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!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
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!
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!
Friday, August 22, 2008
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!
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!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
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.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
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!
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!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
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!
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”.
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”.
Monday, August 18, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, August 15, 2008
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!
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!
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!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
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!
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!
Monday, August 11, 2008
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!
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!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
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!
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!
Friday, August 8, 2008
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
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!
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!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
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!
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!
Monday, August 4, 2008
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.
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!
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!
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