Around the Horn - 8/15

Chipper Jones had played 1,733 major league games over parts of 13 seasons and had hit 346 career home runs. But it took until game 1,734 for Jones to join an elite group - players with 3 home runs in one game. Jones tattooed Ramon Ortiz, Ryan Wagner, and Travis Hughes of the Washington Nationals for his hat trick night.

Jones's teammate Matt Diaz did he one better...well actually 7 better. Diaz had hits his first 4 times up against the Nats to reach base safely in 10 straight at-bats - all hits. Diaz streak was finally ended when he grounded out to short his final time up.

The Mets have to be worried about the health of their ace Pedro Martinez. Martinez got smacked around for 6 runs in 1 inning against the Phillies last night and had to leave in the 2nd with a strained calf.

The Mets continue their talks with the Arizona Diamondbacks about Shawn Green. Green reportedly said he would waive his no-trade clause to come to the Big Apple.

Getting closer to 500 - Frank Thomas hit his 473rd home run last night, and Alex Rodriguez hit number 454 on Sunday. Nice to see high, steroid-free totals.

The LA Dodgers beat Dontrelle Willis and Florida last night and are now 13-1 in August. In doing so they've opened up a 2 1/2 game lead on 2nd place San Diego.