Game 142: Mets vs. Dodgers @ Shea Stadium

A day before the fifth anniversary of September 11th, the Mets looked to take the four game series from the L.A. Dodgers. Boy, did they fail miserable. It was a terrible game all around. The Mets couldn't buy a hit and the Dodgers couldn't afford an out. Steve Trachsel and Brian Bannister both failed to pitched well. The game was pretty much over after Kenny Lofton cleared the bases with a double in the top of the third inning. Nomar Garciaparra also had a big day at the plate with four rbi. The only highlight of the day for the Mets came on Jose Reyes' 19th home run of the season to left center field. Aside from that, the Mets are glad to have seen the last of the Dodgers during the regular season.
Final Score: 9-1. Record: 88-54. Magic Number: 4.

Notes: Prior to the game, Cliff Floyd had a meeting with Willie Randolph before being scratched from the lineup. The message was clear: "Play now or say hello to the bench in October." David Wright had a steller defensive stop early in the game. Jose Reyes' 19th home run drove in his 75th rbi of the season. Steve Trachsel pitched dreadfully once again to balloon his e.r.a. even higher over the 5 run threshold. Julio Franco was inserted into third base during the eighth inning. It was his first game there since he played third base on October 2, 1982. The ball immediately found Franco as he started a near double play by getting the force out at second. He also recorded the last out of the inning by throwing to second for the force once again. Shawn Green played first base and Anderson Hernandez played shortstop after the eighth inning. The Mets take on Anibal Sanchez tomorrow night (see Johnny Vander Meer).