The Mets and the Braves play game two today as the Mets look to take the series today. Last night's game featured a redesigned lineup and whether that was the reason the Mets were hitting is yet to be determined, but they were getting a nice amount of hits last night. The core of the team was able to disrupt the Braves pitching (and defense) yesterday. On the other side of the ball, Takahashi froze the Braves hitters with his 7 K's over 3 innings and Niese looks to do the same today against Jurrjens.
Niese had a good outing last time out as he allowed 0 Earned Runs over 5.2 innings bringing his season totals to 16.2 innings pitched with a 4.32 ERA. Last year he faced the Braves once and it was a rough outing as he allowed 5 ER over 4.2 innings. The Braves have these numbers against Niese over his career:
Prado 0-4
Chipper 2-2, 2B
McClouth 2-3, 2B
Niese had some effecitve pitches in his last outing and showed poise and talent. If he can do that again, then he could have a very good day.
The Mets bats will have to contend with Jurrjens. Over 16.1 innings this season, he has posted a 6.06 ERA, which isn't typical for him. Last season he just blew through the Mets as he faced the Amazins five times with a 4-0 record over 33.2 innings pitched and a fantastic 1.60 ERA. The Mets have been able to put these numbers on him during his career:
Castillo 5-16
Pagan 1-14, 2B
Reyes 3-13, 2B
Bay 1-9
Francoeur 0-11
The Mets really have struggled against Jair in the past. Hopefully they will be able to knock him around a bit and pull out another win. Lets Go Mets!
