On the Mets beat

Philip Humber did not even try to make the case that the final of the 2003 College World Series is any preparation for tomorrow--his first major league start in the heart of the last week of a pennant race. He said he never has experienced anything of that magnitude, but he was quick to add that he is pumped about it. "I'ts what you work for your whole career," he said.

Mets management is holding its breath, crossing its fingers and saying, as Omar Minaya did, "He's the best option available." That is more a commentary on the rest of the staff and the current rotation than it is on Humber's progress.

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Better news for the Mets was that Orlando Hernandez was in a visibly good mood after having thrown 50 to 60 pitches in the bullpen. He expects to throw a simulated game Thursday and might be able to pitch in a game before the regular season ends Sunday. "today I'm more happy than yesterday," he said.

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Fred Wilpon also seemed in good spirits before and after he met iwth Minaya and Willie Randolph in the latter's office before the game. "He's always positive," Randolph said. Added Mnaya, "Fred's been consistent" in his support. Still, it's not every day he has a closed-door pep talk with the two other men.
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Tonight's Mets lineup

Reyes SS
Castillo 2B
Wright 3B
Beltran CF
Alou LF
Delgado 1B
LoDuca C
Green RF
Glavine P