GB&U: Collar Tightening Again For Mets?

RESULT: Nats beat Mets 7-2 behind gem from John Lannan.

GOOD: Lannan. Seven innings, one run, one hit. He was simply awesome. He scattered three walks amongst seven strikeouts. He did not allow more than one base runner in any inning, and he had four 1-2-3 innings, including the last two he pitched. So much for hitting a wall.

BAD: David Wright. I don't usually mention opponents in the GB&U, but Wright merits exception. He was 0-for-4 with 2 Ks and grounded into a potential rally-killing double play in the top of the eighth.

UGLY: We'll stick with the theme here: Pedro Martinez. Wow, is this the same guy Nats fans so lustily booed several years ago when he was head-hunting at RFK that night? Petey gave up 8 hits and 4 BBs in 6 IP, with just 3 Ks. It's kinda amazing he only gave up four runs. I think the Mets are in trouble again.

NEXT GAME: Tomorrow night. The Nats try to knock the Mets from first place AGAIN, as New York clings perilously to a half-game lead over the suddenly red-hot Phillies. The four-game series continues as Odalis Perez (6-10, 4.48) and the Nats try to play spoiler against Mike Pelfrey (13-9, 3.77) and the Mets.

Stock Photo (c) C. Nichols 2008