Wagner Returns, Mets Win

Coming off the massive meltdown of last night, the Mets had to come out tonight, and show that they are able to put a loss behind them, and focus on the game at hand. They did exactly that, as they defeated Philly by a score of 6-3 to move back into a first place tie, with the series finale pitting Ollie Perez versus Jamie Moyer tomorrow afternoon.

Jose Reyes made amends tonight for his brain freeze that occurred last night when he failed to get a double play on a ground out by Catcher Carlos Ruiz that opened the door for the Phillies en route to their 8-6 victory. He made amends by hitting a three-run homer tonight that snapped a sixth-inning 3-3 tie. John Maine pitched seven effective innings and New York took advantage of a wild Brett Myers in his return from the minors.

Scott Schoeneweis and Joe Smith combined for a scoreless eighth, and Billy Wagner put an end to the bullpen by committee by making his return from a shoulder spasm to pick up his 25th save of the season after declaring himself available after testing the shoulder before the game by playing long toss from about 250 feet and throwing off a bullpen mound.

Can't wait for tomorrow's series finale.

On a sad side note, even though Pedro is slated to start Friday night against St. Louis after skipping a turn in the rotation because of a groin injury, he will not, due to the death of his father. A decision has not yet been made as to who will pitch is his place.