PREGAME: Mets @ Phillies

The Mets (39-40) continue their weekend series against the Phillies (40-37) today at Citizens Bank Park. Fernando Nieve (3-1, 2.25) takes the hill for the Mets, while Jamie Moyer (6-6, 6.05) opposes him for the defending World Champions.

Game time is 4:05 PM EST, and will be broadcast nationally on FOX. Follow the game live online via MLB.com's Gameday application.

Today's Lineup

Luis Castillo, 2b

Alex Cora, ss

David Wright, 3b

Gary Sheffield, rf

Fernando Tatis, 1b

Ryan Church, cf

Nick Evans, lf

Omir Santos, c

Fernando Nieve, sp

Mets' Lock & Key
Lock: David Wright will have a solid day at the plate against old-timer Jamie Moyer.

Key: Fernando Nieve must keep the Mets in the ballgame, unlike Livan Hernandez did last night.

The spot is yours for now, Fernando. Redding is in the bullpen, so prove Jerry right for sticking with you over Redding for the #5 spot in the rotation. With Ollie set to come back next Wednesday (I never thought I'd be so happy for him to return, either), Fernando and Livan must step their game up.

I have a hunch Nieve will be okay today, giving up only two or three runs in six innings of work. A rested Mets bullpen will come in and shut down the Phillies for a big 5-3 win.

Of course, I've been wrong before... Happy 4th of July, and LGM!