A Split? Not Good Enough!

The Mets split the two game set with the Washington Nationals. They ended their losing streak in Washington. Still, I say that was not enough. I have a number of thoughts about the series. First, it is good to have a pitcher like Johan Santana. He is the type of pitcher that every time he takes the mound, you think they are going to win. There is a feeling that no losing streak this year should go more than four games since Johan pitches every fifth game. Obviously he will lose games and get no decisions, but he does instill that type of confidence.

My second thought is, a split against the Nationals is NOT GOOD ENOUGH! I realize they took four of the five games they have played against this team so far, but it should have been five of five. After a five game winning streak, followed by a three game losing streak, the Mets had a chance to get things going again. Santana got a win and winning the following day would have sent the Mets back to Shea in much better spirits (at least their fans would have been) to take on the Braves. They were playing the lowly Nats and they needed to sweep. They did not get the job done.

Unlike some of the comments I have read on other blogs and by other fans, I do not fault Willie Randolph for talking Perez out of the game. Perez had a three nothing lead and Randolph showed confidence sticking with him, not even having anyone up in the bullpen, as the Nationals began their comeback. Ultimately, Willie stayed with him and the Nats tied the game. The next inning, runners were getting on base against Perez and after what Willie witnessed the previous inning, I do not blame him for taking Ollie out.

I think it is time for Ollie to step up. He won a ridiculous contract through arbitration this past off-season. He is eligible for free agency at the end of this year. Perez has got to show some grit, guts and determination. Perez has got to show that he can get out of these situations. I am sure there are some who will argue that the only way to do that is to be given the chance and that is why Willie should have left him in. Willie did give him the chance the previous inning. Ollie came back and put himself right back in a jam.

Hopefully, the Mets will finally show some character. They need a strong winning streak NOT followed by a losing streak.

Let’s Go Mets!