Game Recap: Marlins 7 -- Mets 5

The Mets got another strong start from a substitute young pitcher, but late inning relief gave up quite a few runs, as the Mets dropped today's final spring home game by a score of 7-5.

Bobby Parnell pitched 5 innings of scoreless baseball while taking the place of Pedro Martinez. Parnell gave up 3 hits, walked 1, and struck out 5 while on the mound.

Good stuff from him. The last two starts, with Jon Niese and Parnell, is a nice glimpse to the future for the Mets staff.

Joe Smith and Nelson Figueroa, both competing for spots on the 25-man roster, suffered major setbacks, each allowing 3 runs in their respective innings. Figueroa gave up a 3-run home run to Jorge Cantu and Smith gave up a 2-run blast to Mike Jacobs.

Ouch. Just when we all thought they could be locks for the team with their good performances, they come out and give up 6 runs between them.

Duaner Sanchez pitched for the first time in days, allowing one run on 2 hits. Aaron Heilman finished out the game, pitching a hitless inning and giving up 1 walk.

I'm not expecting Sanchez to break with the team from camp, not with performances like this. He just needs to take his time and get healthy.

Jose Reyes went 1-3 on the day, walking once. Reyes knocked a double, driving in one run. Luis Castillo walked 3 times in the game. David Wright drove in 2 runs, with an RBI double in the third inning.

Does Wright belong in the 3-hole or is he better suited batting 4th or 5th?

Carlos Delgado picked up 2 RBI, going 2-5 on the day. Delgado also struck out twice.

He's been working the opposite field a lot, and it's going to pay dividends during the season.

Game Ball: Parnell. See you in Citi Field in a few years.

Submitted for your approval from The 'Ropolitans.