It appears things are getting worse for Mets pitcher Ambiorix Burgos.  On September 8th, Burgos was arrested in New York when he allegedly beat his girlfriend in a hotel room near Shea Stadium.  Now Burgos has allegedly been involved in a fatal hit and run.

Police in the Domincan Republic are looking for Burgos after his Hummer slammed into two women in in Nagua, DR.  Both women were taken to the hospital where they died.  The only facts in the case at this point is the Hummer in question was registered to Burgos.  Numerous eyewitnesses have stated they saw him behind the wheel.

While it is not known if Burgos was the man behind the wheel when these two women were struck, the Mets have released a statement.

We are extremely disturbed by the reports regarding the player’s potential involvement in the hit-and-run accident that unfortunately killed two women in the Dominican Republic.  We take this matter very seriously and have begun an internal investigation to ascertain the facts.

It’ll be interesting to see how this unfolds, but our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victim.

And then there were two…

Congratulations to the Philadelphia Phillies, who with a 4-3 victory over the Washington Nationals, clinched their second consecutive National League East title. That leaves the Mets and the Brewers, both with identical records, fighting for the NL Wildcard.

Recap of Saturday’s Action:

The excitement was in the air at Citizens Bank Park, as the Phillies entered play one win away from winning the NL East. The scoring started in the fourth when Chase Utley and Ryan Howard started the inning off with back-to-back singles. Utley came around to score on a Pat Burrell sacrifice fly, and Howard followed on a Carlos Ruiz sac fly, giving the Phillies and early 2-0 lead. In the top of the fifth, the Nationals cut the lead in half when Anderson Hernandez’s two-out double scored Roger Bernadina. It didn’t take long for the Phillies to respond as Jayson Werth hit his 24th home run of the season (a shot barely clearing the right field wall), giving the Phillies a 3-1 lead.

The score remained 3-1 until the eighth inning. Ryan Madson entered the game and gave up a single to Cristian Guzman and a double to Ryan Zimmerman, giving the Nats runners at second and third with no outs. The next batter, Lastings Milledge, his a shallow fly ball to center field. Both Shane Victorino and Jimmy Rollins were running for it. As Victorino slid for the ball, Rollins made an over-the-shoulder catch (ala Willie Mays), but then collided with Victorino. Rollins got up and fired the ball home, but Guzman wisely tagged on the fly out. While Rollins got up and made the play, Victorino stayed on the ground in pain. After the trainers came out to check on Victorino, he walked it off and remained in the game. Now with the tying run on second and one out, Madson beared down and got out of the jam, getting Elijah Dukes to ground out to third, and struck out Aaron Boone. In the Phillies half of the eighth, with two outs, Victorino hit a ground ball into the hole that Guzman fielded but never made a throw. The next batter, Pedro Feliz hit a log fly ball to the gap in left center field, scoring Victorino.

Heading into the ninth inning with the Phillies up 4-2, they summoned Brad Lidge. Lidge entering the game had been 40 for 40 in save opportunities. Aside from clinching the division crown, Lidge was also shooting to be the first Phillie in history to have more than 25 saves in a season, and not blow any opportunities. Lidge immediately struck out Emilio Bonifacio, and it looked as if the Nats didn’t have a prayer. That was until Bernadina singled, and Ryan Langerhans walked, putting the tying run on second base. The next batter, Hernandez, singled to right field, scoring Bonifacio, and cutting the Phillies lead to only one. Then Guzman singled up the middle, loading the bases. Wih bases loaded and only one out, Zimmerman stepped to the plate. Zimmerman laced a Lidge fastball up the middle. A diving Rollins speared it, who flipped it to Utley, who fired it to Ryan Howard. 6-4-3 double play, game over, Phillies win the NL East.

In Flushing, the Mets knew it was all or nothing, which is why they moved Johan Santana up in the rotation to start on short rest. A loss on Saturday, could have meant the Mets missing the postseason for the second consecutive season. Santana wasn’t having that.

Santana was nothing short of amazing. Pitching on three days rest, Santana threw a three-hit shutout, giving the Mets a 2-0 victory over the Marlins. Santana didn’t allow a baserunner from the fifth inning, until Josh Willingham’s double in the ninth, and recorded nine strikeouts, picking up his 16th win of the season.

The Mets got on the board early. After Jose Reyes led the game off with a single, he stole second. Reyes advanced to third on a Carlos Beltran single, and finally scored on Carlos Delgado’s sacrifice fly. The Mets added their second run, when Danny Murphy (who was hit by a pitch), scored when Ramon Hernandez doubled into the right field alley.

Marlins starter Ricky Nolasco, pitched a gem of his own, allowing only two runs in seven innings, while striking out ten, but he was unable to match the masterful work of Santana.

In Milwaukee it was a different story. If you looked at the Cubs lineup card it was very similar to the lineup he used against the Mets on Thursday. Missing were Alfonso Soriano, Derek Lee, Aramis Ramirez, Geovany Soto, and Mark DeRosa. The Brewers had every opportunity to have a commanding lead on the Mets heading into today’s action, but failed to do so, as the Iowa Cubs got the best of the Brewers 7-3.

Coming into the game Ben Sheets was no guarantee. He had been suffering from elbow woes, and it showed as he couldn’t make it out of the third inning. Daryle Ward put the Cubs on top 2-0 in the first with a mammoth home run to right field, and in the second, the Cubs added two more when Mike Fontenot’s bases loaded single plated Ronnie Cedeno and Micah Hoffpauir.

The Brewers battled back in the seventh and eighth. J.J. Hardy’s sacrifice fly scored Ryan Braun in the seventh and Craig Counsell and Prince Fielder both had RBI singles in the eighth to make it a 4-3 ball game. In the ninth, the Cubs put the game away. A two-run home run by Kosuke Fukudome and an RBI single gave the Cubs a 7-3 lead. Kerry Wood pitched a scoreless ninth to close things out for the Cubs.

Ted Lilly pitched brilliantly for the Cubs and took a no-hitter into the seventh inning. This was the second time this season Lilly lost a no-hitter in the seventh inning.

After yesterday’s action, the Mets and Brewers find them selves tied for the Wild Card.

Magic Numbers:

Mets – 2 Wild Card
Brewers – 2 Wild Card

Sunday’s Preview:

Cubs @ Brewers – The Brewers need to regroup. Yesterday’s loss really killed the momentum they had heading into the final weekend, especially against a marginal Cubs lineup. They will have another assist from the Cubs this afternoon as Carlos Zambrano has been scratched in favor of Angel Guzman.

CC Sabathia will look to pitched the Brewers into October. Sabathia is again starting on three days rest (for the third consecutive time). Sabathia is coming off a dominant outing against the Pirates on Wednesday when he allowed one run in seven innings. Sabathia has made five starts this September and is 1-2 with a 2.67 ERA. One of those losses came to the Cubs when he allowed four runs in seven innings.

Angel Guzman will be making the start for the Cubs. Guzman is a one time top prospect who struggled with injuries since joining the Cubs. Guzman is coming off Tommy John surgery, a procedure he has last August. He’s only pitched in five games this season (no starts), where he is 0-0 with a 7.03 ERA.

Marlins @ Mets – Johan Santana really gave the Mets the lift they were looking for. Heading into this afternoon’s game tied for the Wild Card was probably the best scenario the Mets could hope for. They’ll look to beat a Marlins team who ended their postseason hopes on the last day of the season, just one year ago.

Tom Glavine started that fateful game, but today, the Mets will look to a different left-hander, Oliver Perez. Perez has battled through inconsistency this season, but overall has had a good year. At 10-7 he’s third on the Mets in wins, and has had success against the Marlins this season (3-0, 2.08). The thing to watch for with Perez is his control. Should he start walking batters, the Mets are in trouble. One thing that favors him, is the Marlins lineup isn’t known for patience, and chases a lot of pitches.

Scott Olsen will pitch the final game for the Marlins as they continue their quest to be spoilers. Olsen is 8-11 on the year. Olsen hasn’t been terrible in the month of September posting a 2-2 record, but got hammered his last outing against the Mets (August 31st), where he gave up six runs in six-and-a-third innings.

With only two games left in the regular season, it’s the Mets who wake up this morning and find themselves on the outside looking in, while the Phillies clinched a tie for the NL East, and the Brewers are one step closer to making the post season for the first time since 1982.

Recap of Friday’s Action:

On a misty night in South Philadelphia, the Phillies got on the board early. Ryan Howard’s three-run home run (his major league-leading 48th), in the first inning, gave the Phillies a quick 3-0 lead. The Nationals got on the board in the second when Elijah Dukes scored on a Luke Montz single, making the score 3-1. In the second the Phillies added to their lead when Chase Utley hit a bases clearing double, and scored when Howard doubled, giving the Phillies a commanding 7-1 lead. The Nats scored two more in the fifth (courtesy of a Ryan Howard error), and one in the six to make it a three-run game. The Phillies scored their final run in the eighth when Utley came home on a wild pitch.

Starter Joe Blanton, had a strong outing, giving up five hits over six innings. All four runs were on his watch, but only one was earned (Kory Casto’s six inning home run). The other three were resulted on a passed ball and an error.

Things didn’t go as well in Flushing. The Marlins got on top early, and the Mets were never able to recover. Hanley Ramirez led the game off with single. After stealing second, he scored on a Jeff Baker double. Baker then scored on a Dan Uggla ground out, giving the Fish and early 2-0 lead. The Mets threatened in the bottom of the first, loading the bases. But the inning came to an end when Ryan Church flied out to center field. The score remained 2-0 until the sixth when Josh Willingham took Mike Pelfrey deep on a shot just inside the left field foul pole, giving the Marlins a 3-0 lead. The Mets got a run back in the bottom of the inning. Brian Schnieder’s ground out plated Church, cutting the Marlins lead to only two. The Marlins added two more in the seventh. Brett Carroll scored on a Hanley Ramirez single that was misplayed by Danny Murphy. Ramirez came in to score when Aaron Heilman walked Willingham with the bases loaded. The Marlins capped the scoring in the eighth on a Jorge Cantu single.

Marlins starter Chirs Volstad kept the Mets guessing all night. Volstad gave up one run (unearned), and five hits over six innings. Pelfrey was sharp for the Mets allowing three runs in six innings. Unfortunately the Mets offense could never get anything going, and the bullpen was unable to keep the game close. The Mets used seven relievers in the final three innings.

In Milwaukee, the Brewers faced the Cubs in a must win game, and brought everything they had. After falling behind in the second, when Jim Edmonds gave the Cubs a 1-0 lead on a solo home run, the Brewers tied it up when Jason Kendall doubled home Corey Hart. The score remained tied 1-1 until the sixth. Largely because both teams’ starters, Jeff Suppan and Ryan Dempster keeping the opposition guessing.  When they missed, the defense helped them out.

In the sixth the Brewers took the lead when Ray Durham scored on Hart’s single. The Brewers put the game out of reach in the seventh when Rickie Weeks hit a three-run home run off Chad Gaudin. The final: 6-1 in favor of the Brewers.

After yesterday’s action, the Phillies lead the NL East by two games over the Mets, and Brewers lead the Mets by one game in the Wild Card.

Magic Numbers:

Phillies – 1 Division
Mets – 4 Wild Card, 5 Division
Brewers – 2 Wild Card

Saturday’s Preview:

Cubs @ Brewers – In a week, the Brewers have gone from a team on the verge of elimination, to a club that could clinch the playoffs by days end. Another win this afternoon, coupled with a Mets loss, the Brewers snap a twenty-six year postseason drought.

Ben Sheets is scheduled to be the guy the Brewers look to pitch them into the playoffs. Sheets (13-8, 2.98), one of the National League’s most talented pitchers, but once again has had another season where he’s dealt with injury woes. Sheets hasn’t started since September 17th, in which he only lasted two innings (against the Cubs), due to elbow pain. While the official word from the Brewers is that Sheets will start this afternoon, interim manager Dale Sveum has said it would take a “small miracle” for Sheet to go today. Don’t be surprised to see Sheets get the start today. In a pennant race “small miracles” seem to happen.

Ted Lilly will start for the Cubs, in search of his 17th win of the season. Lilly is 0-1 with a 5.91 ERA in two starts against the Brewers this season, but hasn’t faced them since June. Lilly has heated up lately and is 3-0 in his last three starts. He’s allowed only five runs in the last 23 innings.

Nationals @ Phillies – The Phillies already have clinched a tie with the Mets for the NL East. So even if they lose the final two games while the Mets win, they’ll face off for a one game playoff on Monday. That’s the worst case scenario, which is a scenario the Phillies don’t want to think about it. They win today, and they’re in.

Jamie Moyer is the guy the Phillies will be looking to clinch their second consecutive National League East title. At 45, Moyer is arguably the Phillies best starter this season. His 15 wins lead the Phillies, and his 3.70 ERA ranks second to Cole Hamels. Moyer has always been strong against the Nationals, going 10-4 with a 2.89 ERA, included 2-0 this season.

John Lannan will take the mound for the Nationals. Lannan is 9-14 on the season, but his 3.84 ERA reflects more that his 14 losses are more due to lack of run support, not poor pitching. Phillies fans remember Lannan for being the pitcher who broke Chase Utley’s hand least season when he hit him with a fastball. Lannan is 1-1 in his last two starts with a 1.29 ERA.

Marlins @ Mets – The Mets are on the verge of a second consecutive collapse in September. This isn’t exactly what Omar Minaya wanted to show ownership after they rewarded him with a four-year extension. Even though it doesn’t look good Mets fans, don’t take the plunge into the East River just yet. It’s not over. Stranger things have happened in playoff races (remember the Rockies last season), so until it’s officially over, continue to fight. In saying that, the Mets need to do their part and go out and win.

Given the Mets position, they are a desperate team. Desperate times call for desperate measures, which is why Johan Santana, only on three days rest, will get the ball. This is the exactly the reason the Mets went out and got the two-time Cy Young Award winner; to win the big game. Santana will be shooting for his 16th win of the season, against a Marlins team he’s had a ton of success against. Santana is 4-0 with a 2.49 ERA in four career starts against the Marlins.

Ricky Nolsaco will start for the Marlins. Nolasco came from no where this season, and became the Marlins ace. Nolasco will also be gunning for his 16h win of the season. Nolasco has had mixed results against the Mets this season, going 1-1 with a 3.71 ERA.

As we enter the final weekend of the season, all three teams fighting for the final two playoff spots are within a game of each other. While the Phillies had the day off, the Mets and Brewers both won, and like in any playoff race, they won in dramatic fashion. This will be the final series of the season for one of these three teams.

Recap of Thursday’s Action:

In Flushing, weather was a concern. A Nor’easter was rolling up the coast, threatening to postpone the game. Thankfully the weather gods held off so the Cubs and Mets were able to play, but this game will be talked about not for what happened on the field (which we’ll get to shortly), but what happened before the game. When Brewers and Phillies fans got home from work, and checked the starting lineups for the game, the Cubs lineup looked a bit strange. Missing was Alfonso Soriano, Derek Lee, Aramis Ramirez, Geovany Soto, & Mark DeRosa. In fact, it the lineup looked more like the Iowa Cubs then the Chicago Cubs. In Lou Pinella’s defense, he didn’t play a lot of his starters, due to the weather, but a point can be made that the Cubs are trying to influence the playoff race. Regardless, those Iowa Cubs didn’t lie down and gave it everything they had, but came up short as the Mets topped the Cubs 7-6.

The Cubs starters might have been young, but they looked like seasoned veterans pounding Pedro Martinez for five runs in six innings. It didn’t stop the Mets from fighting back. With the Cubs up 6-3 heading into the seventh. Robinson Cancel led the inning off with a double. Cancel advanced to third on a Marlon Anderson groundout, and scored on a Jose Reyes groundout, making it 6-4. In the eighth inning, the Mets got it going again. With two outs Carlos Beltran and Ryan Church had consecutive singles. Ramon Martinez followed with a single of his own, scoring Beltran, making the score 6-5. Then it was up to Cancel, who singled to right field. Church ran on contact and had every intention of scoring. Kosuke Fukudome fielded the ball cleanly, and fired the ball home ahead Church, but Church danced around the glove of Koyie Hill, touching home plate, to tie the game at six. In the ninth, Reyes led off with a single. Reyes took second base on his own after Danny Murphy and David Wright both struck out. With a man on second and two outs, Kevin Hart intentionally walked Carlos Delgado to face Beltran. Big mistake. Beltran hit a rocket to first that went off the glove of Micah Hoffpauir, Reyes scored, Mets win.

Speaking of Hoffpauir, he led the charge for the Cubs going 5 for 5 with two home runs and five RBI’s.

In Milwaukee, the Brewers found themselves in an old fashion pitchers duel against the Pirates. With each team only scoring one run in the first nine innings (Bill Hall doubled home Mike Cameron, and Steven Pearce’s solo home run), it would go to extra innings to settle the affair. In the bottom of the tenth, Rickie Weeks led the inning off with a single. Weeks advanced to second on a Jason Kendall sacrifice. With the winnings run in scoring position, pinch hitter Ray Durham was intentionally walked, setting up the double play. Craig Counsell stepped to the plate, and drew a walk of his own.

With the bases loaded and two outs, Ryan Braun walked into the batters box. Braun was 0 for 4 on the day, but was in a position that thousands of kids dream about in their back yard. Braun lived those childhood dreams as he crushed a John Grabow fastball for a walk-off grand slam, giving the Brewers a 5-1 victory.

After yesterday’s action, the Phillies lead the NL East by one game over the Mets, and the Mets find themselves tied for the Wild Card with the Brewers.

Magic Numbers:

Phillies – 3 Playoffs, 3 Division
Mets - 4 Playoffs, 5 Division
Brewers – 4 Playoffs

Friday’s Preview:

Cubs @ Brewers – If last night did anything, it gave the Brewers some momentum. With the Cubs in town they’ll need it. Brewer fans shouldn’t expect Lou Pinella to use the same lineup he did last night. The regulars will be back, and they’ll be looking to deep six any postseason dreams the Brewers may have.

Jeff Suppan will take the hill for the Brewers. Suppan (10-10, 5.06 ERA), has had a touch September going 0-3 in four starts. He’s coming off his worst start of the season, where he allowed five runs in only two innings as the Reds topped the Brewers 11-2. This season Suppan hasn’t had a ton of luck against the Cubs, going 1-1 with a 9.00 ERA. He also hasn’t faced them since April.

Ryan Dempster will start for the Cubs. Dempster will start the day after Lou Pinella announced he would be the Cubs Game One starter in the NLDS. Dempster has had quite a turn around going from closer to starter. The player who Cubs fans referred to as “Dumpster” last season is 17-6 with a 2.99 ERA this season, and is a favorite for the NL Cy Young Award.

Nationals @ Phillies – The Phillies find themselves in the same position for the second consecutive year. In order to make the playoffs, they have to beat the Nationals. The only difference is this season, they don’t need the Mets to lose, they just need to win.

Joe Blanton will look to close the gap on the NL East title this evening. Blanton has had his ups and his downs as a member of the Phillies. A player who was always known for his ability to go late into games has struggled with his control since coming to Philadelphia. He’s walked 30 batters in 64 innings as a Phillie. He only walked 34 in 127 innings when he was a member of the Athletics. Blanton has faced the Nationals twice this season. He’s 0-0 with a 8.00 ERA.

Blanton will be opposed by Collin Balester. Balester is 3-6 with a 4.83 ERA in his brief major league career. He has one start against the Phillies. On July 29th he allowed two runs over six innings, taking the loss.

Marlins @ Mets – Triple A team or not, last night was the biggest victory of the season for the Mets. It gives them added confidence this weekend as they face the always dangerous Marlins. The same team who squashed their playoff hopes just one year ago.

Mike Pelfrey will take the hill for his final regular season start at Shea Stadium. Pelfrey has been a savior for the Mets rotation, especially when John Maine fell to injury. Pelfrey has faced the Marlins four times this year and is 0-3 with a 7.92 ERA. His last start against the Marlins, his best of the season, he allowed two runs over six innings.

Chris Volstad will be on the mound for the Marlins. Volstad (5-4, 3.10), has faced the Mets once this season. On August 29th, Volstad held the Mets to only one run over six innings. He didn’t pick up the win. The Mets scored four times in the ninth inning (a Carlos Beltran grand slam), off Kevin Gregg, giving the Mets a 5-4 victory.

With only four days in the regular season, things are tightening up.  The Phillies, who lead the way, continue to struggle and have started to scoreboard watch. Fortunately for them, the Mets failed to capitalize, falling to the Cubs. The Brewers continued to stay hot and look like a different team then the one that took the field during the first three weeks of September. As we approach the final weekend of the season, three teams are within two games of each other.

Recap of Wednesday’s Action:

Brett Myers followed a poor start at Florida, with another poor start last night. Myers had no command of his fastball and gave up six runs on ten hits, in four-and-a-third innings, as the Braves beat the Phillies 10-4. Chipper Jones’ three-run pinch hit home run in the fifth inning, iced the game for the Braves. Although the Phillies lost, it didn’t mean there weren’t any fireworks. In the eighth inning with the Braves leading 10-4, Shane Victorino was leading off third base. Braves pitcher Julian Tavarez ran off the mound toward third base, chasing Victorino back to first. Given the fact the Braves had a six run lead, Victorino, took exception to Tavarez actions, said something and pointed to the scoreboard. That followed the benches emptying (with Pat Burrell leading the charge), and the bullpens emptying. There were no ejections, just bench warnings. In the end all it gave was Phillies fans a little excitement during a let down in South Philadelphia.

The Mets and the Cubs battled in Flushing. The Mets jumped out to an early 5-1 lead thanks to a grand slam by Carlos Delgado. It wasn’t enough as the Cubs battled back, highlighted by Reed Johnson’s two-run single. In the seventh, the Cubs took a lead of their own when Alfonso Soriano doubled down the left field line, scoring Ronnie Cedeno. In the eighth, Jeff Samardzija loaded the bases, then walked Ramon Martinez, scoring Delgado, tying the game again (this time at six). In the ninth, Danny Murphy led off the inning with a triple, but Bob Howry took care of business. He struck out David Wright, then intentionally walked Delgado and Carlos Beltran to load the bases. He then got Ryan Church to ground out (Murphy out at home), and ended the inning by striking out Ramon Castro. The Cubs put the game away scoring three runs in the tenth (all with two outs). Ryan Theriot scored on a Derek Lee double, and Lee came home on Aramis Ramirez’s home run to left field.

In Milwaukee CC Sabathia continued to make his case for NL Cy Young consideration. Working on short rest, Sabathia overmatched the Pirates, pitching seven strong innings. He allowed four hits, one run, and struck out eleven. As good as Sabathia looked, Paul Maholm and two relievers only allowed two hits. They also walked nine. Unfortunately when you walk nine batters, limiting your opponents to two hits loses meaning. Jason Kendall is credited with the game winning RBI, when he walked with the bases loaded (the second consecutive bases loaded walk), in the fourth inning.

After yesterday’s action, the Phillies lead the NL East by one-and-a-half a game over the Mets, and the Mets find themselves tied for the Wild Card with the Brewers.

Magic Numbers:

Phillies – 3 Playoffs, 3 Division
Mets – 5 Playoffs, 6 Division
Brewers – 5 Playoffs

Thursday’s Preview:

Cubs @ Mets – Last night’s loss hurt the Mets. Failing to score a run with the winning run on third base is almost inexcusable. Given the Brewers recent surge, the pressure is now on the Mets not to repeat last season’s collapse. The best thing they can do it put the loss behind them, and focus on the game tonight.

Pedro Martinez will start for the Mets. 2008 hasn’t been the kindest season to Pedro. From spending time on the disabled list, to the passing of his father, to resembling a shell of the pitcher he once was, Martinez has had a rough go. Pedro will look to put this seasons struggles behind him as he takes the mound for his final regular season start of 2008. Martinez is 5-6 with a 5.60 ERA, and is stuck in the worst rut of his career. In his past three starts, Pedro is 0-3 with a 7.88 ERA.  Don’t count Pedro out just yet.  As far as clutch pitcher’s go, Pedro’s near the top.

Opposing Pedro will be Rich Harden. Harden, who came to the Cubs in a late July trade with the Athletics, has been a stud. In 11 starts for the Cubs this season, Harden is 5-1 with a 1.88 ERA. In his last start, Harden gave up one hit and one run over five innings, but struggled with his control walking six.

Pirates @ Brewers – The Brewers have heated up, and it’s up to them to win if they want to snap a 26 year postseason drought. With the Cubs coming to Milwaukee to finish out the season, it’s not going to get any easier. Sweeping the Pirates will give them some momentum heading into their biggest series of the season.

Yovani Gallardo will make the start for the Brewers. Gallardo has been on the disabled list since May first with a knee injury, and was activated on Tuesday. Gallardo has only made three starts this season, where he didn’t factor in a decision, but posted a stingy 1.80 ERA.

The Pirates will send Zach Duke to the hill, in hopes of avoiding a sweep. Duke, a one time top prospect, has struggled with inconsistency and injuries throughout his career. This season is no different. Duke is 5-14 this season with a 4.96 ERA, but is 1-7 in his last 10 starts.

The Phillies have their final day off of the season. Given their play the past couple games, a day for them to clear their head in order. They start their final series of the regular season Friday at home against the Nationals.

The race got a little tighter last night after the Brewers and Mets found victory, while the Phillies were never able to get the offense going.

Recap of Monday’s Action:

The Phillies offense finally took the night off, but some credit had to be given to Braves starter, Mike Hampton. Hampton allowed two runs on six hits, over six innings. Cole Hamels allowed three runs (two earned), and eight hits, over seven innings, but his box score doesn’t really reflect how he pitched. Hamels struggled through the first four innings, and his third inning throw into left field on an errant pickoff attempt allowed Kelly Johnson to score, giving the Braves a 2-1 lead.

The Mets bounced back against the Cubs in a big way. After finding themselves in an early 2-0 hole, the Mets scored two runs in the fifth and another four in the sixth, to beat the Cubs 6-2. Johan Santana was dominant, going eight innings, allowing two runs on seven hits, while striking out 10. Jose Reyes led the offense, going 2 for 4, with 3 RBI’s. His bases loaded triple in the sixth inning put the game out of reach for Chicago.

The game of the night was probably in Milwaukee, where the Brewers beat the Pirates 7-5. In the eighth inning, down 5-4, Jason Kendall’s two-out double, plated J.J. Hardy, knotting the game at five. In the bottom of the ninth, still tied at five, Ryan Braun hit a two-out infield single. This brought Prince Fielder to the plate, who crushed a TJ Beam fastball over the fence in right field, giving the Brewers a 7-5 victory.

After yesterday’s action, the Phillies lead the NL East by a one-and-a-half games over the Mets, and a two-and-half game lead over the Brewers.

Magic Numbers:

Phillies – 3 Playoffs, 4 Division
Mets – 5 Playoffs, 7 Division
Brewers – 7 Playoffs

Monday’s Preview:

Cubs @ Mets – Last night’s win lets the Mets breath a little easier. While the pressure is still on, they find themselves ahead of the Brewers, and only a game and a half behind the Phillies (one in the loss column).

Looking to build off last night’s momentum, the Mets turn to Oliver Perez. Perez (10-7, 4.10), has had his shares of ups and downs this season, but has found his groove as of late. Seven of his last 10 starts have been quality, and although he’s only 3-1 over that span, that has more to due with the Mets bullpen, then Perez struggling.

Facing Perez will be Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano. The past couple starts have been strange for Zambano (14-6, 3.77). On September 14th, he was masterful against the Astros, pitching his first career no-hitter. He followed that up last Friday, with a total mess against Cardinals. Zambrano was pulled in the second inning after allowing six runs on eight hits. Zambrano has missed some time this month with a tired arm, so he’s one to keep an eye on tonight.

Braves@ Phillies – While last night’s loss hurt the Phillies, it’s not the end of the world. They still have a somewhat comfortable lead. The biggest thing is, not letting that loss turn into a tail spin.

Brett Myers aims to get the Phillies back on track. Myers has been a different pitcher since his stint in the minor leagues early this summer (3-9, 5.84 before – 7-3, 2.79 after), and is the main reason the Phillies find themselves in playoff position. But like Zambrano, Myers followed up the best pitching performance of his career, with possibly his worst. On September 14th, and on short rest, Myers pitched a two-hit complete game against the Brewers. He followed that up last Friday by getting pounded by the Marlins. In four innings, Myers allowed 9 hits and 10 runs, as the Phillies lost to the Marlins 14-9. This is a big start to Myers to see if he shrugs last Friday’s outing off and returns to dominance, or reverts to the Brett Myers of May.

Jo-Jo Reyes will start for the Braves (I know I had him starting yesterday, thanks mlb.com), and look to put behind him a disastrous start against the Mets last week, where he allowed five runs in less than four innings. Reyes (3-11, 5.74), was considered to be a top prospect heading into this season, but at a young 23, has yet to figure out major league hitters. His last win came on June 13th.

Pirates @ Brewers – The Brewers, needed a big win like last night to try in build momentum for the final five games of the season. Sitting in the worst position out of the three remaining teams, every game is a must-win, and a loss could be devastating.

What better pitcher to build momentum then your ace? CC Sabathia will start tonight for the Brewers. Sabathia has been the best pitcher in baseball since coming to Milwaukee in a July trade with Cleveland. His 9 wins and 1.81 ERA are best in the National League over that span. Sabathia needs to use this start against the Brewers to get back on track. As dominant as he’s been, he’s lost his past two decisions (in his defense, he’s only allowed 5 runs in the past 13 innings), and hasn’t won a game in the month of September.

If there’s an ace this season for the Pirates it’s tonight’s starter, Paul Maholm. Maholm’s 9 wins and 3.68 ERA are tops among Pirates starters. Maholm is 2-2 in his career at Miller Park, but hasn’t registered a decision there this season. It’s not his doing. In his two starts there this season he has posted a 1.93 ERA and averaged seven innings per start.

As the end of the season approaches, one team is rising above the remaining two. The Phillie’s September surge hasn’t let up as they’ve won 10 or their last 11 and are 14-6 in the month of September. The Mets have cooled, dropping their third straight game, while the Brewers gained ground, by not playing.

Recap of Monday’s Action:

The Phillies continued their hot play, as the Phillies beat the Braves 6-2. In the eighth inning, with the game knotted at two, Greg Dobbs (pinch hitting for Scott Eyre), singled up the middle. Dobbs was replaced by the speedy Greg Golson. Within two pitches Golson found himself on third base after Jeff Bennett’s pick off attempt sailed into foul territory. After Jimmy Rollins grounded out to second, Chase Utley was intentionally walked to set up a double play. The next batter, Jayson Werth, hit a hard ground ball down the third base line. Golson broke on contact, and beat Martin Prado’s throw to the plate, giving the Phillies a 3-2 lead. Two batters later, Pat Burrell sent a Julian Tavarez fastball into the left field stands, giving the Phillies a 6-2 lead.

The Mets didn’t have the same success. Facing a Cubs team that was one win away from clinching home field advantage throughout the playoffs, the Cubs found offense in an unlikely place. Pitcher Jason Marquis’ grand slam in the fourth inning led the Cubs offense as they beat the Mets 9-5. Marquis finished 1 for 3 with 5 RBI’s.

The Mets had some late inning heroics. David Wright’s two-run home run in the seventh, brought the Mets within four. In the ninth, after Wright scored on a Beltran ground out, the Mets had runners on second and third, before Kerry Wood struck out Luis Castillo, ending the game.

After yesterday’s action, the Phillies lead the NL East by a two-and-a-half games over the Mets, and a three-and-half game lead over the Brewers.

Magic Numbers:

Phillies – 3 Playoffs, 4 Division
Mets – 6 Playoffs, 9 Division
Brewers – 8 Playoffs

Monday’s Preview:

Cubs @ Mets – Mets fans are beginning to panic. With the recent Mets play, they are looking more like the Mets of 2007, then the Mets that devoured National League pitching in July and August, when they clawed back into the playoff race. They need a dominant pitching performance to get their heads on straight. This is the exact reason they got Johan Santana.

Santana (14-7, 2.65), will take the mound this evening, and look to snap the Mets slide. Santana has limited experience against the Cubs (four appearances, one start, all with the Twins), but has had success against them going 1-0, 1.38 ERA. More importantly is what Santana has done to the National League over the past two-and-a-half months. He hasn’t lost a game since June 28th (6-0 in that time span), and only allowed more than three runs one time (15 starts).

Sean Marshall will take the mound for the Cubs. Marshall, used mostly as a reliever this season is 3-4 with a 3.62 ERA. He’s only faced the Mets once in his career (in 2007), and had no success allowing five earned runs (all off home runs), and seven hits in five innings.

Braves@ Phillies – The Phillies fans are getting excited as the post season is within their grasp, and the energy from Citizens Bank Park can be felt throughout the entire city. There’s no denying it, the Phillies are hot, and instead of scoreboard watching in a playoff race, they control their own destiny.

Cole Hamels will take the mound for the Fightin’s, as he looks to continue his dominance against the Braves. Hamels (14-9, 3.10), faced the Braves last Thursday, and went six innings, allowing six hits, and two runs to pick up the win. In his career, Hamels has more wins against the Braves (6), than any other team.

Jo-Jo Reyes will start for the Braves and look to put behind him a disastrous start against the Mets last week, where he allowed five runs in less than four innings. Reyes (3-11, 5.74), was considered to be a top prospect heading into this season, but at a young 23, has yet to figure out major league hitters. His last win came on June 13th.

Pirates @ Brewers – The Brewers, who had an off day yesterday, open a three-game series against lowly Pirate team, who they need to exploit, before finishing the season at home against the cubs. With the Mets recent struggles, the Brewers have been given new life, and a three game series against the Pirates is the way to start to get serious about the playoffs. The Pirates are one of the worst teams in the National League this season (only the Padres and Nationals have a worse record), and he Brewers have dominated them, going 11-1 against them this season. This is the boost the Brewers need before finishing the season at home against the Cubs.

Dave Bush will start for the Pirates. Bush is 9-10 this season with a 4.22 ERA. He hasn’t won a decision in September (0-1), but has only allowed seven runs in his last three starts (a span of 19 innings). Last time Bush faced the Pirates was on August 29th when he went six-and-a-third innings, allowing only one runs, picking up the win.

Jeff Karstens is slated to go for the Pirates. Karstens, who came over from the Yankees in a trade for Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte, started off strong for the Bucco’s, winnings his first two starts. Unfortunately he hasn’t had a win since (six consecutive losses). One of those losses came against the Brewers, when he allowed three runs over six-and-a-third, as the Brewers beat the Pirates 7-0.

Baseball’s regular season is in its final week. On Sunday the Phillies began to look as if they were in the drivers seat, while the Mets had a slight setback and the Brewers decided they’re not ready for the fat lady to sing.

Recap of Sunday’s Action:

The Brewers avoided a sweep to the Reds on Sunday punishing Bronson Arroyo. Seth McClung and five relief pitchers held Cincinnati to 1 run on 5 hits. Prince Fielder led the charge for the Brew Crew going 2 for 4 with a home run, double, and 3 RBI’s.

The Mets entered the bottom of the eighth inning yesterday with a 4-3 lead. By innings end (4 runs and pitchers later), the Braves found themselves on top 7-4. Carlos Delgado tried to rally the Mets in the ninth with a two-run home run, but it wasn’t enough as the Braves took two of three from the Mets, winning 7-6. The bullpen spoiled another strong outing by Mike Pelfrey who went six innings, allowing six hits and three runs.

The Phillies survived another late inning scare as they beat the Marlins 5-2. Jamie Moyer went six innings, allowing one run, and picking up his 15th win of the season. Chase Utley lead the way for the Phillies with a two-run home run in the third inning, and Pedro Feliz hit is own two-run shot in the eighth, giving the Phillies some breathing room.

After yesterday’s action, the Phillies lead the NL East by a one-and-a-half games over the Mets, and a three game lead over the Brewers.

Magic Numbers:

Phillies – 4 Playoffs, 6 Division
Mets – 6 Playoffs, 9 Division
Brewers – 9 Playoffs

Monday’s Preview:

Cubs @ Mets – The Mets are set the enter their final home stand at Shea Stadium and it’s not going to be easy.  The Cubs are in town, looking to add to their league-leading 94 wins. They enter play one win short of guaranteeing them home field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Rookie Jon Niese will look to keep the Cubs bats at bat tonight. Niese (1-0, 4.07), will be making his third career start. He’s coming off an outing (Septmber 13th against Atlanta), where he pitched eight shutout innings, picking up his first major league win.

Jason Marquis will take the mound for the Cubs. Marquis, a native New Yorker, will in search of his 11th win of the season. Marquis is coming off a loss against the Brewers, where he allowed three runs in seven innings.

Braves@ Phillies – As the Phillies enter their final home stand of the year, they will be facing a Braves team they’ve had a lot of success against. The Phillies are 13-2 against the Braves this season, and recently finished up a season sweep at Turner Field (9-0).

The Phillies will send rookie J.A. Happ to the mound. Happ’s last start was on September 17th against the Phillies where he pitched six shutout innings, in route to his first major league win. Happ benefitted from the left-handed heavy lineup, and the fact the Braves have never seen him. Happ will not have that surprise factor this evening.

Jair Jurrjens starts for the Braves. Jurrjens is 1-2 with a 3.60 against the Phillies. His last outing was September 17th (where he faced J.A. Happ). He struggled with control, allowing four runs on five hits, while walking four, in only five innings. Jurrjens has been the Braves best pitcher this season, so expect him to put his last outing behind him and not lay down for the Phillies.

The Brewers are off on Monday. They travel home for a three-game series with the Pirates on Tuesday.

With eight days left in baseball’s regular season, the playoff races have yet to be settled. While the Cubs have wrapped the National League Central, and the Dodgers are on the verge of taking home the National League West, the National League East and the Wild Card remain up for grabs. With only two spots available, three teams have their sites set on October baseball. The Milwaukee Brewers, the New York Mets, and Philadelphia Phillies all find themselves within three games of each other with just over a week of baseball left to play.

Recap of Saturday’s Action:
Both the Mets and Phillies got a boost on Saturday. The Cincinnati Reds scored 3 runs in the sixth inning off CC Sabathia (pitching on three days rest), as they beat the Brewers for a second consecutive day 4-3. Rickie Weeks went 3 for 3 with a home run, triple, and two RBI’s in the Brewers loss.

The Mets also lost last night against a Braves team looking to play spoiler. Pedro Martinez did his part, allowing 4 runs and 9 hits over six innings. He also contributed at the plate, driving in 2 with a double in the fifth. Josh Anderson went 3 for 4 for Atlanta with a clutch RBI off Martinez in the sixth inning.

The Phillies found themselves in a nail biter facing a hot Marlins team, winners of nine in a row. Greg Dobbs bloop single in the sixth inning plated Ryan Howard, and the bullpen pitched four shutout innings as the Phillies beat the Marlins 3-2. The bullpen came up big for the Phillies getting out of jams in the eighth inning (second and third, no outs), and the ninth (man on second, one out), but Brad Lidge shut the door for his 39th save of the season.

After last night’s action, the Phillies lead the NL East by a half-game over the Mets, and a three game lead over the Brewers.

Magic Numbers:

Phillies – 5 Playoffs, 8 Division
Mets – 6 Playoffs, 9 Division
Brewers – 11 Playoffs

Sunday’s Preview:

Brewers @ Reds – The Brewers need a win and they need it bad. Their September collapse has run to 4-14 and the firing of Ned Yost didn’t motivate the team to play inspiring baseball. Seth McClung (5-6, 4.22), takes the mound for the Brewers. McClung, who is filling in for an injured Ben Sheets, has been used as a reliever for a good part of his career. He last started on July 21st where he allowed two runs over five innings against the St. Louis Cardinals, while not factoring in the decision.

Taking the mound for the Reds is Bronson Arroyo. Arroyo (5-10, 4.57), has had a disappointing season in the Queen City, but has turned it around lately. He’s only allowed 3 earned runs in the month of September (20.1 innings).

Mets @ Braves – Given the up and down season the Mets have had this season, they have to be proud where they are. With the cushion they have on the Brewers, there is some comfort and a loss wouldn’t be the end of the world. Last season’s collapse is still in the mind of the Mets and every game is a must win. While winning the Wild Card could be nice, taking the division form the Phillies would be sweeter. Mike Pelfrey will take the mound this afternoon for the Mets. This season has been a success for Pelfrey as he’s started to show the Mets why he was once a top prospect. His 13 wins and 3.67 ERA rank both second on the Mets behind Johan Santana.

Rookie James Parr will start for Atlanta. Parr has had success in his limited action this season going 1-0 with a 2.20 ERA. He began his Major League career with a 12 inning scoreless streak. In his last start Parr got roughed up, when he allowed 10 hits and 4 runs over 4.1 innings against the Phillies.

Phillies @ Marlins – The Marlins are not mathematically out of contention, but four and a half games out of the Wild Card is a slim chance. In saying that the Marlins believe they can do what the Rockies did at the end of last season and make it a four-team race. The Phillies plan to put and end to that. Jamie Moyer starts for the Phillies, who is a career 10-1 with a 3.07 ERA against the Fish. His lone loss came in his last outing against the Marlins where he went five innings, allowing 2 runs.

Top pitching prospect Chris Volstad will take the mound for the Marlins. Volstad (5-3, 3.07), has looked more like a seasoned veteran this season, then a 21 year-old rookie. Volstad has faced the Phillies twice this season and is 1-0 with a 1.00 ERA.

On Sunday Jets fans got a glimpse of Chansi Stuckey when he caught a 22 yard pass in the back of the end zone, giving the Jets a 13-7 lead over the Miami Dolphins. Stuckey finished the game with 2 catches, 37 yards and a touchdown. While it’s not the best debut in the NFL this past weekend, it’s not terrible numbers for a professional debut. It’s no secret the Jets like what they see in Stuckey, so this is only the beginning for the twenty-four year old wide out.

When the Jets drafted Stuckey in the Seventh Round of the 2007 draft, they thought they might have a steal. The Clemson wide receiver slipped in the draft after a less than impressive Senior Bowl and average combine numbers.  Although he didn’t turn heads, he was better then what he showed. An excellent route runner, with good hands and breakaway speed, the Jets envisioned him as a slot receiver. Unfortunately Stuckey never got that opportunity last season as he missed the entire 2007 with a broken foot.  Brad Smith claim the slot receiver role, but had mixed results.  He finished the year with 32 receptions for 325 yards and 2 touchdowns.

This year his will get his chance.  After a strong training camp, Stuckey won the job as Brett Favre’s third option, behind Lavernious Coles and Jericho Cotchery, with Smith listed as the fourth receiver.

Given his potential, he’s a good long term option for the Jets.  This doesn’t mean you need to scour the waiver wire for him on your fantasy team. With talented receivers like Coles and Cotchery ahead of him on the depth chart, and Smith getting his own share of opportunities, Stuckey’s role early this season might be limited.  Should Coles or Cotchery miss any time with injury (Coles has never been known as an “iron man”), look for Stuckey to get an opportunity to make some waves in the Jets offense.