Niese Pitches Well But Arroyo Has Mets Number as Reds Win 3-1

Tonight Niese made only a few mistakes, but infortunately two of them were against Brandon Phillips who made Niese pay by driving in two runs and leading the Reds to a 3-1 win tonight (box score/wrap), and a series win.

Bronson Arroyo killed the Mets yet again tonight, going 8 innings, scattering 7 hits and giving up only a solo homer to Angel Pagan.  The Mets had chances tonight, but just couldn't get things done, especially in the 8th and 9th innings, when they had opportunities with the tying run (at least) at the plate.

Pagan and Thole both had two hit nights for the Mets but it just wasn't enough.  The offense just didn't get it done tonight and as well as Niese pitched, it just wasn't enough.  Niese went 7 and 2/3 innings giving up 3 runs while striking out eight.  Niese continues to look good this year, and has proven that he can be a valuable and successful piece to this pitching staff throughout the season.  But as well as Niese threw tonight, and has been all year, tonight he was just out-done by Arroyo.  It happens...

The Mets have a day off tomorrow before starting a big three game set with the Braves this weekend.  After this series the Mets can be tied with the Braves for first, 6 games back, or anywhere in between.  This is an important series for confidence considering how early in the season it is, and the way it's timed against the All-Star break.