Unhappy Recap: Astros 8 Mets 3

Momentum is only as good as the next day's starting pitcher.

The Mets had no chance with Dave Williams on the mound against Roy Oswalt.

Their best chance against Oswalt came in the first inning when Reyes singled, stole second and went to third on a hit by Newhan. But Beltran struck out, Wright flied out and Valentin struck out (after a Delgado walk).

Then Williams went to work, or the Astros went to work on him. He gave up three in the first, two in the second and two in the fourth before Willie had to pull him, even though he wanted to stretch Williams to save a tired bullpen.

Beltran did hit a home run to tie him with Wright for the first half lead at 16.

But that was about it.