-Mets 1, Cubs 0: It took ten innings before Jose Valentin's RBI single plated the game's first, and deciding run. With the win, the Mets avoided a sweep at home to the Cubs, which would have been harmlessly embarassing. Instead, they saw John Maine pitch another dominant outing (even if the Derrek Lee-less Cubs don't send up a credible lineup) and make a case for a prolonged stay in the starting rotation. With Orlando Hernandez and Steven Trachsel struggling, Maine could be the third starter in the playoffs. Or he could be looking in if these two starts against weak lineups are flukes. more ›

Over in Arizona yesterday, the United States won their first game in the World Baseball Classic, defeating Mexico 2-0. Jake Peavey, the starter for the United States, pitched only three innings, allowing 1 hit on only 23 pitches. He was pulled despite pitch counts allowing as many as 65 in the first round. Mike Timlin picked up the victory for the Americans, who struggled mightly against Rodrigo Lopez and four other Mexican pitchers. more ›