Die Hard Sports Fan

The good news is that I’m flying down to Charleston, SC for a wedding this weekend.  The bad news is that I won’t be able to cover the Mets-Braves series.  I’m a Rangers fan too so I’m going to miss a Braves-Mets series and Games 1 & 2 of the Rangers-Penguins series.  I set my DVR to record all of that except for Game 1 of the Rangers-Penguins series because it’s on Versus, and I don’t have it.  I’m also going to miss the NFL Draft.  Our output is going to be limited this weekend.  When I get home, I’m going to watch all the Mets-Braves series because I’d never miss it.

Here’s the probable pitching matchups:

• 04/25/2008 - Jair Jurrjens (2-2) - Mike Pelfrey (2-0)
• 04/26/2008 - Tim Hudson (3-1) - John Maine (1-2)
• 04/27/2008 - John Smoltz (3-1) - Nelson Figueroa Jr. (1-1)

I’m not sure about tonight, but the pitching matchups looks like it’s in the Braves favor on Saturday and Sunday.

Mets.com:

Mets’ early lead disappears in D.C. - Anthony DiComo summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Nationals.

Mets hope to find groove vs. Braves - Anthony DiComo put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Braves and the Mets.

Thumb infection hospitalizes Schneider - Anthony DiComo reported that Brian Schneider, “was hospitalized on Thursday with a left thumb infection and will remain in New York’s Hospital for Special Surgery overnight.”  DiComo also thinks that it is possible that Schneider may end up on the DL.  In the meantime, the Mets brought up Gustavo Molina as a backup catcher.

Mets treading lightly with Sanchez - Anthony DiComo pointed out that Duaner Sanchez has looked superb, but the Mets are mindful of his past injuries.

Wright’s Foundation continues to grow - Anthony DiComo tells us about the David Wright Foundation which serves children in NYC and Virginia.

Newsday:

Heilman allows slam as Mets fall to Nationals - David Lennon also summarized last night’s Mets-Nationals game.

Pelfrey’s mouthpiece a distraction for opponents - David Lennon lets us know why Mike Pelfrey wears a mouthpiece, and how it affects his opponents.

Ex-Met Milledge sits after arriving late for game - According to the AP, Lastings Milledge wouldn’t state why he was late for last night’s game.  Maybe MC Millidge was recording a new gansta rap song.  What a dusch bag.

Infected thumb lands Mets’ Schneider in hospital

Lack of save opportunities not fazing Wagner

New York Daily News:

Mets drop early lead, lose to Nationals - Adam Rubin put together a game recap for last night’s game between the Mets and the Nationals.

Harold Reynolds, Omar Minaya reunite

Brian Schneider’s thumb worsens

Joe Smith offers his own curses to Cubs fans - According to Adam Rubin, Joe Smith was swearing at Cubs fans this week, and it ended up on YouTube.

New York Times:

Against Nationals, Not Much Goes Right for the Mets

His Forearm Is Better, but Schneider Is Out With Infected Thumb

The Star-Ledger:

Heilman slammed as Mets end road trip with dud

Schneider spends night in hospital

Final: Nationals 10, Mets 5

Schneider hospitalized

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The final home opener at Shea Stadium will take place tomorrow at 1:10 p.m.  The game will be aired on SNY.  Who better to come to Flushing for the final home opener than the Phillies?  The NL East has long been dominated by the Braves, but the Mets ended the Braves reign of the division in 2006.  Prior to the 2007 season, Jimmy Rollins declared the Phillies as the “team to beat”.  After an epic collapse by the Mets, it turned out that Rollins was correct.  Prior to the 2008 season, Carlos Beltran declared the Mets as the “team to beat”.  Now that the Braves have been out of the mix for two years and the Mets and the Phillies are the new sheriffs in town, why not make this divisional rivalry better by having the Mets host the Phillies for the final home opener at Shea?  After both teams talked trash all offseason, let’s see what they can do on the field in ‘08.

The Phillies will be in Queens for a three-game series against the Mets.  Here’s a look at the expected pitching matchups:

• 04/08/2008 - Jamie Moyer (0-0) vs. Oliver Perez (1-0)
• 04/09/2008 - Kyle Kendrick (1-0) vs. Mike Pelfrey (0-0)
• 04/10/2008 - Adam Eaton (0-0) vs. John Maine (0-1)

These probable pitching matchups are from MLB.com.  Perez is getting to start the home opener because of Pedro being placed on the DL.  Hopefully, Oli will take advantage of the opportunity that has been given to him.  Pelfrey’s ‘08 debut is a question mark after a poor Spring Training.  Hopefully, Maine will let us Mets fans know that his 2008 debut was nothing more than trying to do to much and all will be fine the rest of the year.

Mets.com:

Mets ready to open Shea one last time - Marty Noble says both new and old members of the Mets are expecting a warm welcome from the fans.

Beltran, Rollins linked by leadership - Anthony DiComo believes that the bold statements made by Carlos Beltran and Jimmy Rollins about their own team led to getting the rivals’ attention.

Perez to open final season at Shea - Marty Noble assembled a pregame analysis of the Mets home opener against the Phillies.  Oliver Perez will get the start against Jamie Moyer.

Newsday:

Mets can’t help Santana, lose again to Braves - David Lennon summarized yesterday’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

For openers, Mets fans: forgive, forget, forward - Shaun Powell discusses the final home opener at Shea Stadium.

Mets’ Church thought he would haul in home run - According to David Lennon, Ryan Church thought he was going to catch Mark Teixeira’s two-run homer in the 8th Inning.  Church was very close, but no cigar.

New York Daily News:

Carlos Beltran will Shea it again: Mets are No. 1

No stolen moments for Mets - Adam Rubin asks, “What’s happened to Jose Reyes as a base-stealing threat?”  I want to know what happened to Jose Reyes as a baseball player?

New York Post:

JOHAN CAN’T DO IT ALONE

HAPPY TO FINALLY BE BACK IN NY

SILVER LINING FROM DELGADO - George Willis critiques the play of Mets through 5 games into the season, but he only has positive things to say about Carlos Delgado.

SANTANA CAN’T SAVE METS FROM 3-1 BRAVES LOSS

25 GREATEST MOMENTS IN SHEA STADIUM

The Star-Ledger:

Randolph taking cautious steps after Wise MRI

Santana sharp but Mets’ bats go dull

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Even with Johan Santana on our side and one less Jones on their side, the Mets still couldn’t beat the Braves.  Everytime I watch Smoltz pitch against the Mets, I don’t understand how more people don’t think this guy is the best pitcher in baseball over the past two decades.  All he does is put up goose eggs each inning.  The Metropolitans are 0-2 in the first series against the Braves, and in Atlanta.  That’s not a good start against division rivals have been labeled as legit contenders this year.  Since ‘06, the Amazins’ have actually won series at Turner Field where they haven’t in years past.  The Mets must continue to have success down there or the Braves will regain that edge they’ve had at home since Turner Field was built.  It is imperative that the Metropolitans win each of the three series against the Phillies, the Brewers, and the Nationals to get back on track.  Obviously beating the NL East teams are more important than beating the NL Central teams, but the Amazins’ need to dominate the NL.

Mets.com:

Santana brilliant but bested - Marty Noble took us through Johan Santana’s performance against the Braves today.

Church impressing with his arm - Marty Noble believes that Ryan Church is proving to be among the best throwing from right field.

‘Pen provides eerie reminder in loss - Marty Noble has a lot to say about how poorly the bullpen was in yesterday’s loss to the Braves.

Rotation isn’t set up according to plan - Marty Noble stated that an injury to Pedro Martinez and a rainout have available arms in disarray.

Santana taking on Smoltz in finale - Marty Noble put together a pregame analysis of today’s Mets-Braves game.

Mets hope to be healed by makeup date - Marty Noble pointed out that the Mets and Braves will make up Friday’s rainout on May 20.  Noble wrote, “Come May 20, the Mets may be at full strength when they play a four-game series in Atlanta, following three games in the Bronx and a trip to Denver. Indeed, the Mets may have all their broken pieces back together again by then.”

Newsday:

Mets lucky if ace Santana becomes their Smoltz

Mets’ Maine falls back in debut after big spring - David Lennon analyzes John Maine’s performance in yesterday’s game against the Braves.

Grand slam dooms Mets, who fall to Braves, 11-5 - David Lennon summarized yesterday’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

New York Daily News:

John Smoltz outduels Johan Santana as Braves sweep Mets in two-game series - Adam Rubin summarized today’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Kelly Johnson hits pinch-hit grand slam, Atlanta Braves rout Mets 11-5 - Adam Rubin summarized yesterday’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Tom Glavine start is shuffled - Adam Rubin lets us know why Tom Glavine didn’t pitch against the Mets today.

New York Post:

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - Bart Hubbuch discusses how Maine got hit in yesterday’s game against the Braves.

SPRING IN MAINE’S STEP IS GONE

DOZEN DAYS OFF DOESN’T FAZE PELFREY - Bart Hubbuch found out what Mike Pelfrey thinks of getting bumped.

New York Times:

Santana’s Solid, but Braves Sweep Mets

The Star-Ledger:

Mets fall 3-0 to Braves - Jeremy Cothran summarized today’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Matt Wise dealing with forearm discomfort - Jeremy Cothran tells us why Matt Wise was unavailable to pitch today, if needed.

Game 5: Mets at Braves - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for today’s Mets-Braves game.

Closing it out in Atlanta - Jeremy Cothran reflects some more on yesterday’s loss to the Braves.

Mets get rare overturned call

Rust, rain keep Mets off balance - Jeremy Cothran continues to go on and on about yesterday’s loss to the Braves.

Frustrating 11-5 loss for Mets in Atlanta - Jeremy Cothran expresses his frustration over yesterday’s loss to the Braves.

Live-Blog: Mets at Braves - Jeremy Cothran was taking us through yesterday’s Mets-Braves game.

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Prior to today’s Mets-Braves game, the Marlins ended up winning their game last night which moved them into first place while the Nationals and Mets have .550 records are tied for second place.  The New York Mets are playing Game 5 of the 2008 Regular Season against the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field in Atlanta.

Mets Lineup: Reyes, Castillo, Wright, Beltran, Delgado, Church, Pagan, Schneider, Santana.

Braves Lineup: Johnson, Escobar, Jones, Teixeira, Francoeur, Diaz, McCann, Kotsay, Smoltz.

At the Plate

John Smoltz was the starting pitcher for the Braves.  In the Top of the 1st, Smoltz walked Wright and Beltran after getting the first two batters out.  Smoltz struck out Delgado to get out of the inning leaving two Mets stranded.  Smoltz gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 2 BB, and Struck Out 2 in the 1st Inning.  In the Top of the 2nd, Smoltz struck Church out swinging before Pagan and Schneider each grounded out to second.  Smoltz gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BB, and Struck Out 1 in the 2nd Inning.  In the Top of the 3rd, Santana led off with a broken bat bloop into center field which Kotsay couldn’t hold onto, and Santana arrived at second base safely.  Reyes grounded out to short which moved Santana over to third.  Castillo flied out to shallow center, and Santana stayed put.  Smoltz struck Wright out swinging to get out of the inning leaving one Met runner stranded on third.  Smoltz gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BB, and Struck Out 1 in the 3rd Inning.  In the Top of the 4th, Delgado lined a one-out single into right center.  Church drove it to center field, but Delgado already took off so Kotsay made the out at first.  Smoltz gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and Struck Out 1 in the 4th Inning.  In the Top of the 5th, Smoltz retired the side in order.  Smoltz gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and Struck Out 1 in the 5th Inning.  Smoltz left the game after pitching 5.0 Innings while allowing 2 Hits, 0 Runs, 2 BBs, and SO 6.

Cox replaced Smoltz with Blaine Boyer to begin the Top of the 6th.  Boyer sent the top of the lineup down in order.  Boyer gave up up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and Struck Out 2 in the 6th Inning. 

Cox replaced Boyer with Will Ohman to begin the Top of the 7th.  Delgado lined a one-out single into shallow right field.  Church grounded up the middle, and Johnson made the out at first while Delgado moved over to second.  Ohman got Pagan to pop up to shallow center to leave Delgado stranded at second.  Ohman gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he didn’t Strike Out anybody.

Cox replaced Ohman with Peter Moylan to begin the Top of the 8th.  Schneider lined a leadoff single into shallow right center.  Anderson is pinch hitting for Santana, and Anderson grounded to short, and Escobar got the lead runner out at second.  Reyes lined out to left field.  With Castillo in the batters box, Anderson stole second base.  Castillo grounded out to first base to end the inning.  Moylan gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he didn’t Strike Out anybody in the 8th Inning.

Cox replaced Moylan with Rafael Soriano to begin the Top of the 9th.  Wright drew a leadoff walk from Soriano.  Church lined an two-out RBI single to right field which scored Wright.  With Pagan in the batters box, Church took off for second base and arrived safely.  Pagan drew a two-out walk from Soriano to keep the inning alive.  Schneider pulled a ground ball over the first base bag, but Teixeira dove to stop it from going into right field and made the toss to Soriano to end the game.  Soriano gave up 1 Hit, 1 Run, 2 BBs, and Struck Out 1 in the 9th Inning.

On the Mound

Johan Santana was the starting pitcher for the Braves.  In the Bottom of the 1st, Santana sent the Braves down 1-2-3.  Santana struck out Johnson swinging before getting Escobar and Jones to ground out.  Santana gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 Walks, and 1 SO in the 1st Inning.  In the Bottom of the 2nd, Diaz grounded a two-out single up the middle.  With McCann in the batters box, Diaz stole second base as Schneider threw the ball into center field.  McCann lined out to right to end the inning.  Santana gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 Walks, and he didn’t Strike Out anybody.  In the Bottom of the 3rd, Kotsay pulled a leadoff double into the right field corner.  Smoltz dropped a sacrifice bunt down towards third base, and Santana made the out at first as Kotsay advanced to third.  Johnson grounded out to the pitcher, and Santana dove for it to keep Kotsay on third as he made the out at first.  Escobar lined an RBI double over Pagan’s head in left field to score Kotsay.  Jones grounded out to second to end the inning.  Santana gave up 2 Hits, 1 Run, 0 BB, and he didn’t Strike Out anybody in the 3rd Inning.  In the Bottom of the 4th, Francoeur popped up to shallow left field, but Reyes couldn’t make the catch as Francoeur got himself a one-out double.  Diaz grounded to the pitcher, but the ball deflected off of Santana’s glove and ended up at short so Diaz beat out the play as Francoeur moved over to third.  McCann grounded out to short, and the Mets turned the double play to avoid giving up the run.  Santana gave up 2 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he didn’t Strike Out anybody.  In the Bottom of the 5th, Johnson lined a two-out single through the hole on the right side before Escobar grounded to short to end the inning.  Santana gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he Struck Out 1 in the 5th Inning.  In the Bottom of the 6th, Santana sent the heart of the order down 1-2-3.  Santana gave up 0 Hits, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and Struck Out 1 in the 6th.  In the Bottom of the 7th, McCann lined a one-out double which eventually got to the wall in right center.  Kotsay flied out to left field, and McCann held up at second.  Pena is pinch hitting for Ohman, and Pena pulled a hard ground ball down the third base line where Wright made a beautiful stop which saved a run and then made the out at first.  Santana gave up 1 Hit, 0 Runs, 0 BBs, and he didn’t Strike Out anybody in the 7th Inning.  Santana left the game after pitching 7.0 Innings allowing 7 Hits, 1 Run, 0 BBs, and SO 3.

Randolph replaced Santana with Aaron Heilman to begin the Bottom of the 8th.  Jones drew a two-out walk from Heilman.  Teixeira pulled a two-run shot to right field scoring Jones and himself.  Francoeur grounded out to third to end the inning.  Heilman gave up 1 Hit, 2 Runs, 1 BB, and he Struck Out 1 in the 8th Inning.

Final Score: New York Mets 1 - Atlanta Braves 3.  The MLB.com Box Score is attached.  Johan Santana (1-1) got the loss and John Smoltz (1-0) got the win.

Santana only gave up one run, but he didn’t look sharp at all as he allowed 7 hits through 7 innings.  Then Heilman gave up the two-run shot to Teixeira in the Bottom of the 8th which only made things worse.  It was like the Grand Slam yesterday, but not as bad.  It was enough for the Braves to get the win though.  Smoltz is always dominant, and it pisses me off.  It was a horrible weekend for our boys from Queens because the first game was postponed, and then they got swept in the two games that they did play.  The Mets are off tomorrow before they host their first series at home against the Phillies which is the beginning of a nine-game homestand for the Mets.  The Mets need to sweep the Phillies now to get back on track.  After the Phillies, the Mets will host the Brewers and the Nationals.

The Marlins got crushed by the Pirates, the Phillies got crushed by the Reds, and the Nationals lost 3-0 to the Cardinals.  The Mets dropped to 3rd place in the NL East even tough everybody lost today, except for the Braves.

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Proir to the Mets-Braves game, the Nationals lost last night so the Mets moved into first place.  Let’s hope they stay there until they clinch the NL East.  The Mets are playing Game 4 of the 2008 Regular Season against the Braves at Turner Field in Atlanta.  It is the first time they face each other this year.

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

Braves Lineup: Escobar, Kotsay, Jones, Teixeia, McCann, Francoeur, Diaz, Prado, Hudson.

At the Plate

Tim Hudson was the starting pitcher for the Braves.  Hudson got the first three Mets to ground out in the Top of the 1st.  In the Top of the 2nd, Hudson got Beltran to ground out.  Delgado grounded a single up the middle, and then Church grounded a single up the middle to advance Delgado to third.  Pagan hit a ground ball to short where the Braves made the out at second but couldn’t turn the double play which allowed Delgado to score.  Hudson fanned Schneider to end the inning.  Hudson gave up 1 Run on 2 Hits while Striking Out 1 in the 2nd Inning.  In the Top of the 3rd, Hudson retired the side in order while Striking Out 2.  In the Top of the 4th, Hudson retired the heart of the Mets order.  Hudson gave up 0 Runs and 0 Hits in the 4th.  In the Top of the 5th, Church hit a leadoff single into center field.  Pagan slapped an opposite field single into left which moved Church over to second base.  Schneider grounded out to first which advanced both runners.  Clark was pinch hitting for Maine, and Hudson hit Clark with the pitch to load the bases.  Reyes slapped a single into center field that hopped before a diving Kotsay got the leather on the ball.  The Mets thought it bounced, and the runners took off so the Braves turned the double play (On the replay, the ball clearly bounced before Kotsay caught the ball).  The call was reversed after the Umpires had a meeting of the minds.  The Umpires called it an RBI single for Reyes, and the runners were allowed to advanced one base which scored Church.  Castillo hit an RBI ground out to second which scored Pagan and moved the runners over to second and third.  Wright grounded out to third to end the inning.  Hudson gave up 2 Runs, 3 Hits, and 1 HBP in the 5th.  In the Top of the 6th, Hudson gave up 0 Runs, 1 Hit, and Struck Out 1.  Hudson pitched 6.0 Innings giving up 6 Hits and 3 Runs while Striking Out 4.

Cox replaced Hudson with Peter Moylan to begin the Top of the 7th.  Schneider lined a leadoff single into center.  Chavez is in to pinch hit for Schoeneweis, and Chavez grounded hard to second.  The ball bounced off of Prado and into right field so the runners are on first and second (It was ruled a hit).  Moylan worked himself out of the jam leaving two Mets stranded.  Moylan gave up 2 Hits and 0 Runs in the 7th.

Cox replaced Moylan with Royce Ring to begin the Top of the 8th.  Beltran led off with a double that one-hopped the left field wall.  Delgado pulled an RBI double into the right field corner which scored Beltran.  Church grounded out to first, and Delgado advanced to third.  Pagan lined an RBI sacrifice fly to left field which brought home Delgado.  Schneider grounded out to second to end the inning.  Ring gave up 2 Hits and 2 Runs, in the 8th Inning.

Cox replaced Ring with Rafael Soriano to begin the Top of the 9th.  Anderson is pinch hitting for Figueroa, and Anderson lined out to right field.  Soriano struck Reyes out swinging.  Castillo popped out to short to end the game.  Soriano retired the Mets in order in the 9th.

On the Mound

John Maine was the starting pitcher for the Mets.  In the Bottom of the 1st, Maine caught Escobar looking at strike three.  With one out, Kotsay grounded a single through the hole on the left side.  Jones lined a single into right field, and Kotsay advanced to second.  Maine walked Teixeira to load the bases.  McCann hit an RBI sacrifice fly to right field which scored Kotsay and Jones advanced to third.  Maine struck out Francoeur swinging.  Maine is throwing heat but doesn’t look sharp as he gave up 1 Run, 2 Hits, and 1 Walk while Striking Out 2 in the 1st Inning.  In the Bottom of the 2nd, Prado flaired a one-out single into right and that was it.  Maine gave up 1 Hit and Struck Out 2 in the 2nd Inning.  In the Bottom of the 3rd, Jones grounded a one-out single through the hole on the right side.  Maine walked Teixeira…again.  McCann flied out to center, and the runners held up.  Francoeur blooped an RBI single into shallow left field which scored Jones and advanced Teixeira to third.  Diaz hit an RBI single into center field scoring Teixeira and Francoeur advanced to second.  Prado grounded out to second to end the inning.  Maine gave up 2 Runs, 3 Hits, and 1 Walk in the 3rd.  In the Bottom of the 4th, Maine struck out Hudson, and then he walked Escobar.  Kotsay popped up to left, and Escobar stayed put.  Jones singled up the middle to advance Escobar to third.  Teixeira pulled an RBI single through the hole on the right side to score Escobar and advance Jones to second.  McCann popped up to short to end the inning.  Maine gave up 1 Run, 2 Hits, 1 Walk, and Struck Out 1 in the 4th.  John Maine left the game after pitching 4 Innings giving up 8 Hits, 4 Runs, 4 ER, 3 BB, and 5 SO.

Randolph replaced Maine with Joe Smith to begin the 5th Inning.  Smith sent the Braves down in order, and he Struck Out 1 in the 5th.  In the Bottom of the 6th, Gotay came in to pinch hit for Hudson.  Gotay hit a leadoff single up the middle.  Escobar sacrifice bunted to the pitcher, and Smith made the play at first while Gotay moved over to second.

Randolph replaced Smith with Scott Schoeneweis with 1 Out in the 6th Inning.  Kotsay ripped an RBI single into right field which scored Gotay (Gotay got his revenge on the Mets).  As Kotsay took off for second base, Church threw out Kotsay.  Jones popped up just foul of the first base line to end the inning.  Schoeneweis gave up 1 Hit and 1 Run (Charged to Smith) in the 6th Inning.

Randolph replaced Schoeneweis with Jorge Sosa to begin the Bottom of the 7th.  Sosa fanned Teixeira.  McCann doubled into the gap in right center.  Francoeur grounded the ball through the hole on the left side for a single which moved McCann over to third.  Sosa then fanned Diaz.  Sosa walked Prado to load the bases.  Johnson is in to pinch hit for Moylan, and Johnson lined a Grand Slam into right field scoring McCann, Francoeur, Prado, and himself (a pinch hit Grand Slam…that is the last thing I ever want to see the Braves do).  Escobar lined out to right to end the inning.  Sosa gave up 3 Hits, 4 Runs, 1 Walk, and Struck Out 2 in the 7th.

Randolph replaced Sosa with Nelson Figueroa Jr. to begin the Bottom of the 8th.  Kotsay grounded out to second.  Jones grounded out to first.  Teixeira lined a single into right.  Figueroa walked McCann.  Francoeur lined into center, but the diving Beltran couldn’t get to the ball in time, and Teixeira and McCann both scored.  Diaz flied out to center to end the inning.  Figueroa gave up 2 Hits, 2 Runs, and 1 Walk in the 8th Inning.

Final Score: New York Mets 5 - Atlanta Braves 11.  The MLB.com Box Score is attached.  John Maine got the loss (0-1) and Tim Hudson (1-0) got the win.

What an ugly game down in Atlanta.  Maine was throwing heat, but couldn’t locate his pitches.  The Bullpen gave up a ton of runs after Maine gave up 4.  Larry and Francoeur each went 3-5.  Teixeira was on base too much.  And worst of all…the Grand Slam by the pinch hitter, Kelly Johnson.  That’s not what I expected with Johnnie on the mound.  The Amazins’ will find out how for real Santana is tomorrow when he goes up against Smoltz.  The Mets need Santana to be the stopper that they paid $150 million for because they need to even out this series at 1-1.

On more of a positive note, the Phillies lost to the Reds, and the Nationals lost to the Cardinals which means that the Mets are still tied for first place pending the outcome of the Marlins-Pirates game where the Marlins have a 1-0 lead over the Pirates in the 2nd Inning.

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Last night’s Mets-Braves game was rained out.  It is still raining down in Hotlanta so we don’t know what is going to happen to today’s game.

Worst case scenario, we can watch both Final Four games.  So how is everybody doing in their March Madness brackets?  This was the first year I actually picked all four 1 Seeds to make the Final Four.  Duke was the weakest 2 Seed I’ve ever seen.  But if they are a 2 Seed then everybody else is just garbage.  That was my thought process for actually picking all four 1 Seeds.  The Big East was completely overrated, and I didn’t need to see them get knocked out early to prove it.  Georgetown a 2 Seed?  Pitt a 4 Seed?  UConn a 4 Seed?  Who put the tournament together?  It is very boring when the 1 Seeds run right through it.  It should get better now because two 1 Seeds will lose today.  I have UNC and UCLA in the finals with UNC being crowned king.

Back to baseball, I hope today’s game gets played because the weekend is lost if 2 out of 3 games are postponed.

Mets.com:

Rain falls on Maine in postponement - Marty Noble reported that last night’s Mets vs. Braves game has been officially postponed, and it will be made up as a doubleheader on May 20, 2008.

Maine hopes for no rain this time around - Jon Cooper put together a pre-game analysis for today’s game between the Mets and the Braves.

Rain brings Hudson and Maine to FOX - Mark Bowman pointed out that there is a pretty good pitchers duel in FOX’s Game of the Week after Friday’s rainout.  John Maine will face Tim Hudson in the first Mets-Braves game of ‘08.

Former Met recalls foray in outfield - Jon Cooper got a 1986 story from Roger McDowell.

Pelfrey to miss his turn at Turner Field - Due to last night’s game getting postponed, Mike Pelfrey will not make his season debut against the Braves today according to Jon Cooper.  Pelfrey got bumped to Wednesday at home against the Phillies.

Newsday:

Mets skip over Pelfrey until Wednesday

Facing old teammates nothing new to Glavine

New York Daily News:

Rainout pushes John Maine’s season debut to Saturday

New York Post:

PEL OF A CHANCE - George Willis reminds us how Pelfrey made the ‘08 roster.

LOVE FOR GLAV - Bart Hubbuch found out that the Mets still got love for Tommy.

SANTANA START WON’T BE DELAYED BY RAIN - Bart Hubbuch noted that Johan Santana is still scheduled to pitch tomorrow against John Smoltz.

New York Times:

Rainout Pushes Back Pelfrey’s First Start

The Star-Ledger:

Doppler update

Still raining in the Dirty Dirty

Glavine, Mets rivals once again

Pelfrey skipped in rotation

Rain Out: Enjoy the Day - Jeremy Cothran pointed out that last night’s game was postponed.

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Tonight’s game might not take place due to tornado warnings in and around Atlanta.  They mentioned that the start will most likely be delayed, but they will try to squeeze it in between storms.  This means they may not get enough innings in to make it a game.  I hope they play because I’m looking forward to the pitching dual between John Maine and Tim Hudson.  I’m really excited about these two three-game sets between the NL East rivals that are supposed to be Playoff contenders.  Play ball!

Mets.com:

Mets-Braves series to set tone in East

Shea family to be honored at home - Anthony DiComo noted that, “The Mets will honor the legacy of William A. Shea in a ceremony before their final home opener at Shea Stadium on Tuesday. Thirty members of the Shea family will be on hand to help unveil a new Shea logo, which will hang alongside the team’s three retired numbers, and travel with the Mets to Citi Field next season.”

Glavine to face former mates on FOX - Mark Bowman pointed out that Tom Glavine will pitch against the Mets on Saturday, and Bowman captured Glavine’s thoughts about facing his former team.  I only remember Tommy beating the Braves once as a Met so it’s a good thing he’s not pitching for us this weekend.

El Duque makes Minors rehab start - Marty Noble explains how Orlando Hernandez pitched last night in a Minor League start.

Newsday:

Minaya in no hurry to go outside for rotation help

After great spring, Mets’ Maine starts tonight - David Lennon points out that John Maine is making his 2008 debut tonight against the Braves.

New York Daily News:

Under any name, it’ll still be Shea

Mets, Yanks obsessed with farewells

Brave new world for Glavine, Gotay

El Duque may fill in for Pedro

New York Post:

HERE COMES THE REAL SEASON - Bart Hubbuch is looking forward to the Mets-Braves series this weekend.

WAIVING HAS GOTAY STEAMING - If I was a Met, and they traded me to the Braves I’d be pretty pissed too.  Who would ever want to listen to that tomahawk chop crap?

NEXT WEEK BRINGS AMAZIN’ TEST - Mike Vaccaro wants to know where the Mets will be after playing the Braves and the Phillies.

FIGUEROA CAPS HAPPY JOURNEY BACK TO BIGS

New York Times:

As Goes Maine, So Mets Could Go This Season

The Star-Ledger:

Bunkered down at Turner Field - Jeremy Cothran tells us about the tornado warnings expected tonight in Atlanta.

Mets’ John Maine striving to join baseball’s elite

El Duque solid in rehab stint

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I apologize for not writing the past two days.  One of our Giants Bloggers on Die Hard Giants Fan, Phessional, came up from Jacksonville, FL and stayed at my place for two days.  He moved down there about a year and a half ago and barely comes up here.  We partied like rock stars for two days.  He has to go to an engagement party tonight which is the reason he is here.  Anyway, I went back and got all of the news that I missed in case you haven’t heard it already.

The Mets won their final Spring Training game today and beat the White Sox 3-2.  The Mets will play for real on Monday…finally.

Mets.com:

Mets edge Sox in Civil Rights Game - Justice B. Hill recapped the Civil Rights Game between the White Sox and the Mets.  New York beat Chicago 3-2.  John Maine got the start.

Fans enjoy being part of history - Justice B. Hill gathered the thoughts of baseball fans who attended the Civil Rights Game.

Mets Opening Day outlook - Marty Noble tells us what he thinks about the Mets as they get ready to begin the 2008 season.

Aaron headlines roundtable discussion - On the eve of the Civil Rights Game, a dinner was held to discuss why black athletes are not playing Major League Baseball as much as they used to.

Johan has low-key take on hyped debut - Marty Noble found out that Johan Santana excited, but not nervous, about pitching on Opening Day.

Reyes scores pair of runs for Mets - Spencer Fordin summarized yesterday’s game between the Mets and the Orioles.  Baltimore beat the Mets by a score of 4-3.  Orlando Hernandez was the starting pitcher.

El Duque’s right foot a wild card - After yesterday’s game, Marty Noble believes that El Duque has the edge over Mike Pelfrey for the final spot in the rotation.

Mets announce three roster moves - Marty Noble reported that the Mets optioned Anderson Hernandez to Triple-A New Orleans, Steven Register was returned to the Rockies, and Ruben Gotay was claimed off waivers by the Braves.

All ends well with Mets’ limo ride - Marty Noble tells us about a voyage that Billy Wagner, Matt Wise, and Jorge Sosa took.

Mets represent diversity - Anthony DiComo discusses the diversity of the Mets as they are about to play in the Civil Rights Game.

Going down to the wire - Anthony DiComo points out that the Mets still have to decide who the bench players will be and who will win the bullpen spots after the next two games.

Perez looks sharp in final spring start - Mark Bowman summarized Thursday’s game between the Mets and the Braves.  New York stomped Atlanta 9-4.  Oliver Perez got the start.

Civil Rights Game special to Randolph - Anthony DiComo explains how Willie Randolph feels about the Mets participating in the Civil Rights Game.

Perez gives Mets a brief scare - Anthony DiComo describes that fall that Perez took on Thursday.

Gotay’s Mets career nearing an end - Anthony DiComo reported that the Mets placed Gotay on outright waivers on Thursday which may be a hint that his tenure as a Met is coming to an end.  DiComo pointed out that the final bench spot may go to Brady Clark or Fernando Tatis.

New parks pay tribute to the past - Marty Noble compliments the Mets and the Yankees for the stadiums that they are building in New York.

Newsday:

Mets’ El Duque scrubs new windup, looks better

Mets cut Gotay, guess who picks him up? Braves

METS SCOUTING REPORT - David Lennon analyzes every aspect of the 2008 Mets.

Randolph’s high-wire act - Johnette Howard believes that Willie is on a short-leash this season.

Yankee Stadium, Shea make their final turns for home in 2008

PRESSURE FROM DAY 1 - David Lennon talks about the expectations of the Mets as they head into the ‘08 season.

CATCHING ON QUICK - Anthony Rieber explains how Brian Schneider is quickly getting used to the fast pace of New York.

ACE OF ACES - David Lennon had a Q&A with Santana.

Pelfrey vs. El Duque for Mets’ fifth spot

WRIGHT ATTITUDE - Jim Baumbach discusses David Wright’s career with Wright.

Devastated Ruben Gotay is put on waivers by Mets

Mets’ Pedro avoids collision, then throws perfectly

Hopeful singers audition to sing anthem at Shea

Late-arrival Tatis may have right timing for Mets - David Lennon believes that Tatis can make the team.

New York Daily News:

El Duque brings back high leg kick

Memories hit Tom Glavine hard

Keith not dialed in on SNY’s plan

Mets might bid Ruben Gotay goodbye

Pedro Martinez to start final home opener at Shea Stadium

Nelson Figueroa is following his dream of being a pro ball player - Vic Ziegel wrote up a Bio on Nelson Figueroa.

Hundreds line up for chance to sing national anthem at Mets game

Mike Pelfrey, El Duque still battling for 5th spot in rotation

New York Post:

KICK BACK - Bart Hubbuch pointed out that El Duque went back to his old form.

GOTAY GOES TO BRAVES

TATIS HAS SHOT AT REDEMPTION

DUQUE CAN NAIL DOWN FIVE SPOT

METS ARE READY FOR REAL THING

RADIO GIG WILL MAKE WAGNER A SHOCK JOCK - Phil Mushnick found out that, “ESPN 1050 Radio has signed Billy Wagner to a weekly say-for-pay spot on Michael Kay’s late-afternoon show, and that, by no later than Aug. 15, is going to cause a problem. Or two.”

THE HUMAN ERASER - Justin Terranova believes that Johan will help the Mets forget about the collapse.

FINAL 25 WON’T BE RUSH JOB

PEDRO’S GOING TO SPEAK UP - According to Bart Hubbuch, Pedro vows to be the vocal leader that the Mets lacked down the stretch during the collapse in ‘07.

IT AIN’T OVER … - Jay Greenberg discusses the glory days.

IF IT’S ‘08, IT’S CUBS’ YEAR - Kevin Kernan wrote up an National League preview.

The New York Times:

Glavine Says He Retains Emotional Bond With the Mets

A Break From the Game for an Inspiring Lesson - Ben Shpigel discusses other aspects of the Civil Rights Game.

Shea in ’64: The Planes Above, the Mets Below

You Can’t Just Blow Up History - Richard Sandomir doesn’t want to see Shea Stadium and Yankee Stadium get blown up.

The Star-Ledger:

Walking (and shivering) in Memphis

Pelfrey v. Hernandez: Deciding Round

El Duque looks sharp

Braves scoop up Gotay off waivers

El Duque, Pelfrey to get final look

Gotay placed on waivers

Final decision would be a relief - Jeremy Cothran explains who can fill the last spot in the Bullpen.

Pedro aces stint, vows to be more vocal

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In the bottom of the 9th, a single to right by Raul Arroyo drove in the winning run.  It’s always nice to see the Mets beat the Braves.  Even more so in the regular season, and even more so in the Playoffs.

Eight years later, A-Rod is upset about turning down the Mets offer.  Too bad for him.  He’s such a phony that I don’t think he has feelings.  He just wants Mets fans to love him.  Screw that…  He’s a Yankee, and he should worry about Yankees fans loving him.  Try winning a championship already.

Mets.com:

Arroyo lifts Mets past Braves - Marty Noble summarized today’s game between the Braves and the Mets.  New York beat Atlanta 5-4.  Jonathon Niese got the start on the mound.  The Mets are 18-9-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

What’s in a name for Mets? - Marty Noble discusses Port St. Lucie since the Mets showed up to town in 1988.

Maine looks ready to meet his goals - Anthony DiComo captured John Maine’s goals for ‘08 which are pitching 200 innings and a Playoff berth.

Top Mets arms done with spring games - Anthony DiComo covered the story about Johan Santana and Pedro Martinez not pitching anymore in Grapefruit League games which the New York Post reported yesterday.  The only difference in the story is that DiComo stated that Maine may not pitch in the Grapefruit League anymore either.

Newsday:

Heilman seems at ease with setup role for Mets - Jim Baumbach noted Aaron Heilman’s contributions to the Mets.

Maine continues to pitch well for Mets - Jim Baumbach points out how Maine has dominated the Grapefruit League this year.  Baumbach also reported that Omar Minaya planned to have discussions with team officials regarding Reed Johnson because “the cost is not that much.”

New York Daily News:

A-Rod regrets saying no to Mets, doesn’t make same mistake with Yankees - I would like to thank Alex Rodriguez for not coming to the Mets.  Shortstop was the weakest link offensively when Rey Ordenez was at short so A-Rod would have been a huge upgrade.  But, when a guy who wants his own hotel, plane, locker room, and $250 million he is not a team player.  A-Rod is one of the biggest dusch bags in the game so I’m glad the Yankees locked him up for 10 years and nobody else has to deal with him.  He’s robotic.  Until resigning with the Yankees, he never left a dime on the table to pay anywhere he wants.  So he doesn’t need to whine about it now.  Do not even attempt to get Mets fans to feel sorry for you because we’re not buying it.  On a sidenote, how do people that don’t help teams win championships get paid more than the ones that do?  I mean key players not bench players.

John Maine locks up spot in rotation

Improvement is a relief to Joe Smith - Adam Rubin pointed out that Joe Smith’s performances are “steadily improving”.

New York Post:

METS’ MAINE MAN IS COMIN’ UP ACES

BROOKLYN NATIVE GOING LIVE AT FIVE - Bart Hubbuch believes that Nelson Figueroa is picking up steam as a fifth-starter candidate.

New York Times:

Mets Commit to 5-Man Rotation, No Matter What

The Star-Ledger:

Game 26: Mets vs Braves - Lisa Kennelly provided the lineup for today’s game between the Braves and the Mets.

A-Rod Just Won’t Go Away

Figueroa may take the fifth for Mets

Standing ovation for Maine

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The Mets beat the Braves which is always a good thing.  I have no complaints about that.  Mike Pelfrey looked really good, again.  Pelfrey wants that final spot.  Some of these young kids can hit in clutch ‘Spring Training’ spots.  The Mets were able to get back to .500.

Whenever I’ve been listening to talk radio lately, I hear Mets fans call up and say they want the Mets to go after Barry Bonds or Sammy Sosa to play right field.  I want no part of these steroid users on the Mets.  Bonds knees are so bad that he hasn’t been able to play in years.  Sosa missed a few years prior to playing for the Rangers last year.  Sosa still had a little game left, but I just don’t want any part of any of these guys.  My favorite story of the day was when I read that the Mets are trying to trade Scott Schoeneweis.  Schoeneweis is the last of the mohicans, on the Mets, so let’s keep that way by not brininging in any more of them.  I would prefer to root for a clean team!

Mets.com:

Pelfrey sharp in second spring outing - Marty Noble summarized today’s game between the Braves and the Mets.  The Mets beat the Braves 3-2 in the tenth inning.  Mike Pelrey was the starting pitcher.  The Mets are 3-3 in the Grapefruit League standings. 

Mailbag: El Duque out of the rotation? - Marty Noble answers questions posed by Mets fans’.

Mets reserves boast win over Dodgers - Anthony DiComo provided a game summary and the box score for yesterday’s game between the Mets and the Dodgers.  Oliver Perez got the start.  The Mets beat the Dodgers 6-5.  The Mets are 2-3 in the Grapefruit League standings.

Notes: Valentin covering his bases - The Mets have Jose Valentin learning first base this spring because they lack depth at the position.

Delgado’s hip pain not serious - That’s good news.  The reports yesterday indicated that Delgado would miss 15 games.  Now Carlos Delgado should only miss a few games, according to Marty Noble.

Newsday:

Delgado’s MRI negative, but hip still an issue - David Lennon also covered Carlos Delgado’s hip injury.  Lennon said that the MRI was negative, but Delgado’s hip can continue to nag him troughout the season.

Straw is back - David Lennon reported that the Mets hired Darryl Strawberry as a full-time instructor.

Church, Anderson still hurting after collision - David Lennon provided us with the current status of Church and Anderson.  Marlon Anderson was diagnosed with a bruised sternum.  Ryan Church was diagnosed with a Grade 2 concussion.  Lennon goes on to explain the ninth inning of yesterday’s game between the Mets and the Dodgers.

E-mail from Vero Beach - David Lennon says farewell to Dodgertown.

New York Daily News:

Mets backups help beat Dodgers while Carlos Delgado returns, but sits out - Adam Rubin also wrote about Carlos Delgado’s hip injury.

Willie Randolph, Joe Torre face chills of early spring pressure - Bill Madden describes the challenges that Willie Randolph and Joe Torre face this season.

Sources: Scott Schoeneweis, Jorge Sosa being shopped - That’s great news.  Get rid of the steroid scum and another pitcher that just sucks.

New York Post:

ELEVEN MEN OUT - Bart Hubbuch tallied up the injured Mets and lets you know the status of the team.

PEREZ GETS HIT HARD IN FIRST START - Bart Hubbuch walks you through the poor outing by Oliver Perez in his first start.  Pedro Martinez is scheduled to make his first start of the spring on Thursday.

New York Times:

Santana’s Changeup: Hitters Never See It Coming - Jack Curry lets you know about Johan Santana’s pitches.

Mets May Keep Delgado Out Several Days

The Star-Ledger:

Grapefruit League Game 6: Braves vs. Mets - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineups and a summary of the first three innings of today’s game between the Braves and the Mets.

Mets Might Not Want to Be Penned Down - Matthew Artus explains the plusses and minuses of trading Scott Schoeneweis and Jorge Sosa.

Latest injury: Gotay’s ankle - Jeremy Cothran tells us how Ruben Gotay injured his ankle as well as his status.

Mets shrug off need for one leader - Jeremy Cothran descbribes who the leaders on the Mets are.

Bad day: Injuries hit hard

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