My 2nd Citi Field experience (with pics): Deja vu all over again

When I saw the Mets play at Citi Field last year for the first time, I didn’t expect Bronson Arroyo to toss a shutout — but he did. When I was at the game last night, I expected Phillies ace Roy Halladay to do the same thing — and he nearly did.

Doc threw eight beautiful innings, holding the Mets to four hits without walking a batter and ousted Mets spot starter Pat Misch in a 4-0 win.

The Mets would’ve had a legitimate shot to win this game if it weren’t for their three ugly errors which cost Misch three unearned runs. Ruben Tejada’s attempted double play turn sailed into left field, Misch fielded a bunt and threw it into right field, and David Wright let a grounder go through his wickets.

Despite the errors, the most comical part of the night was listening to the boos from fans as Francisco Rodriguez trotted out from the bullpen. It was his first game of eligibility after assaulting his father-in-law.

Now for some pics:

Look at all of that red! In left field, there were more Phillies fans than Mets fans.

The only time we saw the new home run apple was during the seventh inning stretch.
Here’s a picture of the original home run apple, now located in front of the stadium.
Here was the view from our seats ($20 face value).
And here were the bozos sitting in front of us. The guy on the right’s shirt says, “Don’t mess wit da Mets, Aaight!”

You can check out more photos from the game on my Facebook page!

Which available starter is best for Yankees?

The Yankees have been linked to practically every starter available in this year’s trade market, specifically Bronson Arroyo, Cliff Lee, Ian Snell, Jarrod Washburn and even Roy Halladay.

Jeff Fletcher of FanHouse reported a couple days ago that the Yankees had scouts at Lee’s last start and also were in serious discussions with the Reds about acquiring Arroyo .

Jon Heyman speculated on MLB Network last night that the Yankees could possibly settle for both Snell and Washburn, rather than Lee or Halladay.

As much as I wish the Yanks could land either Lee or Halladay, I would love to see the Yankees nab two coveted starters at the deadline, especially with the latest news of Chien-Ming Wang.

If I had to choose, I’d go with Snell, unless Washburn would agree to a contract extension right after the deal gets done. Snell is signed through 2010 with two club options and is significantly cheaper than Washburn. I think if the Yankees are going to give up a big-time prospect for a starter, they have to be assured he will be with the team for at least one full season.

Even though Snell is in Triple-A right now, I like his potential. He’s dominating in his small stint in the minors, so it seems he has worked out the kinks. I know pitching in the AL East is asking a lot for a guy who has only won 10 games in a season once, but I just like him as a 27-year-old pitcher.

I’m surprised Heyman didn’t mention Arroyo to the Yankees based on what Fletcher wrote, but that doesn’t bother me. I would consider Arroyo the fifth option at this point, unless the Reds want to eat a significant amount of his pricey contract.