Game 47: Mets vs. Rockies @ Coors Field

Claudio Vargas heads to the mound in the midst of this Met debacle.

The Good: Claudio Vargas went seven strong innings for the win and Duaner & Feliciano closed it out. Reyes and Castillo set the double while Beltran got the Mets started with a bases clearing double and they never looked back. Wright and Delgado added shots of their own but the spotlight was stolen by Nick Evans in his first major league ballgame. Called up from AA to fill in for the depleted Met outfield, the youngster collected three doubles on the day and drove them all to right field.

The Bad: No complaints.

Overall: Good win. I liked the way they came out in the first but Delgado pissed me off. He looked terrible all day but ended up with a homer to show for it. Vargas stepped up big time and there are some positives for the first time in a few days. Willie Randolph can breathe easy for another day.

Notes: Marlon Anderson was placed on the 15-day disabled list prior to today's game.

Final Score: Mets 9, Rockies 1. Record: 23-24.

Game 44: Mets vs. Braves @ Turner Field

First game of the double header - time to make Glavine pay.

The Good: Nothing. Absolutely nothing good came out of this damn game.

The Bad: The Mets had Glavine on the ropes. After Castillo homered, they loaded the bases with one out and could not score. Granted, Alou and Delgado hit the ball hard, they were still outs in the box score. This is the same b.s. this team has put us through for the past year. Their inability to keep the momentum going and hit in big situations will keep the Mets a .500 team. Oh yeah, Heilman came in and ruined any chance we had at winning. Nice play by Reyes throwing out Escobar at third (advancing).

Overall: Terrible game. I find it disrespectful to let the man who gave you no chance to win in last year's biggest game of the season come in and hold you hitless for five innings.

Final Score: Mets 1, Braves 6. Record: 22-20.

Game 43: Mets vs. Yankees @ Yankee Stadium

Oliver Perez - please don't choke.

The Good: The offense was great, the defense was great, and even the pitching turned out to be great. Oliver Perez overcame a bump in the road to pitch into the eighth inning and Ryan Church flashed some leather in right & mashed at the plate as he crushed a home run to the black seats in deep center field. Reyes homered, Wright hit, Alou executed, Schneider remained productive, and even Castillo drove in a run. Some plays that stand out are Alou's two-run single, Schneider's clutch hit after an intentional walk, and David Wright tagging up on Abreu in short right.

The Bad: Carlos Delgado was robbed of a three run home run that hit the foul pole, as it was overturned by the umpires. However, Delgado battled back in that at-bat and ended up with a big rbi single. Although the Yankees came right back against Perez in the bottom of the inning, the Mets held on for the win. It was also good to see Jerry Manuel show some emotion after Delgado was robbed of his homer - he was ejected from the game.

Overall: It's always good to thrash the Yankees. Now, we sweep the shortened series and move on to Atlanta with some momentum. Tomorrow's off day should have everyone well rested.

Notes: I officially graduated from The Pennsylvania State University today with a bachelor's degree in Management and Supply Chain & Information Systems.

Final Score: Mets 11, Yankees 2. Record: 22-19.

Game 41: Mets vs. Nationals @ Shea Stadium

The young'n Mike Pelfrey looks for a split in the series against the Nationals.

The Good: Pelfrey pitched well.

The Bad: Wtf at the offense? Reyes took an ill-advised risk and Beltran was doubled off to end the game. To me, it's a lose-lose situation. If they don't get on base, everyone will point that out, but when they do, they get no credit for trying to score a run. The turning point of the game was when Willie Harris made a terrific catch to preserve a big out for the Nats.

Overall: There is no way a pitcher should go six-plus with a no-hitter and lose the game. Only the Mets. Off to the Bronx.

Quote of the day: “Someone tell me why the (expletive) you’re talking to the closer. I didn’t even play. They’re over there, not being interviewed. … I got it. They’re gone. (Expletive) shocker.” - Billy Wagner

Final Score: Mets 0, Nationals 0. Final Score: 20-19.

Game 37: Mets vs. Reds @ Shea Stadium

Oliver Perez will try to find the zone and win one for mommy!

The Good: Perez finally got back on track for his third win and the offense produced as well. Jose Reyes had three hits, Carlos Beltran hit a bomb and had three rbi, and Ryan Church followed Beltran's shot with one of his own to go back-to-back. They did a good job of jumping all over Johnny Cueto in the first inning. Overall, everyone contributed. The bullpen was solid as well.

The Bad: Perez ran into a small speed bump in the fifth, but overcame it. Aside from that, nothing really.

Overall: Good win to take the series.

Notes: Play was stopped in the ninth inning for about five minutes after Willie Randolph pointed out that Dave Ross and Corey Patterson batted out of order. Patterson was ruled out and Ross went back into the batter's box to promptly single up the middle.

Final Score: Mets 8, Reds 3. Record: 19-16.

Game 32: Mets vs. Dodgers @ Dodger Stadium

John Maine will try and be the stopper and salvage a game in the L.A. series.

The Good: The offense kept hitting and Maine kept pitching. Twelve runs and plenty of tack-on hitting off of Penny. Good outing by the offense as Ryan Church keeps hitting and by John Maine as he goes 8.1 innings. The play of the game goes to Angel Pagan as he went tumbling into the stands during the second inning to make a catch down the left field line. He later left the game due to an apparent shoulder injury.

The Bad: Take it!

Overall: Finally.

Final Score: Mets 12, Dodgers 1. Record: 17-15.

Game 29: Mets vs. Diamondbacks @ Chase Field

Yet another marquee matchup as Johan Santana faces Dan Haren.

The Good: Jose Reyes got a big hit to get us on the board and Wright crushed an 0-2 fastball off Haren for the Mets second run. In the bottom of the eighth, Ryan Church gunned Chris Burke at third base to prevent a huge Arizona threat; what a terrible decision by Burke. In the top of the ninth, Beltran led off with a single and eventually came around to score on an error by Conor Jackson (threw the ball into left center). Then, Marlon Anderson singled to right and Reyes lined out to left, both on first pitches, to score two more runs. In the ninth, Wagner got a 1-2-3 inning for his seventh save.

The Bad: The bullpen screws Johan once more. The culprit this time: Joe Smith. That was a terrible call at second base on Ojeda's hustle play by the way. Same goes for the call at first on Micah Owings chopper to short.

Overall: Great job by the Mets to go into Arizona and take the series from what has been the best team in baseball thus far in this young season.

Final Score: Mets 5, Diamondbacks 2. Record: 16-13.

Game 25: Mets vs. Pirates @ Shea Stadium

After a delay due to a water main break, Oliver Perez will take the mound against his former ball club.

The Good: Not Much.

The Bad: Perez walked many and gave up more. Before you knew it, the Mets were down seven and Figueroa had come into the game. Castillo's error in the second inning was crucial, but still doesn't take Perez off the hook.

Overall: Never even had a chance.

Final Score: Mets 2, Pirates 9. Record: 14-12.

Game 24: Mets vs. Pirates @ Shea Stadium

After a rain-out last night, Johan heads to the mound on five day's rest.

The Good: Reyes went 3-3 and sparked the offense but still only scored once after being on base six times. Ryan Church had a huge home run to tie the game and Wright got the winning run in on a bases loaded sac fly in the eleventh. However, this game should have been over long before then. Good patience at the plate. Although Duaner gave up a big run, he weathered the storm and Wagner was effective yet again. Wright's late rbi earned the win for Jorge Sosa.

The Bad: Johan Santana was screwed out of a win but he only pitched into the sixth while giving up two home runs. Although he appeared uncomfortable in the cold weather, I expected more than what we have seen thus far. Aaron Heilman also gave up a run, Duaner allowed his first, and so did Wagner. Reyes had a good offensive night, but he made an error in the ninth that lost Johan's win and blew Wagner's save.

Overall: Ugly win.

Notes: The Mets have signed Harold Reynolds to join the SNY pre and post game show. Moises Alou is expected to join the team on Friday after MRI results were negative. Also, for those who don't believe Beltran hustles in the outfield, his belly flop to nearly save the game in the ninth stands out in the back of my mind. "Chavez, hitting just .160 coming in, singled to lead off the bottom of the fifth and raised his hands palms up as if saying 'I don’t know how I did it' while running down the first-base line. He scored an out later on Reyes’ triple off the wall in right-center."

Final Score: Mets 5, Pirates 4. Record: 14-11.

Game 23: Mets vs. Braves @ Shea Stadium

The feel-good story continues as Figueroa opposes John Smoltz with Raul Casanova behind the plate.

The Good: The Mets jumped on Smoltz early as Reyes promptly double to lead off the game. Although he scored on a wild pitch, Castillo collected three hits and Wright knocked in a big tack-on run after looking terrible early on. Beltran also hit the ball to the center field wall and almost hit one out to left. However, today's star was Carlos Delgado as he went opposite field on Smoltz and later jacked one off the scoreboard in right field. The play of the game went to Ryan Church in right field during the sixth inning when he avoided Beltran with a basket catch to preserve the lead. Raul Casanova gave the Mets their big lead when he clubbed a home run to deep right field in the second inning. Endy Chavez hit the ball hard as well but, as always, he made some nice defensive plays in left field. On the mound, Figueroa was great again and also collected his first hit as a Met (first one since singling off of Glavine in 2004). Figueroa went five plus and was picked up by Joe Smith. Schoeneweis snuck by with a scoreless frame, Feliciano followed with an inning of his own, and Billy Wagner saved the game. However, he allowed his first hit of the season to end his streak at 9.1 innings.

The Bad: Before the game, it was announced that Brian Schneider is still in the hospital receiving IV fluids for his infected thumb. It was also reported that Moises Alou will return to Shea Stadium tomorrow but may have a hairline fracture on his inflamed ankle. From a managerial perspective, Willie almost blew this one today. He left Figueroa in a few batters too many and had the choice to pinch hit for him with the bases loaded. He also warmed up Duaner Sanchez and didn't use him.

Overall: A true team effort. Figueroa looked great and everyone contributed. I guess Delgado's day off paid dividends. Now, we welcome the Pirates after a big series win and can get on a roll before facing the Diamondbacks. You still gotta' wonder though, are these just the Mets teasing us again?

Final Score: Mets 6, Braves 3. Record: 13-11.

Game 22: Mets vs. Braves @ Shea Stadium

Mainey vs. Hudson.

The Good: After falling behind early, the Mets put together a big inning to score four runs (Church's rbi triple on Francouer and subsequent score on a grounder was the difference) and that is all they would need. Gustavo Molino also filled in for the injured Brian Schneider and singled in his first Met-at bat. He called a good game, play good defense, and racked up a hit in his first start for New York. Maine managed to pitch through five innings and earned his second win of the year while Aaron Heilman came on in the sixth inning and got two outs before almost choking by allowing a run. Carlos Delgado was shown pulling Heilman aside when they reached the dugout. In the eighth inning, after Feliciano got into trouble, Sanchez was brought in and immediately induced a double play. Billy Wagner would then earn his fifth save of the season and essentially pitched the first Met no-hitter with his ninth inning of scoreless relief.

The Bad: Reyes has to wake his bat up and Heilman still sucks.

Overall: I'll take any win against Atlanta.

Final Score: Mets 4, Braves 3. Record: 12-11.

Game 21: Mets vs. Braves @ Shea Stadium

Let's see if Pelfrey can bring it vs. the Braves.

The Good: At least we managed to score in an unconventional manner to stay in it until the sixth.

The Bad: Can't score, and the runs we did score were only because the ump missed a strike three on Wright, Pelfrey can't pitch to lefties, Reyes fell off the planet, and the Braves have our number.

Overall: Another sad game to watch.

Final Score: Mets 3, Braves 6. Record: 11-11.

Game 20: Mets vs. Nationals @ RFK Stadium

2-0 Oliver Perez tries to sweep the two game series from the Nats tonight.

The Good: We scored early and gave Perez a nice cushion. It was the Castillo, Church, and Casanova show, but the 'pen choked.

The Bad: Heilman sucks - it seems like I have called these things for the past three weeks. However, that doesn't take much skill these days. If you can't get Milledge out and are going to walk him to load the bases, you better not give up the grand slam. Anything but the grand slam. Oliver Perez also needs to find the damn strike zone and go deeper into games. This is the second time this season he gives up a lead. We should have won this game!

Overall: Disgusting!

Notes: Looks like Brian Schneider will be out for a while with an infected thumb.

Final Score: Mets 5, Nationals 10. Record: 11-9.

Game 19: Mets vs. Cubs @ Wrigley Field

Nelson Figueroa takes his show on the road to Chicago.

The Good: Figueroa at least gave us a chance to win by allowing three runs over five innings. Not much aside from that though.

The Bad: As usual, the Met offense made a slumping pitcher, Ted Lilly, look like Cy Young tonight. Furthermore, Sosa was the culprit tonight, instead of Heilman, as he allowed a grand slam to Ronny Cedeno. However, "the Mets might have gotten out of the eighth before Cedeno came up, but Jose Reyes chose to throw home rather than start what appeared to be a tailor-made, inning-ending 6-4-3 double play (Yahoo! Sports)."

Overall: Ronny Cedeno!?

Final Score: Mets 1, Cubs 8. Record: 10-9.

Game 18: Mets vs. Cubs @ Wrigley Field

Maine-Zambrano.

The Good: Maine pitched well enough to win and the Mets kept it close until the eighth. Duaner pitched another scoreless inning.

The Bad: Schneider out again, Maine gets screwed out of a win, Reyes grounds into a double play (four tonight by the team) & commits a deadly error, and Heilman chokes again.

Overall: You could kind of see this one coming.

Final Score: Cubs 7, Mets 1. Record: 10-8.

Game 17: Mets vs. Phillies @ Citizens Bank Ballpark

Mike Pelfrey goes for the sweep!

The Good: The Mets battled back big time by crawling out of a 4-0 hole. Reyes tripled to leadoff, Castillo singled him in, Wright doubled, and Beltran got the clutch hit. Delgado then flew out to left on a near double over Burrell's head before Ryan Church tied the game with a hit to right.

The Bad: Mike Pelfrey wasn't as good as he had been in his first two starts. He was too wild and was getting hit hard but with an out here and there, the Mets would have won. When the Mets came back from four runs, Feliciano gave the Phils the winning run and the Mets choked in the ninth. After Easley walked and Reyes singled off of Lidge's glove in the ninth, Luis Castillo failed to get down a bunt and struck out. David Wright then fouled out before Carlos Beltran was robbed up the middle to end the game.

Overall: If we're going to play the blame game, there are many culprits. First of all, the home plate umpire in tonight's game, Greg Gibson, was terrible. Bottom line. Secondly, I don't know if tonight was the right night for Willie to tweak with the lineup. After winning five games with Ryan Church in the two hole, Willie dropped him in the order and benched Angel Pagan to insert Chavez in the lineup. I understand the moves but they threw off the offensive chemistry and may have cost the Mets the game. In addition, the Phillies should have won this game after jumping out to a 4-0 lead but that all changed when the Mets came back. The only problem with putting Feliciano in during the 7th inning was that he may have to face a right-handed hitter and Pedro Feliz made him pay. Although he gave up the hit, I thought it was the right move with Utley and Howard coming up - that was assuming that Sanchez and Wagner werent't available, but when Sanchez warmed up, that made me think twice. When the Mets were up in the ninth, Luis Castillo failed to get down a bunt and looked miserable at the plate while striking out. Castillo definitely needs to step his game up because that play is why he is here and he failed in doing it. Finally, Carlos Beltran practically got the game-tying hit in the ninth when Eric Bruntlett made a great diving stop up the middle to end the game. You can't blame Beltran because he got the biggest hit of the game up to that point but you can blame him because he needs to walk the walk if he's going to walk around making predictions. He also stranded a runner earlier in the game and had a chance to give the Mets a series sweep. After coming back like that, the Mets need to find a way to win the game. Now, instead of a three game lead, they only gain a game, which, if you watched last season, is what the Mets can't afford to do. All in all, it was a great game to watch but a bad game to lose. Now, they must head to Chicago and have to face Carlos Zambrano in tomorrow nights game. Lastly, Chase Utley is too damn good and needs to catch one in the ear. Oh, yeah: Joe Morgan is a moron.

Final Score: Mets 4, Phillies 5. Record: 10-7.

Game 16: Mets vs. Phillies @ Citizens Bank Ballpark

Oliver Perez will try to recover from his recent rough outing and snatch one from the Phillies.

The Good: Reyes and the Mets jumped out to an early lead and Jose also hit a late home run over the right field fence. Oliver Perez pitched a great six innings and had great stuff out there. Duaner Sanchez helped him preserve the win by coming into his first jam since his return. He would get Jimmy Rollins to ground out to to end the inning. Believe it or not, after Joe Smith and Feliciano got into trouble, Aaron Heilman found a way to strike two people out with the bases loaded. In the end, there was Billy Wagner once again as he struck out his nemesis, Pat Burrell, to end the game.

The Bad: Carlos Beltran has not looked good at the plate lately. Brian Schneider also took a 97 mph foul tip off of his right hand in the ninth-inning. X-Rays were negative but he could not move parts of his hand.

Overall: 5 game winning-streak: Are these really the Mets? I guess even a blind squirrel can find an acorn every now and then. I.E. Aaron Heilman.

Notes: In the ninth inning, a brawl between a Mets and Phillies fan spilled onto the field, disrupting play for a few seconds. The first person to land on the field was reported as wearing a Lenny Dykstra jersey.

Other Notes: Blue-White Weekend at PSU. Tim Duncan hit a big three pointer in 2OT to lead his spurs over the Suns in game one of the playoffs.

Quote of the Day: "It's really sad when humanity comes to the point where somebody getting hurt, it's fun to watch. It's sad when that happens. Nobody wants anybody to get hurt. I don't want Jimmy Rollins getting hurt. I don't want Pat Burrell to get hurt. I don't want none of these guys. I want to compete against these guys because they're the best, and you want to beat the best. You don't want excuses. When you see Reyes laying there — it's a tough shot, a clean play — and the fans cheering that he's hurt, that just goes and shows you volumes about where our society is headed." - Billy Wagner

Final Score: Mets 4, Phillies 2. Record: 10-6.

Game 15: Mets vs. Phillies @ Citizens Bank Ballpark

Marquee Matchup: Johan vs. Cole Hamels.

The Good: Johan dominated through eight innings (7+, 2H, 10) before allowing a few hits. Then, Heilman came in and allowed a three run homer before the Mets found a way to survive. The Mets got out to an early 2-0 lead and suffered a scare when Reyes almost suffered a concussion. They had a big eighth inning where they scored three runs and got another one one in the ninth. Wright, like Reyes a few days earlier, fell a homer short of the cycle. Billy Wagner came on in the ninth to close out the game and quiet Pat Burrell.

The Bad: Aaron Heilman.

Overall: Great game, great win. Good teams win these games. The Mets almost choked, but remain poised to preserve the win for Johan. I guess this was his way of shutting the boo birds up.

Notes: Any talk about Randolph's relationship with Reyes should be questioned as Willie was seen showing playful emotion following Reyes' near-concussion.

Final Score: Mets 6, Phillies 4. Record: 9-6.

Game 14: Mets vs. Nationals @ Shea Stadium

Nelson Figueroa time!

The Good: Figueroa pitched a great game and had tremendous stuff out there. His only blemish was a two run homer to Nick Johnson that cost him a win. The Mets scored in the first inning when Reyes was driven in on a Ryan Church double to left center. In the eighth inning, Carlos Delgado got a clutch hit to pop out of his funk and drove in the tying run off of Jon Rauch. Finally, after lots of extra baseball, the Mets found a way to win it in fourteenth inning. Damion Easley singled to left, advanced to second on a wild pitch, moved to third on a botched pickoff, and scored on a wild pitch following intentional walks to Wright and Delgado.

The Bad: The Mets almost pulled off their classic hey-let's-make-this-guy-look-like-Cy-Young-tonight impression. Lannon struck out eleven and seemed to be going for the Nelson Figueroa award of the day. Angel Pagan and Wright could have won it in extras, but failed to do so. However, it was nice seeing Milledge ground into a double play in the eleventh. Carlos Beltran ended up pinch-hitting after sitting out with a stiff neck

Notes: Paul LoDuca didn't play in the three game series.

Overall: 2006 Mets-esque. Fun game to watch. Had to end up watching this one from Tony's.

Final Score: Mets 3, Nationals 2. Record: 8-6.

Game 13: Mets vs. Nationals @ Shea Stadium

Bring on LoDuca & Milledge!

The Good: Ryan Church went deep in the first inning before Jose Reyes hit hit first homer in the fifth inning. A few batters later, Carlos Beltran hit a three run homer out to left to put the Mets ahead for good. John Maine allowed two runs over six-plus innings to earn his first win of the season. Joe Smith and Wagner closed out the game and sealed the win.

The Bad: No complaints.

Overall: Is the monster out of the cage? Good to see Reyes get going after Beltran's motivation.

Quote(s) of the day: “I could tell that he was not happy. I told him not to listen, just be you. … When you’re like that, I like it. He’s a fun guy when he was jumping around." - Carlos Beltran

“He came to the ballpark and told me … ‘You have to still enjoy the game, do your handshakes because we like the way your are. So don’t change because when you change it you’re fake.' I’m going to be the old Jose Reyes, I’m going to keep enjoying the game.” - Jose Reyes

Final Score: Mets 5, Nationals 2. Record: 7-6.

Game 12: Mets vs. Nationals @ Shea Stadium

Jackie Robinson day at Shea!

The Good: In his return from his mild hamstring strain, Jose Reyes collected a single, double, and triple in perfect sequence before falling short of a natural cycle by hitting a single. He had a chance for five hits but struck out. He was also gunned down in the first inning. Mike Pelfrey pitched a tremendous game by throwing seven shutout innings. Most notably, he showed confidence, poise, and grit to avoid being rattled. David Wright homered for the third straight game and everyone else chipped in for a win. Although they didn't cash in on many opportunities early, specifcally with runners on third, the offense got the job done. In the ninth inning, Met fans were treated to Duaner Sanchez's return; he looked good.

The Bad: Reyes getting throwing out stealing. Lastings Milledge also had a good start to tonight's game while Paul LoDuca was forced to sit out.

Overall: Perfect night. Jose Reyes looked like Jackie Rob out there with the baggy #42 uniform. If Pelfrey can maintain this level of pitching throughout the season, the Mets will greatly benefit. Furthermore, if Duaner can come back and stay healthy, the bullpen may be set. If Omar can still add another arm, it will be an even greater addition. Don't forget: Matt Wise is still hurt too.

Others News: Phillies scored four in the ninth to win 4-3.

Final Score: Mets 6, Nationals 0. Record: 6-6.

Game 11: Mets vs. Brewers @ Shea Stadium

Oliver Perez aims to push his scoreless streak past 11 innings.

The Good: The Mets crawled out of an 0-2 hole and jumped all over Jeff Suppan. David Wright, Carlos Beltran, and Brian Schneider sparked the offense with clutch hits and backbreakers. However, after Beltran lined into a double play to end a Met rally, the light bulb turned off.

The Bad: Oliver Perez didn't have it today and gave up a four run lead. The bullpen was forced to pitch more than half the game and paid the price of Perez's shortcomings. The Mets also grounded into five double plays and couldn't find a clutch hit late in the game.

Overall: Frustrating. Pathetic. The Mets can't blow four run leads and expect to be a good team. It is early, but the '08 Mets resemble the '07 Mets more and more with each passing day. Gabe Kapler kills us again - it was nice at first, but this has got to stop - the Met starters can't keep missing their spots like this. Guillermo Mota also needs to stop his goddamned celebrating - we all hate you! Wright continues to struggle with his throwing and Schneider couldn't catch the ball today. After putting together a nice winning streak, the Mets fell flat on their faces over the past two games and have deflated the good vibes at Shea. With tomorrow's off-day, the Mets need to get Reyes healthy and get an everyday lineup out there. Now would be a good time to finish the month strong. But again, it was a game the Mets just can't afford to lose.

Notes: Johan Santana, David Wright, and Carlos Beltran received their 2007 Gold Glove Awards before today's game.

Quote of the day: “We’re not executing and it’s frustrating." - David Wright

Final Score: Mets 7, Brewers 9. Record: 5-6.

Game 10: Mets vs. Brewers @ Shea Stadium

If Johan pitches as good as he looks in a blue cap and pinstriped jersey, today should be fun.

The Good: Pagan leads off to spark the team again and the Mets jumped ahead early. However, the offense was pretty stagnant. It was good to see Delgado crush a fastball to center but not many hard hit balls aside from that and Wright's homer. Luis Castillo also made his way back into the lineup.

The Bad: Although Wright homered, he made two errors and grounded out with the bases loaded. Damion Easley didn't look too good either. Johan gave up three home runs and never seemed to get comfortable.

Overall: David Wright has got to step his game up...as does Santana. Ben Sheets has been tremendous thus far and retired about 18 straight Mets before Wright's shot. And to think: Gabler was coaching in A-ball last year...why does it seem like these kind of things only happen to us? Gotta' come back tomorrow and take this series.

Final Score: Mets 3, Brewers 5. Record: 5-5.

Game 9: Mets vs. Brewers @ Shea Stadium

In a redemption-filled game of Met draftees, this one should be fun.

The Good: After traveling the world for the past few years, Nelson Figueroa carried a no-hitter into the fifth inning and sparked the New York Mets ball club. With his dad claiming "he had died and gone to heaven," and himself pounding the strike zone, Figueroa proved that he could pitch in New York after all. Coming out of Lincoln high as a Met draft pick in '95, his catcher would be Raul Casanova, who was drafted by the Mets in 1990. The offensive player of the game would be another Met draft pick in Angel Pagan. This truly was a great game that these guys will remember as Figueroa received the win, Pagan the rbi, and Casanova a clutch hit and great called game. Delgado continues to surprise while Reyes continues to struggle. Wright and Beltran continue to be mediocre and Church continues to impress. I think I am starting to like this Ryan Church guy. It was also nice to see all of the bench guys contribute with Anderson and Chavez coming off to bench to perform in the fog at Shea. Oh yeah, Aaron Heilman pitched a nice 1-2-3 inning before Wagner earned the save.

The Bad: Reyes left the game with an apparent tight hamstring (that was obvious from the get go) and Castillo misses another game. The Mets scored four runs but aren't really clicking yet.

Overall: This was a fun game to watch - a true feel good story for all of these guys. I actually thought Figueroa was going to throw the first Met no-no for a while. A well-spoken and articulate person, he is a fun guy to watch. Oh, how quickly things can change as the Mets start up a three game winning streak. With Johan going tomorrow in his first Shea start, it can be a good time for the Mets to get on a nice little run.

Final Score: Mets 4, Brewers 2. Record: 5-4.

Game 8: Mets vs. Phillies @ Shea Stadium

John Maine will be our go-to guy as the Mets look to take a series from the evil Phillies.

The Good: John Maine was good through seven. The savior, Ryan Church, came through to put us on the board and Beltran added to the lead with a clutch hit. He also showed frustration by slamming his bat down when he struck out late in the game - good to see...I guess. Brian Schneider showed off his cannon and Reyes collected a few hits and stole his first base in twenty two games while Feliciano came on to strike out the side in a crucial spot. Scott Schoeneweis also came in and did a tremendous job by inducing a double play to bail the Mets out - he was then cheered...good for him and the rest of the bullpen (read: everyone but Heilman). Credit to Reyes for doubling late in the game, but he needs to get it going. The Mets can't depend on Angel Pagan to deliver game-winning hits every time out. And I thought Reyes was correctly called safe.

The Bad: Aaron friggin' Heilman. One of the starters, this time Maine, pitches a gem and gets screwed yet again. I am sick of Heilman - no matter what he does from here on out (except leading the Mets to a World Series), I do not want to see him as a key contributor from the bullpen. Someone has to be brought in. The Mets also continue to suck on offense. They score quick and then fall into a lull for a bunch of innings.


Overall: This is what you do! Even if you give up the lead, you win these damn games! Maybe now everyone can shut up about not being able to beat the Phillies.

Final Score: Mets 4, Phillies 3. Record: 4-4.

Game 7: Mets vs. Phillies @ Shea Stadium

Let's see what Pelfrey has got this year.

The Good: Reyes and Wright got things going early and the Mets never let up, forcing 4 Philly errors. Mike Pelfrey looked good through five as he fought hard for his first win. He came out throwing strikes and was getting results with his moving fastball. Sosa, Feliciano and Muniz pitched four innings of scoreless ball to seal the deal.

The Bad: I can't complain about anything after beating the Phillies. "The streak" is over - time to move on. However, El Duque is back in a boot and will miss an extended period of time.

Overall: Solid win.

Final Score: Mets 8, Phillies 2. Record: 3-4.

Game 6: Mets vs. Phillies @ Shea Stadium

The last home opener at Shea Stadium: April 8, 2008. Oliver Perez vs. Jamie Moyer

The Good: The Mets had a chance to win this game with Delgado's homer, and Perez's 5+ scoreless innings. However, this game looked a like like the 2007 Mets-Phillies games. In the seventh inning, the Mets would cough up the lead by allowing three runs and then two more in the eighth off of Aaron Heilman.

The Bad: Carlos Delgado had a big error that pretty much cost us the game and Heilman worsened our small chance of winning. Jimmy Rollins and Luis Castillo both left today's game with injuries to their legs.

Overall: Ugh. What a bad showing for the last home opener at Shea.

Notes: Darryl Strawberry joined SNY as an analyst.

Final Score: Mets 2, Phillies 5. Record: 2-4.

Game 5: Mets vs. Braves @ Turner Field

The ace, Johan Santana, goes up against the Braves' John Smoltz in a classic marquee matchup.

The Good: Johan was great again.

The Bad: The offense sucked again. Reyes isn't looking so good and Castillo can't hit the ball out of the infield. Why was Beltran not swining in his 9th inning at bat? Didn't '06 teach him that lesson? Surprisingly, Delgado was the only spark today. After Heilman gave up two huge late runs on Tex's homer, the Mets battled in the ninth but Texeira saved the day with a nice diving play that may have prevented the tying runs from scoring on Schneider's hit.

Overall: 2-3 road trip to start the season - could have been worse. On to Philly. This season can get ugly real quick.

Final Score: Mets 1, Braves 3. Record: 2-3.

Game 4: Mets vs. Braves @ Turner Field

Johnny Maine takes the first stab against the rival Braves.

The Good: The Mets scored five runs and hit the ball pretty well.

The Bad: I thought the missed third strike on Texeira in the first inning got the Braves off to a good start and almost stopped watching when the umpires botched the call on Reyes' liner. Although they overturned that play, it deflated the Mets' momentum a bit. They got no clutch hits when needed and their pitching was not very effective.

Overall: Just a bad game.

Other News: Chase Utley continued his monstrous start with another 2-HR effort, bringing his total to six on the season.

Final Score: Mets 5, Braves 11. Record: 2-2.

Game 3: Mets vs. Marlins @ Dolphin Stadium

Oliver Perez takes the mound as he looks to get off to a quick start.

The Good: Beltran - raking! Although robbed of a home run (ruled off the top of the wall), he provided three doubles of power. He let David Wright and Ryan Church do the bashing. The offense continues to hit well with thirteen more runs tonight. Most importantly, they had that killer instinct - something they did not have last year. Oliver Perez was masterful and earned his first win while Nelson Figueroa and Billy Wagner also looked great. David Wright had a nice diving stop and a sweet barehanded play to end the game.

The Bad: Just Beltran getting screwed.

Notes: After Met fans and the team were down due to Pedro's injury (placed on the 15-day DL and expected to be out for at least six weeks), it was nice to see them come out and wallop the Marlins.

Other News: Brandon Lyon earns me -12 in fantasy.

Final Score: Mets 13, Marlins 0. Record: 2-1.

Game 2: Mets vs Marlins @ Dolphin Stadium

It's Pedro's turn to get the train rollin'.

The Good: It was nice to see Pedro battling back with his twelve pitch at-bat following a Pagan walk and Schneider single. However, he did not have it as he gave up four quick runs. Then, when he went down in the fourth, it was more of the same of what we've seen over the past two years. Hopefully, it's not that serious. Pagan, Schneider, and Church continue to hit. Good job coming back from four runs down for the Met offense. There were lots of opportunities we could not cash in on.

The Bad: Pedro going down and Heilman leading off the eighth inning with a walk. As of right now, Matt Wise is under the "bum" column in my book. Why do no-namers always hit their first home runs against the Mets? And is it just me, or have I seen more walk-offs in Florida than anywhere else?

Overall: Looks like a 2007 kind of game, with the exception that we actually came back.

Final Score: Record: Mets 4, Marlins 5. Record: 1-1.

Game 1: Mets vs. Marlins @ Dolphin Stadium

Johan Santana makes his long-awaited debut.

The Good: Johan is GOD and should have taken his perfect game further had the umpire not screwed him on that missed third strike. 7 full, 3 hits. Offense only clicked in one inning but they looked focused. That will lead them to the World Series if it continues. Angel Pagan got it started, Luis Castillo kept up his great Mets play, Schneider and Church contributed, and Reyes-Wright-Beltran got it done. Jorge Sosa got out of a jam and Heilman closed it out with nine pitches in the ninth inning. Good start to the season.

The Bad: Nothing, really. Only Johan's mistake vs. Willingham.

Overall: It feels good to smell baseball again and hear the Met trumpets on WFAN. Mets must bring that focus everyday! Mets are now 30-17 on opening day.

Notes: I benched Fukudome's ten points in fantasy and Tom Gordon earned me -16. Dah! Lastings Milledge contributed to those negative sixteen points by homering late in the game as the Nationals came back with five runs in the ninth inning.

Final Score: Mets 7, Marlins 2. Record: 1-0.