MET NOTES

Art Howe saw Mike Cameron briefly yesterday when the centerfielder came into the clubhouse to visit the trainers.

“He looks like death warmed over,” Howe said. “He’s really sick.”

The ailing Cameron saw a doctor yesterday, and after having tests run and blood checked, it was confirmed that he has a viral infection. Cameron missed his fourth straight game last night, and it may be a few more days before he’s back.

Howe said at various points these last few days, Cameron was running a temperature and “was shaking like a leaf.” He wasn’t with the team again last night, but that may be a fortunate thing for the Mets – Howe said he was unsure if Cameron’s ailment is contagious.

After today’s game, the Mets will head to Philly for a three-game series, but Cameron likely won’t be there for the start of it.

“I would guess he’ll probably meet us in Philly, if all goes well,” Howe said. “But as far as traveling with us [today], it’s very doubtful.”

Gerald Williams started again in Cameron’s place last night.

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Yusmeiro Petit, who’s probably become the Mets’ top pitching prospect in the wake of Scott Kazmir’s and Matt Peterson’s departures, made his Double-A debut this past weekend and dazzled. The 19-year-old Petit threw seven innings, allowing two runs on four hits while striking out 10 and walking none.

Petit, whose stock is clearly rising in the game, was ranked No. 2 on Baseball America’s most recent prospect hot sheet.

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Matt Ginter definitely will get the start in place of Kris Benson tomorrow in Philadelphia. Interestingly, the Phillies are calling up their top prospect, RHP Gavin Floyd, to face the Mets that night . . . Kaz Matsui and Victor Zambrano are back rehabbing in St. Lucie . . . Howe on whether the ailing Mets are cursed: “I’m just glad the Babe’s not after us, too.”