Mets Take Series Opener Behind Davis and Dickey

Friday, August 31^st 2012

Final Score: New York Mets: 3 Miami Marlins: 0

Ike Davis and R.A. Dickey Power Mets to Victory

The good play of the Mets continued Friday night in their series opener against the Miami Marlins, as they took the opener 3-0.  Not much offense was provided by the Mets in the game tonight, but it was not needed as R.A. Dickey dominated the Marlins for his third shutout of the season.

The great performance by Dickey tonight gives him 17 on the season, tying him for the major league lead with Cincinnati Reds’ Johnny Cueto and Washington Nationals’ Gio Gonzalez, who also got his 17^th win tonight.

Dickey threw a complete game shutout tonight, giving him five complete games on the season; that is the most complete games in a season for a Mets pitcher since Dwight Gooden in 1993. 

                                                                                                                       

Dickey was helped out by a move made pre-game by manager Terry Collins, as he inserted Florida native Andres Torres into the starting lineup in centerfield for the game.  Collins cited the spacious outfield at Marlins Park for the move, and it paid off as Torres made a good play with a runner on first and no outs in the eighth inning as the Mets were trying to preserve the shutout and win for Dickey.

On the night, Dickey gave up five hits and three walks to go along with seven strikeouts.  Dickey improved his season totals to a 17-4 record with a 2.63 ERA.

Ike Davis provided all of the offensive fire power at the plate tonight for the Mets, accounting for all three of the RBI’s.  Davis got the Mets on the board in the 4^th inning, hitting a sacrifice fly that scored Ruben Tejada.  Tejada deserves as much credit as Davis for getting the run across the plate, as his aggressive and smart base running put him in position to score on something other than a base hit.

Davis would add the finishing touches in the 7^th inning, launching his 18^th road homerun of the season and 25^th overall on the season.  Davis planted the homerun in the upper-deck in right field.  His 18 road homers are the most in the National League and the 25 are just adding to his career high. 

Jose Reyes went hitless in the game tonight, something that Met fans will undoubtedly take pleasure in as there are still some hostile feelings towards Reyes after he left this past off-season. 

For all of the futility the Mets have faced recently, they have actually been pretty successful on the road.  They have accrued a 73-70 record on the road under Collins, something that should be built off of.  If the Mets can continue to play at or above .500 on the road and excel at home, success should follow soon after.

Next up for the Mets and Marlins is a Saturday night game at 7:10 P.M. ET.  Jeremy Hefner (2-5, 4.65 ERA) will take the mound against Josh Johnson (7-11, 4.00 ERA).

Fading Mets Drop Another to Rockies

Tuesday, August 21^st 2012

Final Score: Colorado Rockies: 6 New York Mets: 2

Fading Mets Drop Another to Rockies

The Mets season is starting to become tumultuous and hard to watch for fans, as they dropped another game to the lowly Rockies Tuesday night 6-2.  The loss drops the Mets to nine games under .500, a worse in the past three seasons.  Their overall record since the All-Star break now sits at 11-26.  Citi Field has become a place no person of the Mets organization or fans want to be, as they have lost 12 of the last 14 games there. 

The night started out very promising for the Mets.  They were able to stake Chris Young to an early lead again, going ahead 1-0 in the 4^th inning thanks to a sac fly from Daniel Murphy that knocked in Ruben Tejada.  That looked to be all the Mets would need with how Young was pitching, but everyone unraveled in the 6^th inning.

Young retired the first 15 Rockies that he faced, striking out four batters and having no one come close to getting a hit.  Then the sixth inning Young implosion that has become too much of a constant happened. 

D.J. Mathieu led off with a weak, but legitimate, infield hit which was followed by a Jonathan Herrera single.  Add in a Young throwing error and a two more hits and the Mets found themselves down 4-1 in a blink of an eye after starting the inning protecting a Young perfect game.

To end the night, Young finished with seven innings pitched, giving up four runs, two of which were earned, on five hits and one walk while striking out nine.  What started out looking like a potentially historic night ended in disappointment with Young’s record dropping to 3-7.

In the bottom of the fifth inning, manager Terry Collins was ejected from the game for arguing a call at second base.  Andres Torres got picked off second and got into a pickle, dashing back to second base and diving back in initially being called safe.  Rockies manager Jim Tracy came out to argue after his third baseman Jordan Pacheco had obviously tagged Torres out, and the call was overturned.  This in turn made Collins come out, who was subsequently run from the game moments later.

Not to be forgotten is the work of Rockies starter Jhoulys Chacin, who was making his first start since May 1^st.  He went six innings, allowing only one run on four hits and no walks while striking out two.  It was Chacin’s first win in since August 28^th, 2011.

The Mets look to get in the win column Wednesday night as Matt Harvey (2-3, 3.00 ERA) will make his second start at Citi Field against Jeff Francis (4-4, 6.07 ERA). 

Mets Drop Series Opener to Lowly Rockies

Monday, August 20 2012

Final Score: Colorado Rockies: 3 New York Mets: 1

Mets Drop Series Opener to Lowly Rockies

What started out as a promising season has hit a new low for the Mets, who dropped to a season high eight games under .500 after Monday night’s 3-1 loss to the Colorado Rockies.  With the season going down the drain fast, even individual awards for players such as R.A. Dickey seem to be joining them.  With the loss, the Philadelphia Phillies have tied the Mets for third place in the NL East.

Dickey’s pursuit of 20 victories for the season became a little more difficult after receiving a tough luck no-decision Monday night.  Dickey surrendered a fifth inning solo homerun to Tyler Colvin in the 5^th inning to tie the game up and the Mets offense was unable to back their ace, resulting in Dickey’s total for wins staying at 15.

Dickey was staked to a one run lead after the first inning thanks to a Daniel Murphy single scoring David Wright.  That was the only scoring the Mets were able to do for Dickey, as they squandered their other good chance in the 7^th inning when Dickey was lifted for pinch hitter Justin Turner.

The final stat line for Dickey was great again, as he went seven innings, giving up only three hits and two walks and one earned run while striking out six.  Dickey will get his next crack at win 16 Saturday against the Houston Astros, as he is the only pitcher that will continue on regular rest as the rest of the team has moved to a six-man rotation.

After Dickey was relieved, it did not take long for the Mets bullpen to do what they have done best this season and surrender leads and tie games.  Josh Edgin surrendered an unearned run, after his shovel to first base allowed Jonathan Herrera to get to second base.  Herrera was then bunted over to third and scored after Edgin unleashed a pitch Kelly Shoppach could not handle.

Jon Rauch would surrender another run in the 9^th inning, only his second in his last 22 appearances to give the Rockies a two-run edge.

While the hitting may have been underwhelming, the Mets did flash the leather in the field.  David Wright and Ruben Tejada both made outstanding plays in the 5^th inning, robbing Wilin Rosario and D.J. LeMahieu.  Mike Baxter would add a nice sliding catch in the 6^th inning to rob Guillermo Moscoco of a hit of his own.

The Mets and Rockies will play the second game of their four game series Tuesday night with Chris Young (3-6, 4.50 ERA) being opposed by Jhoulys Chacin (0-3, 7.30 ERA).

Mets get Shutdown by Leake

usatoday.com

Mets vs. Reds Post Game Recap 8/15

The Mets were unable to get much offense going for the second game straight losing to the Red 6-1.

Cincinnati Reds starter Mike Leake was great against the Mets throwing a complete game. Leake went the full nine innings allowing four hits, one run, and had four strikeouts.

Cy Young candidate R.A Dickey had one of his worst outings of the year getting his 4th loss of the season. Dickey went six innings allowing ten hits, two walks, five runs, and had nine strikeouts. Dickey did also give up three solo homeruns to Scott Rolen, Todd Frazier, and Jay Bruce. The start did come with some controversy, as the umpires made Dickey remove two bracelets that his daughters made him.

Mike Baxter was able to have a multi-hit game in the leadoff spot going 2 for 4 with a run scored.

Ruben Tejada was the other Met to get a hit off Leake, also having a multi-hit game going 2 for 4.

The Mets will be looking to avoid the sweep, as they send rookie Matt Harvey (1-3, 3.63) to the mound to face Homer Bailey (10-7, 4.08).

Jay Bruce Walk-Off Drops Mets

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Final Score: New York Mets: 0 Cincinnati Reds: 3

Jay Bruce Walk-Off Drops Mets

The Mets six game road trip started like how much of the home stand went; with a loss. Tuesday night they suffered a tough loss against the National League Central Division Cincinnati Reds 3-0.  It is looking less and less likely that the Mets will be playing in October, as anything short of a miracle will have them miss the postseason. 

The lone runs of the game came in walk-off fashion, as Jay Bruce launched a three-run homerun in the bottom of the ninth inning to propel the Reds to victory.  Manny Acosta allowed the first two men of the inning to reach and left Josh Edgin was brought on to face Bruce.

Edgin got two strikes on Bruce, but after fouling off three pitches put the ball into the left field stands for a walk-off opposite field homerun, his 24^th of the season.  The struggles of the bullpen have been an on going issue for the Mets all season, often ruining gritty performances by their starters like tonight.

Chris Young had a tough, gritty performance tonight, working in and out of trouble throughout his 5 2/3 innings.  He allowed the lead off hitter to get on base the first three innings of the game, and did not have a 1-2-3 inning all night as he allowed 12 Reds to reach base. 

Young’s final stat line wasn’t great, but he got through it without allowing any runs, ending with 5 2/3 innings pitched, allowing eight hits and four walks while striking out four.

All in all, the Mets pitching staff was able to strand 14 Reds on base throughout the night, but was unable to get out of the last jam of the night in the 9^th inning.  There was no perfect inning for the Mets until the 8^th inning by Jon Rauch.

The Mets offense left much to be desired tonight, stranding 10 runners of their own, including the bases loaded in the in the fourth and runners on second and third in the ninth.  Ruben Tejada added a double, giving him a hit in 17 of his last 18 games but was unable to come through with men on base on two separate occasions.

Matt Latos was able to dominate the Mets tonight, giving up only five hits and two walks (one intentional) in his seven innings of work while striking out four.  Sean Marshall and Jose Arredondo pitched the two final shutout innings for the Reds out of the bullpen. 

In the second game of the series, the Mets will have R.A. Dickey (15-3, 2.72 ERA) take the mound against Mike Leake (4-7, 4.51 ERA) of the Reds.

Johan Santana Rocked in Return From DL

Saturday August 11^th, 2012

Final Score: Atlanta Braves: 9 New York Mets: 3

Santana Rocked in Return from DL

Johan Santana wishes he could be back making rehab starts in the minor leagues after getting hammered by the Braves Saturday night, resulting in a 9-3 Mets defeat.  The Mets dropped six games under .500 for the first time all season, giving them the worst record they have had all season and falling further and further behind in the playoff races.

Santana’s return off the DL did not go as planned for the Mets.  He matched the shortest start of his career, lasting only 1 1/3 innings and giving up eight earned runs.  This was the second time this season that Santana was pulled after 1 1/3 innings against the Braves; the first occurrence was April 17^th at Turner Field.

Santana’s final stat line for the night was 1 1/3 innings pitched, eight hits, eight runs, one walks and two strikeouts. 

Santana joined Al Leiter in 1999 and Pedro Astacio in 2002 as the only Mets pitchers in franchise history to surrender six plus runs in four straight starts.  In those four starts, Santana has allowed 27 earned runs on 36 hits and six walks in only 14 innings.

Since throwing the first no-hitter in Mets history, Santana has been off his game.  Fatigue in his shoulder after throwing a career high 134 pitches could be the culprit, but no matter what the reason Santana has not been producing.  He has pitched to a 7.98 ERA with a .328 opponents batting average. 

Jeremy Hefner was strong in his relief of Santana after allowing Freddie Freeman to launch a homerun to center field past the apple.  Hefner went 3 2/3 innings after, scattering three hits.  It was a much needed performance for Hefner who was spared a demotion only because Garrett Olson was designated for assignment.

Manny Acosta, Jon Rauch and Frank Francisco combined to finish the last four innings of the game, giving up only one hit and striking out six Braves.

Kris Medlen had a strong performance for the Braves, limiting the Mets to only one run and five hits in 6 1/3 innings. 

Ruben Tejada lost his hitting streak Friday night against the Braves, but got right back in the hit column with two more Saturday night.  Andres Torres had another nice night at the plate, going 2 for 4 with an RBI.  David Wright added an RBI of his own in the 8^th inning as well.

The series between the Mets and Braves will end Sunday on ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball.  Jon Niese (8-6, 3.82 ERA) will take the mound against Ben Sheets (4-1, 1.41 ERA). 

Mets Blanked By Braves in Series Opener

Friday, August 10, 2012

Final Score: Atlanta Braves: 4 New York Mets: 0

Mets Blanked By Braves in Series Opener

The Mets were unable to build off of a great performance by R.A. Dickey Thursday afternoon, getting shut down by the Braves Friday night 4-0.  A difficult second half of the season continues for the Mets, as they are going in the wrong direction in the standings getting closer to the cellar than the top.

It was a highly anticipated night in Queens as Matt Harvey was making his debut at Citi Field.  The air was quickly taken out of the stadium as Jason Heyward hit a two-run homerun in the top of the first inning.  That homerun would prove to be all the Braves would need to defeat the Mets tonight. 

Harvey had some jitters, evident by the five walks he surrendered, but had a solid outing otherwise.  The finish was strong for Harvey, who retired the last nine batters that he faced.  Harvey was also hit by a come-backer in the right thigh by Freddie Freeman in the third inning but was able to stay in the game.

Harvey got back to what he does best in throwing his fastball tonight.  For whatever reason, he had started to wander away from his fastball in San Diego, relying more on his off-speed pitches.

Harvey’s final line was six innings pitched, surrendering two hits and five walks resulting in two earned runs to go along with three strikeouts.  It was a solid but not great outing for Harvey who received no support from the offense tonight.

Josh Egdin would surrender another two-run homerun later in the eighth inning, this time off the bat of Dan Uggla.

Paul Maholm was able to shut the Mets offense down, throwing a gem in surrendering only three hits and striking out five.  Maholm ended the hitting streak of Ruben Tejada at a career high 14 games.

Jason Bay continued where he left off at after being notified of his cut in playing time by going 0 for 3, dropping his average to .152.

Next up for the Mets is a Saturday night game which Johan Santana (6-7, 3.98 ERA) will make his return from the DL against Kris Medlen (2-1, 2.37 ERA).  Santana is likely to be on a 90 pitch limit, meaning the Mets bullpen could be in for a full day of work and needs to step up.   

Mets Salvage Last Game of Series vs. Marlins

Thursday, August 9^th, 2012

Final Score: Miami Marlins: 1 New York Mets: 6

Mets Salvage Final Game of Series vs. Marlins

The Mets were finally able to end their losing streak at Citi Field Thursday afternoon, defeating the Marlins 6-1.  This was the first win for the Mets at home since July 7^th against the Chicago Cubs and ended the eight game losing streak they were on at home.  The losing streak matched the sixth longest one in Mets franchise history. 

R.A. Dickey pitched like the ace he has been all season, throwing a masterful complete game.  It was the fourth complete game on the season for Dickey.  The only blemish for him was a solo homerun given up in the fourth inning to Justin Ruggiano. 

Dickey surrendered only five hits resulting in the one earned run with no walks and 10 strikeouts.  It was Dickey’s sixth double digit strikeout game of the season, giving him 166 strikeouts on the season against only 36 walks. 

Dickey is looking to become the first 20 game winner for the Mets since Frank Viola in 1990, notching his 15^th win of the season this afternoon, tying him with Jered Weaver for the MLB lead.  Dickey, even with the Mets struggles, is right in the hunt for the NL Cy Young award also with a 15-3 record and 2.72 ERA.

For the Mets at the plate Andres Torres shined.  Torres finished the game 3 for 3 with a walk, finishing a single short of hitting for the cycle.  Multiple Mets also had multi-hit games, with David Wright, Mike Baxter, and Josh Thole.

Ruben Tejada was also able to add two hits, upping his hitting streak to a career high 14 games.

The Mets were able to cool of Jose Reyes, who had his 26 game hitting streak ended Thursday afternoon.  Reyes also made a blunder in the field in the 4^th inning that enabled the Mets to retake the lead for good.

Next up for the Mets is a series against the rival Atlanta Braves.  Matt Harvey (1-2, 3.86 ERA) will be making his Citi Field debut against newly acquired Paul Maholm (9-7 3.75 ERA). 

Marlins Wipe the Floor with Mets

Wednesday, August 8^th, 2012

Final Score: Miami Marlins: 13 New York Mets: 0

Marlins Wipe Floor with Mets

It was an ugly night at Citi Field for the Mets as the Marlins jumped out early and often en route to a 13-0 beat down.  The Mets just cannot buy a win at home right now, losing their eighth straight game at Citi Field since the All-Star break and ninth overall.  The last win at home for the Mets came all the way back on July 7^th against the Chicago Cubs.  The current home losing streak is the longest for the Mets since 2004, Art Howe’s last season as manager.  The Mets now sit at 53-58, 15 games behind Washington in the NL East and 10.5 games behind Atlanta for the last wild card spot. 

Chris Young was hammered tonight coming off what was his best start of the season.  The Marlins jumped on Young early and often, teeing off on him, including three homeruns.  The third homerun is what chased him from the game. 

Jose Reyes launched his eighth homerun of the season in the first inning to get the scoring started for the Marlins.  Giancarlo Stanton would hit the next two off Young, a two run shot in the first inning and another two run shot in the fifth inning. 

Young lasted only 4 1/3 innings in the game, unable to build off his strong performance in San Francisco last week.  He finished the game with totals of seven hits, seven runs, three walks and four strikeouts. 

The Marlins did not stay quite for long, as they put up another four spot in the eighth inning and a two spot in the ninth.  Lefty Garrett Olson was making his Mets debut and fit in perfectly with the bullpen giving up four earned runs in 1/3 inning. 

Closer Frank Francisco came in for the ninth inning to get some work in and continued the woeful pitching surrendering a two-run homerun to Greg Dobbs.

The Mets were able to only muster five hits off the Marlins pitching staff.  They were not without opportunities to score though, as the Marlins walked six Mets, giving them opportunities to make things happen; the Mets just were unable to take advantage.

One positive for the Mets was that Ruben Tejada continued his hitting streak with a single in the third inning, putting the streak at 13 games.  Reyes also continued his streak for the Marlins, getting his up to 26 games.  The 26 game hitting streak for Reyes is a career high for him and a high in the majors this season. 

Next up is the finale of the three game series in a Thursday matinee at 12:10 P.M. ET.  R.A. Dickey (14-3, 2.82 ERA) will take the mound for the Mets as they try to salvage the last game of the series against the Marlins’ Josh Johnson (7-7 3.85 ERA). 

Mets Drop Series Opener Against Marlins

Tuesday August 7^th, 2012

Final Score: Miami Marlins: 4 New York Mets: 2

Mets Drop Series Opener to Marlins

The return home for the Mets from an 11 game road trip did not go as hoped, as the Mets fell to the Marlins 4-2.  The loss makes it eight home defeats in a row, leaving the Mets winless at Citi Field since the All-Star break.  The Mets are falling further below .500 and after coming into the second half with high expectations now sit only three games ahead of the cellar in the National League East division. 

Jon Niese entered the game with underwhelming stats against the Marlins in his career; Tuesday did nothing to change that.  Entering the game, Niese had eight career starts against the Marlins with a 1-4 record and 4.47 ERA. 

Tonight Niese suffered from another rough inning, giving up all four runs in the fourth inning.  Even outside the rough inning Niese struggled some, giving up eight hits and a walk along with four strikeouts and the four earned runs in six innings.

Avoiding the big inning has been a season long problem for Niese.  In each of his last three starts he surrendered four runs or more, he allowed big innings of three or more runs at least once.  If Niese can control the big inning and limit the damage, it would go along way for his own stats and the Mets.

The exiling of Jason Bay is also underway.  In the midst of a 2 for 31 slump, Bay has been relegated to strictly a platoon role.  Bay will see time only against lefties and will have to work out of this slump with side work.  He endures heavy booing from the Mets faithful, which is rightfully deserved with the dreaded season he is having.  Bay is lucky at this point to even be a part of the roster; if he wasn’t getting paid the contract he was he would already be off the team.

The lengthy hitting streaks of both teams’ shortstops were also extended tonight.  Jose Reyes extended his streak to an MLB season high of 25 and Ruben Tejada extended his to 12.  Tejada has filled in well for Reyes, who was again booed heavily in his second return to Citi Field.

Next up for the Mets and Marlins is a Wednesday night affair with Chris Young (3-5, 4.22 ERA) taking the mound for the Mets against the Marlins’ Nathan Eovaldi (2-7, 4.66 ERA).

Hefner Performs Well in Spot Start for Mets

Saturday, August 4^th, 2012

Final Score: New York Mets: 6 San Diego Padres: 2

Hefner Performs Well in Spot Start

The Mets offense was able to wake up some Saturday night, scoring six runs in defeating the Padres 6-2.  The Mets move one game closer to .500 with the win tonight and sit with a record of 53-55 after tonight’s victory.  A strong performance from spot starter Jeremy Hefner not only earned him a spot on the major league roster for the time being but a much needed victory for the Mets.

Hefner threw a strong game for the Mets against his old team in the Padres.  He allowed the first batter to get on, but erased him with a double play on the next at-bat.  Hefner ultimately would allow only one run in six innings, surrendering only five hits and no walks to go along with two strikeouts.  One thing that stood out in Hefner’s start was that it took him only 74 pitches to get through the six innings. 

With Johan Santana expected to return from the DL next weekend, Hefner will be moved back to the bullpen according to manager Terry Collins.  Hefner’s performance tonight saved him from a demotion and showed how valuable he could be for the Mets organization. 

The Mets did a lot of their damage tonight in the 2^nd inning, scoring four of their six runs in the inning thanks to an erratic performance from Edinson Volquez.  Volquez managed to get through only 1 2/3 innings, giving up two hits and four walks, resulting in four earned runs while also striking out three.

Two of Volquez’s four walks on the night forced in runs in the 2^nd inning, which was highlighted by a two-RBI double by Jordany Valdespin.  Valdespin had been struggling on the road trip before the at-bat, going only 3 for 23.

Daniel Murphy had another strong performance tonight, going 4 for 4 at the plate for the Mets, also adding a walk.

Mike Baxter had a record tying night at the plate for the Mets as well without recording an at-bat.  Baxter walked five times tonight, which is the first time a player has accomplished that feat since 2006 when Ryan Howard did it for the Philadelphia Phillies.

Josh Edgin, the only lefty currently in the bullpen with Tim Byrdak landing on the DL with an injury to his shoulder, tossed a shutout 7^th inning despite an error from Ruben Tejada.  Edgin then tossed a second shutout inning, even after manager Terry Collins said he would be conscious of not over-using Egdin in Brydak’s absence.

Bobby Parnell came into the game in the 9^th inning and imploded giving up a leadoff homerun to Chase Headley followed by a double by Yonder Alonso.  He was relieved by Frank Francisco, who was making his first appearance since coming off the DL.  Francisco was able to close out the game without allowing another base runner, stranding Alonso on base.

The Mets will head into the finale in San Diego looking to win their second series in a row.  They have already clinched a winning road trip, which is a positive sign after such an awful start to the second half.  Matt Harvey (1-1, 1.59 ERA) will make his third career start against Jason Marquis (4-6, 4.08 ERA).

Niese Shuts Down Giants

Mets vs. Giants Post Game Recap 8/1

The New York Mets were able to beat the San Francisco Giants in the third game of the four game series winning by a score of 2-1.

Mets starter Jon Niese was able to bounce back nicely after a bad outing in Arizona by winning his 8th game of the season. Niese went seven innings only allowing three hits, two walks, one run, and had five strikeouts.

The bullpen was able to finish off the last two innings rather easily with Tim Byrdak, and Jon Rauch pitching the 8th without allowing base runner, and Bobby Parnell was able to pick up his 4th save of the season putting the Giants down in order in the 9th.

Ruben Tejada had a big day for the Mets starting the game with a leadoff homerun against Matt Cain for his 1st homerun of the season, and snapping a 628 at-bat streak without a homerun. Tejada would go 3 for 4 with a walk in the game.

David Wright like Tejada also was able to have a three hit game going 3 for 4 with a walk as well.

The Mets offense did miss many opportunities to score going 1 for 13 with runners in scoring position blowing lots of chances to break the game open. They were however extremely aggressive on the base paths stealing four bases on Buster Posey, and had two runners thrown out.

The Mets will look to take the series against a hopeful playoff team in the Giants as Chris Young (2-5, 4.58) will face Barry Zito (8-7, 3.89).

Mets Drop Second Game in San Francisco

Tuesday July 31^st, 2012

Final Score: New York Mets: 1 San Francisco Giants: 4

Mets Drop Second Game in San Francisco

After taking the first game of the series in San Francisco, the Mets dropped the second one 4-1.  The Mets were unable to give any support to Matt Harvey, who was making his second career major league start and suffered his first career loss.  Lack of defensive awareness and a lack of pop at the plate put the Mets behind the eight-ball.

Harvey threw another good game for the Mets, even though it resulted in a loss.  He shattered the Mets franchise record for strikeouts in his first two starts, racking up 19.  Harvey finished the game with six innings, four hits, three runs (two of which were earned), three walks and seven strikeouts.

Harvey put the blame on himself for the loss but was being unfair and tough on himself.  The defense just did not show up behind him tonight.  There were plays that resulted in errors and mental mistakes throughout the game.  Jordany Valdespin miss played a line drive in the second inning, allowing Buster Posey to get to first on a single.  The bases would eventually be loaded and Harvey would get the groundball for the double play but the defense again let him down.  Ruben Tejada misfired his throw to first, missing out on an opportunity to end the inning on a double play. 

The third run was surrendered in the sixth inning with the bases loaded when Harvey got Marco Scutaro to ground into a double play.  Harvey relied on his changeup more this time around than in his first start and the results would have been as good if not for spotty defense.

Harvey will make his next start in the finale of the road trip Sunday in San Diego against the Padres and Jason Marquis.

Outside of an RBI double by Justin Turner knocking in Scott Hairston in the second inning, the Mets offense was held in check by Tim Lincecum.  David Wright was given the night off for only the sixth time this season but appeared as a pinch hitter.

Wright came on with the bases loaded and was struck out by Lincecum on one of the best curveballs a pitcher can throw.  The strikeout ended really any chance the Mets had at a comeback. 

Lincecum finished the game with seven innings pitched, allowing six hits and one walk equaling one earned run while striking out seven.  This is Lincecum’s fifth win of the season and second against the Mets.

Next up for the Mets and Giants is the third game in the four game series.  The Mets will again have a hard time scoring runs as Jon Niese (7-5, 3.68 ERA) will be opposed by Giants starter and All-Star game starter Matt Cain (10-3, 2.80 ERA). 

Mets Lose Despite Monster Day from Davis

metsblog.com

Mets vs. Diamondbacks Post Game Recap 7/28

The New York Mets lost their second straight game in the series with the Diamondbacks losing on Saturday by a score of 6-3.

For the second straight game the Mets didn’t get what they needed from the starting pitcher, as Chris Young like Niese the day before struggled against the Diamondbacks. Young went only four innings while allowing all six runs on seven hits, and two walks.

One bright spot for the Mets in the loss was that the bullpen did pitch great in their four innings. Ramon Ramirez, Manny Acosta, and Josh Edgin combined to pitch the final four scoreless innings after the short start from Young only allowing one hit as well.

The Mets offense was carried by Ike Davis who hit three solo homeruns in the game giving him 20 now for the season. The homeruns for Davis came in the 2nd, 4th, and 6th innings all off Ian Kennedy, and two of the homeruns by Davis in the 2nd and 4th innings went over 430ft to center field.

The only other Met to do much at the plate was Ruben Tejada who went 2 for 4 with a walk, and is batting .319 no for the season.

The Mets as a team had a tough time making contact in general striking out 15 times against Diamondbacks pitchers in the game.

R.A Dickey (13-3, 2.97) will face Joe Saunders (5-6, 3.51) as the Mets look to split the four game series with the Diamondbacks.

Niese Unable to Handle the Desert Heat

nypost.com

Mets vs. Diamondbacks Post Game Recap 7/27

The Mets were unable to build momentum after a great debut from Matt Harvey on Thursday the Mets lost 11-5 on Friday.

Jon Niese had one of the worst starts of his career giving up eight runs matching his career high. Niese went six innings allowing nine hits, one walk, eight runs six of which were earned due to a throwing error by Niese. The loss moves Niese to (7-5) for the season.

Elvin Ramirez also had a tough time in his one inning of work allowing four hits, and three earned runs in the 7th inning.

Ike Davis was able to go 1 for 4 while hitting his 17th homerun in the 2nd inning of Josh Collmenter.

David Wright was the big run producer for the Mets hitting a three-run shot in the 3rd inning for his 16th homerun of the season, and brings his RBI total to 70.

Leadoff hitter Ruben Tejada continued his good hitting this season going 2 for 5, and scoring a run.

The Mets will look to bounce back on Saturday as Chris Young (2-4, 3.91) will face Ian Kennedy (8-8, 4.20).

Mets Win as Harvey Shines

nypost.com

Mets vs Diamondback Post Game Recap 7/26

The Mets were able to snap their 6 game losing streak by beating the Diamondbacks 3-1 with a great start from Matt Harvey.

Making his MLB debut 23 year old Matt Harvey was exactly what the doctor ordered for the Mets to snap their losing streak, as they look to try and move back to the .500 mark. Harvey set a Mets franchise record in strikeouts with 11 breaking Tom Seavers previous record. The young right hander would go 5.1 scoreless innings while only allowing three hits, and three walks in his debut.

Jon Rauch gave up the only run of the game for the Mets in the 8^th inning, as Justin Upton hit a sac-fly scoring Jason Kubel.

Mets closer Bobby Parnell was able to get his 3^rd save of the season despite making things interesting in the 9^th inning by allowing two walks, but did have an impressive three strikeouts in the inning.

Lead-off hitter Ruben Tejada was able to reach base safely three times going 2 for 4 with a walk, and scoring a run.

Scott Hairston had the biggest night of any Mets hitters going 3 for 4 with two doubles, and two RBIs continuing his great hitting against lefty pitchers.

Struggling Andres Torres was able to snap out of his 0-17 drought going 2 for 3 hitting his third triple of the year, and scoring a run.

Matt Harvey showed off his hitting skills as well going 2 for 2 off All-Star Wade Miley including a double capping off his great major league debut.

The Mets will look to get a little winning streak going by sending Jon Niese (7-4, 3.59) to face Josh Collmenter (2-2, 3.82).

Mets Fall to Nationals Suffering Meltdown in Extras

Monday, July 23, 2012

Final Score: 10 innings, Washington Nationals: 8 New York Mets: 2

Mets Suffer Meltdown in Extras, Fall to Nationals

On a soggy night at Citi Field the Mets once again fought valiantly against the division leading Washington Nationals to once again suffer a meltdown in extra innings, losing 8-2.  The loss drops the Mets to a season-high two games under .500 and fading fast in the wild card and NL East division races.  The Mets have now trailed for 40 straight innings and are 1-10 since the All-Star break.

Tonight the culprit out of the Mets bullpen was Pedro Beato.  Beato inherited two runners of Tim Byrdak and subsequently surrendered the tie-breaking single to Bryce Harper with the bases loaded.  Ryan Zimmerman added on with a bases clearing double and Michael Morse launched a two-run homer to finish the scoring in a six run frame for the Nationals. 

The Mets should have been in much better shape, but Ruben Tejada dropped a throw from Byrdak on a tailor made double-play ball after Roger Bernadina led off the inning with a single.  Tejada was spiked on the play and was checked out by trainer Ray Ramirez but remained in the game.

Tonight’s performance was the most runs given up in an extra inning in Mets franchise history.  Five of the six runs were earned, giving the Mets back to back nights in which their bullpen gave up five or more runs in an extra inning.  The bullpen’s total ERA now sits at an appalling 5.16, easily the worst in the majors.

Chris Young was able to give the Mets a strong start even if the beginning was rocky.  Young surrendered a leadoff single to Steve Lombardozzi to start the first and then followed that up by serving up a two-run homerun to Bryce Harper.  Young would allow one more hit that inning then go on to retire 14 Nationals in a row. 

Young matched a season high throwing seven innings, giving the Mets the exact performance they need from their starters if they expect to have any change at the post season.  Young finished the game with a final line of seven innings pitched, three hits, two earned runs, three walks and seven strikeouts. 

The Mets were able to answer for Young, showing some power of their own with two solo homeruns by David Wright in the fourth inning and Ike Davis in the seventh inning.

Wright and Davis are tied for the team lead with 15 homeruns each.

Jordany Valdespin hit in front of Wright tonight and finished the night 0 for 4, but should expect to see lots of playing time in the coming games in the outfield.  He figures to get a good look against right handed pitching with Lucas Duda being rumored to be sent down to clear space for Matt Harvey.

Ruben Tejada was able to get back on track, getting three hits tonight in his four at-bats.  Daniel Murphy also stayed hot, getting two hits of his own in his four at bats.

Next up for the Mets and Nationals is a re-match of All-Stars from last week in D.C. between R.A. Dickey (13-1, 3.32 ERA) and Gio Gonzalez (12-5, 3.32 ERA).  The Mets were able to get their only win of the second half in this match-up last week 9-5.

Mets Lose Back and Forth Game as Bullpen Falters Again

Saturday, July 14, 2012

Final Score: New York Mets: 7 Atlanta Braves: 8

Bullpen Loses Back and Forth Game For Mets

The Mets lost their second game after the All-Star break and third overall in heartbreaking fashion to the Atlanta Braves 8-7 Saturday afternoon.  The Mets were resilient, falling behind early but mounting a comeback.  The comeback went for naught though, as the bullpen again fell apart and was unable to hold the lead.

The bullpen was put in such a situation because of an off-day from starting pitcher R.A. Dickey.  Dickey finished the game giving up eight hits and two walks that resulted in five earned runs.  He struck out four Braves as well. The wheels fell off for Dickey because of a reversed call in the 5^th inning.

Left Fielder Jordany Valdespin made a play initially ruled as a catch in the 5^th inning.  The play resulted as a double play at first, but after huddling together the umpires decided that the ball had actually been trapped by Valdespin.  The umpires placed Martin Prado on second base, not wanting to penalize him for correctly seeing the ball drop and Jason Heyward was awarded first.

Mets manager Terry Collins was ejected after arguing the play.  Dickey would retire the next batter Chipper Jones, enabling the runners to each move up a base.  Dickey was not as fortunate with the next batter, as Freddie Freeman knocked in a two-run double to give the Braves a 5-3 lead.

Dickey was bailed out by the Mets offense, as they actually got him in position to win before the bullpen imploded again at the end.

Josh Edgin was impressive in his second major league appearance, striking out the side around one walk.  Edgin has struck out five of the six lefty batters he has faced, looking to earn a permanent spot in the Mets bullpen.

Bobby Parnell was brought on to make a five-out save and was unable to do so.  Parnell came in with two runners on and let them score while giving up another earned run of his own.  Parnell allowed back-to-back-to-back RBI singles to Michael Bourn, Martin Prado and Jason Heyward to give the Braves an 8-7 lead in the bottom of the 8^th inning. 

Ike Davis had another strong day at the plate, going 2 for 4 with a double and his 13^th homerun of the season.  Jordany Valdespin continued his great play since being called back up, going 2 for 5 with an RBI.  Ruben Tejada also had a strong day, going 2 for 5 with two RBI’s.

David Wright struggled from the plate, seeming to not be able to pick up on the ball coming out of the Braves pitchers hands.  Wright suffered the golden sombrero, going 0 for 5 with four strikeouts on the afternoon.

The Mets will look to avoid the sweep Sunday afternoon against the Braves as Johan Santana (6-5, 3.24 ERA) will take the mound against Ben Sheets, who will be making his first start of the season and first appearance in the majors in two seasons for the Braves.  

Mets Disappoint in Opener of Important Stretch

Friday, July 13th 2012
Final Score: New York Mets: 5 Atlanta Braves: 7

Mets Disappoint in Opener of Important Stretch

The Mets started a stretch of games that could determine the outcome of their season on a loss, falling to the Atlanta Braves 7-5.  This series against the Braves starts a stretch of four series in which the Mets will play teams directly connected to their own playoff hopes, heading to Washington following this trip to Atlanta and finishing it up in Queens against the Los Angeles Dodgers and Nationals again.

“The next month will determine a lot,” said Mets manager Terry Collins.  “We’ve got Washington three times, I think.  We’ve got the Braves twice. We’ve got the Dodgers.  We go on the West Coast swing.  You know what that can mean.  You’re talking about Arizona, who is playing better.  The Giants, who are fighting.  You’ve got to go play San Diego in their place.  Even though they’re not playing the way they want to, certainly, they can always be tough out there, and that’s at the end of an 11-day road trip.  That’s a tough trip.  We’re going to know how we’re standing when we get to August 1^st, if we’re still in the dogfight.”

Collins will have plenty of tough decisions to make leading up to and during that time, and the first one was made tonight.  Collins was persistent in saying that he would not hesitate using lefty call-up Josh Edgin in a pressure situation and he kept his word.

Edgin came in after Miguel Batista, who walked four batters in 1.1 innings of work, made a mess of things with the bases loaded and retired the Braves to keep the Mets deficit at 5-4.  He came back for the next inning and was successful at the start, but could not finish the inning.

After retiring the first two batters of the inning, Edgin served up a homerun to Chipper Jones, which was followed by a Freddie Freeman double.  Collins had seen enough and pulled Edgin. 

Edgin was charged with two runs after Ramon Ramirez came in and surrendered a single which knocked in Freeman.

Another tough decision Collins will have to make is with the starting rotation because of Dillon Gee’s injury.  The decision was not made any easier after Chris Young’s performance tonight.

Young had his shortest outing of the season, surrendering five earned runs in three innings.  It was a rough night for Young, who surrendered three walks and six hits in his short outing only striking out two Braves. 

The poor performance could have been because of a lack of readiness, as Young was the third person in line for this start. Johan Santana was originally named but his ankle would not allow him to go.  Next in line Gee was diagnosed with a blood clot in his arm, rendering him unavailable to make the start.

Some positives for the Mets was that Andres Torres was able to return.  It was his first action since July 4^th because of discomfort in his back.

Ruben Tejada, David Wright and Scott Hairston were all able to get two hits for the Mets, who were just unable to keep the Braves in check when needed.

Next up for the Mets and Braves is an afternoon game Saturday on Fox Saturday Baseball game of the week at 4:05 P.M. ET.  R.A. Dickey (12-1, 2.40 ERA) will make his first start of the second half, being opposed by Braves starter Tommy Hanson (10-5, 3.71 ERA).

Mets Comeback Falls Short, Lose to Cubs 7/6

Final Score: Chicago Cubs: 8 New York Mets: 7

The Mets mounted a valiant comeback tonight at Citi Field, but in the end were not able to finish it, falling to the lowly Cubs 8-7.

Starting pitcher Johan Santana had a rough outing, giving up seven earned runs on a career high tying 13 hits in only 4 2/3 innings.  He was able to strike out six Cubs without walking a batter.  Santana may have also suffered an ankle injury in the 5^th inning when he was unable to corral a toss from first baseman Justin Turner and was stepped on by Reed Johnson.

Three of the 13 hits that Santana surrendered were homeruns, giving up one to Cubs right fielder Reed Johnson to lead off the game then homeruns to Anthony Rizzo and Jeff Baker in the 5^th before being taken out of the game.  In Santana’s previous three starts he had allowed only two earned runs in 20 innings.

Reed Johnson and Anthony Rizzo each had four hits for the Cubs, leading the offensive push for the team. 

The bullpen again was able to pitch well for the Mets, giving up only one run in four innings.  They were able to keep the game within reach for the offense to mount almost mount an improbable comeback.

In the 9^th inning, the Mets were able to get things going against Cubs closer Carlos Marmol.  After striking out Kirk Nieuwenhuis to start the inning, Marmol surrendered a homerun to pinch hitter Jordany Valdespin.  He then would walk the next three batters in Ruben Tejada, Daniel Murphy and David Wright to load the bases.  Ike Davis pinch hit for Scott Hairston and was able to deliver a two-RBI single.  Lucas Duda was up next and ripped a hard line drive up the middle but it was snagged by Marmol who doubled Davis off first base, ending the Mets comeback.

Duda was able to get the Mets scoring started earlier in the game, blasting his 12^th homerun of the season in the 2^nd inning off Cubs starter Travis Wood. 

Justin Turner also hit the ball well for the Mets tonight, getting a career high tying four hits in the game, knocking in an RBI with a single in the 8^th inning. 

The Mets record this season against left-handed pitchers drops to 12-20 after Wells was able to get the quality start tonight.

The Mets and Cubs will get back at it tomorrow afternoon at 4:15 P.M. ET.  Dillon Gee (5-7 4.34 ERA) will toe the rubber for the Mets against former Notre Dame wide receiver and Cubs starter Jeff Samardzija (6-7 4.77 ERA).