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!