Game 87: Loss

Marlins 3 Mets 2

Tough loss for John Maine, who pitched a good game except for three swings of the bat — three that produced three solo homers and were ultimately the deciding runs of the game.

Perhaps tougher to take was losing by one run in the first game, then watching the Mets’ lineup terrorize Marlins pitching in the second game, scoring 17 runs. Where were those bats in the opener?

Marlins starter Jason Johnson was underwhelming in five innings, walking five, but managed to escape the game with only two runs scored against him. Joe Girardi put a new pitcher out for every inning thereafter, and the Mets could manage only a walk and a hit against them. The batters were lackadaisical, as if they were just trying to get the game over with.

On the bright side, Chad Bradford and Dirty Sanchez both pitched well in relief. John Maine deserved better. He’s no ace, but he looks to have the makings of a solid #4 or #5. In fact, he should give the Mets the same kind of production they’re getting from Steve Trachsel. I see a string of 12-12 seasons in his future.