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Maine returns as Mets look to beat up on Nationals

Aug 13, 2008 - 10:08 AM Ny Mets (63-56) at Washington (44-76) 7:10 pm. EDT

WASHINGTON (Ticker) -- John Maine takes the mound for the first time in more than two weeks on Wednesday when the New York Mets battle the Washington Nationals.

Maine (9-7, 4.13 ERA) has been on the 15-day disabled list since July 28. He left his last start after 4 1/3 innings and was diagnosed with rotator cuff inflammation. The 27-year-old righthander threw a bullpen session on Friday, and is itching to return.

"I felt I could have pitched (over the weekend)," Maine told the Mets' official web site. "Taking time off, it feels like two months."

The Nationals may wish Maine's return was delayed. He's 5-2 with a 4.44 ERA in nine starts versus Washington, including 2-0 with a 2.13 ERA this season.

Maine will try and help the Mets move closer to first place in the National League East. Carlos Delgado drove in two runs and Damion Easley was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded before New York's beleaguered bullpen closed out a 4-3 victory on Tuesday. The win, coupled with a Philadelphia (64-55) loss helped the Mets move to within one game of first place.

The Nationals counter with Jason Bergmann (2-8, 4.13), who is seeking to win consecutive starts for the first time this season. Bergmann snapped a 14-start winless streak by allowing one run and seven hits in seven innings against Colorado on Thursday. Washington, which has the worst mark in baseball, is looking to snap a five-game skid.