Sure, the Grapefruit League opener is hardly the most important game of the year, but a 9-3 victory over the Orioles is what you could call an auspicious beginning.  Luis Castillo had an especially strong start, particularly for a guy who’s been the punch line to more than a few jokes for the last few months.  I think it’s safe to say that, while Mets fans may not see eye-to-eye on everything, there’s one point on which they can all agree: Luis Castillo and his stupid oversized paycheck are ruining everything.

But if yesterday’s performance was a sign of things to come, there may still be hope for the svelter-than-ever Castillo and his stupid oversized paycheck.  With a two-run single in the second and a two-run double in the fourth, it was a refreshingly solid performance.

Church didn’t do so shabby himself, especially after all that to-do earlier in the week about who was platooning and where.  With a one-run double and a two-run single, I get the sense that Church is determined to show Manuel, the media and anyone else who’s interested exactly where they can stick their platoon.

All in all, it was my kind of ballgame-get ‘em on and get’em home.

The only downside was that Sean Green was forced to leave the game early with an injured fingernail.  It’s hard to say at this point, but early reports indicate that he will recover.

As for their home opener, don’t forget to stay tuned for my one day exclusive coverage from Port St. Loosey-Goosey.