Mets host Cubs, look to increase division lead

The New York Mets' fortunes on Sunday night looked a lot better than they did Friday night.

Such is life in the midst of the most heated pennant race in baseball.

The Mets will look to increase their lead in the National League East on Monday night when they host the Chicago Cubs in the openerof a three-game series.

Chris Bassitt (13-7, 3.24 ERA) is slated to take the mound for the Mets against Javier Assad (0-1, 2.93)