The Mets downed the Cubs, 6-2, on Tuesday thanks to a strong performance by Johan Santana to improve their playoff chances. Trailing 2-0 heading into the fifth inning, New York rallied to score six runs over the fifth and sixth against Chicago to comeback and win the game. The Phillies lost to the Braves, 3-2, as Mike Hampton outdueled Cole Hamels for the victory. New York's win, coupled with Philadelphia's loss, moved the Mets to within 1 1/2 games in the NL East race. With the Brewers also in action, the Mets momentarily increased their lead in the Wild Card race to 1 1/2 games.