Reyes ignites New York with leadoff homer … NEW YORK — It shouldn't be possible for one October swing of the bat to change a game, change the course of postseason events, change the fate of so many lives.  —  It shouldn't be possible.  But it happens.  Ask Kirk Gibson.  Ask Scott Podsednik.

Spring Throw-In Blossoms Into a Bona Fide Starter in Fall  —  John Maine's support group held another meeting at Shea Stadium yesterday, featuring pep talks, massages and standing ovations.  —  Maine was greeted at the mound by Paul Lo Duca, Carlos Delgado and the pitching coach Rick Peterson, ready with their inspirational words.

USS Maine Impenetrable & Leads Mets to Game 7!!!  —  Johnny Maine bent but he flat out refused to break in the biggest game of his life!  Johnny M shut the Cardinals out into the 6th limiting them to merely 2 hits.  The kid faced his biggest test immediately as he found himself in a top off the first bases loaded jam.

Call to Perez the playoffs' worst-case scenario  —  NEW YORK — Willie Randolph made the announcement after the game: "Oliver Perez is pitching, and because I like him."  —  Thus it becomes official: Perez, whose 3-13 record and 6.55 ERA makes him statistically the worst pitcher ever to draw …

Agent: Matthews will explore his options  —  Center fielder expected to be hot commodity on free agent market  —  If the Rangers want to re-sign center fielder Gary Matthews Jr., they will have to get in the line.  —  It is expected to be a long line.  —  Matthews' representative …

Aaron doesn't plan to be there if Bonds hits No. 755  —  Don't expect Hank Aaron to be in the stands if Barry Bonds matches his record 755 home runs.  —  "First, I don't like to fly," Aaron told the Oakland Tribune this week.  "And if I come, there's going to be some controversy.