Game 127: Mets vs. Phillies @ Shea Stadium

Fresh off a three game sweep of the Cardinals, the Mets seeked their eighth straight win tonight. Brian Bannister, in his first start since April, got off to a rough start in the first inning, allowing two runs. He would also allow two more runs courtesy of Ryan Howard 's 44th home run of the season, but would settle down for a decent outing. The Mets pulled to within a run in the fifth inning when Carlos Beltran hit his 37th home run of the year (Paul Lo Duca was retired as a crucial out). The Mets seemed to lack that clutch hit all night and hit many balls into the wrong hands. Both bullpens did a fine job tonight in not allowing a run. Julio Franco would get a pinch hit to right field in the ninth inning before Ryan Madson retired Jose Reyes on a strikeout. Get 'em tomorrow but definitely a tough loss to take, tip your cap to Randy Wolf. Final score: Mets 3, Phillies 4. Record: 78-49.

Notes: Jose Reyes stole his 54th base of the season, almost hurting his left hand in the process. Wright's struggles at the plate continue. Endy Chavez's double play in the 6th inning was a big play, considering Chris Woodward's leadoff hit (who was also responsible for a couple of nice plays in the field). Brian Bannister lost the first game of his major league career. The Mets lead in the National League East is now 13.5 games. Tonight's loss ended the Mets seven game win streak overall and eleven game win streak at home. Ramon Castro has been placed on the 60-day disabled list, retroactive to his original injury date. Oliver Perez will most likely be called up for tomorrow's game.