Cardinals 8, Savannah Sand Gnats 1

Coming into Thursday’s play, the Savannah Sand Gnats were 6-0 in Spring Training, but the Cardinals affiliate halted the Gnats first winning streak of the year. The Gnats had beaten the Cardinals twice before

“We’ve been playing well,” Gnats Manager Pedro Lopez said after the game, “Our pitchers are doing a tremendous job.”

Third baseman Jefry Marte was 2-3 with a single and a double. Shortstop Wilmer Flores added a single as well. Marte and Flores both played for Savannah in 2009. Marte hit .233/.279/.338 (AVG/OBP/SLG) with 21 doubles and six home runs, while Flores hit .264/.305/.332 with 20 doubles and three home runs. Second baseman Alonzo Harris had a base hit and an RBI. Centerfielder Pedro Zapata singled, walked and stole two bases. Harris and Zapata are both coming off strong 2009 seasons for the Mets Appalachian League affiliate in Kingsport. Harris tied for the team lead with 10 home runs in 58 games as part of a .273/.321/.447 campaign and Zapata, who hit .329/.358/.421, stole 15 bases to tie for the team lead.

Juan Urbina, the Mets top international signee in 2009, started but struggled with his command. He was relieved by Philips Orta, who appeared in 25 games out of the Gnats bullpen in 2009.

Anthony Whitenton, the Mets 39th round draft pick in the 2009 from Darton (GA) JC draft, was the most impressive pitcher of the day. He gave up just one run over three innings.

Tyler Howe, who was a catcher last year for Kingsport, but is making the transition to the mound, finished the ballgame.

The Gnats host the Marlins affiliate, the Greensboro Grasshoppers, in Port St. Lucie, FL on Friday before a camp day Saturday.

To purchase tickets for Opening Night 2010, please visit www.sandgnats.com or call (912) 351-9150.