The Mets play the first game of a three game set against the third place Florida Marlins tonight in Miami. John Maine will toe the rubber opposite Ricky Nolasco. Gametime is slated for 7:10 EST and can be seen on SNY.

Keys to the Game:

• Avoid the Marlin Longball: The Marlins have three players with over 20 home runs on the year: Dan Uggla, Hanley Ramirez, and Mike Jacobs. Three other players have at least 15: Jorge Cantu, Jeremy Hermida, and Cody Ross. The key to beating any team is avoiding the longball, but with the Marlins it is much more important as they lead the league in Home Runs.
• Need Depth from Maine: In his last start, Maine went seven strong innings, allowing three runs against a tough Philly offense. Tonight, he faces a lineup just as strong, or stronger, in the Marlins. Maine allowed two homers in his last start and will have to avoid that to pickup the W tonight.

As always, to chat during the game head to The Hot Foot Bleachers.

For a lineup, head to Adam Rubin’s blog for the New York Daily News.