Fresh off a 3-2 loss fueled by the bullpen in Game 1, the Mets try to salvage a split in Game 2 against the Braves tonight behind rookie left-hander Jon Niese (pictured). The 21-year-old Niese struggled mightily in his only big-league start nearly two weeks ago in Milwaukee, giving up five runs in three innings of an eventual 6-4 Mets win.

Niese will be opposed by lefty Jo-Jo Reyes, who has lost his past six decisions. The Braves are also winless in Reyes’ past 10 starts.

As for Jerry Manuel‘s lineup, he is finally giving Luis Castillo a starting nod at second base after sitting him the previous eight days. Robinson Cancel also is getting the start at catcher.

The overall lineup for the 82-64 Mets — whose NL East lead over the Phillies has shrunk to two games — is as follows:

Jose Reyes SS

Ryan Church RF

David Wright 3B

Carlos Beltran CF

Carlos Delgado 1B

Fernando Tatis LF

Luis Castillo 2B

Robinson Cancel C

Jon Niese (0-0, 15.00)

The 66-82 Braves will go with:

Gregor Blanco CF

Martin Prado 3B

Kelly Johnson 2B

Omar Infante LF

Casey 1B

Jeff Francouer RF

Brent Lillibridge SS

Clint Sammons C

Jo-Jo Reyes LHP (3-10, 5.36)

Game time: 7:35 p.m.

TV: SNY.