 |  |
| Carpenter | Santana |
| 2.77 FIP | 3.61 FIP |
Ordinarily, the matchup between Carp and Johan would look like a dream matchup on paper but New Yorkers are concerned about Santana right now. Santana was dominant in his first 7 starts of the season, w/ 60 K in 46 IP and a 0.78 ERA. Over his last 7 starts, Santana was struck out 37 in 43.1 IP and has a 5.82 ERA. He's given up 10 HR over the last 7 starts and he gave up just 2 in his first 7. On the plus side (if you're a Mets fan), his last start against the Rays was his best of this stretch. Mets' fans are understandably concerned about a drop in velocity though Dave Cameron over at fangraphs says they needn't be.
Carp was terrific the last time out, though he was pitching against the Royals' feeble offense. He hasn't quite been as good in June as he was in his first 5 starts but he's still been one of the best starters in the NL for the time that he's been on the mound. He's still about 5 starts away from being qualified for the ERA title but he'd lead the league if he was eligible. All I really want is for him to keep it up. I have a feeling we're going to need him to be good b/c we haven't exactly torn up lefties so far this season (.230/.313/.368). Yuck!