Mets vs. Cardinals: Lineups, broadcast info, and open thread, 7/25/16

Just a single game in the loss column separates the New York Mets and the St. Louis Cardinals in the NL wildcard standings. In tonight's series opener, both clubs send out their team leader in wins, ERA, and strikeouts. Carlos Martinez takes the hill for the Cardinals, while the Mets counter with Noah Syndergaard.

Since the All-Star break the Mets have alternated wins and loses in lackluster fashion. With August closing quickly, regular season games will begin to take on a new level of significance. That might very well start tonight in a tone-setting Game 1 between two teams with playoff aspirations. Tonight also represents the first of a nine-game homestand for the Mets that will involve the Colorado Rockies and New York Yankees after the Cardinals have left town.

A year ago around this time, the Mets' season took a massive turn and a World Series run was sparked. Sandy Alderson isn't promising similar roster moves this season, but a strong series against St. Louis, beginning with tonight's game, might have a snowballing effect.