Santana Starts September Superbly

Perhaps, after last years' collapse, some would change Shakespeare's famous line to "beware the ides of September." However, further proving that last season is just that, the Mets, behind the starting pitching of Johan "September" Santana and a bullpen that proved flawless (that's right- you read that right!), as well as the hottest hitter in the National League since June, one Carlos Delgado (again, you read that right!), took the first game in their 3-game series at Milwaukee, 4-2. Hot-hitting rookie Daniel Murphy was 2-4 with a run scored, and Delgado was 2-4 with 2 RBI's, including knocking in Murphy. Carlos Beltran, who was also 2-4, left the game with a right knee contusion- more will be known about his injury tomorrow, and we hope it's merely a day-to-day thing!

Nelson Figueroa, also called up prior to today's game, got the win with an inning of scoreless work after replacing Santana, who picked up yet another no-decision despite striking out 10 in 6 innings, giving up 2 runs on 7 hits. His ERA is 2.71, still second-best in the NL, and his 10 k's bring him up to 4th place in the NL. Oh, what a cruel year it's been for this should-be Cy Young candidate! At least we won the game!!!! Now 2 more from Milwaukee and things will really start to look up for us!!