Game 88: Mets vs. Astros @ Minute Maid Park

The Good: The top five hitters in the order all collected hits. Even Dave Newhan swung a decent stick with two hits of his own. Carlos Beltran also homered to bring his total to sixteen dingers at the break.

The Bad: Dave Williams was hit hard (8 earned runs) in a not-so-good return.

Notes: Jose Reyes stole two bases for his ML-leading 46th swipe. At the XM Satellite Radio Futures Game, the Mets were represented by Deolis Guerra of the World team and Kevin Mulvey of the U.S. team. Each pitcher allowed one run in their appearances.

2 Cents: Not a good way to end the first half, but at least we split the series. I think if someone offered us first place with a two game lead and 48 wins (without our entire team) at the break, we would have gladly taken it back in April. In my opinion, John Maine, Jose Reyes, and Billy Wagner all have a share of being Mets MVP for the first half. Hopefully, the Met representatives will enjoy some success at the All-Star Game, bring home-field back to the NL, and get off to a good start in the second half.

Final Score: Mets 3, Astros 8. Record: 48-39.