Immediately after Sunday’s defeat, we hopped on a bus and headed for New York. We knew it would be rainy and cold, but we hoped it would pass before Monday night’s game. We spent Monday morning attempting to take in some tourist activites but the weather really prevented this from being enjoyable. Thankfully, the rain seemed to die off mid-day.
Though we knew batting practice would be unlikely, we still headed to the park early. The Mets pitching staff was busy with conditioning. Loyalty aside, I was a little defeated after almost securing a Santana autograph before he had to head back inside. On our side, it was good to see Schroder back with the bullpen crew and the Mets fans were just as pleased to collect an autograph from Jesus Colome.
Directly in the outfield, you can see the Mets new home, Citi Field, rising up literally on top of Shea Stadium. It looks like it will be pretty unbelievable. The Ebbets Field inspired brick arches around the Jackie Robinson Rotunda really give the stadium a unique, classic look. I can’t wait to see the finished product.
The game was cold, but the rain held off. It was a great game through the first few innings as the lead bounced back and forth. In the 5th inning, the Nats came alive and produced 3 runs. Johnson’s single was followed by 2 quick outs by Milledge and Kearns. Mackowiak drew a walk before Jesus Flores came through with a huge 2-out 2-RBI double. Odalis Perez had his second hit of the night, an RBI line drive to Ryan Church.
The Nats came back again to do damage in the 6th inning, this time off of Jorge Sosa. Zimmerman doubled and Johnson walked. Milledge’s double scored them both. Sosa intentionally walked Flores to pitch to Perez, who collected his third hit of the night and another RBI. In total, Perez went 3 for 3 with 2 RBI and a run. He did so while pitching a decent game - 4 runs in 6.1 innings. He did allow 11 hits and 2 home runs, but he made up for them with clutch hitting. Yes, I love the National League.
Early in the game, Flores actually caught Jose Reyes stealing second. It was a great ‘welcome back to the big leagues’ moment for Flores given Reyes lightening fast speed. Also, the bullpen got a bit of a rest last night. Schroder finished the 7th and started the 8th. He was pulled after giving up a hit to Brian Schneider and a walk to Jose Reyes. Rivera entered and prompty walked Ryan Church. But with the bases loaded and Mets fans on their feet, Rivera got Wright to ground out ending the inning and any threat of a comeback. Saul pitched a nice 1-2-3 9th inning to end the game and deliver a first win to Odalis Perez.
It was fun to watch Ryan Church and Brian Schneider, of course. We really do wish them both the best. Lastings - on the other hand - came to the plate each time with a loud chorus of boos. We’ve obviously heard reports of the chanting and taunting by our team and we’re not sure what to think, given competing characterizations by the media. Brian Schneider said, “it sounded like the College World Series…I guess they’re trying anything now.” We really needed a win, so happiness is fine. If it was as immature as it’s being portrayed, we’re surprised Manny would have let it slide.
Here’s some photos. More to come later.
Impressive young John Lannan (3-3) takes on John Maine (4-2) tonight at 7:10.
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