“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.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
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!
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!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, September 26, 2008
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!
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!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
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!
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!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
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!
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!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
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!
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!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
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!
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!
Friday, September 19, 2008
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!
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!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
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!
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!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
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!
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!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
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!
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!
Monday, September 15, 2008
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.
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.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
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!
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!
Friday, September 5, 2008
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!
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.
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.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
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!
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!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
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!
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!
Monday, September 1, 2008
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. are very reasonable right now so why not exercise while watching the game.
Why not put that energy to good use and exercise while watching the game. are very reasonable right now so why not exercise while watching the game.
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