Subway Series matchups: Mets vs. Yankees

Two teams within arm's reach of first place in their respective divisions have never looked further apart on paper. But that's to be expected. The $110-million gap between the Yankees and Mets is more than the total payrolls of all but eight teams. How that translates on the field is what we'll see this weekend in the Bronx, where the only numbers that matter will be on the scoreboard.

Edge: Yankees.

Edge: Yankees.

Edge: Mets.

It's Derek Jeter vs. whom? Omar Quintanilla? Jordany Valdespin? Bud Harrelson? Jeter is a future Hall of Famer who just passed George Brett on the all-time hits list. The Mets desperately wish they had Justin Turner.

Edge: Yankees.

Edge: Mets.

With Brett Gardner still nursing an elbow strain, the Raul Ibañez/Andruw Jones platoon makes up for speed deficiency with more power (14 HRs, 40 RBIs). Jason Bay probably enjoyed the peace and quiet of a six-week DL stint.

Edge: Yankees.

Edge: Yankees.

Even.

Edge: Yankees.

No Mariano Rivera is a big break for the Mets, but Rafael Soriano has been up to the task. He entered last night 8-for-8 in save chances since replacing David Robertson, who's still on the DL with a strained oblique. Overall, the Yankees' 2.76 ERA is third in the AL, despite missing their top two relievers. As for the Mets, it's been a struggle lately, with Bobby Parnell and Tim Byrdak emerging as the only reliable options. Otherwise, it's a phone call and a prayer.

Edge: Yankees.

The Yankees have serious power threats in Ibañez and Jones, depending on the platoon choice for LF and DH, with Eric Chavez providing pop as well. Depth continues to be a serious issue for the Mets, but Scott Hairston has raked lefthanders, hitting .349 (22-for-63) with seven homers and a .758 slugging percentage against them.

Edge: Yankees.

Two contrasting styles that fit their respective situations. Joe Girardi guides the more stoic Yankees with a stable hand, rarely changing the lineup or his demeanor. He famously relies on his statistic-filled black binder. Terry Collins is a good mix for the younger, less experienced Mets: part cheerleader, part father figure. It's helped them defy expectations.

Edge: Even.

The Yankees, after some early struggles, are looking like the AL East favorite again by winning 10 of 13 entering last night. It's not great timing for the Mets, who arrive in the Bronx with a potentially tired Santana, a suspect bullpen and a slumping defense. If the Mets don't steal Friday night's opener, Round 1 shapes up to be a Yankees' sweep.