The good news is Atlanta lost and they’re still 3.5 out of the wild card. And even Oli Perez pitched out of a bases loaded one out situation. However, they better start hitting soon or they’re ain’t gonna be a pennant race.

Carlos Beltran is only part of the solution if the Mets are to see October.

The second half of the baseball season got underway Thursday. For the Mets, it didn’t go well. Facing two-time Cy Young Tim Lincecum, their bats failed- getting shutout 2-zip. The loss tied them with the Giants, who also share an identical 48-41 record with three big games left.

Complemented with Atlanta edging Milwaukee 2-1, the Amazin’s fell five back. Even more daunting is that with wild card leader Colorado red hot entering a three-game series against NL Central leader Cincinnati, it doesn’t get any easier for New York to make October. Especially with the Dodgers, Cards and Phils all in the mix. You could argue that it would just be easier to win their division. It’s hard to see the Braves running away with it even after their pickup of shortstop Alex Gonzalez. You have to figure both the Mets and Phillies will hang around making for a photo finish.

For Jerry Manuel’s club to do its part, they must get Jose Reyes back and see quick results from Carlos Beltran, who went 1-for-4 in his return. It would also help if Jason Bay earned his hefty paycheck every once in a blue moon. They’re not paying him to imitate David Wright’s 2009. Six home runs and a paltry 44 RBI’s just won’t cut it. It’s about time he gave Wright and rookie first baseman Ike Davis some support. They could also use some of that early magic from Rod Barajas’ bat.

On the pitching front, they need Mike Pelfrey to return to form. Hopefully, the time off allowed him to recoup. For much of the first half, he was their best pitcher. If they’re to seriously challenge, Pelf must follow a rejuvenated Johan Santana and Rookie Of The Year candidate Jonathon Niese with the kinda yeoman work we saw the first three months. Speaking of the crafty southpaw, he goes in Game 2 against vet Barry Zito. Lately, he’s been money. They need him to silence the fire alarm. The Mets can’t ask for much better out of vet knuckleballer R.A. Dickey, who yet again gave a quality outing tossing seven innings of one-run ball to lower his ERA to 2.62.

Of course, if Omar Minaya was able to acquire one more big arm (Oswalt, Lilly, Wolf, Myers) and add a setup man, they’d take their best shot. We’ve heard plenty about how they should consider their future. Uh. How many World Series have they won?!?!?!?!?! Beltran has one more year left. Santana ain’t getting any younger. And K-Rod has already been shaky.

How many chances do you get to win? After what’s happened the past three years, ain’t it about time Fred Wilpon made a statement? Save all the talk about how they got no money. What’s their payroll again? It’s not like they sold off players.

The Met slogan is “Believe In 2010.” What better way to do that than to go all out.

The World Cup is finally Spain's thanks to some late theatrics.

-Congrats to Spain on winning their first ever World Cup, edging Netherlands 1-0 in extra time. The hero was Andres Iniesta, who took a pass from Cesc Fabregas and blasted it past Maarten Stekelenburg with only a few minutes to spare- touching off a celebration. Iniesta slid to the ground and was mobbed by teammates. They’d hold off the Dutch for the remainder which included three extra minutes.

Unfortunately for Arjen Robben, he only got a couple of chances as Spain keyed on him in a hotly contested, physical match that featured plenty of fouls, yellow cards and even a red to John Heitinga in the second extra period which didn’t help Holland.

The Spanish were the aggressor controlling possession. Still, they found themselves deadlocked against a feisty opponent who did whatever they could to keep it scoreless. Quite a few hard fouls that prevented glorious chances, leading to kicks including one try that sailed high and wide. Spain also had another great opportunity but a sliding Stekelenburg stoned Fabregas point blank in extras. Robben came back the other way for a great chance but was blocked. There also was a close call where he would’ve been in all alone but was correctly whistled offside.

Iniesta’s winner came after the refs accidentally incorrectly ruled that Wesley Sneijder’s wide attempt went out of bounds without it touching anyone. However, replays showed that it deflected off a Spain player and out which would’ve meant a corner for Netherlands. Instead, Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas quickly made a good goal kick that led directly to the World Cup decider. With the Dutch caught, Spain completed a three-on-two with Fabregas passing across for Iniesta who didn’t disappoint, kicking it inside the right post for 1-0 in the 115th minute.

The right team won. Even if they screwed up. At least such a competitive championship game didn’t go to kicks. Congrats again to Spain on winning their first World Cup in the tournament’s 80-year history. Thanks again to Univision for outstanding coverage that dwarfs our country. And with Espana winning, the Spanish announcers went bonkers. What a great day for them. And of course, a memorable month that also saw tennis’ best player Rafael Nadal win his second Wimbledon last week. Not bad.

-I’m not gonna say much right now about it. Only that LeBron is LeFraud. Think it pretty much speaks for itself. ESPN is an embarrassment.

-That out of the way, I’m actually excited about the Knicks. Yeah. They overpaid A’mare Stoudemire in years and dough-5 for $100 million. But the former Sun wanted to be here and reunites with Mike D’Antoni while filling a need in the paint. Sure. The contract is risky for an injury prone big who’s battled knee and eye problems. But he’ll fit in nicely, running the floor, finishing with authority and providing an interior presence. 

Along with the sign and trade of David Lee to Golden State for a package that included Anthony Randolph, the Knicks are going in a different direction. With Ray Felton about to sign and sophomore Tony Douglas backing up, the orange and blue finally seem to have a plan. Don’t forget emerging star Danillo Galinari and athletic deluxe Wilson Chandler. This is a young nucleus who should made basketball at the Garden fun again. That’s what we’ve been looking for.

-So, the Nets’ big plan was to court LeFraud, fail miserably and then sign Travis Outlaw and Jordan Farmar. No offense. But how’s that big ad Mikhail Prokhorov and Jay Z took out across from MSG working out?!?!?!?!

-If a larger than life egomaniac barely even discussed puppet Jim Gray’s question about playing in the Big Apple, then he didn’t ever consider it. I don’t know about you but I don’t want guys like that on my team.

-RIP Bob Sheppard. The Voice Of God will always be synonymous with Yankee Stadium. When you heard the legendary Yankee PA announcer introduce lineups, you felt a Godly presence in the Bronx that’s hard to describe. There was just a feeling at the ballpark. It’s like everything stopped. Bob Sheppard will always be the Yankees’ only voice. God bless.

-Can someone explain how there are so many Yankees on the AL roster? I root for them but it’s ridiculous that Derek Jeter is on the team. And hell. Even Nick Swisher over Kevin Youkilis is a bit much even if the likeable right fielder deserves it. It’s about time they ditched the All-Star Game.

-The Mets got a second straight huge outing from Johan Santana, who followed up a shutout with seven more scoreless in a 3-0 win to salvage the last game of a series versus first place Atlanta. Instead of falling six games out and slipping behind suddenly resurgent Philly, the Amazin’s sit second four back. They are in it because of All-Stars David Wright and Jose Reyes, who each have had big first halfs.

However, without the production from rookie first baseman Ike Davis along with unsung heroes Angel Pagan and R.A. Dickey, they’d be sunk. Full marks to Jerry Manuel for keeping his team in it after a rough start. These Mets are resilient and easy to admire. Fasten your seatbelts for a great second half pennant race.

-I admit I was glad when Cliff Lee went to Texas even if it seems awfully strange how it happened after it sounded like they agreed to a deal with the Yanks that featured Jesus Montero, David Adams and Zach McAllister. I covered the latter two and really feel McAllister could crack the Yankee rotation in 2012. Starting pitching ain’t the problem. Relief and another bat remain needs. Besides, why sacrifice prospects when the biggest payroll can just flash the wallet at Lee this November?

-Is Joba still better than Phil Hughes?!?!?!?!?!

-Robby Cano’s having a great year but the MVP is Miguel Cabrera’s to lose.

-Ilya Kovalchuk, can you please make up your mind before September?

-Tough night for the Mets, who finally saw their scoreless streak end at 35 courtesy of a Corey Hart two-run walkoff blast, making the Brewers winners. With a runner on and two out in the home ninth, he went yard off Ryota Igarashi, who relieved Pedro Feliciano after he got Prince Fielder for the first out. The Japanese import gave up an infield hit to Ryan Braun, who just got his foot on the bag to beat Jose Reyes’ one-hopper. The Met reliever got big RBI man Casey McGee to pop out for out No.2. But he couldn’t put away Hart, who clocked a hanging splitter over the left field wall as Jason Bay could only watch- snapping the Amazin’s four-game win streak.

Despite another great outing from ace Johan Santana, who went eight scoreless (8 IP, 3 H, 2 BB, 5 K’s) tossing 105 pitches, the Mets couldn’t get to Milwaukee ace Yovani Gallardo, who went the distance for the rare shutout, throwing 121 pitches. The 24 year-old from Michoacan is one of the most unheralded starters in the game, pitching in obscurity for a poor ballclub. Last night, he went pitch for pitch with Santana, who tried to help his own cause with a double in the eighth. But just as he had all game, Gallardo snuck a heater which moved from the inside part of the plate to the middle at Reyes’ knees, freezing him. That kinda pitching was on display at Miller Park where the two hurlers were brilliant. Gallardo scattered eight hits while walking one and fanning seven. Early on, he escaped a bases loaded no out jam by getting Reyes to ground out 3-2 and inducing Alex Cora into an inning ending 4-6-3 twin killing. In the Met ninth with the guys from Queens threatening, he stranded two by getting Angel Pagan looking.

-Of course, the hot topic on the radio airwaves is why Manuel didn’t let Santana start the ninth. He probably could’ve. Instead, the much maligned Met skipper left it to a strong pen, opting to match-up. Unfortunately, it didn’t go as planned leading to the Mets’ first loss in five. Worse, they fell to 6-15 on the road- falling to a putrid team to start a six-game road trip which concludes at Petco Park against NL West-leading San Diego. Whether you want to second guess Manuel or not, his team needs to get some wins away from Citi Field. Especially if they want to be taken seriously. Good teams win on the road. We’ll find out how they respond later tonight when Fernando Nieve opposes Manny Parra.

-Meanwhile in the Boogie Down, the Yankees got a big night from Robby Cano, whose third career grand slam catapulted the Bronx Bombers past the Indians 8-2. Hitting in the cleanup spot with A-Rod sitting out, the All-Star second baseman went yard against Cleveland reliever Tony Sipp in the seventh to break open a tight game. It was his club-leading 10th home run and first since May 2. All part of a big Friday that saw him go 3-for-4 with the grand salami and three runs scored. With Mark Teixeira still struggling and Alex Rodriguez given a rare night off, Cano carried the load. Exactly what you want to see from the 27 year-old.

The Yanks got a nice bounce back outing from Phil Hughes, who went seven permitting two earned on five hits, walking a batter and K-ing eight for his sixth win. No doubt the soon to be 24 year-old former first round pick is starting to fulfill expectations. Possessing a fastball that can hit mid-90’s along with a sharp curve, Hughes is nasty. It’s got to be exciting for Brian Cashman who wouldn’t part with the tall righty for Santana.

-At least that helps the Yankee GM, who designated free agent bust Randy Winn for assignment while keeping up Kevin Russo. Russo is from West Babylon and has been a solid bat thus far going 5-for-20 with a pair of doubles and four knocked in since being recalled from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Maybe the former Baylor standout can provide some versatility off the bench.

-Combined with the Rays falling a third straight time this time to the lowly White Sox, the Yanks cut the lead to 3.5 games. C.C. Sabathia will try to make it two in a row and four of five when he takes on David Huff at 1 PM. We’ll see how the former Indian Cy Young winner fares along with his teammates.

Jose Reyes has finally returned to lead the Mets.

-Can the Mets keep it up? Their 5-1 homestand taking two of three from the Yanks and sweeping the Phils without allowing a run was a statement. Incredibly inspiring baseball from Jerry Manuel’s club led finally by the resurgent Jose Reyes, who is back to being himself in the leadoff spot. He tormented the Mets’ biggest rival by going 8-for-13 with three extra base hits including his first home run, five RBI’s, two stolen bases and five runs scored. That’s the Reyes that’s the team’s MVP. Jason Bay continued to produce following the two-homer game off C.C. Sabathia with three more RBI’s. Angel Pagan is the club’s most improved player, getting five hits and swiping three bases in the series.

As for the staff, what a job by every Met pitcher blanking arguably the best offense for all 27 innings. Miraculous stuff from Hisanori Takahashi, vet knuckler R.A. Dickey and potential All-Star Mike Pelfrey, who bested Cole Hamels yesterday by going seven strong for win No.7. The pen continues to get the job done. At 25-23 following a dreadful road trip, the Amazin’s are in third a half game behind Atlanta and two out. The NL East should be tight all year. Especially with the improved Nats hanging around along with the Marlins. If Carlos Beltran returns healthy, they could give the Mets a leg up on the wild card competition. The Phils couldn’t play any worse but are still the team to beat.

-Meanwhile, across town the Yanks get Curtis Granderson back in center batting second against the Indians in the Bronx tonight. An early two-run Nick Swisher homer has given Phil Hughes a lead. He’s already struckout five in looking to rebound from back-to-back disappointing efforts. The guys in Pinstripes haven’t played well lately. Even if they took two of three from favorite whipping boy Minnesota, Javier Vazquez again got lit up in a blowout loss yesterday. Joe Girardi’s guys really haven’t been the same since a hot start, leaving too many runners on and not getting consistent relief. Even Sabathia has struggled. With Boston finally red hot having swept a two-game set in Tampa, the defending champs need to get revved up. A Memorial Weekend series against lowly Cleveland could be just what the doctor ordered.

-Randy Winn has been so bad that he might want to consider changing his name to Randy Loss. At least it would better explain how Brian Cashman signed him. Not much better on Nick “DL” Johnson. Kevin Russo stays.

-Best move of the offseason is Rod Barajas, whose 10 homers pace the Amazin’s with his 27 RBI’s second to David Wright. Vet backup Henry Blanco has also been instrumental helping improve the pitching staff. Though we’re not sure anyone can aid Olli Perez and John Maine.

-Like most, I thought Big Papi was done. Good news if you own his rookie cards.

-Considering the continued trips to the DL for Jorge Posada, what if the Bronx Bombers didn’t have Francisco Cervelli as insurance? From the time I covered him out here on the ‘06 Penn-League champion Staten Island Baby Bombers, Cervelli’s been a winner. The guy always worked hard and did it with a smile. Nice to see him getting rewarded.

-All things considered, the Yanks actually miss Phil Coke. Wasn’t Ian Kennedy in that trade too? He’s not faring too badly out in The Desert.

-I voted for him because I thought he’d make a good President. Not because I wanted to know what Mr. Obama thought about LeBron going to Chicago. How about focusing on your job which just got a lot harder due to this BP oil spill in Louisiana.

-Didn’t catch it but kudos to Ron Artest on saving Kobe Bryant’s Lakers on what sounded like a very unpredictable conclusion breaking Sun hearts. The kid I saw when he starred for LaSalle Academy could always ball. It’s just a matter of staying focused on the court.

-Love to see the Suns force a seventh in Hollywood and somehow get it done just for my close buddy P. He deserves it.

-I don’t feel sorry for Coach Calhoun or UConn. Unfortunately, they probably won’t get severely punished or miss any postseason play. Nice job NCAA!

-When I wrote that column begging for change at St. John’s, they must’ve heard me. But you know, the way those guys played down the stretch for Norm Roberts, you could tell how much they enjoyed playing for him. Such a heartbreaking ending for a nice guy who at least brought back respect to the program. Now, we’ll see if Steve Lavin can take that next giant step forward with a senior core featuring D.J. Kennedy, Malik Boothe, Sean Evans, Paris Horne, Justin Burrell and Dwight Hardy.

-As an avid hockey fan who did a preview on our Battle Of New York blog, has the Stanley Cup begun yet? More proof that Gary Bettman’s still working for David Stern.

-Should be interesting to see what the Celtics come up with in what amounts to a must win versus the Magic. If they lose, just imagine how Boston will feel after witnessing the wrong kind of history made by their Bruins in that same building. They should’ve put it away already.

-And finally, a salute to The Richburg family who buried their son Thursday. Lyndzay was a wonderful human being who touched everyone he was around making us smile and laugh. We’ll forever miss him but his spirit shines down brightly in our hearts.

This time, Alvin Gentry’s squad got nice balance with six different players netting double digits with plenty coming from a productive bench that outscored the Lakers’ bench 54-20. Channing Frye finally found the range (four 3’s) and Leandro Barbosa added 14 with Jared Dudley and Goran Dragic (8 Pts, 8 A) delivering money performances. Louis Amundson also was effective going for seven points and seven boards as the Suns hammered LA on the glass 51-36.

In a game where Nash, Amare and J-Rich didn’t dominate while Kobe did what he could registering a game high 38 along with 10 assists and seven rebounds, it didn’t matter because Phoenix’ bench was the difference. Only Lamar Odom contributed for LA with a double double (15/10) and three dimes. Bryant didn’t get enough from Pau Gasol or Ron Artest. So, the series goes back to Hollywood all even with the pressure squarely on the defending champs. How will they respond to Bryant’s criticism regarding the lack of defense? See ya Thursday night at Staples.

-Meanwhile, in an hour-plus, D-Howard and the Magic go for two in a row when they host the Celts. Can they get a repeat performance from Jameer Nelson? Will the ghost of Vince Carter reappear? Boston can’t play much worse than the other night. Figure KG, Pierce and Rondo to be determined to get it done.

-The Mets look to carry momentum forward from an 8-0 drubbing of the suddenly slumping Phils, who’ve dropped three straight. The Amazin’s have reeled off three in a row and at .500 (23-23), are just four off the pace. This team is resilient and seems to enjoy playing for Jerry Manuel. If Jason Bay and Jose Reyes remain hot, they should be fine. Do the Phils have a response at Citi Field?

-As for the Yanks, they completed the postponed game with a 1-0 shutout over the Twins. Runs have come at a premium lately. They’ve been leaving too many runners on and paying dearly. Even a lineup as potent as the Bronx Bombers can’t survive a power outage. We’ll see if the domination of their favorite opponent continues.

Giant Meets Jet: Justin Tuck shakes Darrelle Revis' hand in Times Square after the first ever Super Bowl was delivered to New York/New Jersey in 2014.

-The chance of a Giants/Jets Super Bowl just got a lot more exciting. With today’s fourth vote giving the nod to New York/New Jersey for 2014 at the new Meadowlands Stadium which opens this summer, it energizes two passionate fanbases who can now dream the unthinkable. Imagine the first ever Super Bowl in classic cold weather as it should be played featuring both the locals who play their games there fighting for bragging rights. This is huge.

For years, not a word was uttered because it was about as possible as our chances with Jessica Alba. Now with a brand new spanking stadium, it’s reality. Imagine if the Giants and Jets really make this once in a lifetime marquee event. Picture all the press/superhype. It would be electric. Big Blue and Gang Green fans going at it over the airwaves and in the stands (hopefully not literally).

I never really cared one way or another if this actually happened but now that it’s official, how can one not be genuinely pumped? Even if neither team makes it which would royally suck, the Lombardi Trophy will be back where it belongs with its proud father looking on from upstairs smiling. Football was meant to be played in tough conditions. Not sunshine. The games I enjoy the most are the ones where heavy wind, rain or snow are involved because it truly tests our warriors. Football players are like gladiators battling for every inch, laying it all on the line. Now, we get the kind of rock ‘em sock ‘em pigskin Lombardi would appreciate. It’s about time!

-Do you think Brandon Jacobs cares to retract that statement if the two teams actually make the big game?

-A final thought on the whole New York SB Extravaganza. Let’s be real. The stadium is located in East Rutherford, New Jersey. So, it’s really the Garden State’s game. As a fellow New Yorker, even though the two clubs honor New York due to tradition which always leaves a bitter taste in Jersey friends’ mouths, they do play in New Jersey. Maybe it’s time to actually recognize that along with how nice the state is. Some of my best friends represent it quite well.

-Look. Superman finally arrived and ripped the Celtics for 32 points, 16 boards and four swats in the Magic’s well earned 96-92 overtime Game Four win at TD Garden avoiding the sweep. That’s great and all for the freak known as Dwight Howard, who could be confused for a superhero. He’s bigger and stronger than everybody. So, he should dominate. Especially in a league where the center is almost extinct. Somehow, when the big man who shares a birthday with me finally delivers, it’s overcelebrated. What ever happened to consistency? Somehow in this new Hyped Era Error, expectations dropped. Why???

-If ever there was a player whose name needed to be changed to Dog, we present the sad case of former NBA star Vince Carter. If he had any sorta drive, he could’ve been one of the greats. Instead, there’s a tireless worker like Reggie Miller calling him out on ESPN and justifiably so.

-Do you think Hedo Turkoglu would’ve bricked those two free throws in Game Two?!?!?!?!?!

-Who knew that KG still had this kind of fire in him? He looked done a couple of months ago. Maybe he was just playing possum the whole time.

-Is there a better pure shooter than Ray Allen? Even now, the former Uconn star is money in crunch time. You can’t give him any space.

-I’ll always say it until proven otherwise. With the game on the line, nobody is better than Kobe. LeBron, take notes. And that goes for the club that gets him.

-Really pleased to see the Suns rise up and send a message to LA that it won’t come easy. Can’t say enough about the kind of dominant performance Amare Stoudemire had. Those 42 and 11 were monstrous. Some great power moves and strong finishes too, resulting in three-point plays. Everyone of them emphatic. When his team needed a score, Amare delivered. Hopefully, he and the rest of the Suns can duplicate it as they look to even the series tonight.

-Figure Kobe to get more help from sidekicks Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol, Ron Artest and Derek Fisher. They weren’t good in crunch time.

-In the NHL playoffs which have been totally unpredictable, we get the Blackhawks and Flyers for Lord Stanley. Two Cup starved traditional markets that haven’t won in a while. For Chicago, it’s been almost five decades since Bobby Hull and the Blackhawks won it all in ‘61. Now, leading Conn Smythe candidate Jonathan Toews along with sidekick Patrick Kane plus money performer Dustin Byfuglien (Big Buff) take aim at bringing the best sports trophy back to the Windy City. When the puck drops for Game One at the United Center Saturday, that place will be on fire.

For the Flyers, it’s been a miraculous run starting with a shootout win over the Rangers on the last day of the season just to sneak into the playoffs. Since, all they’ve done is takeout the hated Devils, stun the Bruins in historic fashion from 3-0 down joining the Leafs, Islanders and most recently, the Red Sox. Then they took care of another destined team in Montreal, getting two Jeff Carter tallies to advance to their first Cup Final since 1997 when they were unceremoniously dumped out in four straight by the Red Wings. Can Mike Richards, playoff hero Simon Gagne, Chris Pronger and amazing story Michael Leighton bring the Cup back to Broad Street for the first time since they repeated in 1975?

Two great storylines for a league that’s heating up. NBC can’t possibly screw this up. Or can they?

-No matter what you think of it, the Subway Series matters. No. I’m not one of those who puts much stock in the six games the Mets and Yankees play. However, it’s impossible to ignore the turnout for it at Citi Field. With attendance way down in Year Two, they soldout the place. Plenty of walk ups who wanted to be part of the first three-game set between our two New York clubs.

Baseball is still No.1 here and probably always will be. With all the history dating back to the glory days of the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants along with the Yankees (formerly New York Highlanders), NYC is rich in tradition and could support a third team if that ever happened. Just experiencing the turnout the local Staten Island Yankees get anytime the Cyclones pay a visit to the Ferry Terminal for Class A ball is enough to fully grasp what baseball means in this town.

So, even if the cool half dozen might not mean a whole lot in the grand scheme of things for the Yanks and Mets, it means plenty to the fans. No wonder I got so much flak from J Beck, Johnny Rockets and all the other Met supporters the other night.

The big bat of Ike Davis has changed the Mets season.

-The Met season didn’t truly begin until Ike Davis was recalled. Since, the Amazin’s have turned it around going 5-1 on a huge homestand, including an impressive sweep of the Braves which only featured the big first base slugger’s first home run. A moon shot that went 450 feet. Still amazing to think they played the first dozen without him, opting for Mike Jacobs and Fernando Tatis. Makes you question what the thinking was. Well, that and Jerry Manuel’s decision to bat Frank Catalanotto cleanup. But hey. At least they didn’t wait till May.

-Is Mike Pelfrey really this good or will he hit a rough patch? In Year 3, the true test won’t come till July-August. Still have to love what they’re getting from a guy who was a huge question mark entering the season.

-Jose Reyes third at least gives them a solid middle even with David Wright scuffling.

-Jonathon Niese has pitched well meaning maybe 1-2-3 are good but Oli Perez and John Maine remain sore spots.

-Amazing what happens when Robby Cano takes advice from Alex Rodriguez on hitting in key situations. He’s finally starting to look like the player we always envisioned. MVP year??? Ironic too because A-Rod’s struggles were well documented till last October. Well, at least the Yankee second baseman hasn’t followed Alex’s other oddities. Some things are better off not being explained.

-I was in favor of bringing Javier Vazquez back. Especially for Da Melk Man. But here he is in phase II emulating the nightmarish 2004 that ended with one swing of the bat from Johnny Damon. He’s pitched well everywhere else including the White Sox. So, the AL argument is weak. Yes, Javy serves ‘em up but maybe it’s a New York thing. Uh oh.

-Joba’s better in the pen while Phil Hughes is better in the rotation. Just what we thought all along.

-How come I think of the Curtis Granderson trade as not just for Austin Jackson and Phil Coke but also Damon? Nice to see Jackson off to a good start in Motown.

-If only the rest of Melo’s Nugget teammates had the same kind of determination he does. He did all he could before they woke up which turned out a little too late to get it even against the harder working Jazz coached by Jerry Sloan. Coincidence? We think not. Especially with Denver minus George Karl. Charles Barkley’s right. They need a good kick in the ass. Adrian Dantley was a great player but he’s way too passive. Just look at his press conferences. Still, what a disappointing series for the Nuggets. Can they save it? It says here they win Game Five big and won’t lose Game Seven. All comes down to Salt Lake. We’ll see what they’re made of.

-Anyone else surprised that the Mavs are down to the super experienced Spurs 3-1?!?!?!?!?! Quoting 2Pac, “Some things will never change.”

-Watching Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook’s Thunder is refreshing. It’s also what young legs are capable of against older ones. Especially the banged up Lakers. Figure Kobe to will them through.

-Gotta love D-Wade, whose team trailed 3-0 to the Celts. With it tight and it essentially over, all he did was set a franchise playoff mark with 46 points, including five from downtown and a couple of monster jams including a poster on KG, who looked like he was biting his lip after getting victimized. Considering what a cheap shot artist he is, it was perfect.

-Everyone talks about the Magic who derailed LeBron and the Cavs last year. But the Hawks also could make some noise. First, they have to get Game Four at Milwaukee and ice this series. We’ll see if they’re up to the challenge.

-The Garden is quiet with little going on in May. Great job Jazzy Jim! When the Knicks don’t get LeBron, Wade or Chris Bosh, what will they think?

-I’ve always been a big fan of Jameer Nelson and now he’s showing why. How do you think all those teams that passed on him feel these days?

-Gotta love Joakim Noah. The dude is a great interview. That stuff he said about Cleveland following Game Two was classic:

But also, the kid from the Bronx can also ball. He’s developed into the Bulls’ leader. Yep. They got that one right.

-I still say the Celts are too old and can be picked off in the second round.

-One chance to win or lose. Who do you want with the ball? Kobe, LeBron, Wade or the Spurs big three: Duncan-Parker-Ginobili?

Happy Monday

-As per usual, it’s past bedtime. I’ll def have to get up for the latest St. John’s debacle. They’re taking on UConn in Round One of the Big East Tournament at The Mecca. Too bad there’s no good ballin’ around these parts. Word of friendly advice: Follow HS. It’s better!

-Should I care that the Knicks held off the Hawks last night after nearly blowing a 10-point lead the final 2:53? For whatever odd reason, the orange and blue own Hotlanta, making it three wins on what’s otherwise evolved into a disappointing season. Nice to see Coach D’Antoni give rook Toney Douglas (11 Pts, 3 A in 23+) some PT for a change. Anyone who’s remotely followed them has to know how poorly No D’s run his bench. With a banged up T-Mac out, he did it out of necessity.

-I’m not pretending to be an NBA guru but Sergio Rodriguez’ ain’t the answer at PG. It’s been mixed results for the self-proclaimed Spanish Chocolate, whose speed and tempo are noticeable. However, there’s a reason he’s already on his fourth club as he has a tendency to hold onto the ball too much and over dribble, sometimes leading to turnovers. The 23 year-old can get into the lane and dish but isn’t strong enough to take the punishment. In extended minutes, his production hasn’t been much better than what he did with Sacramento. He’s better suited as a backup. It’s wiser for the Knicks to give Douglas more of a role and find a true No.1 either this summer or next.

-I know they don’t play any D but am still at a loss for words over Jazzy Jim’s ballers turning a 16-point first quarter lead into a 20-point blowout home loss to the lowly Nets. How is that possible? Makes one ponder if the players have already tuned out the second-year coach.

-Welcome to New York Antrel Rolle and Antonio Cromartie. Can’t say anything on Rolle but we know that Cromartie ‘gets around’ 2Pac style.

-I’ll never be an Oscars guy because I don’t see the point in celebrities having a gala to celebrate themselves. They’re already in fantasy land. However, big ups to Sandra Bullock and Jeff Bridges. In general, I just can’t get into awards. The last time it was relevant was when MTV stood for music.

-Even if Oliver Perez struggles, the Mets can take solace in what they’ve seen from Ike Davis and Fernando Martinez. Both have impressed with the young first base slugging prospect showing a potent bat and a quick glove. If he continues to play well, why not keep him up? He’s got much more upside than Daniel Murphy. What’s Fernando Tatis doing on the roster anyway?

-The Nick Johnson DL Watch is already on.

-I’ll say it. Zach McAllister has more upside than Joba. Not just cause we share a birthday. While Yankee brass tries to figure out if Joba or Phil Hughes are the No.5 starter, expect McAllister to fly under the radar.

-If they don’t get good news on Jose Reyes, will the Amazin’s still Believe In 2010?!?!?!?!?!

-Maybe Big Ben should try using his head more wisely.

-I hope Jim Sorgi isn’t the Giants’ backup plan with David Carr gone.

-Ninety-six teams in the tournament is lunacy. Why even play the regular season?

-We love ya Joannie Rochette.

-Who would’ve thought we’d miss Olympic curling?

1.Hard to believe Roger Federer was so shaky with more history up for grabs. Sure. The men’s grand slam record holder battled through his serve to grab a two sets to one lead over Juan Martin Del Potro even getting within two points of a sixth consecutive title which would’ve matched Bill Tilden and also become first player to win three in a row in one year since Rod Laver in 1969. But he never got untracked with the serve and made some uncharacteristic errors due in large part to Del Potro who deserves such kudos for fighting so hard to win a first slam.

2.Wonder what Andy Roddick thought?

3.Only the Bills could find a way to blow a 10-point lead with less than six minutes left in a game they owned in New England last night. I even said to my brother that they couldn’t blow it but again was proven wrong due to Leodis McKelvin’s foolishness. What was the point of trying for that extra yard on the kickoff? He had to know the situation that a desperate Pats special teams would be going for the strip. Like breaking that tackle for the extra yard really mattered. Unbelievable.

4.Kim Clijsters’ successful comeback winning her second Open beating both Williams sisters along the way while defeating a game Caroline Wozniacki was a feel good story. Who says Moms can’t do it?

5.Melanie Oudin’s run was special but do we really need to know about her parents’ divorce? She’s only 17. Leave her alone!

6.I love Derek Jeter and was very proud to see him get the Yankee hit record surpassing Lou Gehrig but that three hit barrage to tie last week in a comeback win over the Birds was the epitome of what makes the Yankee captain great. What a special year for the ageless 35 year-old shortstop who should have a few big swings left in the postseason. Whenever it’s over, next stop. Cooperstown.

7.He was money when it came to the big shot but why does Michael Jordan have to be so arrogant when he gets inducted into Springfield? Just enjoy the moment instead of taking shots for proving people wrong.

8.I still say it’s a great thing that NY Post hoops writer Peter Vecsey was included with Air Jordan, John Stockton and David Robinson because he’s damn good at what he does and not afraid to pull punches. One of our own made it.

9.Does anyone have a nicer smile than Wozniacki? She could sure light up even the darkest room. The 19 year-old Danish Princess can also play a little tennis and has a great demeanor.

10.If only we could say the same about Serena Williams who embarrassed herself in that semi loss to Clijsters. We really hope she learned a valuable lesson from that sad display and is really sorry. Even if it was a lousy call at an inopportune time, the 11-time slam winner must know better. Why can’t she be more like older/wiser sis Venus who is so elegant and handles herself well?

11.It’s early but Mark Sanchez didn’t intimidated against the Texans who once again are being overhyped in a tough division. Try telling that to all the so-called ‘experts.’

12.Eli Manning has some new receivers to play with. Hopefully, Mario Manningham and Hakeem Nicks continue to develop. Big Blue must be glad to have Osi Umenyiora back. This week in Big D should be a good early test to see where they are.

13.Those four picks Jay Cutler threw in an inauspicious Bear debut. If you listened to the great insight Sunday night, you would’ve thought none were his fault.

14.Find me another athlete with as much heart as Rafael Nadal who only played with a possible torn abdominal muscle before succumbing to Del Potro in the semis. Even after getting dismantled in straights winning only six games, there was the charismatic 23 year-old Spaniard doing a brief interview and then signing autographs for the kids who will never forget that. The man gets it.

15.Michael Crabtree is holding out in case we didn’t know. What exactly has he proven? Does the name Mike Williams ring a bell?

16.Make me watch the VMAs. MTV hasn’t cared about music for years. Kanye West is a dog. Taylor Swift a sweetheart. Next.

17.Preseason puck at MSG tonight. Can hardly believe it!

18.Pretty fitting that Pedro Martinez would turn back the clock with a virtuoso performance fanning seven and tossing 130 pitches in a 1-0 win over the Mets eliminating them. But hey. They had Tim Redding and Livan Hernandez.

19.The Melk Man has quietly had a nice season playing center in the Bronx.

20.Why is it so hard for Phil Mushnick to only point out Mike Francesa’s shortcomings and not the WFAN vet talkie’s good side like what he did flashing back to 9/11? Because the NY Post columnist only writes what’s convenient.

21.Our Super Bowl pick is Eagles over Steelers. Yes. Those Eagles even though it looks like we jinxed them with Donovan McNabb already breaking a rib.