Smith : Mets sluggers need to step up to the plate

The Mets' sluggers are still looking for their stroke, which is a major bummer considering the good vibes Ike Davis brought with him after being called up from Triple-A Buffalo on Monday.

A "Hey Bay! You (Stink)!" shout pierced the air at half-empty Citi Field when Cubs starter Carlos Zambrano struck out Jason Bay in the third inning Tuesday night - the second time in the game. And David Wright was booed after hitting into a double play with two men on and no outs in the seventh inning.

OK, so there's only so much hope and enthusiasm that Davis brought with him to go around. But the Mets have found another way to keep Jerry Manuel employed beyond Mother's Day - solid pitching.