Examining The Outfield

When it comes to the Mets outfield, there have been a lot of questions asked and statements made. So, it is time for me to add my opinion. The Mets have said that they are content to use a platoon of Fernando Tatis and Daniel Murphy in left, presumably figuring Beltran in center and Ryan Church returning to right.

Truth is, that is not such a bad option. While there is no guarantee, Tatis was on a tear last year. A seasoned veteran, a capable hitter, a good bat off the bench, a right-handed hitter to tackle the lefties. He would be complimented by Daniel Murphy, a left-handed hitter. Again, no guarantee but Murphy appears to have a bright future, a nice, even swing, an eager player, and as Met beat reporter Marty Noble points out, the younger guy would get the majority of the playing time since there are more right-handed pitchers than left-handed ones. That platoon could work. Still, if the Mets could upgrade, I would not complain. So, how should they upgrade? Let me first say what I don’t think they should do.

There was talk yesterday about how the Mets had expressed an interest in Andruw Jones of the Dodgers and might look to trade for him. The thinking went something like Jones and Castillo both had subpar years and perhaps the teams could swap the stars. I would not like to see Jones playing for the Mets. I don’t believe that last year was a fluke. The player is on the downswing and considering they are keeping Carlos Delgado at first, I don’t think the Mets need to add another old, washup player, the kind that Minaya often seem to like to get, to the mix. Leave Andruw alone.

Then, of course, there is Manny. More and more teams continue to express a lack of interest for ManRam. Apparently Omar likes him but ownership doesn’t. The thinking is, if his price tag comes down and if he is willing to sign a one or two year deal, how could the Mets pass him up. As the Dodgers, perhaps the only suitors of Manny, look to talk with Adam Dunn and investigate other options, Manny could be looking for a new home at a discounted rate. Ramirez is a great hitter, and an asset to a team WHEN HE WANTS TO BE. I think Manny comes with too much baggage. If I could have his numbers without his personality, I would say they should do it in a heartbeat. Taking Manny, however, I believe was ensure no postseason for the Mets this year (again). Then, consider the fact that beyond the usual antics, if Manny isn’t happy because he did not get the deal he thought he was worth, both in number of years and in salary, will he give you 100%? Will he be willing to play? This is a guy who sat out with the Redsoxs when the Yankees came to town and Boston could have used his bat. No, I say leave Manny alone.

I believe there is another option available for the Mets and apparently, so do some of the New York sports commentators. With the Yankees having picked up Mark Texiera, it means Nick Swisher has to play the outfield. That give the Yankees a very crowded outfield with Swisher, Damon, Matsui, Melkey and Nady. The conventional wisdom is the Yankees will look to move one of the outfielders and while they might like to move Matsui (or possibly Damon), Xavier Nady may be the player they have to move. If I were the Mets, I would look to trade for Nady. I might go for Matsui, but I would really like Nady back in Flushing. I think the Mets have the talent to make such a trade and he would be a lot cheaper than Manny and not be a trouble maker. Come on Omar, make it happen!

Starting Pitching Thoughts

It is obvious that the Mets need at least one more starting pitcher and probably two. As I look at things, I am surprised (a little) that AJ Burnett was considered a bigger draw than Derek Lowe. Burnett maybe younger but he has been injury prone, he may have more strikeouts and be able to pitch a better game than Lowe, but Lowe is more consistent, from start to start.

Considering the Yankees signed CC and Burnett and the Redsoxs have come to an agreement with Brad Penny, Lowe should be the Mets for the taking. They should have little competition and should be able to sign him for a reasonable amount of money, reasonable as far as baseball salaries go.

The Mets could clearly get by with just one more pitcher, especially if they can sign Lowe, who would become the number two man in the staff with Pelfrey and Maine becoming three and four and perhaps Neise, or another young kid in the system being the fifth starter. Still, I would like to see the Mets sign one more starter and give Neise another year in AAA. In addition, while I think Pelfrey is the real deal, last year was the first year he came into his own and I don’t think we can be 100% sure of him just yet. So, who else would I like to see the Mets get?

My number one choice is completely unrealistic. I would love to see the Mets trade for Jake Peavy. I, however, am not convinced the Padres want to trade him. If they did, based on the interest the Cubs had, I think he would be in Chicago. A few years ago, the Astros acted like Roy Oswalt was on the trading block to see what they could get for him but they were never serious about trading him. I think the same is true with San Diego and Peavy. In addition, think what the Mets would have to give up to get him and think how much they would have to pay to keep him as I would imagine things would be similar to the way it worked with Johan, that before a deal was finalized, the Mets would have to work out a contract extension.

The next option is Oliver Perez. He is young, he is a left hander and while being inconsistent, he has done better with Met coaches than he was doing elsewhere. The Mets really revitalized his career. Consider he was the throw in player in the Nady deal. The problem with Ollie, as I see it, is the amount of money he will get for being a mediocre pitcher. Last year, through arbitration, he was paid way more than he should have been getting. As a free agent, with Boras as his agent, even if the price comes down, Perez will be making more than he made last year. I honestly don’t believe he is worth that much money.

That leaves Randy Wolf. Wolf is not a front end of the rotation guy but he is a left handed pitcher. If the Mets can sign Lowe, I think Lowe would be an excellent pickup for the fifth spot. He should not come at too great of a cost and could prove effective. If not, then you bring Neise up mid-year.

I would like to see the Mets pickup Lowe and Wolf.

An Improved Bullpen

It has been some time since I have posted and there is a lot to talk about. The first aspect, not surprisingly, is the bullpen. I give Omar Minaya a lot of credit. He recognized the problems of last season and he looked to address them.

First, Minaya got the best closer on the market. K-Rod should help close out games for the Mets. Honestly, I never felt comfortable with Billy Wagner on the mound and I am hoping that K-Rod will instill a feeling of confidence. Credit to Minaya for not stopping there, he went out and got JJ Putz as the setup man. Putz has not performed this role for a number of years but hopefully, he will fill that spot nicely. It really has been some time since the Mets have had an eighth inning guy and a ninth inning guy. While I do not like this approach, it is what baseball has become.

The truth, however, is I do not think the bullpen is complete. With the way the game is played today, they need a seventh inning guy as well. This allows you to get six quality innings out of your starter and then put the ball in the hands of the pen. Perhaps Duaner Sanchez can fill that role. Maybe with the two new guys, it will up Sanchez’s game and give him a bit more confidence. I also might be interested to see if Eddie Kunz could fill that role. Coming in for the seventh would certainly relieve some of the pressure of closing games and allow both Kunz and the Mets to breathe a little easier than having him immediately try to close games.

I am fine with getting rid of Schoenweiss and bringing in Robertson. Still, that means that Feliciano is the only left hander. Another left hander might be helpful. I think Brian Stokes would fill the role of middle relief and spot starter very well.

As I see it, one more relief pitcher would make a huge difference. Still, clearly there bullpen has been much improved.

Up next, stay tuned for conversations about starting pitching, first base, second base and the outfield.

PS It is easier to tell the Mets what they should do when I do not have to worry about purse strings.

Phillies-Brewers, Who Do You Want?

The Phillies hold a two-nothing lead over the Brewers in a best of five series. One more and Philadelphia moves on to face the winner of the Dodgers-Cubs series. This may sound immature on my part but I really do not care who wins the Brewers-Phillies series.

The Phills beat the Mets for the NL East title two years in a row. I really do not have any love for this team or even the players on the team. I have a hard time cheering for the Phillies. I might have a little stronger stomach for the Brewers, but not by much. After all, it was the last day of the seasons that Milwaukee officially knocked out the Mets from the wildcard.

I realize that really neither the Phillies nor the Brewers knocked the Mets out. The team that beat the Mets this year, and last year as well, was the Mets. They played awful down the stretch and can only blame themselves for their disappointing seasons.

I would like to see the Cubs move on. That may not seem likely right now but they had the best record in the National League. In addition, it has been too long since the Cubs have been to a World Series. It would be interesting and fun to see it happen (assuming it won’t be the Mets and this year it cannot be).

Stay tuned for some upcoming post in terms of what the Mets should do, or should not do during the off-season and my argument as to why Johan Santana deserves consideration, serious consideration, for NL Cy Young Award winner.

Schleptember Morn

“Again?”

“Yes, Again.”

“Surprised?”

“Unfortunately, NO!”

This was not a real conversation but it very well could have been the way a conversation went yesterday with any of my friends. In typical Met fashion, the team waited for the last day of the season to officially be eliminated.

Sure the bullpen was a problem, as it has been for the better part of the season but this team has been one of the most “unclutch” hitting teams I have ever seen. The offensive numbers are good but look at how well they did with a runner on third and less than two outs. How often were they able to get that run home? Look at the team batting average in clutch situations and I think you will see some pathetic numbers.

A friend of mine told me last year he read an article that was title Schleptember, it was about how, while many teams sprint to the finish line during baseball season, the Mets just Schlep along. That is exactly what happened again this year. It was not the historic collapse of last year but it was pathetic.

Personally, I like Jerry Manuel and think he has earned the right to stay. Omar may need to go as he brought (and bought) us a team that was too old. Minaya’s comment about how last year the Mets underachieved but this year they overachieved was just plan dumb. They would not have gone out and brought in someone like Johan Santana if they did not think he would help get them to post season. Obviously, they fell short once again.

So, what about changes for next year? As far as I am concerned, Keep Wright and Reyes in the infield, keep this kid Daniel Murphy in the outfield and keep Santana and Pelfrey as two key pitchers. This doesn’t mean that everyone else should be traded but I would see what you can get. I certainly think they need to get younger. That means that Delgado, Castillo, Alou, even Taits (who did an amazing job filling in) need to go. They need to get at least one more starter (I would not pay what Ollie is going to cost, I don’t know about Maine and I would dump Pedro). If the Mets could sign CC, that would give them a strong 1-2-3 punch. And, I certainly would revamp the bullpen, from top to bottom. I do not think Wagner is coming back and even if he did, I think they need a new closer. And, I would get rid of Minaya.

The last thing I would like to see happen, but I know it won’t, is for me to give up on this team, stop following them and not let them do this sort of thing to me anymore.

Due to the upcoming holidays, I probably will not be posting over the next couple of days but I will be entering a new post shortly after that making an argument for Santana as NL Cy Young Award winner. It won’t happen but he certainly deserves it.

Gangsta

It was a great win for the Mets yesterday. Make no mistake about it. Despite my post from yesterday, it was great. Jerry Manuel, when asked about Johan’s performance after the game, said his pitcher was “Gangsta,” and I have to agree. Manuel also said that as the Mets head into tomorrow’s game (now, today, game 162), it would be impossible for his players not to be pumped up and excited.

This is where Manuel and I part company. I have mixed reactions about yesterday’s game. Watching Santana pitch was amazing. He pitched such a beautiful, dominant game, a complete game despite throwing a career high number of pitches three days earlier. Santana has made it so the final game of the season (unless we need a tiebreaker) means something (which some help from Milwaukee which lost to a Cubs team sitting most of its regulars).

My fear is, last year is still fresh in my mind. Last year the Mets should have been pumped for the final game of the season after pulling back even with the Phillies in the wildcard. Last year, following the game of John Maine’s life, with Tom Glavine (perhaps the ace of the staff) going, he allowed seven first inning runs and the season was over. To have the Mets win yesterday only to have my heart ripped out today is a real fear. I don’t believe they will automatically be pumped. I don’t believe that Oliver Perez will definitely pitch a great game. And, to a point that Gary, Keith and Ron made yesterday about the fans, particularly not being involved during Friday’s game, I think the problem was the Mets were trailing before they even came to bat; the Marlins took the crowd out of the game early. I fear that could happen again this year.

Yesterday’s win means nothing if the Mets don’t get the wildcard. Sorry, but that is exactly the way I feel. With C.C. Sabathia going for the Brewers today, the Mets have to go out and win. I realize that Sabathia is going on three days rest for something like the fourth straight time, I realize that the Cubs beat him a couple of weeks ago and I realize that the Cubs will be starting their regular lineup and that could help the Mets. Still, it is their ace and, of course, the Mets ace will not be pitching today.

If both teams do win, it will be interesting to see how a one game playoff goes as neither team will be able to use its ace. I believe I heard that the Mets would use Pedro if it came to that. Part of me thinks that would be good since he has dealt with these pressure situations before. Part of me thinks it would be bad since he has not had a great year. All of me wants a Met win today coupled with a Brewers loss so we do not even need to worry about a tiebreaker.

Let’s Go Mets!

Thanks... ... ... ... FOR NOTHING!

Folks,

I’d like to tell you not to worry, that I truly believe the Mets will still come back and claim the wildcard spot. I’d like to tell you that since the Phills have not yet clinched the division, I truly think the Mets could take the NL East title. I would like to tell you that the Mets won’t choke. These are the things I would like to tell you; unfortunately I can’t. This team is toast, they are done and once again, instead of making it easy (or easier) on Met fans, they have found a way to RIP THE HEARTS out of those who loyally follow this team.

Years ago, back in 1977, when the Yankees made that remarkable comeback against the Redsox, then Redsox’s first baseman George Scott uttered a quote that has stuck with me for all these years. As the Yankees were turning up the pressure and heading to Boston for a three game set, Scott said the only definition of choke he knew was when someone put their hands around your neck and started to strangle you. The announcer, playing this comment in retrospect, at the end of the season after the Yankees ended up winning the World Series, said of the Scott quote, “That was exactly what the Yankees did (putting their hands around Boston’s collective throats).

Right now, it appears the difference between the ’77 Redsox and the 2008 Mets is, the Mets are the ones putting their hands around their own throats. Two years in a row we are going to be finished off by the Florida Marlins. This is Pathetic. The Mets should be embarrassed but they won’t be. They still get the millions of dollars (in large part because we fans are stupid enough to pay for tickets to see this team).

I would like to tell you that things will be easier this year because they screwed up last year so they have programmed fans to expect a collapse. I’d like to tell you that since the Mets never had such a huge lead this year, it is not as disappointing. I can’t honestly say these things.

This is the first time in a month that the Mets have not had at least a share of the lead in the NL East or the Wildcard. They picked a hell of a time to do it and as a result, I would like to tell you I am giving up on this team. I can’t do that either. I am just a stupid fan who continues to follow this team and hope, even expect, they will perform and come through.

They say the classic definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. I continue to follow them and continue to expect them to be able to get into post-season. I guess that makes me insane and makes it time to see a Psychiatrist.

Finally!

The Mets managed to stop the bleeding. I don’t know, however, if this is just a temporary measure or a permanent measure. The Mets gave up a lead but managed to fight to come back and tie the game. Yesterday’s game had a very different feeling than the night before. The night before you could feel the Mets trying to find a way to lose the game. Yesterday, I really got the impression they wanted to win.

Unlike the previous night, this time the Mets managed to score a ninth inning run. At the time, it ensured that the Mets would have at least a share of the wildcard lead. Milwaukee, scoring four runs in the tenth, ultimately did make sure it was a tie for the wildcard lead. The truth is, the only reason the two teams are tied right now has to do with the Mets inability to play over the past week. That is why it was so refreshing to see them win a ballgame.

The problem is trying to figure out if the Mets are just toying with their fans, trying to find a new way to break our hearts or if the Mets truly are going to play strong baseball over the last three games of the season. I am disgusted the Mets are not in first in the NL East and I am disgusted that the Mets are tied for first for the wildcard instead of being in first. Still, they have to deal with where they are right now. Last night, they finally did that in an appropriate manner.

Let’s Go Mets!

Runner On Third But...

In watching last night’s game, I couldn’t help but feel the Mets did not want to win the game. The kept handing it to the Cubs. Chicago, with nothing left to gain, tried to help the Mets at every juncture but the Mets simply turned down the offer every time.

A Carlos Delgado grand slam gave the Mets a 5-1 lead. Ollie decided to give it back to the Cubs and the Cubs took a 6-5 lead. So the pitching was not there. What was more troubling was the lack of offense. The Mets had a runner on third with less than two outs in the seventh inning, the eighth and the ninth yet the only run they scored was on a bases loaded walk in the eighth with two outs. Had the Cubs not tried to help the Mets, the game would have been over in nine innings but the bases loaded walk actually gave the Mets a chance to win.

In the ninth inning, Daniel Murphy led off with a triple. A runner on third and no one out! That forces the opponent, in this case the Cubs, to play the infield and the outfield in. Pinella decided to pitch to Wright and David after working the count to 3-0 ended up striking out—Runner on third and one man out. Pinella than had the Cubs walk the Carloses to load the bases. The problem is once you get to the sixth spot in the order, with Church not yet hitting, the Mets have no one. Church grounded into a force out to the second baseman who threw the lead runner, Murphy, out at home and there were two out. Castro made an out for the third out and we went to extra innings. What was so frustrating was this was not the first golden opportunity the Mets squandered.

After the Cubs got the Mets out in the bottom of the ninth, not allowing a run to score, I turned off the game. I knew at this point the Mets did not want it and that they were not going to win this game. I would have loved to be proven wrong but alas, it was not to be.

I have big doubts, especially with Pedro on the mound tomorrow but hopefully they can turn it around.

Let’s Go Mets!

High Pitch Count

I’ve got a really tight schedule today so I am keeping this really short. I simply want to say how thrilled I was to see the Mets win yesterday. In addition, it was nice to see Johan Santana throw more pitches than he has before; never in his career had he thrown as many pitches as he did last night.

I like the fact that Jerry Manuel was willing to do it and I liked the fact that Santana did it and did not complain. Certainly I hope that it does not have any damaging effects on Johan’s career. I certainly do not think it will and it may make him an even more durable and valuable pitcher. Still, there is the little bit of concern but I was thrilled he want as deep as he did.

Hopefully they can win another one today!

Let’s Go Mets!

Leap Frog

The Mets are in first place, they are out of first place, in, out… This is the way things seem to be going. I realize that the Mets have never done particularly well at Turner Field but you would like to think in the heat of a pennant race, they could kick it up a notch. Wrong!

The Phillies seem to find a way to win ballgames. They played a pesky Marlins team, a team that is fighting to keep its playoff hopes alive and they could find a way to win. I hate to say it but that seems to be the difference between the Mets and Phillies right now. Fortunately the Brewers lost as they too don’t seem to want to clinch a playoff berth and are doing whatever they can to avoid making it to the pennant.

With the erratic play of the Mets, the awful play of the Brewers, the strong play of the Phillies and the pesky play of the Marlins, I do not think it is entirely out of the realm of possibility to see the Phillies take the division with the Marlins winning the wildcard. That is clearly NOT what I want to happen but I do think it is conceivable.

Hopefully they can win today and take two out of three from the Braves but I do have my concerns.

Let’s Go Mets!

Back In The Highlife!

“I'll be back in the highlife again.
All the doors I closed one time will open up again.
I'll be back in the highlife again.
All the eyes that watched me once will smile and take me in.
And I'll drink and dance with one hand free,
Let the world back into me,
And oh, I'll be a sight to see
Back in the highlife again.”

The immortal words of Steve Windwood. I wrote these words since this maybe the last opportunity I have to do so when discussing the Mets this baseball season. A Met victory coupled with a Philadelphia Phillies loss has the Mets back in first, back in the highlife again. I fear that they may not stay there for long. The Mets bullpen is suspect,, at best (and as many of you are aware, I do not like the way Jerry Manuel is managing the bullpen) while the Phillies have a closer who has not blown a save all year. I do not have the number in front of me right now but, the Mets have lost too many games, important games, significant games, when they have entered the ninth inning with a lead.

So, I don’t know how long this will last. Certainly I hope at the end of the year the Mets will be in first. If they are not in first, I will settle for (but will not be happy with) the wildcard spot. Certainly Milwaukee is doing everything it can to ensure the Mets and Phills both get to post season. Knowing the Mets, they may not even get to post season but, in the words of Tug McGraw, “You Gotta Believe”.

Let’s Go Mets!

Where Will The Mets Finish?

Fortunately the Mets left Washington with a split of the four game set. While the last game was never in question and I feel the Mets should have taken more than just two games there, once they lost the first two, it was a relief to see the Mets turn it up a notch and win the nex two.

I still have my doubts and concerns. First off, I want the division, not the wildcard. And, Philadelphia is playing good ball. So, that is a concern. Beyond that, there are other concerns, including the Mets ability to win the wildcard.

The Mets have ten games left. First we go to Atlanta for three. I have too many memories of Atlanta extinguishing and post-season Met hopes for too many years to be confident about this series. The Mets are only two games over 500 on the record. The Braves are playing over 500 at home and, given how the Braves handled the Mets the last series at Shea, taking two out of three, I have concerns.

The next four games are with the Cubs. While Chicago will probably have clinched the division and may be resting some of its regulars, they are still going to be a tough team to beat and will probably want at least a split of the four game set. Then the Mets finish again Florida and it feels like no victories have come easy against that team.

This Met team should have been able to do better in the past seven games and if they do not finish atop the NL East and/or do not win the wildcard, they have no one but themselves to blame.

Tonight it is the start of the Braves and hopefully they win and get some revenge.

Let’s Go Mets!

Back On Track?

Is it easier for a pitcher to get one out if he faces one batter or if he faces three batters? Is it easier for a pitcher to get three outs if he faces three batters or if he faces six batters? Obviously, the more batters a pitcher faces, the greater likelihood of getting more outs since the percentage goes down. Rather than having to get out 100% of the batters faced, the pitcher only needs to get out 33% of the batters. Imagine taking a test and knowing you can pass with a 33. Now imagine taking a test and knowing that either you will get a 100 or a zero. Which one would you rather?

These were the thoughts going through my mind as I watched last night’s Met game. Keith Hernandez and Gary Cohen were commenting on how nothing is coming easy to Jerry Manuel. Certainly this is true and certainly the Mets have blown leads they shouldn’t have and have caused heartache and trepidation among fans. Still, there are times I think Manuel, or any manager, makes things harder than they need to be. A pitcher is brought in to face one out. If the batter does not make an out, or even if he does, the pitcher is removed in favor of another pitcher. Sometimes I wish the manager would just leave the pitcher in for a few batters.

There are times when a pitcher does not have it. If two or three consecutive batters reach base, then take him out but give the pitcher a chance. A good pitcher, starter or relief, should be able to get people out from both sides of the plate. This way, if the opposing manager makes a lefty-righty switch with the batter, you still have confidence that your pitcher can get the out.

With Joe Smith on the mound last night, pitching as well as he has been going, and David Wright making an error, I think Manuel was too quick to make the pitching change. That was the first of three changes we saw that inning as Manuel kept switching it up. To me, this is over thinking. Let the pitcher pitch, the fielders field and the Mets win the ballgame. Fortunately the Mets did win the game but there were far too many changes for my taste.

I realize this is the way the game is played today but I wonder if we found a manager who was a throwback, how that team would fair. Either way, the Mets won yesterday and snapped a three game losing streak. It does not make everything right, far from it. Still, hopefully this gets them on the right track and the Mets can take the division.

Let’s Go Mets!

A Shut Out??!?!?!!!?!

This is sick, this is disgusting, this is pathetic, this is reminiscent of last year. The Mets have now dropped out of first place and one again are showing they do not know how to play baseball. As I watched yesterday’s game, I saw the text question appear, which basically asked do you think the Mets will win the division, win the wildcard or be out of the playoffs altogether.

The majority of fans, 56% said they would not make it to postseason. Keith Hernandez and Gary Cohen were talking about how that was cold on behalf of the fans. The thought going through my head was, it was not cold, it was reality and I was surprised ONLY 56% picked this option.

Met fans are used to dealing with frustration and certainly the Mets right now are doing everything they can to encourage that. Last year the Mets collapse was of epic portions. No MLB team in history ever chocked so badly. Now, this year, come the end of the season, The Mets are back in first place. They have now lost four of five to the Braves and Nationals. Those teams are at the bottom of the NL East. The Mets are better than those teams but, they are finding ways to lose.

Facing a pathetic Nationals team, the Mets have scored a total of two runs in the two games, TWO! Yesterday they were shut out. They can’t even score one lousy run off of the poor excuse of a pitcher that was thrown out there. The day before, they scored two runs. If we go back to the series against Atlanta, in both games that were lost, the Mets were winning late in the game.

They aren’t hitting, the bullpen is not coming through, they are finding ways to lose and are now out of first. Of course Met fans don’t have high hopes. We have been conditioned to expect these things. Unfortunately, we have not been conditioned to accept these things.

Once again, like yesterday, Met players, I implore you, WAKKKKKKKE UPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP!

Let’s Go Mets!

And Then It Was Only A Half

I have been saying to my friends, the ones who are Met fans, that I do not think this team will collapse again, that I have more confidence in this group of players, even with a smaller lead, than I did with last year’s team. This is all changing.

The Mets are finding ways to lose. Worse than that, they are finding ways to give away games. Certainly I would be frustrated if they were just losing but the way they are doing it is devastating. It clearly is shades of last year. The bullpen is not getting the job done, the hitters and not hitting and the starting pitching, while maybe okay or acceptable, is certainly not good.

The Mets lost two of three to the lowly Braves and now lost the opener to the Nationals in Washington. Philly continues to play well and gain ground. The Mets now only have a half game lead over the Phillies. Perhaps, they have a shot at the wild card since Philadelphia took the Brewers down a notch. I believe the Brewers and Phills have an identical record so, if Philadelphia wins the division, the Mets have a shot at the wild card.

That being said, this is a team that should have something to prove. This is a team that should take the division. Anything less than that should be demoralizing to this team. If they back into the post-season via the wildcard, they will not have the momentum, they obviously will not be playing well and they should feel embarrassed.

Come on guys, WAKKKKKKKE UPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP!

Let’s Go Mets!

And Then The Lead Was One

This Met team is not the same one that blew a seven game lead last year. This team, although possessing a smaller margin when it comes to leading the NL East, actually instills greater confidence in me than the one I watched last year. So why then, after seeing yesterday’s game is my feeling, “Here we go again”?

The fact is there is no way the Mets should have lost two out of three to the Atlanta Braves. The Braves are not the team that destroy the Mets in years gone by. This team is in fourth place and out of contention. This team is 20 games under 500 on the road. This team, at least until this past weekend, had not won a one run ballgame all season on the road. The weekend series took place at Shea Stadium, where the Mets are 17 games over 500 and Met-killer Chipper Jones was out of the lineup. So, I ask again, how does this team win only one of three games.

Fortunately Jonathan Neise pitched a great game in the middle. He got a much deserved win and looked very good. The truth is, however, Johan Santana and Oliver Perez also deserved wins. The bullpen blew the leads in both games. Technically in the Santana game, the tying run was charged to Santana but obviously Jerry Manuel kept Santana in the game and pushed him because he has little to no confidence in the bullpen. And, the bullpen lived up to his expectations.

This bullpen has got to start coming through, first so the Mets can win the division and second so they have any chance of doing something in post season.

Of course the Phills did their part, sweeping a three game series from the Milwaukee Brewers. That was also disgusting and depressing. The Brewers went in to the series with a chance to do some damage but the Phillies swept and left in a tie for the wildcard with the BrewCrew. Milwaukee was no help and the Mets at the very least are making fans (read ME) nervous.

They better go into Washington and just dominate the Nationals. Pedro is on the mound right now and honestly, that does not make me very confident. I was talking with a friend and we were saying that if the Mets get to postseason, we are not sure that Pedro should even be given a slot on the postseason roster. Probably due to money issues and not wanting to embarrass him, the Mets will keep Martinez on the roster but, if you look at what he has done, this year, the last two years and even in his tenure in a Met uniform, you can make a strong argument to keep him out.

Deja Vu All Over Again

Well, it is not as bad as last year at this time, at least night yet, but that is the way it feels. It was last year around this time that the Phillies swept a three game series from the Mets at Shea and that started the Mets downward spiral into a collapse of epic and historical proportions.

Apparently Mike Schmidt, now an instructor for the Phillies, told the team before heading to Shea thaty they were in the Mets head because of the sweep last year. For a number of reasons, I disagreed. The Mets are playing better baseball right now and have had the Phillies number. Even with Friday’s loss, I still remained calm. After all, it was a pitching gem.

Yesterday was rained out and they are making the game up with a day-night double header today. I am bothered that the Mets lost the first game and now I am a little concerned. Pedro was hit, and hit hard and the Mets showed no offense until the eighth inning. Normally, with Johan Santana on the mount tonight I would feel comfortable. The problem is the Mets have not been hitting and Cole Hammels is pitching for the Phillies. He is a big game pitcher and going for the sweep tonight, for a tie for first place with the Mets, I think qualifies as a “Big Game”.

Hopefully when I sit down to type out a post tomorrow I will be able to say I worried for nothing. That is what I am hoping will happen. Still, the fact is, I am worried.

Let’s Go Mets!

A Minor League Game

As the pennant race heats up, I recently had the opportunity to take a break from the craziness and go to a minor league baseball game. It was actually the last minor league game of the season. I enjoy minor league games for a number of reasons.

First off, often times you get the feeling that the players are trying harder, really pushing, to do well. Especially since it was the last game of the season, I am sure some wanted to finish with certain number for either a call up still this year or a chance to get a look in spring training.

It is also a relief to see the prices. Okay, some are ridiculous. A bottle of water and a slice of cheese pizza ran me six dollars. I think that is overdone. Still, it is probably less than you pay in a major league stadium these days. More than that, the ticket prices were much more reasonable. Four of us went to the game and the tickets ran a total of $34. I don’t even know if that will get you one ticket at a major league game anymore. Certainly the days of paying a buck (literally $1) for an upper deck seat are gone.

The game itself was good and enjoyable. I like the fact that at a major league game I cheer for everyone on both sides. I do not need to take it as seriously as a major league game. I even got to see an unusual play. On a groundball to second, with the bases loaded, the runner from first stopped running and the second baseman instead of tossing to the shortstop and then to first for a 4-6-3 double play, ran the base runner back to first. With the base runner almost all the way back at first, the second baseman threw to first for the force and then the first baseman tagged the runner who had come back to first out for the double play to end the inning. The problem was, since they got the batter out first, the remaining plays were no longer force plays and thus the run scored and counted.

It was fun catching the game and now it is back to the excitement of a major league pennant race.

Let’s Go Mets!

A Poker Game On An Off Day

The Mets had the day off yesterday and today they are set to take on the Phillies in a weekend series. Hopefully, they are reenergized and ready to go. It is always interesting learning how players reenergize themselves. Some relax with a book or a crossword puzzle, some like to be around others, some like to keep things quiet and some, perhaps like to play cards. Perhaps a nice game of poker can be relaxing.

With PokerStar Marketing Code, challenges await all sorts of different players. And, now, there is a PokerStar Bonus Code, as well as a Full Tilt Referral Code, to make the game even more enticing. Pokwer may not be the answer for everybody but if it is your answer, there are a number of things of which you can take advantage.

A Grand Sweep

A sweep of the Brewers and a grand slam by Ryan Church added up to a good day yesterday. Add a loss by the Philadelphia Phillies and it was as successful a day as the Mets could have. Certainly it is a good sign to see Church hit a homerun, let alone a grand slam. His offensive numbers have, understandably, been down since his return. One homerun does not prove anything but if it is a sign that he is returning to the Ryan Church of old (earlier this year) or even half that player, it is a good sign.

Last year the Mets showed that if you get cold at the wrong time, it can be devastating. The Rockies proved that if you got hot at the right time, it could be amazing. It is not quite the point in the season last year where the Rockies got cold but it this is the point where the Mets are getting hot, or staying hot, then watch out.

I am at the point where I truly expect to see the Mets in postseason (as long as typing that did not just jinx the team). It is fun and exciting to watch. And Friday starts a series with the Phillies!


Let’s Go Mets!

Late Inning Magic

The Mets have a chance to sweep the Milwaukee Brewers this evening. Certainly that is good news considering this could be a post season match up. It has not all been pretty but they have been effective. It would have been nice to see Johan Santana get the win two nights ago but it was night meant to be. Still, the fact that the Mets won this one late in the game is encouraging. Late inning runs, let alone magic, has not been too forthcoming this year.

Yesterday, Jonathan Neise made his debut. The first three innings he pitched, he seemed like he might be effective. In the fourth, everything went wrong. Still, I am not ready to write him off after one start. Many of us, myself included, were ready to write Pelfrey off, or at least banish him to the bullpen earlier this season. He was not coming through, and had not for a few years. Now, he is showing how he could easily be the ace of the staff in a few years, or at least an ace. So, who knows about Jonathan Neise.

What was encouraging about last night’s game where two things that we have not seen much of this year. First, the bullpen came through. Like every Met fan, I hold my breathe when a reliever comes in. Yesterday, however, the relievers slammed the doors and did not let Milwaukee break the 5-5 tie. The second thing which was great to see was the Mets winning a game in extra innings. Again, this is a team that has been shut down in the late innings, yet the past two nights, they have won in late innings. Hopefully this is a sign of positive things yet to come.

Let’s Go Mets!

Staying Fit While Watching The Game

I don’t know about you but I find myself with a lot of nervous energy when I am watching a Met game. Certainly, with the number of games the bullpen has blown, there is a feeling that no lead is safe. Sometimes I start pacing back and forth during the late innings.

Why not put that energy to good use and exercise while watching the game.

Treadmill prices

are very reasonable right now so why not exercise while watching the game.

Thank You Chicago

It is a good day for a sports team when they don’t play and still do well. The Mets had an off day yesterday. Certainly having a day to regroup right now is not a bad thing. Still, it was not just the day off that helped the Mets.

After a two game set with the Phillies, which was split, the Phills went on to Chicago to play the Cubs. First a quick comment on the second game where the Mets came back and beat the Phillies. It was great to see the Mets did not let Philadelphia pick up momentum. The Mets were losing heading into the eighth inning. With Santana set to take the loss and the Phills set to sweep the Mets, New York came back. Carlos Delgado had a great night and tied it up and then the Mets went on to take the lead in the eighth as well and won the game. Turn about is fair play.

Following a tough loss for the Phills (you’ll understand if I don’t feel sorry for Philadelphia), they went to face the Cubs. The Cubs are playing some great baseball right now and have the best record in the National League. A couple of years ago when Lou Pinella was not manager, he did some play-by-play for TV. I was convinced the man was done. He did not know the names of the players, he was saying incorrect things about players, he seemed not to know. I did not think he would last in Chicago. Give him credit. He has the Cubbies play strong baseball.

Honestly, as a Met fan, right now Chicago scares me. Still, we are not playing the Cubs and the Phillies are so right now, I am just going to enjoy the series.

Let’s Go Mets!

Losing The House

Yesterday’s lose, as far as I am concerned, was devastating. In the middle of a pennant race, playing the team you need to beat, having taken nine of 14 games already played and jumping out to a 7-0 lead, you have to win that game. The Mets didn’t. Even before the game was over (and I went to sleep before the Phillies scored the winning run), I was saying to myself that this was a game they did not deserve to win.

Pedro Martinez let five runs score and the bullpen, once again, could not hold the lead. In fairness, the pen has been much better of late but I still would not bet the house if I were a gambling man and the Mets had the lead. The have let too many get away and they need to stop it.

The truth is, as I was thinking about this, it occurred to me all the debt that people incur over a lifetime. Between the house, car, loans and other expenses, we often end up owing a lot of money. This actually shows the importance of final expense insurance. This is a way to make sure that a family is not burdened by someone else’s debts after that person passes away. If a person passes away and has a lot of debts, they will be covered without obligation to the family. Certainly it is important to take the proper precautions.

Hats Off To Pelfrey

After a couple of losses over the weekend, I started to get a little frustrated, not et concerned but frustrated. Still, as a Met fan, concern is never too far away. Mike Pelfrey righted the ship. This young man has really come into his own. He now has pitched back-to-back complete games. He is the first pitcher to do that, and win both games, since Brett Saberhagen did it 13 years ago. That is certainly impressive.

It has become a pleasure to watch Pelfrey. Finally Met fans can finally see what the Mets saw in him all this time. I do believe he could easily be the ace of a staff in a few years. Having Santana and Pelfrey as a one-two punch could be reminiscent of Seaver and Koosman. I certainly like the chances with the two going back to back.

The other person that I enjoyed watching yesterday was Carlos Delgado. The man is in a groove. Hitting one three run homer is effective but he did that twice. Good day for him.

Now it is on to Philadelphia for a short two game series. The series may be short but certainly it is important and it would be great to see the Mets make a statement against the Phils. Hopefully, the worst that will happen will be a split.

Let’s Go Mets!

Simply Amazing!

Amazing!

That is about the only thing I can think of to describe yesterday’s victory. The fact that Pedro Martinez pitched into the eighth inning was surprising, gratifying, was simply amazing. The fact that Luis Ayala has now shown himself to be effective in his two opportunities, both of them potentially game changing situations, was a breath of fresh air, a relief, simply amazing. I still am not convinced Ayala is the real deal but right now I will gladly take what he is giving us.

There were other things that were amazing. The fact that Carlos Delgado went five for five was amazing. This was a man whom we all thought was washed up, finished, a few months ago (at least I did) and his resurgence has been important to the Mets. I don’t know that I look to keep him around next year but right now, I will gladly take what he is giving us. By the way, the fact that they ruled that last hit of his, the one in the ninth inning that won the game for the Mets, a hit, was also amazing.

It was enjoyable to see the Mets sweep the Braves. It was enjoyable to see the Mets beat up on the weaker teams, something they have not always done this year, it was enjoyable to see the Mets open up a two and a half game lead on the Phillies. Right now, it is just fun being a Met fan and I am enjoying it!

Let’s Go Mets!

It's Not A Game

As I think most of you know, I certainly hope it comes across through my posts, I am a Met fan and I enjoy watching Met games (or I get very frustrated at them). Still, sometimes things happen that remind you this is just a game. I recently heard about a child who was abducted. I started thinking how important it is that we take various precautions. Certainly lists of Sexual Offenders, which are available, have helped make us more aware of the dangers. Things like Megan's Law have helped make it easier to obtain information. Hopefully, everyone remains safe and we stop hearing about abductions.

Turnabout's Fair Play

Yesterday’s victory against the Braves felt SOOO GOOOD for so many reasons. First off, considering what the Braves have done to us over the past number of years, it was nice to show them some late inning Met magic. Upon hearing Met announcer say that the Braves had lost 16 straight one run road games this year with no victories, and 21 straight going back to last year, I was thinking with the score 3-2 Atlanta, “Well, that’s about to change”. Fortunately it did not.

I liked the game because not only did we show late inning heroics but, considering the Mets problems getting runs in the late innings and their inability to get a hit with the bases loaded, the came through. Again, with one out and the bases loaded, as Carlos Delgado came to the plate, I was thinking that with a slow runner coming up, we would see a double play. It felt good to be wrong.

It was enjoyable to see someone else’s bullpen implode and relieving to see that the Mets Bullpen did the job. I was also pleasantly surprised with the job Ayala did in relief and impressed to see Oliver Perez, with clearly less than his best stuff, go into the seventh inning and only give up three runs.

Great win yesterday!

Let’s Go Mets!

It's Not Just The Bullpen

The Mets lost yesterday and certainly I can’t complain with a road trip that saw them go six and one and that saw them take three out of four games from the Pittsburgh Pirates. So, yesterday’s loss is not tragic. The loss however, does point out a few major weaknesses of the Mets that, baring any changes, should they make it to post season play, will be major problems.

With the game tied two-two in the top of the eighth, the Mets loaded the bases but failed to score. I realize that a lot has to do with how many outs you have when the bases are loaded, who is coming up, etc, but, when Carlos Delgado popped out with the bases loaded to end the threat, it meant the Mets have three hits in the last 42 times they have loaded the bases—one for 12. In the bottom of the inning, the Pirates loaded the bases and, unlike the Mets, they did not squander the opportunity.

While Pittsburgh scoring three runs is a testament to their ability to hit with the bases loaded, it is also a statement about the Mets bullpen. Coming back from the DL, still with a shoulder less than 100%, Maine was taken out early. Brian Stokes allowed Pittsburgh to tie the game and then in the eighth, the Mets bullpen again collapsed. I don’t know what the answer is but until they can right the ship, find some help in the pen, the Mets are in serious trouble. Hopefully the help will come soon.

Let’s Go Mets!

A Head Start

The old saying goes, “The early bird catches the worm”. I guess there is a lot of truth in this when it comes to baseball. Scouting, knowing what talent to go after and making trades during the off season are all elements that go into trades and that prove “The early bird,” does in fact, “catch the worm”. Certainly it is better going into the season with what you need than trying to obtain it during the year. I think Met fans know that feeling.

As a result, when I see a thanksgiving flyer, see places already talking about Black Friday, perhaps it is not surprising. After all, why not get an early start on this as well. What is amazing to me is how Black Friday has changed. Yes, there still are people who like to go out early in the morning, deal with the large crowds and the craziness. I have friends, in fact, who enjoy that.

On the other hand, in this day and age, when can go shopping on Black Friday without ever leaving the house. You can still get the good deals. So, let’s say you are looking for a game, you can go to Toys-R-Us on your computer, check out the deals and purchase what you want.

Don’t forget to get those Met Tickets as well and remember, “The early bird catches the worm”.

Six In A Row

The Mets are doing what they are supposed to be doing—beating up worse teams. It was great to see the Mets sweep the Nationals but then they went to Pittsburgh. I had my concerns following a home game last Monday, where the Mets let six runs score in the last three innings to lose the game, that the Mets were in for trouble.

Fortunately, the Monday game was not a sign of things to come. The Mets took the first three games from the Pirates and they now have a six game winning streak. Initially I thought the Mets had swept two series in a row but, apparently the Mets have a four game set in Pittsburgh. Still, they are set to sweep and even if they don’t assuming they don’t get embarrassed, they will be looking good.

What is nice is to see the Mets in first place, and right now with a two game lead. I would like to see the Mets continue to increase the margin now so when things get tighter later in the summer, the Mets will be in good shape. That is what I would like to see. I am not sure what I will see but I can certainly hope.

Which New York Team Is Better?

I realize that there is a presidential election coming up. I know that we are in the middle of the Olympics. These are things that we often debate with friends, family, acquaintances and even our enemies. Certainly what is even more important, and often times leads to more debate, has to do with which New York Baseball team is better. I have been arguing this with my nephew who is a Yankee fan. Certainly now, however, the Mets have a better record, so I have some ammunition.

Regardless of the issue, politics, sports, or otherwise, there is a forum where people can speak their mind. The focus may be political forums, but there are plenty others. So Met fans, let’s unite and let people know why the Mets are the better baseball team in New York.

Let’s Go Mets!

Alone In First

The Mets finally did what they were supposed to do. They beat up on a bad team and swept them in a three game set. Obviously, the Washington Nationals are not very good but perhaps this series did for the Mets exactly what they needed it to do.

The Mets did a nice job hitting. They even added on there share of runs later on in the game. It has often seemed like the Mets score early and then are shut down so the opposing team has team to get back into the game. That did not happen with this set.

The Mets pitching looked pretty good. The starters did well and even the bullpen held there own. I am not suggesting that the series indicates the Mets bullpen is over its troubles, however, you have to start somewhere and the Mets did.

In fact, thanks to the sweep and some help from the Dodgers, the Mets stand alone atop the NL East. Hopefully they will be able to continue the dominance in Pittsburgh and get some revenge for a game they let slip away, one they clearly should have won. Hopefully, the Mets keep it going.

Let’s Go Mets!

What Happened?

The lose to the Marlins two days ago was embarrassing but, considering they took two out of three, it was acceptable. Yesterday’s lose was ridiculous, disgusting and pitiful. The Mets should feel ashamed. The Bullpen gave up six runs in the final two innings to lose the game 7-5. The Mets had a 5-1 lead after six innings but they could not hold it. It gets worse…

If I followed the statistics correctly, this is the sixth time the Mets have had a lead of four runs or more where they have failed to keep it. It also marks the eighth time that the Mets have gone into the ninth inning with a lead, only to lose the game.

Those statistics MUST change. They are in the middle of a pennant race. Any one of those games, come the end of the season, could be the difference between the Mets getting into Postseason and not making it. Fellas, it is time to WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE or at least start playing baseball. I don’t know what they were playing yesterday but it is not baseball!

Let’s Go Mets!

An Embarrassing Loss

It has been a long time since I have seen the movie The Candidate, staring Robert Redford but yesterday’s Met loss reminded me of a scene. In the movie, Redford’s character (Bill McKay) is convinced to run for the US Senate since no one expects him to win. The party elders argue that this allows McKay to say what ever is on his mind without fear of blowing the election. McKay agrees to run.

Somewhere during the course of the campaign, one of McKay’s handlers tells him he has to rethink his position on an issue. He asks why, since he has no chance of winning, and he did not get into the race to win. McKay is told that there is a difference between losing and being embarrassed in defeat and certainly he did not want to be embarrassed.

I am not looking to discuss Barak Obama, John McCain, Hillary Clinton, or even John Edwards. I am actually looking to discuss the Mets. I did not see any of the game on Sunday. Still, in a previous post, I indicated that I was okay with the Mets losing the last game in the three game set against the Florida Marlins, since they still would have taken two of three and they were assured of second place come the end of the series.

That was what I typed and I meant it. Still, when I heard the Mets lost 8-2, knowing nothing about the game (and I still don’t as I haven’t been inspired to research such a loss), the thought running through my head was, “I wouldn’t have minded a loss but I certainly didn’t want them to get embarrassed”. An 8-2 loss is embarrassing. Hopefully they will be able to make up for it today.

Let’s Go Mets!

In Second Place

The Mets have taken the first two from the Marlins and go for the sweep this afternoon. Even with a loss, the Met will finish the series in second place, and if we get some help from the Pirates, a Met win would have us tied for first.

Certainly there have been a lot of positives in the first two games against the fish. Ollie Perez continues his dominance over teams above 500 this season. Aaron Heilman saved the first two games for the Mets and the Mets are hitting.

It was a little disappointing yesterday, after seeing Brian Stokes staked to a 4-0 lead after one inning, Stokes was not able to hold it. Still, it was his Met Debut and the bottom line is they won the game and so many things have been going right for the Mets.

Let’s Go Mets!

Working At The Ballpark

Have you ever had the opportunity to work at a baseball stadium? Years ago, when Dwight Gooden was first starting out, I was looking to make some extra money. Since fans were coming out in droves to watch this sensation pitch, they needed more vendors at Shea Stadium on the days Doc was pitching.

I actually came across this job in the newspaper. I wonder how many stadiums advertise in the newspaper. For instance, if they are hiring in Minnesota, would the Twins advertise such a position in the newspaper? I would imagine that, considering the Twins ability to develop young talent, working there might be exciting. I can, however, tell you from firsthand experience, it is hard to do the job and watch the game, or follow what is going on. So perhaps, Twins baseball fans would be better off looking for other Minnesota jobs
.

Newspapers still are an effective way of finding jobs and certainly the Star Tribune in Minnesota can help for those involved in a Minnesota job search .

If you are looking for a job, regardless of where you live, regardless of the type of job for which you are looking, I wish you the best of luck.

A Good Sign?

Right now, the big sports news in New York has got to be the Jets obtaining Brett Favre. Earlier this year, the Mets has a day where they welcomed the Jets to Shea Stadium. Since the Jets used to share a home with the Mets, both playing home games at Shea Stadium, and this is the last year Shea will be in existence, it was only fitting.

Perhaps Favre is reminiscent of another great quarterback the Jets had, Joe Namath. Of course, Namath took the Jets to the Superbowl in 1969, the same year that the Mets won the World Series. It is a stretch but somewhere in the back of my mind, I hope that this all connects, that the Jets get Favre is an indicator of the Mets getting to post season.

As I said, I know it is a stretch but I can hope.

Let’s Go Mets!

Presentation

I find it fascinating how important presentation is when it comes to many things in life. For instance, studies show that when it comes to eating, people feel more satisfied when the food looks nice as opposed to just thrown on the plate. This is one reason why universities often have a reputation for poor food; it is not the taste, it is the presentation.

Dressing nicely effects the way others see you and even the way you see yourself. Sometimes, however, when it comes to dressing, we should not just consider the way a person is dressed; what about the way a room is dressed, or a house is dressed.

I have previously talked about wanting to watch Met games in a nicely decorated, comfortable room. Still, just being able to watch it in a house instead of an apartment makes a difference. Sometimes putting something like exterior shutters on a house can give the home a whole different look and feel. This can make the ballgames more enjoyable.

Vinyl shutters can look very nice; so can wood shutters. There are different types of each of these and different costs associated with them. Certainly making sure the house has a nice look, inside and out, can increase the enjoyment of watching a game.

Let’s Go Mets!

An Awful Statistic

Well, the Mets did come away with a victory yesterday. They took two of three from the San Diego Padres. Now, I hear people talking about how the Mets have gained momentum heading into the Florida series, since San Diego has done well against the Mets.

I hope the pundits are correct. I keep coming back to the idea that this was San Diego, this was a last place team and they only took two of three games and came very close to giving away the finale. Fortunately, David Wright came through and the Mets left with a victory.

There was another statistic that I found amazing. This is the sixth time this season the Mets’ bullpen has blown a Johan Santana lead. Santana has made 24 starts this season. Obviously, not every time they have taken him out have the Mets had a lead. That means that in more than one-quarter of the games he has pitched this season, the Mets have blown games he should have won.

To further put this in perspective, according to Gary Cohen in yesterday’s broadcast, it took over 100 Santana starts for the Minnesota Twins’ bullpen to blow that many games where Santana was taken out. Personally, I think it is pathetic. Santana is obviously doing what he is paid to do. He is giving the Mets innings, leads and a low ERA (I think something like the fourth or fifth lowest in the National League). The Mets are not doing what they need to do for him.

Fortunately, Wright’s homerun stopped yesterday from being a completely frustrating game and hopefully the Mets will be able to put the Marlins in their place and be in second place by the time the three game series ends.

Let’s Go Mets!

Not TOO Terrible Of A Loss

The Mets lost yesterday but they did not look terrible doing it. This is not to say they looked good, but things could have been worse. While the Mets never had the lead in this game, Martinez did not pitch terribly. I would rather forget about the first inning but then he turned it up a notch.

Daniel Murphy is looking good. I am hesitant to say too much about him since it has just been a couple of games he has played. When the Mets first brought up Nick Evans, a lot of people were ready to give him the starting job. While he has been okay, he has not been the immediate superstar some people were claiming.

I was not even too disappointed in the homerun the Eddie Kunz gave up. I think this kid is going to be an asset and while, arguably, it put the game out of reach, it was not the hit that drove in the deciding run.

What is most frustrating about this loss is that it was to the Padres. The Padres are not a good team and after a dismal road trip, it would have been great to see the Mets sweep the Padres; now, obviously that cannot happen. Hopefully, with Santana on the mound this afternoon, for a day game, the Mets will be able to take two of three from the Padres.

Let’s Go Mets!

Closers

It was nice to see the Mets get a win yesterday. They certainly may you hold your breath but they did come away with the victory.

It was nice to see Fernando Tatis start hitting again. It was nice to see Daniel Murphy come up with an RBI double in a big spot, as well as turn a nice play in the field. It was nice to see Pelfrey pitch another strong game and come away with a victory after losing his last start. Hopefully this victory will start him on another tear, the type he had before he finally lost a game.

Aaron Heilman is a different story. So way, the Mets have to get him right. I truly think the Mets loused him up by not letting him try his hand at starting, once he found some success in the pen. I hate the Randolph philosophy that a relief pitcher who can pitch a number of times per week is more valuable than a starter.

Speaking of relief pitching, this brings up the question of Billy Wagner. Met announcers were wondering aloud yesterday if Omar Minaya might have traded some players he was relunctant to let go, to get a relief pitcher, if he knew Wagner was going to end up on the DL.

I am glad he did not know this. A couple of years ago, he traded Xavier Nady for Roberto Hernandez because of Dauner Sanchez’s injury due to a cab accident. Hernandez never became the eighth inning guy, ended up just for the rest of the year before leaving and ever since, Met fans and announcer talked about how Nady could be the answer to problems that arose the following years. I don’t want to relive that.

In addition, I still have a problem with the fact of needing a designated closer. I hate this approach. I realize that it is the way baseball is played but I don’t like it. As far as I am concerned, all you need to do is find a decent pitcher and ask him to pitch one inning. It should not matter whether that inning is the seventh, eighth or ninth. In fairness to Heilman, I don’t think it did. He just isn’t pitching well, regardless of what inning you give him. I just hope Jerry Manuel doesn’t start using three pitchers in the ninth to close out games. Pick a guy and make him your closer for the time Wags is on the DL.

That’s one fan’s opinion.

Let’s Go Mets!

Getting Out Of Debt

Have you ever felt you needed to go in debt to watch a ballgame? Growing up, I could sit in the upper decks for one dollar. Stadium food was not that expensive and you could make a day of it at the ballpark. A family could go and not have to spend that much.

I have found this to be true today at the minor league stadiums but not on the major league level. I guess, in part, we fans are to blame since we want our teams to get good players, but that means spending money and the salary of the players is part of the reason ticket prices are increasing.

Obviously, people do not go in debt by going to the stadium as, realistically, they would avoid that expense if need be. Unfortunately, there are a number of other reason and items that do put people in debt.

Fortunately, there are various programs that can help people get out of debt if they are in over their heads. One such program is Freedom Debt Relief. One thing I like about this program is they will actually discuss various options with you. While they believe they provide the best option, they do explain other options.

Hopefully, when you are at the ball park, you do not need to worry about financial concerns but, if you do, there is help.

A Lousy Road Trip

What a difference a week makes. I have been involved with the daily struggles of life, watching the health of some family members deteriorate, so I have not been able to keep up with my posting of late. Still, I have been checking the box scores.

The Mets just had a terrible road trip, losing five of six games. Unfortunately, this is what I feared would happen shortly after they went on that tear, the ten game winning streak. They have been knocked out of first place and, of late, have not looked like the team the strong team they were a week ago, when I truly thought they had turned the page. Now, in third place, I am no longer so sure.

I hope that they will right themselves and start playing like a winning team again. Right now all I can do is hope. On the other side, when watching people deal with health issues, it does remind you of what is important and that, regardless of what happens with the Mets, it is only a game.

Let’s Go Mets!

Tied For First Again

What a difference a day makes. After blowing a three run lead in the ninth, you would have thought the momentum coming into game number two would have been with the Phillies but the Mets knew what they had to do and they did it.

John Maine was solid in his pitching performance. Yes, I hate it when a pitcher is given a lead (in Maine’s case 2-0 after one inning) and the very next inning allows the opposing team to tie it up (as Maine did by allowing consecutive homeruns). Maine settled down however, and continued his domination of the Phillies as well as the pitcher who is great getting a win following a Mets loss.

One day also makes a difference in my attitude about taking Johan Santana out after eight innings. Actually, it was John Heyman that made the difference. It was not so much the explanation that Santana has seldom in his career thrown over 100 pitches, nor the fact that he seldom has pitched a complete game. The point that he made was, given all the injuries to the Mets, especially seeing how they have mishandled Ryan Church, and given the amount of money Santana makes, you do not want to take a chance asking him to do something he does not usually do. I can buy that philosophy. In addition, Heyman pointed out that 96% of the time (it might have been 94% but I think he said 96), a team with a three run lead in the ninth inning wins the ballgame. So, I have changed my thinking a little.

Today it is a Noon game and the winner claims sole possession of first place. Hopefully that will be the Mets!

Let’s Go Mets!

Put The "L" Next To Manuel's Name

Like just about every other Met fan, this morning I am completely disgusted. The Mets had a chance to set the tone yesterday, to make a statement and they had everything working… Then they BLEW it. Personally, I think the “L” should go next to Jerry Manuel’s name.

The fact is Johan Santana was pitching a gem. He had only thrown 105 pitches and given up just two runs. He had gotten the first batter out in EVERY inning he pitched. There was no reason that he was pulled from the game after eight and not given an opportunity to pitch a complete game.

I understand that is the way baseball is played today but I HATE what baseball has become. As Harold Baines said after the game yesterday, this is exactly the reason the Mets got Santana, to handle a situation like this. Let him go, lets see what he has. I felt that way when Argenis Reyes came up to pinch hit in the bottom of the eighth for Santana and I certainly felt that way after the Mets blew the game.

While I would have kept Santana in the game (as Baines said, it wasn’t like Santana was struggling and he worked the eighth fairly easily), I also agree with a comment Lee Mazzilli made after the game. Maz was talking about how with a three run lead and only needing three outs, you have to get them. I agree with that thinking too.

Once Santana was pulled from the game, the Mets have to hold the Phills. You CAN’T let them score six runs in the ninth and play as sloppily as they did. There was no excuse for the bullpen to blow that game. They needed to come through and they didn’t.

I don’t even care that Wagner was not available. I thought Ron Darling, Keith Harnandez and Gary Cohen made it sound much tougher than it was, talking about the difference between pitching the eight and the ninth. Garbage! With three runs, it is possible Manuel would not have even brought Billy Wagner into the game if he were available (certainly over the past couple of years in that situation he would occasionally be given the night off—although once trouble started, probably would have been brought in). The bullpen has got to get three outs. The didn’t.

It is true that the defense did not help the pitching but the bottom line is, Met pitching should never have even let them get in such a situation.

Last night, the Mets reverted back to the pitiful team they were at the end of last season and the beginning of this one. Let’s hope today, we got the “other” team back.

Let’s Go Mets!

Anticipating The Series With Philadelphia

The Mets open up a series with the Philadelphia Phillies today and I am looking for big things from Johan Santana. Santana had a terrible start his last time out. He needs to be looking to redeem himself. More than that, this is the type of game the Mets got him for, the reason they paid so much money for him.

I realize that it is not down to the wire but we are 100 games into the season and the Mets are in a pennant run. They handle the Phills well in the last series in Philadelphia. Now, the two teams are even. It is time for the Mets to make a statement and to play big.

The series is at Shea. Johan is on the mound. It seems like things should favor the Mets. Being a Met fan, I am still a little apprehensive because I have seen them waste opportunities over the year. Still, in the words of Tug McGraw, “You Gotta Believe”.

Right now, I believe!

Let’s Go Mets!

The Cincy Series

The Mets play in Cincinnati was far from great but they did come away with a split and as far as I am concerned, that is good enough. Following a victory on Thursday, making it ten straight wins, the Mets lost on Friday. In one sense, I was actually glad they lost.

Don’t get me wrong, of course I would rather a win than a loss. The problem with the Mets this season, however, is every time they get on a roll, they follow it up with a losing streak. I was curious to see how they would respond this time. Would a ten game winning streak be followed by a five game losing streak or by winning four or five of their next six?

The Mets did lost Saturday’s game for a two game losing streak but, honestly, I do not consider two loses in a row a losing streak. That is why I felt that Sunday’s game was crucial. A lose would have meant they had a three game losing streak (and as far as I am concerned, that is a bona fide losing streak) as well as losing three out of four to the Reds.

The Mets pitching certainly tried to lose the game. Since the break, the Mets have not really had a solid pitching performance. Still, the hitting refused to let them lose. The team kept fighting until they were able to put this one in the win column. So, now it means the Mets split a four game series with the Reds and have won nine of their last 11 and 12 of their last 14. Those are numbers I am happy with.

I hope the pitching staff gets it together now and starts pitching like they were before the break. It would be great to see that happen during the upcoming series with the Phillies. Either way, they have an off day today and then three with the Phils. The two teams are tied for first and if the Mets take two of three, I will be happy. If they take all three, I will be thrilled. I certainly think this current Mets team can win at least two of the three games. I hope so, anyway!

Let’s Go Mets!

Ten Straight

The Mets keep rolling and now have a 10 game winning streak. I think I saw that they have not had such a long winning streak since 1991. It is nice to see that the break did not stop the momentum of the team.

In one sense this game was frustrating. Johan Santana is on the mound. The Mets have scored a total of 12 runs in his last six starts, combined. Now, the team scores two runs in the fourth inning. Not only was Santana unable to get them 1, 2, 3 the next half inning; not only was Santana unable to shut them down the next half inning (something which I think is very important and have blogged about this numerous times); not only was Santana unable to protect the lead, he gave up FIVE runs. That is, I believe, only the second time in his career he has given up five runs. It was not only Santana, the rest of the pitching also could not hold the lead. Pitching was not a strength yesterday.

What I liked about the game was the offense. This is the team from a couple of years ago, the team you never rule out. Every time the Mets were down, the offense came back. Even when Cincinnati had their closer on the mound, the Mets came back.

I don’t know how long the streak will go but it is fun watching this team once again. They are fighting. They are getting the pitching when the hitting is not there and the hitting when the pitching is not there. I am believing more and more in this team and think we can take the NL title. I realize they have led me down this path before but not with a 10 game winning streak. This time I think it is for real.

Let’s Go Mets!

Blogging

What is a baseball fan to do? Yes, tonight is the All-Star game and many of us enjoy the game but still, it is not the regular season. Whether we are Met fans or Mariner fans, whether we root for a team in California or Cleveland, we will have to survive without our favorite teams for a few days.

I might suggest checking out some blogs. Having an opportunity to see what others are saying, or to post a comment on one of the blogs, can certainly be enjoyable. I enjoy checking out Met blogs and even Yankee blogs, but periodically I check out other teams as well. There is a fascinating blog that deals with the Cleveland Indians.

I like this blog because it shows you what a bunch of the different writers are saying about the Tribe, you can check out the thoughts of more than one author. So check out those blogs, catch the All-Star game tonight and get set to cheer the Mets on to victory the second half of the season.

Let’s Go Mets!

Manuel's Changes

The Mets are on a roll and as much as I love the All-Star game, I am sorry to see teams breaking right now. The Mets have now won nine in a row. You can argue that part of that streak has been against teams that are not very good but the Mets haven’t had such a streak in years, regardless of the opponent.

Not only have the Mets won nine in a row, four of the past six games have been shutouts. More importantly, the Mets seem relaxed. I did not think changing managers would make much of a difference, except maybe to give the Mets a jolt because change can do that. I was wrong.

The jolt did not come immediately, as it usually does, as they were playing 500 ball under Jerry Manuel for a while. Now, it looks like Manuel relaxing the standards, allowing for facial hair, allowing for players to play music, letting the players have fun, has really made a difference.

The truth is I have long felt that some players feel a certain look gives them an edge and a moustache or beard, or long hair can help. I was not a fan of making Oscar Gamble cut his hair when he came to the Yankees, I was not a fan of Al Hrobosky having to shave his moustache when he was traded from the St. Louis Cardinals. Would Rollie Fingers have been the same pitcher without his handlebar moustache? Would Goose Goosage have been so intimidating without his facial hair? The players are adults and deserve to be treated as such. It appears that Jerry Manual is doing just that and it is paying huge dividends.

Everything is clicking and I hope it continues after the All-Star break.

Let’s Go Mets!

Going For First

Who would have thunk it? A month ago, three weeks ago, even two weeks ago, I was ready to write the Mets out. Jerry Manual really seems to have turned this team around. They have won eight straight for the first time since 2006 and they are on a roll, only half a game out of first place. It will take a little luck but the Mets can realistically be in first place by themselves come the All-Star break.

The Mets need to win tonight and both Phillie and Florida need to lose, but that can happen. The worst the Mets can possible do is be a game and a half out of first. Either way, the Mets have become exciting to watch again.

Whether it is the long ball, small ball or speed, the Mets are able to get runs. Whether it is a regular like Beltran, Wright or Reyes, the Mets are getting runs. Whether it is a reserve like Easley, Tatis or Chavez, the Mets are getting runs.

I hesitate to say this but, right now if I were the Mets front office, I would not be looking at getting another player. It may be someone different every day, it may be a “no name” player but they are getting the job done and really don’t seem to need anyone else.

My only concern with that is, will it last and I see two places where the Mets definitely need help. First is first base. Carlos Delgado has certainly picked it up a notch but he went downhill so fast, I think his days are numbered at best.

The other is a left fielder. I like Moises Alou and he is a hell of a ballplayer but I do not see him ever making it back to the bigs. He has frequently been on the disabled list during his career and has spent the better part of the last two years on the DL. He is a good ballplayer and I would have signed him if the decision is mine but after seeing him come back a few times this year only to end up on the DL within the next day or two of returning, I think his career is done. So, if the Mets pick up someone at either of those positions, I see it as a long term move not a rental.

Either way, they are winning, they are showing heart and they are fun to watch again.

Let’s Go Mets!

Staying Fit

As we head to the All-Star break, only three more Met games to go, I am encouraged. It is possible the Mets could be in first place by the time the break occurs. I just hope the break does not stop the momentum. Let the players stay focused and in shape, use the

fitness treadmill if necessary. Let the players follow whatever superstitions they have, as long as it will help them play just as well, if not better, when the break is over.

Let’s Go Mets!

A Sweep!

I was not even aware that the Mets were playing a day game today. When I got home from the office, I sat down at my computer and noticed that my tracker which lists the ball scores indicated the Mets won 7-3. The team is on a roll and I am thrilled.

The Mets have now won six games in a row, their longest winning streak since a seven game streak in August of 2006. In other words, they have not been on such a roll for almost two years. Some might argue that three of the games were against the weak Giants. Still, the Mets have not handled the last place teams, the weak teams well. So the fact they swept the Giants is encouraging.

Of course, not only did the Mets sweep the Giants, the streak started by winning the last three of a four game set against the first place Philadelphia Phillies. Beating up on last place teams and handling the first place teams certainly sounds like a good formula to me.

It sounds like John Maine did not have it in this game but the hitters and the pen picked him up and for the third straight game, the Giants only got three hits off the Mets. Right now everything is clicking and I hope it stays that way.

Let’s Go Mets!

Remodeling

I am currently closing in on my first year in the new house. It certainly was a good move and I am glad my wife and I bought this house. The house was certainly in good shape when we moved in but we have made some changes and some improvements along the way.

The next area to focus on is the den, where I watch my Met games. Certainly this area has to be one of the nicest and most relaxing areas in the house. I am not the best handyman around so it is nice to know that there is a website where you can enter your city and state and they can put you in touch with people who do the work.

Whether you are looking for a Raleigh Contractors or a Rhode Island Contractor, help is available. So make sure you have a nice comfortable place to watch the ball games!

A Strong Showing

Yesterday was a great win. It was the type of win I was waiting to see the Mets have all season. First they got to Lincecum early with Beltran hitting a three run homer in the first inning. The added a run in the fourth and in the late innings put it away. Hittingwise this was a good game and Mike Pelfrey had breathing room from the beginning.

Speaking of Pelfrey, he looked sharp. First off, after Beltran and company handed him a 3-0 lead, Pelfrey came out the next half inning and got the Giants 1-2-3. Pelfrey was in command of his game and looked good. I think it is unfortunate that in today’s day and age, even a shutout does not keep you in the game. I guess, however, it is all part of programming and if pitchers are not programmed to go more than 100-125 pitches, to have them do so can destroy a pitcher’s arm.

The bullpen came through for the Mets as well and did not give up any runs. Jerry Manuel seems now to have this team clicking on all cylinders and the Mets are only 1.5 games out of first and just half a game out of second. To hear Met announcers say the Met could realistically be in first place by the All-Star game is amazing, but true.

The one thing I need to be careful of is not to fall into the trap. I think this is for real. I certainly hope so. Still, we have seen flashes of strong play, of greatness even, only to have the Mets come back to mediocrity or horrendous play. I hope that is not the case now. I am feeling better about this team than I have in a really long time.

Let’s Go Mets!

Finally! But There Are Still Many Questions

I am thrilled. The Mets took three out of four from the Phillies and are only 2.5 games back. Heading into the series, this is really what the Mets needed to do. So kudos to them for doing it. The Mets are currently in third place but only one game back of the Marlins and they are above 500.

Perhaps this is a measure of retribution for what the Phils did to the Mets at the end of last season. Still, while the overall series was uplifting, I have more questions and concerns about this team now than I did before the Mets got to Philadelphia.

First off, the one game the Phillies one was the one started by Johan Santana. While the Mets did not give Santana much run support. Still Johan gave up four consecutive two out hits allowing the Phills to tie the game and the bullpen could not hold the Phillies. The Phillies proved to the Mets and to themselves that they can beat Santana.

The second game saw questions arise about the health of Maine (appears to be fine) and Church (who knows). That game was the strongest performance the Mets offered as a team as they came from behind. They were down 4-3 after seven and then kept putting up runs. I was waiting for the Mets to blow it but they held on.

Game three was not a confidence builder for me. The Mets had a 2-0 lead. Oliver Perez had pitched a beauty of a game. Wagner needed one more strike to give Ollie the victory (he deserved the win) and instead Wagner gives up a two run homerun to allow the Phills to tie the game and the Mets had to win it in extra innings. Fortunately they did but is any Met fan really feeling confident with Wagner on the mound? On the day he is named to the All-Star game he starts showing why he should not make it into the game.

Game four showed the team as the offensive threat we have been waiting to see. It was 10-1 after six innings. I am glad they won the game but winning it 10-9 with the tying run on second base in the ninth inning is not a confidence booster.

Again, the series was good for morale and good for the fans but if you look at the individual games, you may not come away as optimistic. Sorry to be so pessimistic but that’s the way I feel.

Let’s Go Mets!

A New Direction? I Think Not!

This team is going to drive me crazy. After a blowout game where the Mets destroyed the Cardinals in the series finale, and a strong pitching effort by Mike Pelfrey, I began to wonder if maybe my last post about the Mets was a little too harsh. Perhaps fighting back in the penultimate game of the Cardinal series, even though they lost, showed they were ready to turn the page.

Then came last night’s game against the Phillies. As far as I am concerned, it was ugly; ugly on a number of fronts. First off, let’s start with Santana. Yes, Santana pitched a good game and yes, I think Johan should have been out to start the ninth. I agree with comments made my Lee Mazzilli following the game where he said this is exactly the reason you got him, to pitch in this type of game. Still, Johan deserves a little blame himself. While he pitched well and deserved a win, giving up four consecutive two out hits when you are up 2-0 and allowing the opposition to tie the game on those four hits, is not acceptable. Had he given up two solo shots, spaced out during the game, ironically, I would feel better.

Still, Santana did pitch well. The statistic that in his last six games the Mets have only given him 12 runs total to work with is amazing. The Mets scored almost as many runs in the Pelfrey game as they have in six combined games for Santana. And, it is not like they didn’t have any chances yesterday. They failed to drive in runs when necessary, failed to break the game open when they could have, failed to look like a major league team, AGAIN!

One comment that I do disagree with following the loss yesterday, made by a Met announcer, was this was a must win game. The argument was when you have Santana opening the series and he is opposed by a rookie, by Happ, you need to take the game. Certainly they should have, certainly it is demoralizing (although they have had a number of those kinds of defeats already) but we are just halfway through the season. I don’t think any game right now, for any team, is a “must win”. Still it is a game they should have won.

The Mets continue to play 500 ball and continue to make us believe that is exactly what they are, a 500 club. It is amazing they spent all that money to simply be average, mediocre, okay.

Let’s Go Mets!

No Heart

What should have been one of the Mets biggest victories of the year turned into one of their most disappointing. I was amazed to learn that the Mets are the only team this season which has not come back from a three run deficit or more. That stat, in and of itself, is shocking. Here is a team who a couple of years ago was able to rely on late inning magic when they needed it. With largely the same group of hitters, now they can do NOTHING!

Yesterday they had a chance to put that behind them. The Mets down four-nothing after one inning, came back to tie it at four-four. Naturally Met pitching, in this case Pedro but it has been the MO all year, allowed St. Louis to take the lead again, 5-4. But then in the seventh the Mets scored three runs to take a 7-5 lead. It was a good feeling. All the Mets had to do was hold them for three innings and they would now have a victory this season after being down by more than two runs.

Heilman got them through the seventh but Feliciano gave up a two run homerun in the eighth, allowing the Cardinals to tie the game. Then with two out in the ninth, Muniz gave up a solo shot to Troy Glaus and St. Louis had a walk off victory. The Mets had lost 8-7.

Obviously a lot can be said about how someone can say a team has no heart when they are losing but when they are winning they are playing with heart. One can easily fall into that trap. Still, when you have a team that has played more than half of its games and they have yet to win a game after being down by three runs, to me it shows a lack of heart. They are not playing well because they are not good and they just don’t care, no heart!

Needing Consistency

The Mets played a good game yesterday. They actually looked like a major league team. At the start, it was obvious that Tony Armas Jr. did not have great stuff in his Mets debut. Still, he pitched well enough to keep the Mets in the game and the Mets came back quickly, they did to the Cards what other teams usually do to them.

The Cardinals scored two runs in the bottom of the first but the next half inning, the Mets scored a run to make it 2-1. The Cards came back with a run in the bottom of the second making it 3-1. While the Mets did not score in the top of the third, they did in the top of the fourth, and fifth, and sixth and Armas just got stronger.

Using four different pitchers in the last three innings, despite not giving up an earned run, is something I find frustrating but they did hold St. Louis.

I read some comments by Jerry Manual and he seems to feel the same way that many of us Met fans feel. He was reserved and said he has seen the Mets play like this before but now he needs to see it consistently. I agree, until the Mets have a long stretch of playing good ball, even when they loss, I do not believe this is for real.

Let’s Go Mets!

No One Worthy Of The All-Star Game

The Mets continue to play ball the way they have all season… poorly, with the occasional good game mixed in. The finished a four game series with the Yankees on Sunday and not surprisingly, when you have two mediocre teams, they split. Then it was onto St. Louis and that series started yesterday.

I don’t think many people were surprised that the Mets lost yesterday to the Cardinals. St. Louis is playing good baseball and the Mets are not. Unfortunately, the Mets did not even look like a Triple A team yesterday. They are looking ugly. Is it any surprise that as of the last check, no Met is slated to start the All-Star game? The bottom line is, there is no one on this team who deserves to start and if not for a rule that states each team must have at least one representative (a rule I happen to like but it is a debate for another time), probably no one on the team who even deserves to go to the game.

Poor play has been the MO of the Mets all season. They just can’t seem to get it together. In fact, I was amazed to hear that Jerry Manuel wants Luis Castillo to take more of a role in developing Jose Reyes, kind of like Jose Valentin did. Is Reyes still at this stage? Does he need to be babied and brought along. Right now it is time for Jose Reyes to start helping some other players develop, not the other way around.

Well, I will hope the Mets turn it around in St. Louis but, honestly, I am not expecting much.

Let’s Go Mets!

Here We Go Again

After losing the first two games to the lowly Seattle Mariners, the Mets came back to take the finale. They followed that up by pounding the Yankees 15-6 with Carlos Delgado having a good week in that one game. Unfortunately neither Delgado nor the Mets could capitalize on this.

Following those two wins the Mets have now lost the next two to the Yankees. The Yankees won the second game on Friday 9-0, pounding the Mets, getting a measure of revenge for the 15-6 loss. It is yesterday’s game, however, that bothers me. Again, we see Johan Santana pitch adequately, pitch good enough to get a win but ending up with a loss. Certainly part of the problem was the walks by Santana and part was the offense that has again decided to go on vacation (Wright, Beltran and Delgado were a combined 1 for 11).

The problem is, Santana is not an adequate pitcher, he is supposed to be among the elite. The Mets did stake Santana to a 1-0 lead but then Johan allowed the Yankees to score three runs over six innings before the Mets added one more run for a final of 3-2 Yankees. Santana allowed three earned runs over six innings. That is an ERA of 4.5 for the game. By today’s standards, those numbers are acceptable. They are clearly far from dominant.

When the Mets signed Santana, they felt this came as close as possible to ensure they would never lose five in a row or more, Santana would stop the losing streak. In 17 starts for them, Santana is 7-7 and the Mets 9-8. Again, these numbers are acceptable, they are even slightly better than what the team has done as a whole. Clearly they are not the numbers of someone believe to be the best pitcher in baseball (or at least one of them). Right now I don’t even think he is the best pitcher on the Mets. I think that distinction belongs to John Maine who has excellent numbers this year (and for his tenure as a Met) when it comes to leading the Mets to victory following a loss.

Until they prove me wrong, I will continue to say it: “This team is in sad shape and clearly not very good”.

Let’s Go Mets!