The Mets start another road series tonight against the 5-7 Cubs. The Mets are coming off of a series where they won a game by a run, lost one by a run and then lost another one by two runs. The Cubs are also coming off of a losing series against the Astros (3-9) where they lost two games in a row at home by one run. Both of these teams “need” to win this series. The Mets will be sending out Niese to the hill tonight while the Cubs will be sending out Randy Wellls.
Niese has allowed 8 runs in 11 innings this year which isn't as bad as it reads. He had a quality start in his first outing (6 IP, 3 ER) and then struggled in Colorado with his curveball (5 IP, 5 ER). He will benefit greatly tonight if he can find his curveball (which he lost due to the conditions in Colorado, etc etc). The last time Niese faced the Cubs was in 2008 where he allowed 6 runs over 3 innings. In limited exposure, the Cubs have these numbers against Niese:
Soriano 0-2
Soto 1-2, 2B
Theriot 1-1, 2B
Ramirez 0-2
In the last several games the Mets have recieved quality starts from Pelfrey, Santana and Perez, it would be great if Niese could get up and give the Mets another one. It would also be great if Niese could get some run support.
Randy Wells has been effective in his first two starts of the year building a 1-0 record over 12.1 innings and only 4 ER. Last year Wells had a 3.05 ERA over 165 innings. He was also effective against the Mets year going 6 innings while only allowing one earned run. The Mets have been able to put up these numbers over Wells' career:
Castillo 1-2
Pagan 1-3
Wright 0-3
The Mets bats have had some good times in Wrigley before (like when they hit two grand slams in the same inning in 2006). Lets hope they can do it again! Lets Go Mets!
UPDATE: We Like Ike.
It looks like Ike Davis will be promoted today. He has been removed from the roster from today's AAA game and is supposed to arrive before today's game.
