"Maybe the Marlins should play in Puerto Rico more often.

In dealing the New York Mets a 10-3 loss in the first game of their ``San Juan Series,'' the ``host'' Marlins ended a four-game losing streak and improved their all-time record at Hiram Bithorn Stadium to 6-1.

Ricky Nolasco certainly wouldn't put up an argument if the Marlins decided to switch more of their home games to Puerto Rico's capital city, part of a plan designed to increase visibility in the island commonwealth.

``It was awesome,'' Nolasco said of the festive atmosphere created by Monday's crowd of 18,073. ``I love coming here. I love it so far. Hopefully we can come back next year.''

Save for a pair of home runs served up to Jason Bay, Nolasco manhandled the Mets like he owned the joint as the Marlins got back on track following a dreary weekend in which they were swept at home -- their South Florida home -- by the San Diego Padres.

Nolasco put the still-raw memories of that sweep to rest with his second consecutive triumphant performance, a signal that he could be finding his best rhythm at a time when the Marlins need him most. On a sticky night, Nolasco dusted the Mets for the second time this season to run his record to 7-6."