Maturing Maine

John Delcos at Lo Hud, writes about John Maine and what he's doing different this year, compared to last year:

John Maine (4-0, 1.35 ERA) was the NL Pitcher of the Month for April, and already some of the national press are following the Mets asking about him.

Maine threw seven scoreless with a career-high eight strikeouts in his last start, Sunday vs. Nationals. “He showed me again he’s getting better and better,” said Willie Randolph. “Each time out, he’s stronger and stronger.’’

Maine is doing a couple of things. First, he’s going after hitters early in the count and keeping the ball down. Consequently, he’s also keeping it in the park. He’s also not afraid to make the walk. Rather than give into a hitter with a fastball, Maine will still work him, and if he walks him, so be it. Better give up the walk than give in and allow the homer.