So, Luis Castillo is in a Met uniform. I have mixed reactions about Castillo playing for the Mets. There are a couple of blogs out there that talk about this deal. In favor of the trade is the author of the Mets Lifers blog ( MetsLifers.blogspot.com ). The Mets Today blog , on the other hand is opposed to the deal, or at the very least questions the need.
I like Castillo but think right now they also need to find a way to play Rueben Gotay, who has just been tearing it up. I ask, only part in jest, if Gotay can play left field in case Alou isn’t able to get back to form, or play right to spell Shawn Green?
The bottom line, however, is I have been underwhelmed with what the Mets have done so far. The biggest need is pitching, and starting pitching at that. There has been little movement on that front. They have been looking to relief helped, but I am not sure why. Part of this is, I am a throwback to another time and hate this approach of six innings out of a starter and, in effect, a closer to pitch the seventh, a different closer for the eighth and a “true closer” for the ninth. When did it become that a relief pitcher, or at least a good one, could only give you one inning.
Still, even using this approach, with Feliciano, Heilman and Wagner in the pen, as well as Aaron Sele as a long man, there bullpen is not in bad shape.
I understand that the players need to be available and that you do not want to pay too much, I agree. Still, when I see some of the moves the Braves are making, in terms of Teixera and possibly Dotal (a former Met), I keep hoping to see the Mets make a major move. Maybe they will, I know there is still some time, I just keep hoping.
I would love to see Dontrel Willis come to the Mets. I know he is not on the trading block, and if he were, I don’t know what he would cost, I know he is not having agood season. Still, based on some of the things I have seen on the net (I know, not always the most reliable source, II think if the right deal were offered, The Marlins would pull the trigger.
Well, there is not much time left, hopefully something good will happen for the Mets, and hopefully Tom Glavine picks up win number 300 tonight.
Let’s go Mets!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
The Low Two
With the Mets having an off day today, I had planned on writing about their need to make a trade, about how much of what is being written says they are in the drivers seat because it is not a necessity, so they can pick and choose what deal, if any, should be made. I disagree and think it is essential they make a deal.
Two articles in today’s paper, however, caught my eye and resulted in me changing my mind about the content of today’s post. The first one was the death of Bill Robinson and the second one was the induction of Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken Jr. into the Hall of Fame.
Starting with the death of Bill Robinson, I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. I remember watching him as part of the awesome and dangerous Pirates lineup. I always thought he was a fun hitter to watch and yet he always seemed so low key and down to earth, I liked him even more.
When the Mets picked him up as a first base coach and hitting coach I was thrilled. Here was someone I had admired who was going to help my team. In fact, as the hitting coach for the 1986 World Champion New York Mets, he certainly did help them. What I remember about Bill Robinson, however, was the “Low Two”. It is very common when a baseball hitter hits a homerun, as they round third base, they give the third base coach a high five, usually the first one to get the high five and then after touching home plate, high fives are exchanged with just about everyone else. Bill Robinson initiated something else. When a player made it to first base, assuming he was stopping at that base, Robinson and the player would take their forefinger and middle finger and lightly tap each other. This was done fairly quietly and unless you knew this was their custom, most fans would totally miss it.
This was perfect for Bill Robinson. He was a team player, he instituted and initiated many things, he helped the Mets be a successful ball club, but just like his low two, he did it in a very low key fashion, not looking to grab the spotlight. Bill Robinson will be missed for his place in baseball as well as his place as being, from what I understand, as a good friend and a big family man. Thanks for the memories, all of them, Bill.
On a happier note, Yesterday saw Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken Jr. inducted at Cooperstown. Just one of the things that is amazing about these players is, in today’s baseball world, they played their entire careers for just one team; Gwynn the San Diego Padres and Ripken the Baltimore Orioles. From everything I know about these men, from everything I have read, they are very respectful individuals. While I did not see the ceremony, I read excerpts from Ripken’s speech, how he said he viewed everything as a learning experience, how he was once thrown out in the first inning of a game and later found out that there was a family that had saved up to come to a game just to see him play and the little boy was upset that his hero had been ejected and he would not be able to see him play. Ripken said he learned from that and it made him a better player and a better person. This is the kind of approach, the kind of thinking and caring we need to see more of from our teams, our heroes and our ball players.
Again, thanks for the memories Cal Ripken Jr. and Tony Gwynn. You are both very classy individuals.
Two articles in today’s paper, however, caught my eye and resulted in me changing my mind about the content of today’s post. The first one was the death of Bill Robinson and the second one was the induction of Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken Jr. into the Hall of Fame.
Starting with the death of Bill Robinson, I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. I remember watching him as part of the awesome and dangerous Pirates lineup. I always thought he was a fun hitter to watch and yet he always seemed so low key and down to earth, I liked him even more.
When the Mets picked him up as a first base coach and hitting coach I was thrilled. Here was someone I had admired who was going to help my team. In fact, as the hitting coach for the 1986 World Champion New York Mets, he certainly did help them. What I remember about Bill Robinson, however, was the “Low Two”. It is very common when a baseball hitter hits a homerun, as they round third base, they give the third base coach a high five, usually the first one to get the high five and then after touching home plate, high fives are exchanged with just about everyone else. Bill Robinson initiated something else. When a player made it to first base, assuming he was stopping at that base, Robinson and the player would take their forefinger and middle finger and lightly tap each other. This was done fairly quietly and unless you knew this was their custom, most fans would totally miss it.
This was perfect for Bill Robinson. He was a team player, he instituted and initiated many things, he helped the Mets be a successful ball club, but just like his low two, he did it in a very low key fashion, not looking to grab the spotlight. Bill Robinson will be missed for his place in baseball as well as his place as being, from what I understand, as a good friend and a big family man. Thanks for the memories, all of them, Bill.
On a happier note, Yesterday saw Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken Jr. inducted at Cooperstown. Just one of the things that is amazing about these players is, in today’s baseball world, they played their entire careers for just one team; Gwynn the San Diego Padres and Ripken the Baltimore Orioles. From everything I know about these men, from everything I have read, they are very respectful individuals. While I did not see the ceremony, I read excerpts from Ripken’s speech, how he said he viewed everything as a learning experience, how he was once thrown out in the first inning of a game and later found out that there was a family that had saved up to come to a game just to see him play and the little boy was upset that his hero had been ejected and he would not be able to see him play. Ripken said he learned from that and it made him a better player and a better person. This is the kind of approach, the kind of thinking and caring we need to see more of from our teams, our heroes and our ball players.
Again, thanks for the memories Cal Ripken Jr. and Tony Gwynn. You are both very classy individuals.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Maine And Rain
Well, Maine and rain seemed to be the answer to the Mets’ woes today. I am glad the Mets won today. I am glad the Mets’ bats came alive. I am glad that Maine was on his game today and actually pitched a complete game, albeit cheap as it was shortened significantly by rain. Still, they won and all indications seemed to be good.
I would like to say that as a result of today’s win, I feel much better. I would like to say as a result of today’s win, it has helped me put the past couple of losses behind me. I would like to see that as a result of today’s win and the fact the Mets had a winning home stand, I am happy. I would like to say a lot of things. Unfortunately I cannot honestly say any of these things.
As I indicated yesterday, the fact is they should have been able to dominate these teams and they did not. They should have been able to win at least five of the seven games, possibly six and maybe even all seven. Instead, not only did they go four and three but they did not look particularly good doing it. They did not get the timely hit, their pitching let in too many runs and keep giving leads back to these awful teams, and the Mets just looked flat.
It is going to be a whole lot tougher to get going against the Brewers and Cubs. Of course it can be done and hopefully, it will be done!
Let’s go Mets.
I would like to say that as a result of today’s win, I feel much better. I would like to say as a result of today’s win, it has helped me put the past couple of losses behind me. I would like to see that as a result of today’s win and the fact the Mets had a winning home stand, I am happy. I would like to say a lot of things. Unfortunately I cannot honestly say any of these things.
As I indicated yesterday, the fact is they should have been able to dominate these teams and they did not. They should have been able to win at least five of the seven games, possibly six and maybe even all seven. Instead, not only did they go four and three but they did not look particularly good doing it. They did not get the timely hit, their pitching let in too many runs and keep giving leads back to these awful teams, and the Mets just looked flat.
It is going to be a whole lot tougher to get going against the Brewers and Cubs. Of course it can be done and hopefully, it will be done!
Let’s go Mets.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
DISGUSTED
This is absolutely ridiculous. The Mets have just lost three out of their last four games to last place teams. They need to WAKE UP!
It was bad enough when the Mets lost on Friday, dropping two in a row to last place teams, one to the Pirates and one to the Nationals. Sosa looked awful on Friday. Fortunately the Mets were able to take this afternoon’s game but unfortunately, the offense was not coming through as they scored only three runs. Thankfully El Duque was able to make those stand up. That brings us to this evening’s game, perhaps the most frustrating. I am still trying to figure out all sorts of things about it.
I do not understand why, if Beltran is unavailable, the Mets sent down a hitter to AAA instead of optioning Jorge Sosa, even if they need to bring him back later. I do not understand why Willie Randolph would be crazy enough to use Marlon Anderson as a pinch hitter after Paul LoDuca pulled a hamstring. As Met announcer lamented numerous, since Ramon Castro has to come into the game anyway to replace LoDuca, put him up as a pinch hitter and keep Anderson for later in the game. I still feel sick when I think about that choice.
Still, the most frustrating thing was the Mets gave up six runs to the Nationals. Down three nothing, the Mets stormed back to tie it up and then they let this last place team, this Triple-A want-to-be team, retake the lead.
This string of games was one that should have favored the Mets BIG TIME! Seven games against last place teams, when you are fighting for first, actually in first, should result in a minimum of five wins, and that is already a poor showing. Right now, the best the Mets can do is finish four and three, which would be a dismal home stand. The worst they can do is three and four. To just think that there is a real possibility that this could happen is sickening, if it actually does happen, then there should be MAJOR CHANGES.
I realize teams go through streaks and have good stretches and bad stretches. Still, when you get something this easy from the schedule makers, you cannot afford to have a bad streak. This is when the good teams tighten the thumbscrews. As much as it pains me to say this, right now, the Mets are not a good team.
I can only hope that they win tomorrow and then have a successful series against a couple of good teams, the Brewers and the Cubs. Only time will tell.
It was bad enough when the Mets lost on Friday, dropping two in a row to last place teams, one to the Pirates and one to the Nationals. Sosa looked awful on Friday. Fortunately the Mets were able to take this afternoon’s game but unfortunately, the offense was not coming through as they scored only three runs. Thankfully El Duque was able to make those stand up. That brings us to this evening’s game, perhaps the most frustrating. I am still trying to figure out all sorts of things about it.
I do not understand why, if Beltran is unavailable, the Mets sent down a hitter to AAA instead of optioning Jorge Sosa, even if they need to bring him back later. I do not understand why Willie Randolph would be crazy enough to use Marlon Anderson as a pinch hitter after Paul LoDuca pulled a hamstring. As Met announcer lamented numerous, since Ramon Castro has to come into the game anyway to replace LoDuca, put him up as a pinch hitter and keep Anderson for later in the game. I still feel sick when I think about that choice.
Still, the most frustrating thing was the Mets gave up six runs to the Nationals. Down three nothing, the Mets stormed back to tie it up and then they let this last place team, this Triple-A want-to-be team, retake the lead.
This string of games was one that should have favored the Mets BIG TIME! Seven games against last place teams, when you are fighting for first, actually in first, should result in a minimum of five wins, and that is already a poor showing. Right now, the best the Mets can do is finish four and three, which would be a dismal home stand. The worst they can do is three and four. To just think that there is a real possibility that this could happen is sickening, if it actually does happen, then there should be MAJOR CHANGES.
I realize teams go through streaks and have good stretches and bad stretches. Still, when you get something this easy from the schedule makers, you cannot afford to have a bad streak. This is when the good teams tighten the thumbscrews. As much as it pains me to say this, right now, the Mets are not a good team.
I can only hope that they win tomorrow and then have a successful series against a couple of good teams, the Brewers and the Cubs. Only time will tell.
Friday, July 27, 2007
What Happened?!?
Yesterday’s loss was one of those real difficult games. If we look at it in terms of the entire series, in terms of how they have been doing since the All-Star break and the fact that they are still in first place, then the feeling is, “It was only one game”. The problem is, it is very difficult for me to view the game in that light.
I went home for lunch yesterday and turned on the game with the Mets still leading 1-0. I saw the bat and ball come at Oliver Perez and Pittsburgh but a runner on first. I saw David Wright leap for the ball of the bat of the pitcher and Jose Reyes try and throw him out, with neither being successful. I saw Perez mishandled a bunt, throw the ball away, and let the Pirates tie the score.
The amazing thing about this was Perez almost got out of this with the score tied. Then the wheels came off. After Perez gave up five unearned runs, which was a little deceiving, the bullpen did nothing to hold them. The Mets were not able to get the necessary offense and in the end, the Mets were not able to sweep the Pirates.
From a psychological point of view, it probably would have been easier to stomach the Mets losing a middle game of the series but winning the ones on either side. Of course, that eliminates any chance of a sweep.
I said coming into this stretch that I really felt the Mets needed, or should be able, to take five out of six games from the Pirates and Nationals. Yesterday’s loss has me a little disgusted but I am still hopeful of that and they certainly still have a real possibility to accomplish it.
I went home for lunch yesterday and turned on the game with the Mets still leading 1-0. I saw the bat and ball come at Oliver Perez and Pittsburgh but a runner on first. I saw David Wright leap for the ball of the bat of the pitcher and Jose Reyes try and throw him out, with neither being successful. I saw Perez mishandled a bunt, throw the ball away, and let the Pirates tie the score.
The amazing thing about this was Perez almost got out of this with the score tied. Then the wheels came off. After Perez gave up five unearned runs, which was a little deceiving, the bullpen did nothing to hold them. The Mets were not able to get the necessary offense and in the end, the Mets were not able to sweep the Pirates.
From a psychological point of view, it probably would have been easier to stomach the Mets losing a middle game of the series but winning the ones on either side. Of course, that eliminates any chance of a sweep.
I said coming into this stretch that I really felt the Mets needed, or should be able, to take five out of six games from the Pirates and Nationals. Yesterday’s loss has me a little disgusted but I am still hopeful of that and they certainly still have a real possibility to accomplish it.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
More Of The Same
Well, the Mets took the first two games from the Pirates and as I have been saying, this is what they have needed to do. It is great to see them on a roll as they have won three in a row, five of their last six games and since the All-Star break, they have won nine of 13. This certainly qualifies as an excellent start to the second half of the season.
It was great to see the Mets win yesterday. It was great that Tom Glavine picked up the win, win number 299. It is great that, barring the completed unexpected or irrational (which has happened to the Mets before), Glavine will win 300 (plus) games in his career.
Still, I reiterated what I have said before about Glavine and what I said yesterday about the Mets victory on Tuesday. While they won the game, and that is the key, there are still some things happening that should not be occurring. Pittsburgh does not have a great offense and after being spotted a six to nothing lead come the end of the third, Glavine let the Pirates get back into the game.
In the end, it did not matter but, Glavine let Pittsburgh score three runs in the sixth inning and cut the margin in half. The Pirates, who have a struggling offense, were back in the game. Glavine, who has been a dominate pitcher through his career was unable to slam the doors and had to settle for closing them quietly.
I grew up following baseball in a different generation but, Glavine’s ERA for the game was 4.5. A pitcher of Glavine’s stature should be able to do more. If this was just a rare occurrence this year, I probably would ignore it, but it has been happening quite a bit.
Still, there are many more positives. Aaron Heilman looked excellent coming out of the bullpen. Billy Wagner remains “Lights out”, tom Glavine did pick up win 299, and ultimately, and most importantly, the Mets won.
Here’s hoping that the broom which I took out of the closet this morning will be getting a workout this afternoon.
Let’s Go Mets!
It was great to see the Mets win yesterday. It was great that Tom Glavine picked up the win, win number 299. It is great that, barring the completed unexpected or irrational (which has happened to the Mets before), Glavine will win 300 (plus) games in his career.
Still, I reiterated what I have said before about Glavine and what I said yesterday about the Mets victory on Tuesday. While they won the game, and that is the key, there are still some things happening that should not be occurring. Pittsburgh does not have a great offense and after being spotted a six to nothing lead come the end of the third, Glavine let the Pirates get back into the game.
In the end, it did not matter but, Glavine let Pittsburgh score three runs in the sixth inning and cut the margin in half. The Pirates, who have a struggling offense, were back in the game. Glavine, who has been a dominate pitcher through his career was unable to slam the doors and had to settle for closing them quietly.
I grew up following baseball in a different generation but, Glavine’s ERA for the game was 4.5. A pitcher of Glavine’s stature should be able to do more. If this was just a rare occurrence this year, I probably would ignore it, but it has been happening quite a bit.
Still, there are many more positives. Aaron Heilman looked excellent coming out of the bullpen. Billy Wagner remains “Lights out”, tom Glavine did pick up win 299, and ultimately, and most importantly, the Mets won.
Here’s hoping that the broom which I took out of the closet this morning will be getting a workout this afternoon.
Let’s Go Mets!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
A Good Win
Yesterday’s victory came close to what I had hoped for. For the most part, both the hitting and pitching came through.
John Maine pitched well. There were a couple of things I did not like about his performance, but overall it was good. I did not care for the fact that Maine gave up a first inning run. I also did not care for the fact that Maine let them tie the score after the Mets had taken a lead. Still, he only gave up two runs and looked strong.
The hitting also came through for the Mets. I liked seeing the Mets come right back after Maine gave up a first inning run and not only score a run of their own, but take the lead. I was pleased that when Maine gave up his second run, again in the bottom of that very inning, the hitting came back and gave him a lead.
It is always nice to see a Met pitcher hit a homerun, so I enjoyed watching Maine circle the bases. I also liked seeing Lastings Milledge hit his homerun and I liked his performance overall. The Mets were able to score early and often in this game.
I was a little disappointed in the two run homerun the Mota gave up. In the grand scheme of things it was no big deal. Still, an 8 to 2 victory has a nicer ring to it than an 8 to 4 victory.
Overall, however, everything came together for the Mets as I hoped it would. I understand that this is just a series against the Pirates but, certainly the Mets need to take the games they should be able to, and that does not always happen. They took the opener of the series, let’s hope they can keep it going.
John Maine pitched well. There were a couple of things I did not like about his performance, but overall it was good. I did not care for the fact that Maine gave up a first inning run. I also did not care for the fact that Maine let them tie the score after the Mets had taken a lead. Still, he only gave up two runs and looked strong.
The hitting also came through for the Mets. I liked seeing the Mets come right back after Maine gave up a first inning run and not only score a run of their own, but take the lead. I was pleased that when Maine gave up his second run, again in the bottom of that very inning, the hitting came back and gave him a lead.
It is always nice to see a Met pitcher hit a homerun, so I enjoyed watching Maine circle the bases. I also liked seeing Lastings Milledge hit his homerun and I liked his performance overall. The Mets were able to score early and often in this game.
I was a little disappointed in the two run homerun the Mota gave up. In the grand scheme of things it was no big deal. Still, an 8 to 2 victory has a nicer ring to it than an 8 to 4 victory.
Overall, however, everything came together for the Mets as I hoped it would. I understand that this is just a series against the Pirates but, certainly the Mets need to take the games they should be able to, and that does not always happen. They took the opener of the series, let’s hope they can keep it going.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
An Easy Stretch
So the Mets are back home and the Pittsburgh Pirates are coming to town. The Mets also get the Washington Nationals on this home stand. It is nice that the Mets have a couple of easy teams, yet I am nervous. Teams that are not doing well can be extremely dangerous and even if they are not, the Mets need to make sure not to beat themselves.
As I see it, the Mets need to cement themselves in first place. They will have a tougher part of the schedule coming up after these two teams leave Shea Stadium. It would be nice to see them pad their lead. They should be able to take at least four of the six games against these teams. While four is acceptable, they really should be able to do better than that. Five is certainly feasible and even realistic and six, a sweep, would be ideal. Certainly the Mets are capable of sweeping all six of the games. That would be nice as I cannot remember the last time the Mets were on a six game winning streak. If the Mets come away with just a split, I will not be very happy. I might not even be happy with four of the games. Five will have me happy.
We have all seen it happen before. A team does well against the good teams they face but somehow they turn it down a notch and let the bad teams split series, or even win series. This is where the Mets have to crank it up. They need to have the pitching get going against these teams, the bullpen has to look dominant (although they came through big time in the last game at Los Angeles) and the hitters have to start hitting.
Once they get going against these teams, then hopefully they will be hot when they go to Milwaukee and Chicago, and come back home to take on the Braves. I believe they can do this, I just hope they will.
As I see it, the Mets need to cement themselves in first place. They will have a tougher part of the schedule coming up after these two teams leave Shea Stadium. It would be nice to see them pad their lead. They should be able to take at least four of the six games against these teams. While four is acceptable, they really should be able to do better than that. Five is certainly feasible and even realistic and six, a sweep, would be ideal. Certainly the Mets are capable of sweeping all six of the games. That would be nice as I cannot remember the last time the Mets were on a six game winning streak. If the Mets come away with just a split, I will not be very happy. I might not even be happy with four of the games. Five will have me happy.
We have all seen it happen before. A team does well against the good teams they face but somehow they turn it down a notch and let the bad teams split series, or even win series. This is where the Mets have to crank it up. They need to have the pitching get going against these teams, the bullpen has to look dominant (although they came through big time in the last game at Los Angeles) and the hitters have to start hitting.
Once they get going against these teams, then hopefully they will be hot when they go to Milwaukee and Chicago, and come back home to take on the Braves. I believe they can do this, I just hope they will.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Pitching and Bonds
Well, the Mets get an off day today after a good road trip. Now it is time to think about trades. A friend of mine asked me not that long ago if I would trade Lastings Milledge for a quality arm—he mentioned Dontrell Willis and, I think, Mark Buehrle. My answer at the time, and still is, yes.
I realize that Milledge has a bright future ahead of him. Still, with Carlos Gomez and others, they appear to be in good shape for the future, hittingwise. It is the pitching, even with Pedro coming back, that worries me. This is Glavine’s last year. Who knows how old El Duque is, or if he can be relied upon. Maine, although looking good, is unproven and has not yet been the dominating force he was earlier in the year. Sosa, after getting off to a strong start, has been struggling.
The list goes on and on as to why the Mets should get a front of the order pitcher. Of course those guys are hard to come by. Buehrle has resigned with the Whitesox, Willis has never officially been on the trading block, etc. Still, I believe that are some good, young starting arms that are available.
The Mets need to make sure they are not in the rent-an-arm mentality. If they get someone who is headed for free agency next year, they have to sign him before the filing deadline. But, they need to get a good arm.
The other thought that is consuming me right now has nothing to do with the Mets, but it has everything to do with our commissioner of baseball. Bud Selig is still showing no guts and refuses to tell us if he will be in attendance when Barry Bonds breaks the homerun record. First of all, Selig should make his intentions known. Secondly, as long as baseball is defining this as a legitimate record, or at least for the time being as legitimate, Selig needs to be there. Anything else is just disgusitng on his part.
I heard Cal Ripken Jr. on a talk show and he indicated that when a player breaks a record it gives everyone a chance to celebrate the record of the new owner as well as the opportunity to celebrate the career of the man who holds the record. I agree and using this approach, even if Selig, or baseball, does not acknowledge Bonds’ record, they can still celebrate the record of the predecessor.
I realize that Milledge has a bright future ahead of him. Still, with Carlos Gomez and others, they appear to be in good shape for the future, hittingwise. It is the pitching, even with Pedro coming back, that worries me. This is Glavine’s last year. Who knows how old El Duque is, or if he can be relied upon. Maine, although looking good, is unproven and has not yet been the dominating force he was earlier in the year. Sosa, after getting off to a strong start, has been struggling.
The list goes on and on as to why the Mets should get a front of the order pitcher. Of course those guys are hard to come by. Buehrle has resigned with the Whitesox, Willis has never officially been on the trading block, etc. Still, I believe that are some good, young starting arms that are available.
The Mets need to make sure they are not in the rent-an-arm mentality. If they get someone who is headed for free agency next year, they have to sign him before the filing deadline. But, they need to get a good arm.
The other thought that is consuming me right now has nothing to do with the Mets, but it has everything to do with our commissioner of baseball. Bud Selig is still showing no guts and refuses to tell us if he will be in attendance when Barry Bonds breaks the homerun record. First of all, Selig should make his intentions known. Secondly, as long as baseball is defining this as a legitimate record, or at least for the time being as legitimate, Selig needs to be there. Anything else is just disgusitng on his part.
I heard Cal Ripken Jr. on a talk show and he indicated that when a player breaks a record it gives everyone a chance to celebrate the record of the new owner as well as the opportunity to celebrate the career of the man who holds the record. I agree and using this approach, even if Selig, or baseball, does not acknowledge Bonds’ record, they can still celebrate the record of the predecessor.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
An Ugly Win
Yesterday I incorrectly stated that the Mets had taken two out of three from the San Diego Padres on this road trip. Actually, they lost two of three. While I would have liked them to take both series, they did have a good road trip out west, and that is not easy for them to do.
Today’s game against the Dodgers was just one where I never felt comfortable, where so much of what they did was wrong, and yet they still walked away with a victory. In the end, all that will mater in the standings is, it was a win. Still, this game, as far as I’m concerned, was ugly.
The Mets early on looked like they were hitting the ball but not getting anything for it. Still, this is a pitcher they should have been able to handle. Growing up, it always felt like a struggling pitcher would always manage to get things going against, the Mets. That was how yesterday’s game felt. Still, they did eventually tie up the score in the sixth inning with a couple of runs. What happens? Orlando Hernandez gives the lead right back. Those were two ugly things right there; not being able to do anything with Eric Stultz and Hernandez giving the lead back immediately after the Mets tying the score.
Certainly the Mets did some things right as the scratched out runs in the eighth and ninth innings to tie and a run in the tenth to win it. But, even that was not easy. Billy Wagner has been lights out this year, yet even he picked up a save the hard way, the ugly way. In fairness, he did pick Juan Pierre off first base but Shawn Green dropped the ball and Pierre was safe at second. Intentionally walking Jeff Kent, putting the winning run on base, was another ugly move. Still, in the end, despite all the ugliness, the Mets came away with a win. In the end, the Mets came away with a four and three record on the road trip and are seven and four since the All-Star break. Hopefully, they will keep the roll going.
Today’s game against the Dodgers was just one where I never felt comfortable, where so much of what they did was wrong, and yet they still walked away with a victory. In the end, all that will mater in the standings is, it was a win. Still, this game, as far as I’m concerned, was ugly.
The Mets early on looked like they were hitting the ball but not getting anything for it. Still, this is a pitcher they should have been able to handle. Growing up, it always felt like a struggling pitcher would always manage to get things going against, the Mets. That was how yesterday’s game felt. Still, they did eventually tie up the score in the sixth inning with a couple of runs. What happens? Orlando Hernandez gives the lead right back. Those were two ugly things right there; not being able to do anything with Eric Stultz and Hernandez giving the lead back immediately after the Mets tying the score.
Certainly the Mets did some things right as the scratched out runs in the eighth and ninth innings to tie and a run in the tenth to win it. But, even that was not easy. Billy Wagner has been lights out this year, yet even he picked up a save the hard way, the ugly way. In fairness, he did pick Juan Pierre off first base but Shawn Green dropped the ball and Pierre was safe at second. Intentionally walking Jeff Kent, putting the winning run on base, was another ugly move. Still, in the end, despite all the ugliness, the Mets came away with a win. In the end, the Mets came away with a four and three record on the road trip and are seven and four since the All-Star break. Hopefully, they will keep the roll going.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
A Good Road Trip
It looks like the Mets are starting to get on that roll I have been talking about since I started this blog; the roll I have been waiting to see, along with most Met fans. Following the All-Star break the Mets took three of four from the Reds. While that may not be a big accomplishment, I have seen many contenders lose out on first place because they could not handle the last place teams. Following the Reds, the Mets took two out of three from the Padres. It may not have been pretty, but they did it. Now, they will have, at the worst, a split with the Dodgers. With the Padres and Dodgers could well be in post season play.
Since moving on to play the Dodgers, the Mets have looked like a stronger team. Thursday’s game showed their ability to continually score. As for Friday, I would have liked it if the Mets could have handled Tomko, because they should have been able. Still, the pitching held them in the game and some late inning runs gave them the victory. This is another way they were able to win last year.
I do feel sorry for Valentin as he has had some bad luck this season. As someone who believes in being loyal to those who help you out, I do feel a certain amount of loyalty to Valentin. Still, in terms of the Mets as a team, Rueben Gotay had been getting a lot of the playing time. He still needs some work, but he certainly looks like the future. One could actually argue that Gotay cost them today’s game as not turning the double play late in the game led to two runs scoring for the Dodgers, the two that made the difference in the game. Still, I admire the way Gotay plays.
Beyond Gotay, there is Damion Easley. He has been good off the bench and has looked pretty good in some of his starts this year. Also, while Marlon Anderson is now considered an outfielder, when he played with the Mets previously, he played second base. I do not know if he still is able to do it, but it might be another option.
Even today’s loss does not have me too disappointed. As I indicated, the worst they could do is split a four game set with the Dodgers. That means they win four out of seven on the west coast against two strong teams.
Let’s Go METS!
Since moving on to play the Dodgers, the Mets have looked like a stronger team. Thursday’s game showed their ability to continually score. As for Friday, I would have liked it if the Mets could have handled Tomko, because they should have been able. Still, the pitching held them in the game and some late inning runs gave them the victory. This is another way they were able to win last year.
I do feel sorry for Valentin as he has had some bad luck this season. As someone who believes in being loyal to those who help you out, I do feel a certain amount of loyalty to Valentin. Still, in terms of the Mets as a team, Rueben Gotay had been getting a lot of the playing time. He still needs some work, but he certainly looks like the future. One could actually argue that Gotay cost them today’s game as not turning the double play late in the game led to two runs scoring for the Dodgers, the two that made the difference in the game. Still, I admire the way Gotay plays.
Beyond Gotay, there is Damion Easley. He has been good off the bench and has looked pretty good in some of his starts this year. Also, while Marlon Anderson is now considered an outfielder, when he played with the Mets previously, he played second base. I do not know if he still is able to do it, but it might be another option.
Even today’s loss does not have me too disappointed. As I indicated, the worst they could do is split a four game set with the Dodgers. That means they win four out of seven on the west coast against two strong teams.
Let’s Go METS!
Friday, July 20, 2007
Way To Go Willie
Well, the Mets finally won a game where their starting pitching game up more than three runs. It had been over two months, as pointed out, by their announcers. Yesterday, the bats woke up and again, they showed signs of the way things were last year.
The Mets scored early, but they kept scoring. This was a game in which they always had the lead and even though Glavine did not pitch well, you had a feeling the Mets would win.
Actually, I have to compliment Willie Randolph on a decision he made yesterday. I remember thinking after the second inning, when Glavine allowed the Dodgers to pull within two, making six to four, as he gave up four runs in just two innings, that if Randolph had any guts, he would pull Glavine out of the game, despite the fact he was going for his 299 win. Yes it would be nice to see Glavine hit 300, but the first concern has to be with winning.
I then needed to do some things and when I came back to the game, Aaron Sele was on the mound. I had no idea when or why Randolph pulled him. I was not sure if Glavine had stayed in long enough to get the win. Turns out, Randolph just knew Glavine did not have anything yesterday and he pulled him early. Had Glavine stayed in, do I think the Mets still would have won? Probably! But, it was not the time to leave him in.
I was and am a little disappointed. Glavine had that great start last time out, but now went back to his old ways. As soon as he is given a lead, he gives at least part of it back. It is very frustrating. Still, they won the game. Hopefully they will win tonight as well.
The Mets scored early, but they kept scoring. This was a game in which they always had the lead and even though Glavine did not pitch well, you had a feeling the Mets would win.
Actually, I have to compliment Willie Randolph on a decision he made yesterday. I remember thinking after the second inning, when Glavine allowed the Dodgers to pull within two, making six to four, as he gave up four runs in just two innings, that if Randolph had any guts, he would pull Glavine out of the game, despite the fact he was going for his 299 win. Yes it would be nice to see Glavine hit 300, but the first concern has to be with winning.
I then needed to do some things and when I came back to the game, Aaron Sele was on the mound. I had no idea when or why Randolph pulled him. I was not sure if Glavine had stayed in long enough to get the win. Turns out, Randolph just knew Glavine did not have anything yesterday and he pulled him early. Had Glavine stayed in, do I think the Mets still would have won? Probably! But, it was not the time to leave him in.
I was and am a little disappointed. Glavine had that great start last time out, but now went back to his old ways. As soon as he is given a lead, he gives at least part of it back. It is very frustrating. Still, they won the game. Hopefully they will win tonight as well.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
A Come From Behind Loss
Well, it looked as though the Mets were showing signs of returning to last years form. After being dominated for most of the game, after being dominated by Greg Maddux and unable to do anything with him for the first half of the game, the Mets finally came through.
They were down 4-1, when they finally put something together. David Wright’s eighth inning homerun, coupled with the good victory the Mets had the previous night, had me counting my chickens before they hatched. Then, unfortunately, reality set in.
This is not last year’s team, I was counting my chickens before they hatched and what’s the big deal about momentum anyway. Joe Smith, who has looked excellent and looked like he belonged in the Major Leagues, gave up a run in the bottom of the eighth. So much for holding the lead, even for just one inning.
With that eighth inning run scored by the Padres, any hope of the Mets winning, and momentum the Mets had, was gone. The Padres went on to win the game and this Met fan, and I’m sure countless other ones, went to bed frustrated.
I think Ron Darling and Gary Cohen said it best when they said last year, when the Mets were losing late in the game, you often had the feeling they would pull it out. This year, while they certainly can, you don’t have that comfortable feeling, you don’t feel like it really will happen.
I hope I get that feeling back and that the Mets give me reason to get the feeling back
They were down 4-1, when they finally put something together. David Wright’s eighth inning homerun, coupled with the good victory the Mets had the previous night, had me counting my chickens before they hatched. Then, unfortunately, reality set in.
This is not last year’s team, I was counting my chickens before they hatched and what’s the big deal about momentum anyway. Joe Smith, who has looked excellent and looked like he belonged in the Major Leagues, gave up a run in the bottom of the eighth. So much for holding the lead, even for just one inning.
With that eighth inning run scored by the Padres, any hope of the Mets winning, and momentum the Mets had, was gone. The Padres went on to win the game and this Met fan, and I’m sure countless other ones, went to bed frustrated.
I think Ron Darling and Gary Cohen said it best when they said last year, when the Mets were losing late in the game, you often had the feeling they would pull it out. This year, while they certainly can, you don’t have that comfortable feeling, you don’t feel like it really will happen.
I hope I get that feeling back and that the Mets give me reason to get the feeling back
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
A Stolen Base
It was great to finally see all aspects of a baseball game come together for the Mets. Yesterday’s game featured some timely hitting, a number of runs and a good pitching performance. El Duque looked sharp in the game and was definitely on top of it.
What was most enjoyable, for me, as a fan, was watching Orlando Hernandez at bat and on the bases. I have certainly seen pitchers get their share of hits, and I have even seen some pitchers occasionally steal a base. It was fun, however, to see the stolen base.
I do have mixed reactions about it though. It is fun watching pitchers who take pride in their batting. Some pitchers work on hitting. In the National League, the pitchers should not just figure on giving up and being an automatic out. They are one of the nine players in the lineup and when the pitcher is up, or on the base, the pitcher needs to play as a hitter.
The other side, however, is the pitcher is paid to pitch. You do not want to see a pitcher get injured, or even exhaust himself on the bases. The pitcher needs to keep himself healthy.
Based on that comment, it might sound like I support the Designated Hitter rule. I DO NOT! The fact is pitchers should take pride in all aspects of the game. The fact is, there is so much more strategy when the pitcher hits and for me, as a fan, the game is so much more enjoyable.
I am glad I got to see El Duque hit. I am glad I got to see the stolen base.
All in all, it was a fun game to watch and I was glad to see all aspects of the Mets’ game come together.
What was most enjoyable, for me, as a fan, was watching Orlando Hernandez at bat and on the bases. I have certainly seen pitchers get their share of hits, and I have even seen some pitchers occasionally steal a base. It was fun, however, to see the stolen base.
I do have mixed reactions about it though. It is fun watching pitchers who take pride in their batting. Some pitchers work on hitting. In the National League, the pitchers should not just figure on giving up and being an automatic out. They are one of the nine players in the lineup and when the pitcher is up, or on the base, the pitcher needs to play as a hitter.
The other side, however, is the pitcher is paid to pitch. You do not want to see a pitcher get injured, or even exhaust himself on the bases. The pitcher needs to keep himself healthy.
Based on that comment, it might sound like I support the Designated Hitter rule. I DO NOT! The fact is pitchers should take pride in all aspects of the game. The fact is, there is so much more strategy when the pitcher hits and for me, as a fan, the game is so much more enjoyable.
I am glad I got to see El Duque hit. I am glad I got to see the stolen base.
All in all, it was a fun game to watch and I was glad to see all aspects of the Mets’ game come together.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
The West Coast
As the Mets start another West Coast swing, I think back to when I was a child, following them, having to listen to most ballgames on radio. I hated West Coast trips. I used to stay up until 10 or 11 at night for the start of the game (at that time, and 8PM start was not unusual). I would force myself to stay up, sometimes stretched out on the floor, sometimes doing homework while listening, but always listening.
It always seemed to happen that when they were on the West Coast, they would play long, extra inning games. I remember saying that I would stay up until a certain inning, lets say the 15th, and if it was still tied, I would turn the radio off and go to sleep. That was what would usually happen, it would 2:30AM and the score would be tied after 15 innings. I would finally turn the radio off and go to sleep.
Invariably, I would wake up the next morning, or technically that morning, and turn on the radio, yes, in part to get a final score if I could, but more importantly to see if the game was still going on because the tie had not been broken. It never happened that when I work up around 7AM that the game was still going on. Of course, at this time, I was not always able to even get a final score. Yes the West Coast could be very frustrating.
Yesterday, I actually was awake well past the end of the game. I had a number of things to do, so actually at times, I did not even have the game on, other times it was just background noise. Yes, there were some innings I followed, but not all. I guess I have come a long way.
As for the game itself, the Mets have still have a winning record since the All-Star break and that is good. Unfortunately, they have not looked like the dominant team they are in any of these games (well, maybe one). Yesterday, once again, they had their chances and failed to capitalize. These are the games I would like to see them win because these could well be the teams they will be playing in post season. Well, right now, all I can do is watch and cheer for them, and that is just what I am doing.
Let’s Go Mets!
It always seemed to happen that when they were on the West Coast, they would play long, extra inning games. I remember saying that I would stay up until a certain inning, lets say the 15th, and if it was still tied, I would turn the radio off and go to sleep. That was what would usually happen, it would 2:30AM and the score would be tied after 15 innings. I would finally turn the radio off and go to sleep.
Invariably, I would wake up the next morning, or technically that morning, and turn on the radio, yes, in part to get a final score if I could, but more importantly to see if the game was still going on because the tie had not been broken. It never happened that when I work up around 7AM that the game was still going on. Of course, at this time, I was not always able to even get a final score. Yes the West Coast could be very frustrating.
Yesterday, I actually was awake well past the end of the game. I had a number of things to do, so actually at times, I did not even have the game on, other times it was just background noise. Yes, there were some innings I followed, but not all. I guess I have come a long way.
As for the game itself, the Mets have still have a winning record since the All-Star break and that is good. Unfortunately, they have not looked like the dominant team they are in any of these games (well, maybe one). Yesterday, once again, they had their chances and failed to capitalize. These are the games I would like to see them win because these could well be the teams they will be playing in post season. Well, right now, all I can do is watch and cheer for them, and that is just what I am doing.
Let’s Go Mets!
Monday, July 16, 2007
Ralph Kiner Day
It was a nice tribute to Ralph Kiner over the weekend. Being a Met fan for over 30 years, I grew up with him. He used to be my favorite announcer, when I was a child. As I got older, I realized some of his shortcomings as an announcer, yet I still enjoyed listening to Ralph.
I always loved watching Kiner’s Korner. Nowadays it is commonplace to hear players conduct live interviews right after a game, but growing up, it did not occur frequently. Kiner’s Korner was great for this and Ralph actually did a masterful job.
It was also a treat seeing some of the people who were on hand for the ceremonies. It was fun trying to see who I recognized and who I did not. It was fun seeing if I could guess the ‘identity’ of the next guest, as they gave us information about that person, before they announced the name. The following are just some random thoughts about some of those on hand:
Ed Kranepool—I grew up with him but when did he get so old? I never would have guessed his identity just by looking at him. Still, when they talked about an original Met, playing his entire career with the Mets and a first baseman, I knew just who it was.
Joe Pignatano—It was just interesting and even a little fun hearing the name of one of the coaches who was with the Mets when I first started following (The others I remember were Rube Walker as the pitching coach, Roy McMillan at first and Edie Yost at third).
Rusty Staub—I thought he looked excellent.
Tom Seaver—When did he get so fat?
Jerry Koosman—He was my favorite Met growing up. When they talked about winning games two and five of the 1969 World Series, I knew immediately who it was. Koosman, however, was another one I would not have recognized just by sight.
All in all, it was fun to relive some of the Met memories of my childhood.
I always loved watching Kiner’s Korner. Nowadays it is commonplace to hear players conduct live interviews right after a game, but growing up, it did not occur frequently. Kiner’s Korner was great for this and Ralph actually did a masterful job.
It was also a treat seeing some of the people who were on hand for the ceremonies. It was fun trying to see who I recognized and who I did not. It was fun seeing if I could guess the ‘identity’ of the next guest, as they gave us information about that person, before they announced the name. The following are just some random thoughts about some of those on hand:
Ed Kranepool—I grew up with him but when did he get so old? I never would have guessed his identity just by looking at him. Still, when they talked about an original Met, playing his entire career with the Mets and a first baseman, I knew just who it was.
Joe Pignatano—It was just interesting and even a little fun hearing the name of one of the coaches who was with the Mets when I first started following (The others I remember were Rube Walker as the pitching coach, Roy McMillan at first and Edie Yost at third).
Rusty Staub—I thought he looked excellent.
Tom Seaver—When did he get so fat?
Jerry Koosman—He was my favorite Met growing up. When they talked about winning games two and five of the 1969 World Series, I knew immediately who it was. Koosman, however, was another one I would not have recognized just by sight.
All in all, it was fun to relive some of the Met memories of my childhood.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
A Good Weekend
It is nice to see the Mets take a series win, even if it is against the Cincinnati Reds. I was talking to a friend this weekend, a fellow Met fan, and I said the Mets need to do something.
He responded, “They just did. They got rid of a coach, hired HoJo as the new hitting coach, released Franco and brought up Milledge. What more do you want them to do?”
Well, the answer is, I’d like to see them go on a tear and assert themselves as the dominant team in the National League again this year. Still, perhaps I am becoming too impatient of a fan. They did make some moves. Milledge is doing well and the Mets are winning, at least for now.
On Saturday, the hitting looked a bit flat as they had numerous opportunities but just could not get that big hit. It looked like Tom Glavine might take the loss, or at best have a no decision, despite pitching a great game. I wrote an entry not too long ago about Glavine and questioned if he had anything left. Yesterday he showed that he still could be the dominant pitcher he was in Atlanta. That was perhaps the best game, or certainly one of them, he has thrown in a Met uniform.
Sunday the hitting finally came through. They scored a few run and having Oliver Perez back gives them a boost. It is amazing to see myself type that last sentence. During spring training I questioned why the higher-ups on the Mets assumed Perez would be in the rotation, given his history. Still, this year, he has looked great.
I am a little concerned about a statistic that was announced over the weekend. When Met announcers indicated that no Met starter has given up more than three runs and walked away with a victory since Mid May, I found that shocking and disappointing. While taking three out of four from the Reds in this series, that stat has not changed, but they did win three of them and winning is the bottom line. All in all, it was a good weekend series for the Mets.
He responded, “They just did. They got rid of a coach, hired HoJo as the new hitting coach, released Franco and brought up Milledge. What more do you want them to do?”
Well, the answer is, I’d like to see them go on a tear and assert themselves as the dominant team in the National League again this year. Still, perhaps I am becoming too impatient of a fan. They did make some moves. Milledge is doing well and the Mets are winning, at least for now.
On Saturday, the hitting looked a bit flat as they had numerous opportunities but just could not get that big hit. It looked like Tom Glavine might take the loss, or at best have a no decision, despite pitching a great game. I wrote an entry not too long ago about Glavine and questioned if he had anything left. Yesterday he showed that he still could be the dominant pitcher he was in Atlanta. That was perhaps the best game, or certainly one of them, he has thrown in a Met uniform.
Sunday the hitting finally came through. They scored a few run and having Oliver Perez back gives them a boost. It is amazing to see myself type that last sentence. During spring training I questioned why the higher-ups on the Mets assumed Perez would be in the rotation, given his history. Still, this year, he has looked great.
I am a little concerned about a statistic that was announced over the weekend. When Met announcers indicated that no Met starter has given up more than three runs and walked away with a victory since Mid May, I found that shocking and disappointing. While taking three out of four from the Reds in this series, that stat has not changed, but they did win three of them and winning is the bottom line. All in all, it was a good weekend series for the Mets.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Here We Go Again
After looking good in the first game back from the All-Star break, the Mets once again looked flat. Are we in for a 500 second half, or lower?
I understand that Aaron Harang came into the game with a nine and 2 record on a last place team. Still, the Reds are in last place, and the Mets are in first and the Mets need to make a statement. Yesterday they didn’t, or if they did, it was not a positive statement.
Following a great first half, a first half that many said proved John Maine should have been in the All-Star game, yesterday he showed why he should not. Four runs in the first inning, coming in on a grand slam is not a good way to start. The bullpen was not able to shut down the Reds offense either.
The Mets did score four runs, but the game never was close and once again, the Mets lacked the timely hit. They had their chances and could not take advantage (against a last place team, a team whose bullpen has been awful).
It is of course only one loss, but it starts again a pattern of win one, lose one. It is only one loss and the Mets are still in first place but the Atlanta Braves are moving closer, only 1.5 games out. It is only one loss but it renews a pattern of what happened through a good portion of the first half. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the Mets need to go on a tear and just dominate their opponents. I have been waiting for that to happen for quite a while and unfortunately I continue to wait because thus far, it has not occurred.
I understand that Aaron Harang came into the game with a nine and 2 record on a last place team. Still, the Reds are in last place, and the Mets are in first and the Mets need to make a statement. Yesterday they didn’t, or if they did, it was not a positive statement.
Following a great first half, a first half that many said proved John Maine should have been in the All-Star game, yesterday he showed why he should not. Four runs in the first inning, coming in on a grand slam is not a good way to start. The bullpen was not able to shut down the Reds offense either.
The Mets did score four runs, but the game never was close and once again, the Mets lacked the timely hit. They had their chances and could not take advantage (against a last place team, a team whose bullpen has been awful).
It is of course only one loss, but it starts again a pattern of win one, lose one. It is only one loss and the Mets are still in first place but the Atlanta Braves are moving closer, only 1.5 games out. It is only one loss but it renews a pattern of what happened through a good portion of the first half. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the Mets need to go on a tear and just dominate their opponents. I have been waiting for that to happen for quite a while and unfortunately I continue to wait because thus far, it has not occurred.
Friday, July 13, 2007
A Good Beginning
What a way to start following the All-Star break. First off, it was a nice way to start the game, leading off with back to back homeruns. It is hard to imagine that it is the first time in franchise history that this has occurred. They have had some good players in the one and two holes over the years (as well as some not so good ones).
Of course, in the past, the leadoff hitter and the number two hitter were not thought of as power hitters (although there have always been some exceptions). Still, with certain players I would have thought it occurred before.
It was not just the start of the game but other factors too that made this a great start. Starting the second half of the season, the starting pitching was good, relief pitching was good, and despite his performance in the All-Star game, Billy Wagner closed it out nicely. In addition, the Mets had some timely hitting.
It is true they had a couple of opportunities to break the game open and they did not, but still, all in all, it was a good game and a positive way to start after the break. I realize Cincinnati is a last place team and that this was just one game, but hopefully they will continue to take care of the Reds and the rest on the National League and in order to capture the division, it is important to play well against the poor teams as well as the good teams.
Let us see if they can continue.
Of course, in the past, the leadoff hitter and the number two hitter were not thought of as power hitters (although there have always been some exceptions). Still, with certain players I would have thought it occurred before.
It was not just the start of the game but other factors too that made this a great start. Starting the second half of the season, the starting pitching was good, relief pitching was good, and despite his performance in the All-Star game, Billy Wagner closed it out nicely. In addition, the Mets had some timely hitting.
It is true they had a couple of opportunities to break the game open and they did not, but still, all in all, it was a good game and a positive way to start after the break. I realize Cincinnati is a last place team and that this was just one game, but hopefully they will continue to take care of the Reds and the rest on the National League and in order to capture the division, it is important to play well against the poor teams as well as the good teams.
Let us see if they can continue.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Day-Night Doubleheaders-- YUCK!
As we get set to start the second half of the season, I find myself thinking back to a game at the end of the first half. Well, it actually was not one game, it was two games—the day, night doubleheader the Mets played against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Let me be clear on this. I HATE the idea of day-night double headers. The idea of a doubleheader used to be a reward to the fans, like going to a double feature. You pay one fair and get twice the value. These games used to be big during holidays when many people had the day off from work. You would relax with an afternoon doubleheader since you had all this free time.
Now baseball has become to much of a money grubbing industry. First they pretty much did away with doubleheaders. Why give fans two games for the price of one when you could get the money for both games. I believe a couple of rainouts one season forced a need for a doubleheader. Still, instead of going back to the way things used to be, they decided to play two games in one day but charge admission for both. So the fans come in for a day game and when it is over, the leave. Then fans come in for a night game, different fans, and they pay for that night game. Where is the justice to the baseball fans?
It is not only the baseball fans who are treated unfairly by this approach, the players are as well. I’m surprised the players union, for as powerful as it is, hasn’t done anything. I do not mind working day shifts as I have the evenings free. I do not mind working evening shifts, as I have the day free. I hate working split shifts. Either a stay in the office during the downtime, I leave and come back. Even if I opt for the later, I am still not able to do much. Both my morning and evening are taken up and I am not comfortable running errands in between for fear I will not be done in time.
The day-night doubleheader is a terrible idea and I hope baseball does away with it soon.
Let me be clear on this. I HATE the idea of day-night double headers. The idea of a doubleheader used to be a reward to the fans, like going to a double feature. You pay one fair and get twice the value. These games used to be big during holidays when many people had the day off from work. You would relax with an afternoon doubleheader since you had all this free time.
Now baseball has become to much of a money grubbing industry. First they pretty much did away with doubleheaders. Why give fans two games for the price of one when you could get the money for both games. I believe a couple of rainouts one season forced a need for a doubleheader. Still, instead of going back to the way things used to be, they decided to play two games in one day but charge admission for both. So the fans come in for a day game and when it is over, the leave. Then fans come in for a night game, different fans, and they pay for that night game. Where is the justice to the baseball fans?
It is not only the baseball fans who are treated unfairly by this approach, the players are as well. I’m surprised the players union, for as powerful as it is, hasn’t done anything. I do not mind working day shifts as I have the evenings free. I do not mind working evening shifts, as I have the day free. I hate working split shifts. Either a stay in the office during the downtime, I leave and come back. Even if I opt for the later, I am still not able to do much. Both my morning and evening are taken up and I am not comfortable running errands in between for fear I will not be done in time.
The day-night doubleheader is a terrible idea and I hope baseball does away with it soon.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
The Met All-Stars
Well, the All-Star game is history. The NL lost again, keeping the AL’s winning streak alive. And, the Mets who played get mixed grades.
Obviously Jose Reyes gets the highest mark. Going three for four was great. Stealing second base in the first inning and basically manufacturing a run for the National League helped to show everyone of just what this extremely talented ballplayer is capable. The man made some nice plays in the field and proved why many consider him the future of the Mets.
Neither David Wright nor Carlos Beltran had as good of a game as they did last year but both still played admirably. Each of those players had a hit and certainly contributed and it was fun seeing them in the game.
That brings us to Billy Wagner. The man who has been consistent for the Mets all season just was not at his best. He gave up a two run homerun. At the time it seemingly was not that devastating as the NL was losing by a run. Still, I think most people feel that a run can be overcome but a three run lead late in the game is much more troubling. Those two runs Wagner let in actually made the difference in the game. Had he kept them scoreless, the two runs the NL scored in the bottom of the ninth inning would have given them the lead.
While I would have liked Billy Wagner to pitch well, this was not a blown save, nor do I believe a blown hold. During the regular season Wagner has been near perfect. Most of his saves have not become as adventurous as some were last year. While I would have liked Wagner to pitch better in the All-Star game, I am much more concerned that he pitches well during the regular season, and thus far he has done just that.
As we begin the second half, the only way to end this post is by shouting, “LET’S GO METS!!!”
Obviously Jose Reyes gets the highest mark. Going three for four was great. Stealing second base in the first inning and basically manufacturing a run for the National League helped to show everyone of just what this extremely talented ballplayer is capable. The man made some nice plays in the field and proved why many consider him the future of the Mets.
Neither David Wright nor Carlos Beltran had as good of a game as they did last year but both still played admirably. Each of those players had a hit and certainly contributed and it was fun seeing them in the game.
That brings us to Billy Wagner. The man who has been consistent for the Mets all season just was not at his best. He gave up a two run homerun. At the time it seemingly was not that devastating as the NL was losing by a run. Still, I think most people feel that a run can be overcome but a three run lead late in the game is much more troubling. Those two runs Wagner let in actually made the difference in the game. Had he kept them scoreless, the two runs the NL scored in the bottom of the ninth inning would have given them the lead.
While I would have liked Billy Wagner to pitch well, this was not a blown save, nor do I believe a blown hold. During the regular season Wagner has been near perfect. Most of his saves have not become as adventurous as some were last year. While I would have liked Wagner to pitch better in the All-Star game, I am much more concerned that he pitches well during the regular season, and thus far he has done just that.
As we begin the second half, the only way to end this post is by shouting, “LET’S GO METS!!!”
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Home Field Advantage?
So the All-Star game is here. The players the fans want to see, the players the managers picked, the players the other players picked and at least one representative from each team. I am excited.
The one thing I dislike about the game is that it is played for home field advantage for the World Series. This is supposed to be an exhibition game, not mean anything, but that is not the case. The truth is, however, we fans are responsible for this change, we have no one to blame but ourselves.
The change occurred a few years ago when a game ended in a tie because all the pitchers were used up. On the one hand, if managers did not believe in bringing in pitchers to pitch to one batter, or even pitch for just one inning, then this would not have been an issue. I hate the way the game has changed over the years, how in a low scoring game, you still see games where a total of six pitchers or more were used. On the other hand, what is so terrible about a game ending in a tie? Every player got into the game. The fans got to see a good game, if memory serves correctly, an extra inning game, and got to see their favorites play. Why then did the fans boo when it was announced they were calling the game a draw? Why was there a protest?
The Commissioner of Baseball, Bud Selig, needed to address the displeasure of the fans. He came up with something that forced both sides to play the game as if it meant something, which it does. I do not fault baseball, or Bud Selig. It is the fans who are to blame for this change. Hopefully, we’ll learn from this.
As for the break, hopefully it will allow the Mets to recharge their batteries and come out of the starting gate strong, following the break.
The one thing I dislike about the game is that it is played for home field advantage for the World Series. This is supposed to be an exhibition game, not mean anything, but that is not the case. The truth is, however, we fans are responsible for this change, we have no one to blame but ourselves.
The change occurred a few years ago when a game ended in a tie because all the pitchers were used up. On the one hand, if managers did not believe in bringing in pitchers to pitch to one batter, or even pitch for just one inning, then this would not have been an issue. I hate the way the game has changed over the years, how in a low scoring game, you still see games where a total of six pitchers or more were used. On the other hand, what is so terrible about a game ending in a tie? Every player got into the game. The fans got to see a good game, if memory serves correctly, an extra inning game, and got to see their favorites play. Why then did the fans boo when it was announced they were calling the game a draw? Why was there a protest?
The Commissioner of Baseball, Bud Selig, needed to address the displeasure of the fans. He came up with something that forced both sides to play the game as if it meant something, which it does. I do not fault baseball, or Bud Selig. It is the fans who are to blame for this change. Hopefully, we’ll learn from this.
As for the break, hopefully it will allow the Mets to recharge their batteries and come out of the starting gate strong, following the break.
Monday, July 9, 2007
All-Star Break Time
Well, the all-star game is here and there are a number of thoughts running through my head. First, I am pleased the Mets are in first place in the NL east at the break. Second, I am disappointed they have not been as dominate a team as I had hoped they would be.
In terms of the all-star game itself, I am pleased that three Mets will be starting. I am very curious to see how Jose Reyes will do. If Wright and Beltran come through like they did last year and Billy Wagner gets to come in late in the game, perhaps the NL can finally win one of these. Growing up, it was the AL who never could win, now the tables have been turned.
In a non-related Met thought about the all-star game, I am actually pleased to see Barry Bonds starting. I know all about the whole steroid controversy, but Bonds is a great player. With the game in San Francisco this year, it is fitting for him to be in the game. The fact that he is starting is even more fitting. In terms of the whole steroids controversy, I think Cal Ripkin Jr. put it best when he said even if you do not like the man, having him break the record still gives you a chance to celebrate the actual record itself and the accomplishments of the Hank Aaron, the man who’s record will ultimately be beat.
I still do not like the fact that this is not a purely exhibition game, that home field advantage for the World Series rests on the outcome. Still, I am looking forward to the game and hope it is a good one.
In terms of the all-star game itself, I am pleased that three Mets will be starting. I am very curious to see how Jose Reyes will do. If Wright and Beltran come through like they did last year and Billy Wagner gets to come in late in the game, perhaps the NL can finally win one of these. Growing up, it was the AL who never could win, now the tables have been turned.
In a non-related Met thought about the all-star game, I am actually pleased to see Barry Bonds starting. I know all about the whole steroid controversy, but Bonds is a great player. With the game in San Francisco this year, it is fitting for him to be in the game. The fact that he is starting is even more fitting. In terms of the whole steroids controversy, I think Cal Ripkin Jr. put it best when he said even if you do not like the man, having him break the record still gives you a chance to celebrate the actual record itself and the accomplishments of the Hank Aaron, the man who’s record will ultimately be beat.
I still do not like the fact that this is not a purely exhibition game, that home field advantage for the World Series rests on the outcome. Still, I am looking forward to the game and hope it is a good one.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
A Second Chance
They say baseball is a game of inches. They say baseball is a game of forgiveness. They say baseball is a game of redemption. Growing up, I really thought baseball was really a game of clichés. Never has it been more apparent about baseball being a game of forgiveness than in the New York Mets 5-3 victory over the Houston Astros yesterday.
Imagine having a terrible series against the team that traded you away. Imagine playing in an extra inning game and going hitless in your first six at bats. Imagine finishing the game with only one hit in seven at bats. Imagine all this and still being considered the hero of the game.
I personally do not know that I would consider Carlos Beltran the hero of the game but many Met fans did. Certainly, the fact is he was largely responsible for the Mets victory. In the entire series, Beltran had looked bad. Still in the 14th inning of the game, Beltran made a beautiful catch to prevent the Astros from winning the ballgame. Still, at the plate he looked bad but when he came up in the 17th inning, with runners on base, he finally came through and got a hit, a hit that drove in the game winning run.
Baseball is a game of forgiveness. Baseball is a game of redemption. There is actually a lesson in there I can use, to remember to give people a second chance. When you give people a second chance, the payoff can be quite rewarding and quite enjoyable. Hopefully, however, the Mets won't need many second chances and will be able to just dominate their opponents and show they are the best team in the National League.
Imagine having a terrible series against the team that traded you away. Imagine playing in an extra inning game and going hitless in your first six at bats. Imagine finishing the game with only one hit in seven at bats. Imagine all this and still being considered the hero of the game.
I personally do not know that I would consider Carlos Beltran the hero of the game but many Met fans did. Certainly, the fact is he was largely responsible for the Mets victory. In the entire series, Beltran had looked bad. Still in the 14th inning of the game, Beltran made a beautiful catch to prevent the Astros from winning the ballgame. Still, at the plate he looked bad but when he came up in the 17th inning, with runners on base, he finally came through and got a hit, a hit that drove in the game winning run.
Baseball is a game of forgiveness. Baseball is a game of redemption. There is actually a lesson in there I can use, to remember to give people a second chance. When you give people a second chance, the payoff can be quite rewarding and quite enjoyable. Hopefully, however, the Mets won't need many second chances and will be able to just dominate their opponents and show they are the best team in the National League.
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Pulling Reyes
Well, the winning streak stops at one. I had hoped the Mets would get on a role heading to the All-Star game but alas, that was not to happen. Despite the loss, I actually felt there were some big positives out of yesterday’s game. Mike Pelfrey looked sharper. That is good. Still, he does need to start winning games.
The second part of the game I liked was Willie Randolph’s reaction to Jose Reyes not running out a play. Reyes is one hell of a ballplayer. It is fun watching him and he is the catalyst for the team. Still, Randolph let it be known he was not going to show favoritism. If he is willing to pull Reyes from the game then seemingly he would be willing to pull anyone from the game.
Randolph also showed that despite players having so much control in this day and age, he still was going to show a strong backbone and insist that things are done his way. I tip my hat to Randolph for doing this.
Now comes the tough part. Somehow, he has to motivate them to go on a tear, on a long winning streak. There have been some well pitched ballgames against them this year but good teams need to find a way to win. Also, last year when the Mets scored first, or when they scored in the first inning, they had a remarkable record. This year they are playing closer to .500 when they score in the first inning. They need to go back to the formula that worked for them last year, basically scoring early and often.
I still fully expect the Mets to finish first in the NL East but I would like to see them improve on last year and that means going to the World Series and of course, if they are there, are want them to win. I do think they have the right manager at the helm, they just need to start playing more consistent.
The second part of the game I liked was Willie Randolph’s reaction to Jose Reyes not running out a play. Reyes is one hell of a ballplayer. It is fun watching him and he is the catalyst for the team. Still, Randolph let it be known he was not going to show favoritism. If he is willing to pull Reyes from the game then seemingly he would be willing to pull anyone from the game.
Randolph also showed that despite players having so much control in this day and age, he still was going to show a strong backbone and insist that things are done his way. I tip my hat to Randolph for doing this.
Now comes the tough part. Somehow, he has to motivate them to go on a tear, on a long winning streak. There have been some well pitched ballgames against them this year but good teams need to find a way to win. Also, last year when the Mets scored first, or when they scored in the first inning, they had a remarkable record. This year they are playing closer to .500 when they score in the first inning. They need to go back to the formula that worked for them last year, basically scoring early and often.
I still fully expect the Mets to finish first in the NL East but I would like to see them improve on last year and that means going to the World Series and of course, if they are there, are want them to win. I do think they have the right manager at the helm, they just need to start playing more consistent.
Friday, July 6, 2007
Appreciating The Other Teams
Well, it is good to see the Mets snap their four game losing streak. I hope they now put a winning streak together. It is amazing how much more enjoyable a game is when your team is playing well. Part of this is obvious. When your team is going well, you have a better chance of seeing them win than lose, and winning is more enjoyable. There is another part as well, however.
With the Mets winning four to nothing, I saw the Astro right fielder, Luke Scott, make a nice play on a ball hit by the Mets. After the catch was made my reaction was, "nice catch". I think I even said that out loud despite the fact no one was watching with me. Had the Mets been losing, or had it been close, I might not have said that or felt that way. With them winning, it did not seem to bother me to see such a nice play made.
I have always tried to exhibit good sportsmanship as a fan. I do enjoy seeing well played games. Nice plays in the field are enjoyable to watch (especially when made by my team). When the team goes well, it is just so much easier to do that. I hope the Mets go on a tear now that takes them past the All-Star game and that I am able to enjoy the play of not only my team, but of others as a result.
As for tonight’s game, let us hope that Mike Pelfrey comes through and shows just what a talent he can be. It is time for him to end his losing streak and put it altogether. That would certainly give their pitching a boost, and as mentioned in a couple of previous posts, their pitching could certainly use a lift (beyond the one they got from John Maine yesterday).
With the Mets winning four to nothing, I saw the Astro right fielder, Luke Scott, make a nice play on a ball hit by the Mets. After the catch was made my reaction was, "nice catch". I think I even said that out loud despite the fact no one was watching with me. Had the Mets been losing, or had it been close, I might not have said that or felt that way. With them winning, it did not seem to bother me to see such a nice play made.
I have always tried to exhibit good sportsmanship as a fan. I do enjoy seeing well played games. Nice plays in the field are enjoyable to watch (especially when made by my team). When the team goes well, it is just so much easier to do that. I hope the Mets go on a tear now that takes them past the All-Star game and that I am able to enjoy the play of not only my team, but of others as a result.
As for tonight’s game, let us hope that Mike Pelfrey comes through and shows just what a talent he can be. It is time for him to end his losing streak and put it altogether. That would certainly give their pitching a boost, and as mentioned in a couple of previous posts, their pitching could certainly use a lift (beyond the one they got from John Maine yesterday).
Thursday, July 5, 2007
We Need Pitching Help
During this past off-season, I watched closely what the Mets would do in regard to their starting pitching problems. Would they try and sign Barry Zito (who ended up being heavily overpaid by the Giants)? Would they go after another pitcher in the free agent market? Maybe they would trade for someone? I, along with most Met fans, fully expected to see them do something. They didn’t.
Much to my surprise, when the season started, the pitching was doing remarkably well. Tom Glavine looked like he was getting younger, Orlando Hernandez pitched well and John Maine was looking more like an ace of the staff than a number three starter, who one year earlier when picked up in a trade did not seem like anything special. The most pleasantly surprising pitcher, however, was Oliver Perez, who seemed to return to the form he showed when he first broke in to the majors.
Now, as we are one series away from the All-Star game, the pitching is looking more like I thought it would early on. Glavine is looking shaky, at best. Hernandez is very inconsistent. Maine, after having a strong beginning is unreliable. While Perez has had a few rocky starts (no pun intended), he has looked pretty good. Now, however, he is on the disabled list. With the exception of the fact that he did not even make the team out of spring training, you can say almost the exact same thing about Jorge Sosa that I just did about Oliver Perez. Still, with those two pitchers on the DL, it makes it a little tougher.
I am not suggesting we hit the panic button. I Know Pedro Martinez is progressing nicely. I know Perez and Sosa will be coming back. Still, The front office needs to do something. Glavine and quite possibly Hernandez will not be around after the season, and even if they are they will be a year older and should not be considered reliable. Even Pedro will be questionable at best. That leaves us with Sosa, Perez and Maine, and I still have questions as to whether or not they are the real deal.
Like I did during the off season, I will be watching closely, hoping to see the Mets pick up a starter. The important thing here is, whatever pitcher they get, they need to be committed to signing and keeping for a while. I do not want a rent a pitcher. I want to see the Mets build a dynasty. They have some good young players to build around. They need a young, proven, reliable starter to go with the rest of the talent.
Regardless of what they do, or when they do it, hopefully things will go better in Houston than they did with the Rockies. LETS GO METS!
Much to my surprise, when the season started, the pitching was doing remarkably well. Tom Glavine looked like he was getting younger, Orlando Hernandez pitched well and John Maine was looking more like an ace of the staff than a number three starter, who one year earlier when picked up in a trade did not seem like anything special. The most pleasantly surprising pitcher, however, was Oliver Perez, who seemed to return to the form he showed when he first broke in to the majors.
Now, as we are one series away from the All-Star game, the pitching is looking more like I thought it would early on. Glavine is looking shaky, at best. Hernandez is very inconsistent. Maine, after having a strong beginning is unreliable. While Perez has had a few rocky starts (no pun intended), he has looked pretty good. Now, however, he is on the disabled list. With the exception of the fact that he did not even make the team out of spring training, you can say almost the exact same thing about Jorge Sosa that I just did about Oliver Perez. Still, with those two pitchers on the DL, it makes it a little tougher.
I am not suggesting we hit the panic button. I Know Pedro Martinez is progressing nicely. I know Perez and Sosa will be coming back. Still, The front office needs to do something. Glavine and quite possibly Hernandez will not be around after the season, and even if they are they will be a year older and should not be considered reliable. Even Pedro will be questionable at best. That leaves us with Sosa, Perez and Maine, and I still have questions as to whether or not they are the real deal.
Like I did during the off season, I will be watching closely, hoping to see the Mets pick up a starter. The important thing here is, whatever pitcher they get, they need to be committed to signing and keeping for a while. I do not want a rent a pitcher. I want to see the Mets build a dynasty. They have some good young players to build around. They need a young, proven, reliable starter to go with the rest of the talent.
Regardless of what they do, or when they do it, hopefully things will go better in Houston than they did with the Rockies. LETS GO METS!
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
COLORADO?
Colorado? COLORADO?!! THE COLORADO ROCKIES????!!!?!?!
I understand the Mets are still in first place. I understand that they are a good team and I should be pleased with their overall record as we head towards the All-Star game. Still, all I can think right now is COLORADO???
After a terrible start for the month of June, that lasted for more than half the month, they finally started to turn things around. Then heading into Philadelphia, they took the first three games of a four game set (and three out of four) and seemed to stiffle the momentum the Phillies had built up.
While it would have been nice to see them take a four game sweep of the Phils, certainly I was not disappointed with their performance there. Losing the last game, however, followed by a lossing two in a row to a clearly sub-par Colorado team puts them on a three game losing streak.
I know teams go through there ups and downs. This is all part of being a fan. It comes with the territory. Still good teams have more ups then downs and that has been the way it has gone for the Mets for the past few years. Now, having suffered through that rough time in June, it is time for them to create their own good fortune. Losing three in a row, after winning three in a row; losing the first two games to a weak Colorado team is not the way to do it.
Once again, I say Colorado? COLORADO?!!! THE COLORADO ROCKIES????!!!?!?!
ARGGGGGGGGGGG!!!
I understand the Mets are still in first place. I understand that they are a good team and I should be pleased with their overall record as we head towards the All-Star game. Still, all I can think right now is COLORADO???
After a terrible start for the month of June, that lasted for more than half the month, they finally started to turn things around. Then heading into Philadelphia, they took the first three games of a four game set (and three out of four) and seemed to stiffle the momentum the Phillies had built up.
While it would have been nice to see them take a four game sweep of the Phils, certainly I was not disappointed with their performance there. Losing the last game, however, followed by a lossing two in a row to a clearly sub-par Colorado team puts them on a three game losing streak.
I know teams go through there ups and downs. This is all part of being a fan. It comes with the territory. Still good teams have more ups then downs and that has been the way it has gone for the Mets for the past few years. Now, having suffered through that rough time in June, it is time for them to create their own good fortune. Losing three in a row, after winning three in a row; losing the first two games to a weak Colorado team is not the way to do it.
Once again, I say Colorado? COLORADO?!!! THE COLORADO ROCKIES????!!!?!?!
ARGGGGGGGGGGG!!!
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
In Praise of the All-Star Game
As we near the All-Star game, there is once again a lot of talk about the selection process. Did the right players get in? Are they the best? Who get left off?
As a Met fan, I am pleased to see three Mets starting the game and four actually going. So the question is, do Jose Reyes, David Wright and Carlos Beltran deserve to be starters. Does Billy Wagner deserve to be picked by the manager. Should every team have to be represented, have a least one player on the team.
I think, for the most part, the process works well. I heard, years ago, either a former baseball commissioner or player describe the importance of the fans picking the starting team. The individual explained that the game was never meant to pick the best players but rather the ones the fans most wanted to see. If a player is retiring and this is the last time to see him in an All-Star game, it could be a sentimental pick and not the best player for that position, but why should it have to be. Likewise, if a player is going to be a Hall of Famer yet his numbers for the year are not good, maybe the fans still want to see this individual play. This is the fans’ game after all.
As for every team being represented, I am in favor of that as well. Again, as a game for the fans, each and every fan should have something in which to look forward. Having suffered through years where the Mets were pitiful, it meant a lot to me to know at least one of my players would be on the team. Since there was not much in which to get excited about during the year, I could hope that maybe it would be a player from my team that would make the difference.
It is for this reason, and hers, I regret the All-Star game no means something, the winning team getting home field advantage during the World Series. The game should be the players the fans most want to see and if the game means nothing, other than bragging rights and a good time for all, it is fine if the best players are not in the game.
The other argument that is made is how big city players have an advantage over the smaller cities. Again, this is one of the advantages of making sure every team has a representative. Also, I have yet to see an All-Star game where all players have been from one team. I think the fans truly love seeing players from different teams work together. That is one of the advantages of the All-Star game.
Here’s looking forward to a great game this year.
As a Met fan, I am pleased to see three Mets starting the game and four actually going. So the question is, do Jose Reyes, David Wright and Carlos Beltran deserve to be starters. Does Billy Wagner deserve to be picked by the manager. Should every team have to be represented, have a least one player on the team.
I think, for the most part, the process works well. I heard, years ago, either a former baseball commissioner or player describe the importance of the fans picking the starting team. The individual explained that the game was never meant to pick the best players but rather the ones the fans most wanted to see. If a player is retiring and this is the last time to see him in an All-Star game, it could be a sentimental pick and not the best player for that position, but why should it have to be. Likewise, if a player is going to be a Hall of Famer yet his numbers for the year are not good, maybe the fans still want to see this individual play. This is the fans’ game after all.
As for every team being represented, I am in favor of that as well. Again, as a game for the fans, each and every fan should have something in which to look forward. Having suffered through years where the Mets were pitiful, it meant a lot to me to know at least one of my players would be on the team. Since there was not much in which to get excited about during the year, I could hope that maybe it would be a player from my team that would make the difference.
It is for this reason, and hers, I regret the All-Star game no means something, the winning team getting home field advantage during the World Series. The game should be the players the fans most want to see and if the game means nothing, other than bragging rights and a good time for all, it is fine if the best players are not in the game.
The other argument that is made is how big city players have an advantage over the smaller cities. Again, this is one of the advantages of making sure every team has a representative. Also, I have yet to see an All-Star game where all players have been from one team. I think the fans truly love seeing players from different teams work together. That is one of the advantages of the All-Star game.
Here’s looking forward to a great game this year.
Monday, July 2, 2007
Reflections on Glavine
The more I watch Tom Glavine pitch this season, the more frustrated I become. I realize in last night’s game, Glavine only had one bad inning, and outside of that he only gave up three hits. I realize Glavine is closing in on 300 wins and has been one of the best pitchers around. I also do not like to be a ‘what have you done for me lately’ type of fan. I realize Glavine’s greatness (although his numbers were clearly much better in Atlanta than they have been with the Mets). I would love to see him win 300 games and it has been pointed out, if and when he does, he may well be the last pitcher to reach that milestone.
With all this being said, I still do not feel comfortable with Glavine on the mound. He has had a number of bad starts this season (today’s game, the 7/2 game among them). Even in the games where he has not pitched poorly, it seems that whenever the Mets score a run, Glavine more often than not has been letting the opposing team get at least part of it back the very next inning. I just no longer feel comfortable with Glavine on the mound.
I can understand him wanting to hang around until he gets number 300. I can even understand the Mets wanting him to do it with them. I think once he reaches that goal, it is time to retire. I do not think he has much left to offer and he should look to hang up a great career. If he gets his 300th win, unless things really turn around, I do not know I would keep him on the post season roster (assuming they get that far).
To Tom Glavine, in all seriousness, I say thanks for all you provided to me as a fan. I hope you are remembered for your greatness and not for hanging around for win 300.
With all this being said, I still do not feel comfortable with Glavine on the mound. He has had a number of bad starts this season (today’s game, the 7/2 game among them). Even in the games where he has not pitched poorly, it seems that whenever the Mets score a run, Glavine more often than not has been letting the opposing team get at least part of it back the very next inning. I just no longer feel comfortable with Glavine on the mound.
I can understand him wanting to hang around until he gets number 300. I can even understand the Mets wanting him to do it with them. I think once he reaches that goal, it is time to retire. I do not think he has much left to offer and he should look to hang up a great career. If he gets his 300th win, unless things really turn around, I do not know I would keep him on the post season roster (assuming they get that far).
To Tom Glavine, in all seriousness, I say thanks for all you provided to me as a fan. I hope you are remembered for your greatness and not for hanging around for win 300.
Sunday, July 1, 2007
The Complete Game
As a long time Mets fan, I have little to complain about during the tenure of Willie Randolph as the Mets manager, thus far. He has seemingly pushed the right buttons and done very well. I also realize that a complete game is becoming a lost art. Still, this weekend, I saw something that I don’t understand, something that aggravated me.
John Maine was pitching a beautiful game and had a 5 to 1 lead in the eighth inning. His pitch count was fairly low and Randolph let his pitcher come to the plate to bat in the eighth. As Maine took the mound in the ninth, I (probably along with a number of Met fans) was looking forward to a complete game. I was actually excited about the possibility.
The very first batter hit a double off of Maine. In the past, when Randolph has allowed a starting pitcher to begin the ninth inning, he has given the pitcher a very short leash. I understand that and even agree with it. In this case, however, after the double was hit leading off the inning, I was surprised to see Randolph make a trip to the pitching mound.
Even if the run scored, it would have still been a 5-2 Met lead. I felt with a low pitch count and the game seemingly well in hand, Maine should have been allowed to face at least one more batter before pulling him.
As I think about the move, it still makes no sense to me. The run did eventually score. The run was charged to John Maine. The Mets did eventually win the game. Maine was not on the mound when any of this happened. Giving up a leadoff hit in the ninth does not automatically mean the pitcher is out of gas. Maybe to many fans complete games no longer mean anything. Still, I am a little bit of a throw back and would have loved to see the Mets have at least ONE complete game before the All-Star break!
John Maine was pitching a beautiful game and had a 5 to 1 lead in the eighth inning. His pitch count was fairly low and Randolph let his pitcher come to the plate to bat in the eighth. As Maine took the mound in the ninth, I (probably along with a number of Met fans) was looking forward to a complete game. I was actually excited about the possibility.
The very first batter hit a double off of Maine. In the past, when Randolph has allowed a starting pitcher to begin the ninth inning, he has given the pitcher a very short leash. I understand that and even agree with it. In this case, however, after the double was hit leading off the inning, I was surprised to see Randolph make a trip to the pitching mound.
Even if the run scored, it would have still been a 5-2 Met lead. I felt with a low pitch count and the game seemingly well in hand, Maine should have been allowed to face at least one more batter before pulling him.
As I think about the move, it still makes no sense to me. The run did eventually score. The run was charged to John Maine. The Mets did eventually win the game. Maine was not on the mound when any of this happened. Giving up a leadoff hit in the ninth does not automatically mean the pitcher is out of gas. Maybe to many fans complete games no longer mean anything. Still, I am a little bit of a throw back and would have loved to see the Mets have at least ONE complete game before the All-Star break!
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