In another in a string of embarassing losses, the Mets succumbed to Braves pitcher Jair Jurrjens and were limited to two hits on the night. Mike Pelfrey gave up the most runs of his career, getting tagged for nine runs in just 4 1/3 innings.
It all started unraveling early when Pelfrey just missed an out pitch that could have been called a strike in the first inning. Yet, it resulted in a walk, and the Braves would go on to score the first of their three three-run innings against Pelfrey. Pelfrey was like a yo-yo, bouncing from one horrendous inning to retiring the side in order in another, back and forth.
Pelfrey, who had not been prone to giving up the long ball, allowed two home runs in this game. Both were in the third inning, to Martin Prado and Brian McCann, who had a great night with four RBI, three runs and three hits.
The Mets mustered only two hits, both doubles, by David Wright and Gary Sheffield, who left the game early after he grasped the back of his leg after chasing down a ball. There was a lot of concern it could’ve been a torn hamstring, but it was later diagnosed as cramps. Sheffield won’t even get an MRI.
So, the Mets are now 8 1/2 games behind the Phillies and 2 1/2 games behind the Braves and the Marlins, who are tied for second place. All talk of winning the division should pretty much be over unless there is a colossal meltdown by the Phils. Is there still hope? Sure, but it is dwindling fast. The Mets can only hope Johan Santana can stop the bleeding this afternoon.
