While R.A. Dickey has been dominant lately for the New York Mets, the pitcher who threw the first no-hitter in franchise history has struggled since inking his name in the history books. Johan Santana will look to reverse his fortunes on Tuesday night against the Baltimore Orioles.
Since tossing the no-no on June 1, Santana's ERA has jumped by nearly a full run, from 2.38 to 3.23. In the two starts since then he has allowed a total of 10 earned runs, including a disastrous outing against the Yankees who sent four pitches outside the park. This is Santana's first start at Citi Field since throwing the no-hitter there.
Like the Mets, the Orioles are hardly the doormat fans have been used to in recent years. Baltimore has won seven of their last ten, and they trail only the streaking Yankees for the lead in the AL East.
Tommy Hunter will be on the mound for Baltimore. Hunter is 3-3 this season. He won his last outing, against the Pirates, despite allowing five earned runs in six innings of work.
The game starts at 7:10 p.m. Eastern. It will be broadcast on SNY.
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