Gamenight: Mets (9-12) At Phillies (11-9)

New York Mets (9-12) at Philadelphia Phillies (11-9)
Mike Pelfrey (2-0, 6.32 ERA) vs. Chan Ho Park (0-0, 7.16 ERA)

Time: 7:05 p.m. at Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia.
Weather: Light rain, 71
TV: Comcast SportsNet
Twitter: Phillies Nation

It’s time to meet the Mets.

This year’s version of the New York nine is 9-12 heading into its first series against the Phillies. They’re having starting pitching troubles, and one of the main suspects is Mike Pelfrey. The usually reliable young right-hander had trouble early in the season, but got past tendinitis and worked a nice outing against the Nationals last time out. His 6.00+ ERA isn’t strong, but it’s getting better.

The Mets also are having offensive troubles, mainly with their star, David Wright. His 27 strikeouts are unusually high for him, tied for tops in the National League. The rest of the offense is having problems staying consistent, though Carlos Beltran (league-leading .388 average) is enjoying his 2009.

The Phillies are doing fine offensively, led by Raul Ibanez and Chase Utley, each with seven home runs. Their main concern is pitching, and Chan Ho Park is one of the culprits. He had a better outing against Florida (7 IP, 4 ER), but he’s still very much on the fringe of fifth-starter-dom.

Who hits Park? In limited action, Carlos Delgado is hitting .600 against his former teammate. Who hits Pelfrey? Greg Dobbs is .500 in eight career at bats, including a home run.

We’re at the Grey Lodge in Northeast Philly for this one. Come and join us. Tweet us if you want to come.

Your gamenight beer: Here is Sly Fox’s Phoenix Pale Ale, a nice fit for tonight since the Phils need to rise above the Mets, like a phoenix … from Arizona. It’s a $3 deal at Grey Lodge tonight, so grab this American pale ale and scarf down a chicken cheese steak (what else?) with it.

Go Phillies!