The Tomahawk Times - Delgado, Mets surge past Braves in 8th, win 7-3

NEW YORK -- A five run eighth inning proved to be the Atlanta Braves' undoing on Tuesday. Carlos Delgado keyed the five run New York rally with a two-run double that put the Mets on top to stay and lead to a big frame.

The Mets late inning comeback spoiled an otherwise successful return start from Atlanta left-hander Jo-Jo Reyes, who went seven innings and allowed just a pair of runs on four hits. After some early control problems in the first two innings, Reyes settled down to allow just one hit over the next five.

New York starter Oliver Perez had his struggles in the third inning, when Atlanta struck for three runs and took the lead 3-2. Perez dd not factor in the decision, allowing three runs on seven hits and issued five walks in six and a third innings.

Atlanta built the lead they carried into the eighth with a three-run third inning. Chipper Jones stung a run-scoring single to get the Braves on the board. Atlanta added the second run a Brian McCann ground-out. A sacrifice fly by Jeff Francoeur brough home the third and final run of the night for the Braves.

After the Mets loaded the bases against Jeff Bennett, who was working his second inning of relief, Delgado delievered the big blow against Will Ohman. Delgado's opposite field double plated two runs and give the Mets a 4-3 advantage. Damion Easley and Ramon Castro both followed with run-scoring hits in the five run outburst.

Without the services of injured closer Billy Wagner, the Mets turned to veteran lefty Scott Schoeneweis to pitch the ninth. Schoeneweis yielded a lone single in converting his second save in five attempts this season.

On Deck: Game two of the series will take place on Wednesday, with Jair Jurrjens matching up against Mike Pelfrey of the Mets. Game time is set for 7:10 PM EST.Te