The Mets lost to the Nationals tonight by a score of 5-3. For a full box score, visit SNY.tv.

Well, Claudio Vargas pitched well.   Aaron Heilman did not.  Heilman relieved Vargas in the 7th with a runner on first and one out.  After retiring the first batter, he gave up 3 hits and a walk; surrendering 4 runs in the process.  Vargas’s final line was 2 ER on 3 hits while striking out 6 and walking 4.  He is credited with the loss, although  it should go to Heilman.

The Mets were shut down for most of the night by Nationals pitcher Tim Redding.  Redding pitched 6 solid innings, surrendering only one run via a Brian Schneider home run.  Schneider finished 1-for-4 with 2 rbi.  The Mets fought back after going down 5-1 and added a run in the 7th and 8th innings but were retired in order in the 9th to end the comeback.  No Met had multiple hits, and Jose Reyes continues to struggle going 0-for-3 with a walk.  Moises Alou was ejected in the 5th for arguing balls and srtikes.

The Mets look to split this series tomorrow in the finale of this 4 game set.  Mike Pelfrey will pitch opposite Jason Bergmann.  Game time is set for 1:10pm and tune in to SNY to see Gary and Keith broadcast from the upper deck.

We need to pick it up and show some consistency.  Let’s hope Pelfrey has it going tomorrow.  Losing 3 of 4 at home to the Nationals would be embarrassing.