Ouch

So are the Mets still the lock for the NL pennant that they appeared to be at the beginning of August? Well, maybe not, after this news.

With Pedro out of action, who do the Mets turn to? Tom Glavine has pitched well since suffering a brutal July. But Orlando Hernandez might be the best starter they can throw out there now. He's been the best in September, at least (26.1 IP, 8 runs allowed, 17 hits, 25 K, 9 BB).

After those guys, things get a bit dodgy. John Maine has as good a chance as any at being this year's Brian Backe. Maine has been almost as good as Hernandez, with the exception of a few more walks. Maybe Brian Bannister, if the Mets put him back in the rotation.

There are also Steve Trachsel and Oliver Perez, neither of whom inspire much confidence.

Given the state of the rest of the National League playoff contenders, I think the Mets should still be considered the favorites, even without Pedro. The Padres or the Dodgers might come into the playoffs with their pitching a little more settled, but Glavine Hernandez, and Maine might be enough to carry the Mets. And given the Mets' explosive offense, this trio wouldn't even have to put together a string of Pedro-like performances to get to the World Series.