Even though the New York Mets got a much-needed win yesterday, they've still lost six of their last eight games and three straight series. Maybe a four-game set with the 24-27 Pittsburgh Pirates will be what this team needs to find its winning ways again.
The Pirates have lost four of their last six games, but remain more competitive than anybody could've imagined. Their biggest weakness is offense -- they rank 23rd or worse in runs, batting average, on-base percentage and slugging percentage. However, the pitching has been a pleasant surprise; they rank 10th in ERA, 15th in quality starts and 16th in WHIP. Monday the Mets will face one of the biggest comeback stories of the year, Charlie Morton.
Morton, a 27-year-old former Atlanta Braves prospect, has been a revelation this season. With his Roy Halladay-like windup and very good sinker, he's 5-2 on the year with a 2.61 ERA and 1.32 WHIP. He doesn't have a lot of strikeouts (33 in 62 innings), but he gets a ton of groundballs and obviously keeps his fielders active all game.
The Mets will send out their own feel good story in Dillon Gee. The Mets have not lost a game that Gee has started this year, and he's 4-0 with a 3.83 ERA and 1.23 WHIP on the year.
I'd like to personally take this time to thank all of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and thank those who have served or are currently serving. Happy Memorial Day to all our great soldiers.