The Cubs are a very strong team this year. They’re eying the World Series like an alcoholic who hasn’t had a drink in about 100 years. With their win over the NY Mets last night, another strong team in the Major Leagues, they seem poised and ready to defeat their own curse this year.

The Mets have a super talented team, and have had some solid wins over the last few weeks. But going up against a major contender like the Cubs is sure to humble them and bring them to the reality that they’ve really got to step up their game if they want to compete in the playoffs.

Fortunately, they’ve got several months before that inevitability hits. And in September they’ll be able to play the Cubs again, gauging their improvement and growth throughout the season.

Main was the one bright spot in the Mets performance. The Daily News reports:

“Maine has allowed two runs or fewer while completing at least six innings in each of his last three starts. Monday night, he deferred to Duaner Sanchez after six innings, having held the Cubs to two runs on five hits while striking out six and walking two.”

For online tickets for the Mets feel free to follow the link.

Note: Mets tickets are on sale now, starting on February 26 with Spring training.

On to the news. Endy Chavez is getting a big raise (even though less than the $2,075,000 he asked for). Yesterday he signed for $3.85 million over the next two years. That number goes up for 2009. Last year Chavez made $1,725,000. He’ll get $1.8 million this season and $2.05 million in 2009. On top of that he can add on $250,000 in bonuses this year and $375,000 in bonuses in 2009.

His deal calls for bonuses this year of $25,000 for 100 games, $50,000 each for 110, 120 and 130 games, and $25,000 each for 350, 375 and 400 plate appearances. In 2009, he would make $50,000 for 100 games, $75,000 each for 110, 120 and 130 games and $25,000 each for 325, 350, 375 and 400 plate appearances.

Chavez didn’t finish the season last year because he strained his left hamstring. Then last month he hurt his right hamstring on his right ankle. He batted .287 with one homer and 27 RBIs in 150 at-bats.

Don’t miss this year’s Met’s season. Here is the list of Mets tickets available now. This is the last year to see the Mets in historic Shea Stadium before next year’s season at the new Citi Field.