If you can't beat them...

Attempt to beat up your players. The Mets are just an out right mess these days. According to a report in the New York Daily News, Vice President of Player Development Tony Bernazard challenged the Binghamton Mets clubhouse to a fight. I think its time for the Mets to at least make a change in the front office. Even if not true, to me, this sort of story leaking out shows this team is becoming a farse both on and off the field.

Adding insult to injury. The Mets lost to the Nationals. I don't even have the words.

The New York Yankees stand alone in first place. The Bombers beat the Orioles six to four at the Stadium in the Bronx. That win, coupled with the four to two Red Sox loss to the Rangers, New York moves into sole possession of the top spot in the AL East for the first time since June 8th. One would think Sergio Mitre's outing was good enough to earn him at least a couple more, if not take over the number five spot in the Yanks rotation. But, maybe the Yankees can put him in the bullpen too and call of Kei Igawa!

The Phillies continue to distance themselves from the pack in the National League East. With the Mets free falling, and the rest of the division looking like .500 clubs, the Phillies have used a ten game winning streak to extend their lead to six and a half games over the Marlins. Last night Philadelphia won in 13 innings, four to one over the Cubs, on a Jayson Werth walk off homer. If the City of Brotherly Love's team can pick up a SP (even if they are not named Halladay), you have to like their chances to make a serious run at back to back championships. Jimmy Rollins is finally playing like ... well... himself.

Cliff Lee dazzles in his latest start for the Indians. Lee went the distance in a two to one win over the the Toronto Blue Jays. Toronto starter Brett Cecil impressed over seven innings, giving up seven hits while striking out nine.

It will be interesting to see what minor deals are made over the next week or so. Everyone will keep an eye on Roy Halladay, Matt Holliday, Cliff Lee, Victor Martinez and the like, but I wonder what the contenders really need. Look for most contending teams to be really interested in any serviceable lefties that might be pitching some what well as the deadline rolls in.