Mets 5 Giants 4
Once again this game was fun to watch from the first pitch to the last. Additionally, fans were treated to the double promotion of “Bark in the Park” and Ruben Tejada Day.
Mets Game Notes
Tejada drove in three and scored once, accounting for 80% of the Mets runs in the ballgame.
Even though no errors were charged to the Mets, it was a sloppy game for both sides. The Giants made three errors and shallow popup that fell between Tejada and Kirk Nieuwenhuis in the top of the ninth — that allowed the Giants to tie the game — was curiously ruled a double.
Also curious was Bruce Bochy‘s decision to allow Ryan Vogelsong to hit in the top of the 7th with two outs, a man on second, and the score tied at one. Though Vogelsong had pitched brilliantly, the Giants didn’t have many scoring opportunities to that point and were running out of outs. As it was, Vogelsong wound up striking out and let up two runs in the bottom of the 7th to give the Mets the lead. I supposed part of it had to do with the Giants bullpen being in slight chaos after losing Brian Wilson, but I was still surprised.
Mike Pelfrey matched Vogelsong pitch for pitch, and then some, going 8 full innings and allowing only one run on six hits and a walk before calling it a day. And while I didn’t agree with Vogelsong being left in, I also didn’t agree with Pelfrey being removed. Though, I get it – he had passed the magical 100-pitch count, and I guess Terry Collins was trying to give Pelf a win to boost his confidence.
One thing about Pelfrey, though, and I know I sound like a broken record, but gee whiz the guy just falls to pieces when runners get on base. It’s a complete change in body language, demeanor, confidence, pace, and effectiveness. But hey, as long as he never allows runners, he’ll be fine.
What happened to Melky Cabrera being a future Gold Glove outfielder? He looked like a wreck in left field. Maybe that’s the problem — perhaps he’s only comfortable playing center?
Yet another awful appearance by Frank Francisco, who was the victim of a quick hook by Collins in the top of the ninth. Francisco looked tired and listless, as if he had no interest in being on the mound. Day game after a night game?
Giants shortstop Brandon Crawford looks like a nice ballplayer, especially in the field. I don’t think he’s a future All-Star, but he knows what he’s doing and plays with both confidence and conviction.
David Wright‘s hitting streak came to an end.
Next Mets Game
The Mets and Giants do it again at 1:10 p.m. on Sunday afternoon. Dillon Gee takes the hill against Tim Lincecum. You know what? Lincecum is hiding an arm injury, and I’m betting he has a rough afternoon. Go Mets.
