“Four months ago, a complete game from Mike Pelfrey, the raw, erratic fastball pitcher, seemed unlikely” mused the New York Times’ Joshua Robinson. Instead, the Wichita State product has emerged not only as a genuine innings-eater, but as legit no. 2 man in what feels more and more like the Mets’ greatest strength ; their starting rotation. Pelfrey picked up his first career complete game Wednesday night, throwing 108 pitches (3 earned runs, 3 hits, 3 walks, 3 K’s) in the Mets’ 6-3 defeat of Atlanta, the right-hander’s 10th win in his last 13 outings. Chipper Jones, he of the gaudy .368 average and misplaced nostalgia for Shea Stadium, whiffed twice, was charged with a costly first inning throwing error that resulted in two runs, and could’ve easily been charged with a second E on a Fernando Tatis single that eeked underneath Lumbering Larry’s glove. Playing out the string’s not all fun and games, apparently.
Daniel “Don’t Call Me Danny” Murphy continued the dream start to his big league career with a two-run single in the home first, while David Wright gave the Braves’ Jair Jurrjens a guided tour of Shea’s picnic area with a solo blast in the 6th. The Mets’ 70th win of the year took a mere 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete, and while Pelfrey gave the embattled New York bullpen —- bolstered (?) by the afternoon addition of Al Reyes —a much needed night off, Mrs. Bobby Cox might well be pleased her cranky half won’t be home for another 6 days.
For those who believe domestic violence is no laughing matter, you’re right. And that’s why I’ve rescinded Ryan O’Neal’s posting privileges. It’s not easy being the living, breathing conscience of Mets blogging, but I’m willing to make the sacrifice.