R.A. Dickey: New York Mets Version of 'Buried Treasure' Defeats Pirates

Home runs, clutch hits, and complete-game victories. All have been lacking this year for the New York Mets thus leading to their sub-.500 record.

However, in last night's win over the Pirates, we saw a little of each for a rare time this season.

R.A. Dickey threw a complete game (his second of the year) to earn his eleventh victory of the season—a new career high. The only run he gave up came courtesy of a leadoff triple in the ninth to Pedro Ciriaco, who later scored on a ground out.

Dickey gave up five hits and struck out four while lowering his ERA to 2.80.

Offensively, the Mets got production from a variety of sources. Jose Reyes scored three runs in the first four innings, and Angel Pagan contributed three hits including a bases-clearing double.

Ruben Tejada continued his torrid hitting of late, stroking three hits of his own and raising his batting average back over .200.

Carlos Beltran and Monday's hero Nick Evans both homered in the fourth inning.

Usually for the Mets, their hitting and pitching don't flourish the same night. Tonight's performance may go down as one of the best all-around games they have played all season. Who cares if it was against the Pirates? You still have to go out there every night and play your game.

Meanwhile—despite what some may think—R.A. Dickey continues to support his case for the Mets to re-sign him to a contract for next season. Whether that means a one-year or two-year deal, Dickey has earned the right to be a staple in the Mets' rotation in 2011.

Especially with the uncertain future of Johan Santana, the Mets more than ever will look to lock up Dickey at season's end. Cliff Lee might be out of their price range so at least having Dickey, Mike Pelfrey, and Jon Niese would be a solid start.

Another possible 2011 rotation option, Jenrry Mejia, takes the hill tonight against Pirates' lefty Paul Maholm. Mejia is still looking for his first major-league win and has a good chance to secure it against the Pirates.