The Disappearing Magic Number Act

David Lennon at On The Mets Beat writes about the Mets and what they can do to make the Magic Number, all but, go away:

Here we go again. The Mets have a second chance to make a big impression on the NL East landscape this week when the Braves and Phillies visit Shea for three games apiece. As of this morning, the Magic Number stands at 19, so a sweep of both pursuers would be worth a potential nine games in the standings. I admit, that's being a little greedy on the Mets' behalf, but just showing what's possible over the next week.