Is tonight the night for Johan Santana to shine?

The big game tonight: Mets and Phillies open a three game set at Shea. Both clubs enter the series tied for first place in the National League east. The best player on the field SHOULD be Mets starter Johan Santana. We’re still not sure.

If there ever was a time for Johan to start earning his $137 million plus contract, it’s tonight. Otherwise, I may have to think the money better spent on Carlos Santana’s next spiritual excursion-made tougher by the fact that guru Sri Chimroy died last October.

Seriously, Johan Santana can bring some major peace and serenity to the Mets and their fans if he gives the bullpen a night off instead of playing the diva and coming out after six or seven good, but not great innings. Tonight we should start seeing if the Mets are for real under Jerry Manuel-or if we’re just seeing a smokescreen.