Saturday, April 23, 2011

Game #20: Mets 4, D'backs 1

Ike Davis bashes a key home run in support of a strong outing from Mike Pelfrey (NYDailyNews.com)
In the last two days New York has increased its win total by 40%. Sounds incredible when you put it that way, right?

Mike Pelfrey silenced the Diamondbacks' bats and Ike Davis bounced a 2-run homer over the wall in the 7th, giving the Mets the lead and the win, 4-1.

The Good Stuff:
Pelfrey finally showed us why he was first considered to be the de facto ace in Johan Santana's absence. In 7 innings, Pelf allowed just 1 run on 5 hits and 2 walks, striking out 4 D'back hitters. Added bonus: Pelf was sick and infused with green tea and Pepto throughout. If he's this good while on the pink stuff, imagine how he'll be when fully healthy.
Ike Davis came through again for the Mets' offense, this time smashing what appeared to be a game-tying double off the center field wall, scoring David Wright in the bottom of the 7th; later it was overturned and ruled a home run. Ike's RBI total is now up to 16 through 20 games; at this rate he'll reach 130 by season's end. He probably won't get that many, but it sure as heck looks like he can get to 100. I think it's safe to say we've found Keith Hernandez's proper heir.
Also impressing was Carlos Beltran, who actually swung with the based loaded, driving in a run in the 8th. Jason Isringhausen and Francisco Rodriguez combined for two routine, scoreless innings in relief, K-Rod K-ing the last two D'backs to pick up his 3rd save.

The Bad Stuff:
Despite the win, the offense was silent for 2/3 of the game, managing just 2 hits (6 the whole game) off Arizona starter Joe Saunders, who had an ERA well over 5 before entering this game. And while NY did manage 2 runs in the 8th, they left the bases loaded and probably should have gotten more. It didn't hurt us tonight, but it could another day.

Final Analysis:
In some ways, a come-from-behind victory is more satisfying than a blowout win. This is one of those nights. The Mets got down, stayed in the game, and turned it on late for the comeback. And now they're on a winning streak. Sleep well, Mr. Met.

MM

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