The title says it all. That is the big story for last night's 4-1 win over the Nationals in a night time spring training game. Santana went out there for 7 innings allowed only 4 hits, one run, didn't walk anyone and then struck out 6 batters. This is the Santana that we all expect to see, and I think this puts an end to a lot of speculation over his health that has been going on for the last month or so. If you like Mets pitchers, everyone did well last night, and no one really did bad overall in the game. Here are the box highlights:
The Good:
Delgado 2-4, 2R, 2B
Beltran 1-4, R, 2B
Tatis 1-4, 2 RBI
Murphy 3-4, 2 RBI
Santana 7.0 IP, 4 H, ER, 6K
Krod 1.0 IP, 2H, 2K
Feliciano 1.0 IP, K
The Bad:
Reyes 0-4
Anderson 0-1
After Santana's great performance, Krod came in and did his job and then did Feliciano. With the cuts made to the team yesterday, it looks like Feliciano will be the only left hander in the bullpen, so I am wondering how long that will last. It was great to see the Mets pitch well last night because that is how championships are won and with the struggles of Pelfrey and Maine over the last week, it was just refreshing. Murphy continued to hit the ball well as did Delagado, so now its just time to count down to the regular season. Livan was supposed to start today's game against the Marlins but he will start in the minors instead so Manuel can get another look at Dillon Gee.
Johan looked good last night. I didn't see a dominant K-Rod either of the last 2 games (see in person in my case). But that part came together nicely in the offseason.