One win does not necessarily predict a trend, especially in the way it was executed. Let’s face it. The Phillies gave the Mets a gift last night. The Mets did however take advantage and managed to score 8 runs while only mustering 5 hits. Randolph’s analysis after the game was on the mark. To paraphrase the skipper, he made the point that in the 9 previous games, the Mets had given the Phillies many gifts as well.

 

Pelfrey pitched a nice game but he’s going to have to figure out how to be more economical. Throwing 100 pitches in 5 innings is not helping the bullpen at all. But the pen did a nice job last night surrendering no runs in 4 innings. In time Brian Schneider will probably help Pelfrey a great deal. The Mets really need this kid to grow up this year. Orlando Hernandez will be gone much longer now with yet another problem with his foot. Realistically, the Mets can’t count on El-Duque this year, at least that’s the way they should look at it.

 

John Maine goes tonight. Let’s hope he shows more of what we saw during the spring and less of what he displayed in Atlanta last Saturday. Here’s a guy who could pitch the first Mets no hitter as he almost did last September. I guess I have jinxed it now.

 

Injury front – As stated above, Hernandez most likely will be gone for ever. Pedro continues to get his hamstring together and hopefully will be back by the middle of May. Dauner Sanchez is scheduled to pitch back to back days in New Orleans this weekend. If that goes well, we will have a better idea of when he might be back. Moises Alou continues to work out and get ready for a May return hopefully. Matt Wise went on the 15 day DL on Tuesday so he’s gone for 2 weeks. Ramon Castro should be off the DL by early next week. Luis Castillo remains day to day, could even start tonight.

 

Citi Field front – I think the fact that Citi Field has essentially closed in Shea will have an effect on the winds this year. However, the damp cool air of April is nothing new to Shea and it’s really too early to truly understand the degree of how the ball will carry. Speaking of Citi Field, seats are actually being installed on the upper tier. You can see the green seats at www.stadiumpage.com in the latest construction photos.

 

Around the Leagues – Give credit to the Boston fans who gave Bill Buckner a long loud standing ovation on opening day. Buckner’s a class act and never deserved the ire from the Boston faithful he endured over the years. (see Gets by Buckner…).

 

There are a lot of good teams in the National League this year. Beyond the Phillies and Braves in the east, the Diamondbacks, Rockies, Padres, Dodgers, Cubs, Brewers, and yes the Reds all have a legitimate shot at reaching the playoffs this year. No one is running away with anything in 2008. The two worst teams will be the Giants and the Astros.

 

There are 79 more chances for a Mets no-hitter at Shea.