Mets Split in Cincy

The New York Mets have stopped their losing streak at two, and have moved into a first place tie heading into Tuesday's crucial series with the Phillies starting Tuesday at Shea.

Cincinnati Third Baseman Edwin Encarnacion hit one three homers for the Reds (Adam Dunn and Brandon Phillips had the other two) off of Mets Starter Mike Pelfrey, then made a throwing error in the 10th inning that helped the Mets rally for a 7-5 victory Sunday and a split of their four-game series.

Pitch Hitter Robinson Cancel opened the 10th with a double for the Mets off of Reds Reliever Bill Bray, his first extra-base hit in the majors since 1999 with Milwaukee. Jose Reyes then bunted for a single, his fourth hit of the game. Reyes' four-hit day included a triple, his 63rd with the Mets, moving one ahead of Mookie Wilson for the franchise record.

Mets Second Baseman Argenis Reyes then grounded to Encarnacion, who looked Cancel back to third and then tried to start a double play. Instead, he threw the ball into center field, letting in the go-ahead run. Carlos Delgado finished the rally with a sacrifice fly. Delgado also had three hits and a walk.

Duaner Sanchez got the victory with two innings in relief of Pelfrey. Billy Wagner got the last three outs for his 24th save in 30 chances. The Mets now head home to Shea, and look to move ahead of Philadelphia beginning with the series that starts on Tuesday night. Right now, the starters are Johan Santana for the Mets, and newly acquired Joe Blanton for the Phillies. It should be a great match up to open up a great series.