With 2012 winding down for the Mets, they hit the road for one of the last couple times this season. The Brewers outplayed the Mets in a couple of game earlier i the year at Citi Field.
September has been nothing but nondescript baseball for the Mets. They’ve picked up just three wins so far in the month. The best they can ask for now is some more wins to better their image heading forward.
Losers of six in a row, the Mets face the Brewers, who sport one of the best home records in the league. Milwaukee has 44 wins at their domain of Miller Park this year.
7-3 in their last 10, the Brewers have essentially tripped up in the Wild Card race, so we are in for some simple September ball this evening.
Lineups
|
New York Mets
1)
2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8 ) 9) Jon Niese LHP |
Milwaukee Brewers
1)
2) 3) 4) 5) 6)
7) 8 ) 9) Mike Fiers RHP |
Matchup
NYM: Jon Niese (10-9, 3.47 ERA) Every year we see Jon Niese grow, and despite the type of year this rotation is having, Niese is growing into a mainstay for this Mets rotation. Don’t expect to see a change of scenery for him any time soon. He’s tossed five quality starts in a row, but his record in that stretch doesn’t indicate as such. He’s not making himself known for pitching with run support. With a bit more seasoning, Niese is a definite 15 game winner. He could’ve even achieved that this year. He has walked more than two batters in a game since May.
MIL: Mike Fiers (9-7, 3.05 ERA) Fiers is around trying to prove that he can be elite material in this Milwaukee rotation. He’s been a mark of consistency, control, and has certainly exceeded expectations in his ability to strike out hitters. He’s simmered a bit after a monstrous stretch in the middle of July. He’s coming off a solid five inning start and will look to keep the Mets in check tonight. This will be his first attempt in doing so against the Mets this year.
Stache Keys to the Game
- Niese needs to maintain his control. He has suppressed wildness all year, and hasn’t walked more than two batters in a start since May 28.
- If Niese only lasts five or six innings, let’s see future bullpen workhorses Josh Edgin and Robert Carson battle for supremacy. Time to establish their future now.
- Smack some home runs. Its never too late to pad stats, especially when thats all there is left to do with a season.
Slated for a 8:10 PM ET start, catch the game live on SNY and WFAN 660.
