Inside Pitch: Mets recall Maine, option Soler

John Maine was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk on Monday to pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates, a start that would have gone to Pedro Martinez, who was scratched with a sore right hip. To make room, right-hander Alay Soler -- who gave up eight runs in his last two starts -- was optioned to Norfolk.

The Mets don't know if Martinez will start for them again in the first half. He will throw on the side Tuesday or Wednesday, then a decision will be made if he will start or be shut down until after the All-Star break.

It is almost a foregone conclusion that Martinez, one of six Mets selected to the National League All-Star team, will back out of the mid-summer classic.

REPLAY: After losing six of nine games on a disastrous road trip through the American League East, the Mets hoped to right their ship Monday night against Pittsburgh.

Instead, they were mauled 11-1 by the team with the worst record in the major leagues.

The game turned in the fifth when rookie John Maine, brought up earlier in the day to replace Alay Soler, issued three walks, including a two-out pass to pitcher Paul Maholm to extend the inning.

NOTES, QUOTES

RHP John Maine was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk and started Monday against Pittsburgh, giving up three runs in 4 2/3 innings. Maine took over RHP Alay Soler's spot in the rotation and could start again this weekend against Florida.

RHP Alay Soler was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk after giving up eight runs Sunday night to the Yankees, his second consecutive eight-run outing. Soler was also treated for tightness in his right calf.

RHP Pedro Martinez is receiving treatment on his inflamed right hip. He is expected to throw on the side either Tuesday or Wednesday, and barring complications could make another start prior to the All-Star break. Manager Willie Randolph has not ruled out shutting down Martinez until the second half.

3B David Wright, one of six Mets named to the NL All-Star team, will participate in the Home Run Derby. Wright said he's not concerned participating will force him to get into bad hitting habits. "I'm going to have a good time," Wright said. "Guys are always fooling around in batting practice trying to hit home runs."

LHP Tom Glavine, Tuesday's starter against Pittsburgh, needs one victory for No. 287 in his career, which would tie him with Bert Blyleven for 24th place on the career list.