The Mets are hoping that playing a three game series against the Nationals this weekend is an ailment for their recent string of injuries. New York has won 12 of the last 15 meetings, going 5-2 in D.C.

Tim Redding will go tonight. A quality start against his former team is greatly needed. Redding has been rocked in his last two outings giving up 13 runs in 8 2/3 innings. The Mets will face rookie Shairon Martis who himself has been lit up recently, giving up 7 runs to the Phils in four innings his last time out.

Ryan Church should be back Sunday. It looks like Fernando Martinez could be here to stay though, with Sheffield finally getting some rest. Sheff will probably DH at Yankee Stadium next weekend.

Before the game Omar addressed the media saying J.J. Putz will be out at least three months. Omar though, did not put a time table on Jose Reyes’ return. In regard to making a move to replace Reyes in the meantime, Minaya said,

“I am confident Alex Cora can play for a month.”

Yeah I’m sure he can play for a month too, but how well? Alex Cora is great backup and leader but him playing all the time also means Luis Castillo is playing everyday. The overall quality of this team will deteriorate quickly. I personally would rather see Jonathan Malo come up than make a trade.

Here’s Tonight’s Lineup:

Cora, ss
Castillo, 2b
Beltran, cf
Wright, 3b
Tatis, lf
Murphy, 1b
Martinez, rf
Schneider, c
Redding, rhp