Mike Nichols

The Mets shot themselves in the foot tonight, leaving a small platoon on base. But, really, what else is new? It’s a shame too because Niese pitched very effectively tonight and deserved a better fate.

Even with the Mets offense not producing on their numerous chances, the turning point of this game came in the top of the seventh inning after Bobby Parnell gave up a lead off double to Dan Uggla. With David Ross batting, Kelly Shoppach had Uggla picked off at second, but threw the ball into centerfield allowing Uggla to move up to third base. On the very next pitch Ross drove in Uggla with a sacrifice fly to right field. At that point you knew the Mets offense wasn’t coming back, especially when Criag Kimbrel step out to the mound in the ninth.

On the bright side, seeing Niese continue to pitch well in the second half after struggling to last season before his injury is something to have confidence in going into the offseason. I think we are seeing all that Niese is capable of now, as he is mixing all his pitches well, while becoming a dependable starter who can give you six innings or more on a consistent basis.