Mets 73-81 vs Cardinals 85-69 Preview

Chris Schwinden 0-2, 5.40 ERA

Jaime Garcia 12-7, 3.59 ERA

Chris Schwinden is scheduled to make his third major league appearance and his first start on the road for the visiting New York Mets. In his debut on September 8th against the Braves, Schwinden was lite up for 5 runs in that start. His second start went well but the bullpen couldn't hold it for him, he went five innings allowing just one run. Schwinden suffered the lopsided 10-1 loss against the Washington Nationals. "I thought he threw the ball very good. That was certainly the Chris Schwinden that I know,” manager Terry Collins told the Mets officials.

With the season practically over for the Mets, the only exciting thing is Jose Reyes' chance to win a batting title. Reyes is hitting .331, who is one point behind Milwaukee's Ryan Braun for the lead in the NL batting race. Jose comes into tonight 2-for-6 with a strikeout lifetime against Jaime Garica. The Mets, who have lost  10 out of their last 13, are just one loss away from their third straight losing season.

Jason Bay was held out of the lineup last night because he was fighting flu-like symptoms that have been making its way around the Mets' clubhouse. Lucas Duda doubled in a run last night, giving him 38 RBIs since the All-Star break. That is the 5th highest total in Mets franchise history and their are still 8 games remaining on the schedule. Duda has been a great addition to this lineup and with better defense in the outfield he can certainly be a bright star for the Mets in the 2012 season. Mike Pelfrey took another no-decision in last nights game after leaving with the lead in the six inning. Pelfrey pitch average at best and allowed 5 runs on 10 hits. Tim Byrdak, who coming off a newly contract extension, allowed two runs to score last night. He has allowed 15 of his 64 inherited runners to score this season. Angel Pagan had three hits Tuesday, and is 8 for 13 with three RBIs in his last three games in St. Louis.

Mets Splits:
- Road: 377 runs, 57 homeruns, .393 SLG%
- Home: 304 runs, 45 homeruns, .390 SLG%

Quoted by Sandy Alderson: "I think it's conceivable that, yes, we will see some changes in Citi Field. … I think if we do something it's not likely to be subtle." - Speaking on SNY about changes this winter to the stadium configuration