Last night in Flushing Meadows, the Washington Nationals came back to beat the New York Mets to win their 69th game of the 2011 season. Some numbers to ponder:
- The Nats likely have 15 more games left in the season (a Los Angeles Dodgers rainout is unlikely to be played) and would have to win 12 of them to break even for the season. That is unlikely.
- They have gone 6-4 in their last ten after an August skid.
- They are one game back of the Mets for 3rd place in the NL East.
- The season series between the Nats and Mets is tied at 8 with two games left, tonight and tomorrow afternoon.
- The Florida Marlins are 2½ game back of D.C. in last place.
- The Nats are all but eliminated from the Wild Card.
- They have 8 more road games (where they are 28-44) and 6 more home games (where they are 41-33).
- All games are against divisional foes unless that Dodgers game gets made up.
Last night’s hero was Craig Stammen. He got the Nats out of a jam in the sixth inning and then singled in the 7th. Ryan Zimmerman drove him home for the decisive run.
WHAT THE BEAT WRITERS ARE SAYING
Nationals get a boost as Craig Stammen resurfaces to pitch Washington past Mets, 3-2 – The Post
Stammen’s strong outing helps Nationals top Mets – The Wash. Times