:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/8939641/09112012004_Nats_at_Mets.jpg)
The New York Mets will host Philadelphia on Monday with hopes of playing the spoiler. The Phillies hopes of winning the NL's second wild card took a hit this weekend, as they lost three of four to the Astros. They now sit four games behind the St. Louis Cardinals for that spot, and the Mets will hope to put their rivals even further behind in the race.
The Series will begin Monday with the Phillies sending Cliff Lee to the mound against Cy Young contender R.A. Dickey. Dickey has been one of the best stories in the league this season, and will be seeking victory number 19 on he year. His 18 victories currently trail only Gio Gonzalez in the National League.
Dickey's 2.68 era currently leads the NL, and his 197 strikeouts trail only Clayton Kershaw of the Dodgers. Kershaw is currently dealing with a hip issue and might not pitch again this season.
Cliff Lee is 5-7 with a 3.36 era on the season, and he'll be facing a Mets lineup that has been struggling to produce runs as of late. Lee has been fantastic in his last four outings, and has pitched into at least the 7th-inning in each of his last 11 starts.
First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. ET, and can be seen locally on SNY. Out of market viewers can see the game on MLB.TV.
For more on the Mets, please be sure to check out our blog Amazin' Avenue and SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.