the loss and Jair Jurrjens (5-3) got the win.

Game Notes:

• Big Pelf only pitched 4 innings.
• Reyes, Wright, and Beltran had 2 hits each.
• Mets pitchers hit 2 batters today: Francoeur and Larry.
• During the game, SNY had a text poll with this question: So far in 2008, do you think the Mets are:
  a) underachieving. or
  b) are as good as their record says they are
  74% of Mets fans stated that the Mets are underachieving.  I believe that it is a combination of the two, but more in favor of option b.  I believe Reyes, Wright, and Beltran will get hot, but I don’t feel that way about others like Delgado or Castillo.  The starters haven’t been horrible this year, but the bullpen has which was the problem in ‘07.

Series Notes:

• The Mets already lost the series to the Braves, and the Mets will get swept if they lose tomorrow.
• The Braves have outscored the Mets 23-7 which is pathetic.

Other Notes:

• Since May 1st, this is the Mets trend: w-l-w-l-l-w-w-l-w-l-w-l-l-w-w-l-l-l.
• It is the first time this month that the Mets lost 3 straight games.
• The Mets are back to .500 with a 22-22 record.

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I’m trying to remain positive with my boys from Queens.  The Mets swept the Yankees which was fun, but Willie keeps talking and the media is over-doing the situation.   It seems like each writer for each newspaper had to write their own article on Willie.  That’s too much.  Willie keeps making it worse though.

On the day that Mike Piazza announced his retirement, the Mets got swept by the Braves in a double header.  Fred Wilpon released this statement on Piazza,

On behalf of everyone at the Mets we salute Mike for his Hall of Fame caliber accomplishments in our game and with our team. Mike electrified New York City and energized our franchise after we acquired him in 1998. He was an integral part of our 2000 National League Championship club. Mike played the game with passion, class and heart — symbolic of our city. We wish Mike, his wife, Alicia, and daughter Nicoletta all health and happiness as he begins a new chapter in his life.

The Mets need to come out with some fight and even up this series.  They already had a bad record against the Braves this year, and it just got even worse yesterday.

Mets.com:

Pedro leaves Mets to be with ill father - Pedro Martinez was supposed to throw in a bullpen session on Wednesday, but he “returned to the Dominican Republic on Wednesday morning after receiving word that the condition of Pablo Martinez had worsened. The Mets had no sense of how the latest development would affect the schedule for Martinez’s return to active duty.”

Mets need Mylanta in Atlanta with loss - Marty Noble summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Mets look to muster support for Pelfrey - Marty Noble put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Dazed Church heads to hospital for tests - “Mets right fielder Ryan Church was hospitalized on Tuesday night after suffering a mild concussion in the ninth inning of the Mets’ 6-2 loss to the Braves.”  I saw the collission between Church and Escobar, but I wasn’t sure if he suffered a concussion.  That’s very unfortunate because he suffered one in Spring Training also.  Hopefully he recovers relatively quickly.

Mets remember Piazza as fearsome - Former teammates and opponents recall the newly retired Mike Piazza’s forceful swing

Piazza made many proud over career - Former Dodgers GM Fred Claire reflects on Mike Piazza’s Hall of Fame career.

Newsday:

Pedro returns to Dominican to be with ill father

Mets swept by Braves; Church injured again - David Lennon summarized both games of yesterday’s day/night double header between the Mets and the Braves.

Randolph doesn’t need to be old-school fiery

SNY baffled by Willie’s comments

Randolph not adjusting well to his own city

Randolph backtracks from comments about racism

Piazza made Mets matter while Yankees owned N.Y.

Mets’ Randolph not laid back about being passive

New York Daily News:

Pedro Martinez headed to Dominican Republic to be with ailing father

Ryan Church gets bell rung, Mets swept by Braves in doubleheader - Adam Rubin summarized both game of the Mets-Braves day/night double header.

Willie Randolph manages to keep heat on self

Willie Randolph tries to back off race charge

New York Post:

DOUBLE WHAMMY - Bart Hubbuch summarized both of yesterday’s Mets-Braves games too.

NOTHING BUT PRAISE FOR RETIRING PIAZZA

WILLIE RACES TO RETREAT

CHURCH SUFFERS CONCUSSION

MIKE HANGS UP SPIKES

New York Times:

Injury on Final Play Caps the Mets’ Misery - Ray Glier wrote up a game recap for each of yesterday’s Mets-Braves games.

Randolph’s Comments Add Another Distraction

The Star-Ledger:

Game 43: Mets at Braves - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for tonight’s Mets-Braves game.  However, I believe it is Game 44.

A couple of news items

Mets live day-night nightmare in Atlanta

Randolph scrambles on quotes

Piazza made the Mets legit - Dan Graziano put together a great Piazza article.

Piazza calls career ‘amazing journey’

Ryan Church taken to hospital

Final: Braves 6, Mets 2

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The New York Mets (22-12) are playing Game 43 of the 2008 Regular Season against the Atlanta Braves (23-21) at Turner Field.  It’s the second game of the four-game series.  The game began at 7:00 p.m., and it was aired on SNY.

Mets Lineup: Reyes, Anderson, Wright, Beltran, Church, Easley, Delgado, Castro, Vargas.

Braves Lineup: Escobar, Infante, Jones, Teixeira, Johnson, Diaz, Blanco, Miller, Campillo.

At the Plate

Jorge Campillo (0-0) was the starting pitcher for the Braves.  In the Top of the 1st, Campillo retired the first three Mets he faced.  Campillo gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 1st Inning.  In the Top of the 2nd, Campillo retired the first six Mets he faced.  Campillo gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 2 SOs in the 2nd Inning.  In the Top of the 3rd, Campillo retired the first nine Mets he faced.  Campillo gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 3rd Inning.  In the Top of the 4th, Reyes lined a leadoff single into right field.  With Anderson in the batters box, Reyes got thrown out stealing second.  Anderson flied out to second.  Wright lined a two-out single into left.  Beltran grounded out to first to end the inning.  Campillo gave up 2 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 4th Inning.  In the Top of the 5th, Church lined a leadoff single into left.  Easley grounded to short, and the Braves turned the double play.  Campillo fanned Delgado.  Campillo gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 5th Inning.  In the Top of the 6th, Campillo pitched a 1-2-3 inning.  Campillo gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 6th Inning.  Campillo left the game after pitching 6.0 Innings allowing 3 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 ER, 0 BBs, and he had 7 SOs.

Cox replaced Campillo with Jeff Bennett to begin the Top of the 7th.  Bennett pitched a 1-2-3 inning.  Bennett gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 7th Inning.

Cox replaced Bennett with Blaine Boyer to begin the Top of the 8th.  Delgado drew a two-out walk.  Ramon Castro lined a two-out RBI double to the gap in right center which scored Carlos Delgado.  Alou is pinch hitting for Vargas, and Alou grouned a two-out single through the hole on the right side so Castro advanced to third.  Boyer gave up 2 Hits, 2 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 1 SO in the 8th Inning.

Cox replaced Boyer with Manny Acosta with two outs in the Top of the 8th.  Jose Reyes grounded a two-out RBI single up the middle which scored Ramon Castro, and Alou moved over to second.  Anderson grounded out to second to end the inning leaving two Mets stranded.  Acosta gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 8th Inning.  In the Top of the 9th, Beltran beat out a slowly hit ground ball to third to give the Mets a one-out base runner.  Church grounded a one-out single through the hole on the right side, and Beltran advanced to second.  Easley grounded to short, and the Braves turned an inning ending double play (Ryan Church took a shot to the head as he attempted to take out Escobar to interupt the double play.  Church was bleeding, and the training staff took a look at him.  The trainors carried him off of the field.) (Yunel Escobar also needed to be carried off of the field by the Braves trainors).  Acosta gave up 2 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 9th Inning.  Acost left the game after pitching 1.1 Innings allowing 3 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs.

On the Mound

Claudio Vargas (0-1) was the starting pitcher for the Mets.  In the Bottom of the 1st, Escobar grounded a leadoff single up the middle.  Infante flied out in foul ground along the right field line, and Church made the catch.  Chipper Jones lined an RBI double down the left field line which scored Yunel Escobar.  Teixeira drew a one-out walk.  Vargas fanned Johnson.  Diaz grounded to the pitcher, and Vargas made the out at first.  Vargas gave up 2 Hits, 1 Run, 1 BB, and he had 1 SO in the 1st Inning.  In the Bottom of the 3rd, Infante drew a one-out walk.  Jones grounded a one-out single through the hole on the right side, and Infante advanced to second.  Mark Teixeira grounded a one-out RBI single through he hole on the right side which scored Omar Infante, and Jones moved over to second.  Kelly Johnson lined a one-out 2-run triple down the right field line which scored Chipper Jones and Mark Teixeira.  Diaz flied out to right, and Johnson held up.  Blanco lined out to short leaving Johnson stranded on third.  Vargas gave up 3 Hits, 3 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 3rd Inning.  In the Bottom of the 4th, Vargas pitched a 1-2-3 inning.  Vargas gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 4th Inning.  In the Bottom of the 5th, Vargas retired the Braves in two consecutive innings.  Vargas gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 5th Inning.  Vargas left the game after pitching 5.0 Innings allowing 5 Hits, 4 Runs, 4 ER, 2 BBs, and he had 1 SO.

Randolph replaced Vargas with Pedro Feliciano to begin the Bottom of the 6th.  Feliciano hit Johnson with the pitch to give the Braves a leadoff runner.  Diaz worked the count full before Feliciano struck him out swinging.  Feliciano hit Blanco with the pitch to give the Braves a one-out base runner.  Miller flied out to right.  Norton is pinch hitting for Campillo, Norton grounded to the pitcher so Feliciano made the out at first leaving two Braves stranded.  Feliciano gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 6th Inning.

Randolph replaced Feliciano with Duaner Sanchez to begin the Bottom of the 7th.  Escobar lined a leadoff single to left.  Infante lined a no-out double down the left field line, and Escobar went from first to third.  Jones grounded to second, and Easley ran over to the third base line to tag Escobar out (Infante ended up moving to third, and Jones ended up moving to second).  Sanchez intentionally walked Teixeira to load the bases.  Johnson popped up in foul ground near first, and Delgado made the catch.  Diaz grounded to third, and Wright tagged the bag to end the inning full of Braves.  Sanchez gave up 2 Hits, 0 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 7th Inning.

Randolph replaced Sanchez with Matt Wise to begin the Bottom of the 8th.  Miller lined a one-out single to right.  Mark Kotsay pulled a one-out 2-run shot to right scoring Corky Miller.  Escobar grounded out to short.  Infante flied out to right to end the inning.  Wise gave up 2 Hits, 2 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 8th Inning.

Final Score: New York Mets 2 - Atlanta Braves 6.  The MLB.com Box Score is attached.  Claudio Vargas (0-2) took the loss and Jorge Campillo (1-0) got the win.

Since May 1st, this is the Mets trend: w-l-w-l-l-w-w-l-w-l-w-l-l-w-w-l-l.  It’s Amazin that the trend hasn’t broken yet.  What a horrible day for the Metropolitans.  It seems like the Mets haven’t won an important division series since they beat the Phillies in early May with the entire lineup playing poorly except for Utley.  Willie had his team meeting on Friday.  The Mets beat up on the Yankees over the weekend.  Did you see Willie manage differently against the Yankees?  Where was Heilman in that series?  Both starting pitchers went 8 2/3 innings and right to the closer.  Willie did not switch relievers every inning like he does against the division.  The Mets lost both games of the day/night double header against the Braves today.

Jorge Campillo, whoever that is, shut down the lifeless Mets for 6 innings.  Castro drove in both Mets runs with a 2-run shot which was all for the Mets.  As soon as the Mets put up a little fight in the 8th inning, the Braves tacked on 2 insurance runs in the bottom of the inning to make it even more difficult for the Mets to come back and win this game.  The Braves had no trouble scoring on Vargas and Wise.

Once again, the Mets can’t win a division series.  At best, they can split.

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A statement from Mike Piazza, via his agency:

After 19 wonderful years, I have come to the decision to officially retire from Major League Baseball. At this point in my career and after discussing my options with my wife, family and agent, I felt it is time to start a new chapter in my life. It has been an amazing journey and everything I have, I owe to God, for without His help, none of this would be possible. He blessed me with the ability to play the greatest game in the world and it has been a dream come true.

In June of this year, it will be 20 years ago when the Los Angeles Dodgers organization selected me in the 62nd round of the amateur draft and I’m sure neither of us saw this coming.I would like to start off by thanking Peter O’Malley and the Dodger organization for giving me the opportunity 20 years ago…you gave me birth to a life that never in my wildest dreams did I think was possible.

I’d like to thank Fred Wilpon, Nelson Doubleday and the New York Mets organization for giving me an opportunity to fulfill yet another dream, playing in a World Series. Steve Phillips, for not just bringing me to New York, but for having the confidence and vision to keep me in a Met uniform long-term. Within the eight years I spent in New York, I was able to take a different look at the game of baseball…I wasn’t just a young kid that was wet behind the ears anymore - I was learning from other veteran guys like Johnny Franco, who taught me how to deal with the pressures of playing in New York and Al Leiter who knew what it took to win a World Championship. That knowledge is what helped me play for as long as I have and enjoy the career that I had. I’d like to thank New York Mets clubhouse manager, Charlie Samuels for always being on the same page and one step ahead of me.

Kevin Towers and Mr. Wolff are two gentlemen that I wish to thank for allowing me to keep the sun from setting just a little while longer. To all of my teammates with whom I shared the field of battle, thanks for the countless memories.

To the managers along the way that brought out the best in me - Tommy Lasorda, Bobby Valentine, Art Howe…and in limited time together, Jim Leyland, Willie Randolph, Bruce Bochy and Bob Geren - it was a pleasure playing for all of you. I’d also like to thank all of the major and minor league staffs that played a part in the development of my career - I couldn’t have done it without all of you.

To the media - I thank you for the overall fairness of your reporting throughout my career, although erroneous at times, I think we had a pretty good relationship over the years and some of you I’ll never forget.

I’d like to thank my agent, Dan Lozano and everyone else behind the scenes at the Beverly Hills Sports Council for taking care of me my entire career. Danny is like a brother to me and without his guidance and patience, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

To my family who I love so much…mom and dad, you always believed in me, sometimes more than I believed in myself…you were always there with love and support. To my brothers, for always being in my corner, no matter what. Being able to share the joys of being a big leaguer with you guys over all of these years made my career, our career…and I don’t think it would have been the same any other way.

My beautiful wife Alicia. These last few years were as new for you as they were for me. Through the different cities and the birth of our amazing daughter, Nicoletta, I am eternally grateful to have you by my side. The thought of what the future has in store for us, brings a smile to my face because I can’t wait to start the newest chapter of both our lives, together. You truly are an angel and I am blessed to have you as my wife. I love you.

Last but certainly not least, I can’t say goodbye without thanking the fans. I can’t recall a time in my career where I didn’t feel embraced by all of you. Los Angeles, San Diego, Oakland and Miami - whether it was at home or on the road, you were all so supportive over the years. But I have to say that my time with the Mets wouldn’t have been the same without the greatest fans in the world. One of the hardest moments of my career, was walking off the field at Shea Stadium and saying goodbye. My relationship with you made my time in New York the happiest of my career and for that, I will always be grateful.

So today, I walk away with no regrets. I knew this day was coming and over the last two years, I started to make my peace with it. For 19 years, I gave it my all and left everything on the field.

God bless and thanks for a wonderful ride.

Die Hard Mets Fan would like that thank Mike Piazza for coming to New York and making the Mets matter again after a long drought of really bad baseball.  We got to witness hundreds of wonderful moments, Playoff runs, and a trip to the World Series.  The one thing I’ve always wished Piazza did was punch Clemens in the damn face when he threw the bat at him.  Other than that, he had a great career and was one of the best hitters that I’ve ever seen.  Wright kind of reminds me of Piazza, but the numbers aren’t as good (Wright came up through the system though).  We would like to wish No. 31 a very successful future, and we hope to see him soon at Shea Stadium/Citi Field.    

Mets.com:

Glavine haunts Mets in opener - Marty Noble summarized today’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Randolph explains comments

Piazza retires after 16 seasons - Tom Singer reported that Mike Piazza officially announced his retirement today.

Pedro talks of early retirement

Jackson, Teufel represent Mets at Draft

Martinez could be back next week - Marty Noble informed us of Pedro Martinez’s progress and when he is expected to return.

Glavine faces Mets for first time since ‘02

Mets ink Nunez to Minor League deal - Marty Noble reported that the Mets signed Abraham Nunez yesterday to a Minor League contract and assigned him to their Triple-A New Orleans affiliate.

Newsday:

Are Mets busting loose or just teasing us again?

Willie on the hot seat — again (with updates)

Mets, Yankees records are right on numbers - After 1/4 through the season, Ken Davidoff tells us if the Mets and the Yankees are on track or not.

Mets’ Randolph not laid back about being passive

THIS DAY AT THE OLD BALLPARK - Newsday lets us know what happened at Shea Stadium and at Yankee Stadium on May 20 of a year in the past.

New York Daily News:

Tom Glavine pitches Braves past Mets - The AP summarized today’s Mets-Braves game.

Mike Piazza retires from baseball

Pedro Martinez mulls retirement at end of season to tend to ailing father

After Subway Series, Mets’ express Atlanta-bound

New York Post:

SOUTHERN DISCOMFORT

PEDRO CLOSER

GLAV GOES FACE-TO-FACE WITH EX-MATES

VARGAS GRATEFUL FOR NEW START

New York Times:

Glavine Overcomes Shaky Start to Lead Braves

Piazza Retires After 16 Seasons

Who Are These Guys? Mets’ Identity Is in Flux

The Star-Ledger:

So, about this Glavine cat…

Game 43: Mets at Braves

Statement from Fred Wilpon on Mike Piazza

Final: Braves 6, Mets 1

Piazza retires

Wow, Glavine’s terrible fantastic

Game 42: Mets at Braves - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for today’s Mets-Braves game.

Mets think bats are on track after Subway Series

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The New York Mets (22-19) are playing Game 42 of the 2008 Regular Season against the Atlanta Braves (22-21) at Turner Field.  It’s the first game of the four-game series.  The game began at 1:10 p.m., and it was aired on SNY.

Mets Lineup: Reyes, Castillo, Wright, Beltran, Church, Alou, Delgado, Schneider, Maine.

Braves Lineup: Escobar, Kotsay, Jones, Teixeira, McCann, Francoeur, Johnson, Blanco, Glavine.

At the Plate

Tom Glavine (1-1) was the starting pitcher for the Braves.  In the Top of the 1st, Luis Castillo somehow pulled a one-out solo shot down the left field line.  Wright grounded a one-out single up the middle.  Beltran drew a one-out walk.  Church lined a one-out opposite field single into left, and Wright advanced to third and Beltran advanced to second.  Moises Alou lined out to third, and the runners stayed put.  Delgado lined out to right to end the inning with the bases juiced.  Glavine gave up 3 Hits, 1 Run, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 1st Inning.  In the Top of the 2nd, Glavine pitched a 1-2-3 inning.  Glavine gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 2nd Inning.  In the Top of the 3rd, Glavine retired the side again.  Glavine gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 3rd Inning.  In the Top of the 4th, Glavine retired the side for the third time.  Glavine gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 4th Inning.  In the Top of the 5th, Glavine now sent the Met down in order for the fourth straight inning.  Glavine gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 5th Inning.  In the Top of the 6th, Glavine now sent the Mets down in order for the fifth inning in a row.  Glavine gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 6th Inning.  Glavine left the game after pitching 6.0 Innings allowing 3 Hits, 1 Runs, 1 ER, 1 BB, and he had 4 SOs.

Cox replaced Glavine with Will Ohman to begin the Top of the 7th.  Ohman pitched a 1-2-3 inning also.  Ohman gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 2 SOs in the 7th Inning.  In the Top of the 8th, Ohman struck out Schneider before Cox made a pitching change.  Ohman gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 8th Inning.  Ohman left the game after pitching 1.1 Innings allowing 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 ER, 0 BBs, and he had 3 SOs.

Cox replaced Ohman with Blaine Boyer with one out in the Top of the 8th.  Reyes lined a two-out single into right.  Castillo grounded out to third to end the inning.  Boyer gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 8th Inning.

Cox replaced Boyer with Manny Acosta to begin the Top of the 9th.  Beltran lined a one-out single up the middle.  Church grounded to first, and the Braves only got the out at second on the double play attempt.  Alou grounded a two-out single up the middle, and Church advanced to second.  Delgado grounded to first, and Teixeira made the toss to Acosta who tagged first to end the game.  Acosta gave up 2 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 9th Inning.

On the Mound

John Maine (5-2) was the starting pitcher for the Mets.  In the Bottom of the 1st, Escobar lined a leadoff double down the right field line.  Kotsay grounded to short, and Reyes made the throw to Wright who tagged Escobar as he was sliding into third.  Jones grounded to second, and Castillo made the out at first as Kotsay advanced to second.  Mark Teixeira lined a two-out RBI single into center, and Mark Kotsay came around to score.  McCann popped up to left, and Alou made the final out of the inning.  Maine gave up 2 Hits, 1 Run, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 1st Inning.  In the Bottom of the 2nd, Blanco drew a two-out walk.  With Glavine in the batters box, Blanco beat out the throw as he stole second safely.  With Glavine at the plate, Maine threw a wild pitch so Blanco advanced to third.  Glavine grounded to the pitcher, and Maine made the out at first to end the inning.  Maine gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 2 SOs in the 2nd Inning.  In the Bottom of the 3rd, Escobar grounded a leadoff single up the middle.  With Kotsay in the batters box, Schneider threw out Escobar as he attempted to steal second.  Kotsay lined out to left.  Jones lined a two-out single into right.  Teixeira grounded a two-out single up the middle, and Jones advanced to second.  Brian McCann lined a two-out RBI single into center, and Chipper Jones came around to score while Teixeira moved over to second.  Francoeur popped up to shallow left, and Reyes made the out leaving to Braves on base.  Maine gave up 4 Hits, 1 Run, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 3rd Inning.  In the Bottom of the 4th, Johnson drove an opposite field leadoff double to the gap in left center.  Blanco drew a no-out walk.  Glavine dropped down a sacrifice bunt towards the pitcher, and Maine made the out at first as both runners advanced.  Yunel Escobar lined out to right, and Kelly Johnson tagged up and scored while Blanco advanced to third.  Kotsay popped up to left, and Alou made the final out of the inning.  Maine gave up 1 Hit, 1 Run, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 4th Inning.  In the Bottom of the 5th, Jones drew a leadoff walk.  Teixeira beat out a ground ball down the third base line for a no-out single, and Jones moved over to second.  Maine gave up 1 Hit, 1 Run, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 5th Inning.  Maine left the game after pitching 4.0 Innings allowing 8 Hits, 4 Runs, 4 ER, 3 BBs, and he had 2 SOs.

Randolph replaced Maine with Scott Schoeneweis with no outs in the Bottom of the 5th.  McCann grounded to first, and Delgado made the throw to Schoeneweis at first for the out while both runners advanced.  Schoeneweis intentionally walked Francoeur to load the bases.  Kelly Johnson hit a sacrifice fly to left, and Chipper Jones tagged up and scored while the other runners held up.  Blanco grounded to short, and Reyes made the out at first to end the inning.  Schoeneweis gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 5th Inning.  In the Bottom of the 6th, Gotay led off with a pinch hit ground ball through the hole on the right side for a single.  Escobar flied out to left.  Kotsay flied out to left.  Jones popped up to first to end the inning.  Schoeneweis gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 0 SOs in the 6th Inning.  Shoeneweis left the game after pitching 2.0 Innings allowing 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 ER, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs.

Randolph replaced Schoeneweis with Aaron Heilman to begin the Bottom of the 7th.  Teixeira drew a leadoff walk.  Brian McCann crushed a no-out 2-run home run to left center which scored Mark Teixeira.  Francoeur popped up to short.  Johnson grounded out to second.  Blanco grounded out to first to end the inning.  Heilman gave up 1 Hit, 2 Runs, 1 BB, and he had 0 SOs in the 7th Inning.

Randolph replaced Heilman with Matt Wise to begin the Bottom of the 8th.  Kotsay grounded a two-out single up the middle.  Wise got Jones looking at strike three.  Wise gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he had 1 SO in the 8th Inning.

Final Score: New York Mets 1 - Atlanta Braves 6.  The MLB.com Box Score is attached.  John Maine (5-3) got the loss and Tom Glavine (2-1) got the win.

Since May 1st, this is the Mets trend: w-l-w-l-l-w-w-l-w-l-w-l-l-w-w-?.  Each time they lose one or more games, they mitigate a losing streak with the exact number of wins.  Once the Mets win enough games to offset the losses, they lose again.  That question mark is for today’s which game which resulted in a loss.  The unpredictable part of this is trying to determine how long the losing streak will be.  The Mets haven’t lost more than two games in a row this month yet so it seems like the worst thing that can happen is that the Mets loss two games before winning two games to go even with the Braves.

Isn’t it funny how Tom Glavine can pitch effectively against the Mets?  When he was on the Mets, he can pitch well except every team except the Braves.  That is why I always thought he was secretly on the Braves payroll because he got like one win in 6 years against the Braves.  I thought the Mets were going to knock Tommy out of the game in the first inning, but the Mets only got one run.  After that, Glavine retired 17 straight Mets.  I wanted him to feel devastated.  Maine didn’t have it today which is unfortunate because we’re playing the Braves.  Willie was kind enough to bring in Heilman for an inning so we can watch McCann hit a 2-run homer off of him.  The last thing I want to watch is the Braves tack on runs even if Willie didn’t think the team could come back and win the game.  Don’t give them the satisfaction.  The Mets only got 5 hits today.  We’ll see what happens tonight.

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Coming off of the Bronx Beatdown, I hope that the Mets go down to Atlanta and sweep Larry and the Braves.  I hope they win 3 out of 4, at a minimum.  I hope that the Mets knock Tom Glavine out of the game faster than he got knocked out of that game against the Marlins.  After this game, I want to hear Tommy say that it was devastating.  I want Chipper to go 0-for-the-series.  And most importantly, I don’t want to hear any Braves fans doing that stupid tomahawk chop chant the entire series which would mean that the Amazin’s swept the Braves with ease.  Here’s a look at the probable pitching matchups:

• 05/20/2008 - John Maine (5-2) - Tom Glavine (1-1)
• 05/20/2008 - Claudio Vargas (0-1) - Jorge Campillo (0-0)
• 05/21/2008 - Mike Pelfrey (2-4) - Jair Jurrjens (4-3)
• 05/22/2008 - Johan Santana (5-2) - Tim Hudson (6-3)

Mets.com:

Mets answer Church’s prayers to play

Perez cures all that ails Mets in Bronx - Marty Noble summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Yankees.

Mets coach tossed after close call - Anthony DiComo explained why Jerry Manuel got ejected from last night’s game against the Yankees.

Mets head to Atlanta wanting more - Marty Noble put together a pregame analysis for the first Mets-Braves game tomorrow.

With Alou at DH, Anderson plays left - Marty Noble pointed out that Willie Randolph used Moises Alou as the DH in last night’s game against the Yankees.

Newsday:

Mets’ subway sweep lobs more pressure on Yanks - Erik Boland also summarized last night’s Mets-Yankees game.

Reyes watches and learns for Mets

Delgado shows signs of life

Sore Alou as DH: ‘I’ve got an old body’

Manuel gets ejected instead of Randolph

New York Daily News:

Mets maul Yankees, overcome negated homer to take both games at Stadium - Anthony McCarron put together a game recap for last night’s game between the Mets and the Yanks.

Mets talk a good game, then dominate Yankees in Subway Series

Mets show life in Bronx romp

Umpire admits he fouled up Carlos Delgado home run call - Christian Red got the quote of the umpire that made the incorrect call, and here it is, “I —-ed it up. I’m the one who thought it was a —- foul ball. I saw it on the replay. I’m the one who —-ed it up so you can put that in your paper. Bolts and nuts, I —-ed up. You’ve just got to move on. No one feels worse about it than I do.”  You would think that Bob Davidson would not speak with as much of a potty mouth, but what do I know.

New York Post:

AMAZIN’S SURVIVE SOME FOUL PLAY

OLIVER ON HIS GAME IN BRONX

REYES POWERS UP

WILLIE MUM AFTER BLOWN HOMER CALL

A REAL FOUL-UP

WEEKEND WARRIORS - Mike Vaccaro asks what a difference a weekend makes for the Mets.

New York Times:

Weekend in Bronx Revives Mets

Pole Leaves Mark, but Not on Outcome

The Star-Ledger:

Mets sign Abraham Nunez - Jeremy Cothran reported that “The New York Mets announced today that they have signed infielder Abraham Nunez to a minor league contract and assigned him to New Orleans (AAA) of the Pacific Coast League.”

Back on the road

Yanks better set for future - Steve Politi debates why the Yankees are better set for the future than the Mets.

Fan sees play up close and personal

Mets Sweep Yankees, Look Ahead to Braves

Davidson: I blew Delgado call

Bench coach Manuel has some choice words

Mets blast Yankees 11-2

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Well, the Mets couldn’t sweep the Pirates.  Not only could they not sweep the Pirates, but it took them 11 innings to beat them the first night and they got torched today.  The Mets (14-12) have an off day tomorrow before they head out west for a 6-game road trip.  The Mets will be in Arizona (20-8) over the weekend and in L.A. (13-13) early next week.  The Diamondbacks are smokin’ hot right now.  If we struggle with the Nats and the Bucs then it’s safe to assume that we’ll struggle out west.  I hope not though.

The Mets are 14-12 now.

Mets.com:

Game delayed by water main break - Marty Noble explained why today’s Pirates-Mets game got off to a late start.

Wright gives Mets walk-off win - Marty Noble summarized last night’s game between the Pirates and the Mets.

Mets up to the task against southpaws - Marty Noble assembled a pregame analysis for today’s game between the Pirates and the Mets.

Alou cleared to return to Mets - Marty Noble stated that Moises Alou could play this wekeend vs. Arizona.

Valentin pays visit to Mets teammates - Marty Noble pointed out that Jose Valentin visited the team prior to last night’s game, and Valentin expects to return to the team by the end of May.

Church looking for first All-Star bid

Newsday:

Mets win on Wright’s long single in 11th - Jim Baumbach summarized last night’s Pirates-Mets game.

Alou could be back in Mets’ lineup on Friday

Mientkiewicz: You haven’t seen the real Johan yet

Mets’ Schneider close to leaving hospital

New York Daily News:

David Wright’s 11th-inning hit gives Mets 5-4 win over Pirates - Adam Rubin also summarized last night’s game between the Pirates and the Mets.

Mets catcher Brian Schneider released from hospital - The AP reported that Brian Schneider was released by the hospital yesterday.

In cold, Johan Santana’s drama is gripping - Roger Rubin found out that Johan Santana thought it was difficult to pitch in the chilly conditions last night.

Moises Alou’s bat set for road swing

To Ryan Church, strong start to year is all relative

Matt Wise might replace Jorge Sosa - Adam Rubin reported that Matt Wise is expected to rejoin the Mets in Arizona this weekend after a rehab appearance Thursday.  Rubin believes that the Mets might send Jorge Sosa down to the minors when Wise returns.

New York Post:

WRIGHT ON TIME - Bart Hubbuch summarized last night’s Pirates-Mets games as well.

URGENT MATTER - Even though the Mets have been winning, Kevin Kernan believes that the Mets need to play with more urgency because they don’t understand how to put away a much lesser opponent.

ALOU MAY BE BACK FRIDAY

SANCHEZ SIDESTEPS BIG TROUBLE - Duaner Sanchez took the blame for allowing last night’s game to get into extra innings.

New York Times:

Mets Will Take a Victory They Nearly Gave Away

Alou Is Finally Ready to Play, but Schneider Is Not

Smoltz Put on Disabled List With Sore Right Shoulder - YEAH!!!

The Star-Ledger:

Wright’s hit boosts Mets in 11th

Alou says he’ll play vs. D’backs

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So I had a wonderful time at the wedding in S.C., and now I’m back.  I feel like I missed so much between the NFL Draft, the Braves-Mets series, and the Rangers-Penguins series.

So the Mets were able to take two-out-of-three from the Braves, which is awesome.  I only watched Friday’s game so far.  I’m in the Top of the 4th of Saturday’s game now.  Beginning tonight, the Mets will host a three-game series with the Pirates.  Here’s a look at the probable pitching matchups:

• 04/28/2008 - Ian Snell (2-1) - Johan Santana (3-2)
• 04/29/2008 - Tom Gorzelanny (1-3) - Oliver Perez (2-1)
• 04/30/2008 - Zach Duke (0-2) - Mike Pelfrey (2-1)

Mets.com:

Mailbag: What about Alou at first? - Marty Noble answers Mets fans’ questions.

Next up for Mets is Pirates, Snell - Marty Noble put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Pirates and the Mets.

Newsday:

Delgado (2 HRs) snubs curtain call in Mets win

Church chips in with big catch, deft sidestep

Possible fracture slows Alou’s return to Mets - Anthony Rieber reported that Moises Alou might have a fracture in his left ankle.  Rieber wrote,

Minaya said a CT scan taken Friday showed “there might be potentially a slight fracture in there.” Alou is scheduled to travel to New York today for a possible MRI at the Hospital for Special Surgery. “The CT scan shows something,” Minaya said. “What that something is, they want to be able to see here in New York.”

New York Daily News:

Carlos Delgado’s two homers power Mets past Braves, 6-3 - Peter Botte summarized yesterday’s game between the Braves and the Mets.

Applaud slumping Carlos Delgado for tuning out Shea cheers

Arm woes hit John Smoltz - Roger Rubin reported that John Smoltz had to have his shoulder looked at by medical staff after yesterday’s outing.

Moises Alou to have MRI as ankle delays return

New York Post:

NO CURTAIN FOR CARLOS

WAGNER SEES STREAK GO OUT WITH A BLOOP

NEGATIVITY ALWAYS AT-BAT

UNLUCKY BREAK FOR ALOU

New York Times:

Delgado Homers Twice but Isn’t Taking Any Bows

The Star-Ledger:

Fan Blogger: Snub just puts more pressure on Delgado

Mets-fans relationship on the rocks despite win

Alou’s ankle could keep OF out even longer

Delgado opts to ignore fans’ curtain call

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