After looking hapless for most of the day, the Mets battled back in the 8th with a 2-run blast from Carlos Beltran to tie and a single up the middle from Fernando Tatis ended up being the game winner.
Mike Pelfrey made the start, and he barely looked like he was going to make it out of the 1st inning, ended up logging a solid start, allowing only two runs through seven innings.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
I believe in Aaron Heilman (and the New York Mets)
The headline is a spoof on famous Batman character, and soon-to-be blockbuster movie villain Harvey Dent.
For The Dark Knight, the latest installment in Christopher Nolan's Batman series, Aaron Eckhart (one of my favorite actors) will play Harvey Dent, better known as Two-Face.
Take note of the first names. Aaron Eckhart will play Two-Face in the theaters, while for Shea faithful everywhere, Aaron Heilman is playing Two-Face on the Mets.
Just take a look at Heilman's season so far by heading to his Baseball-Reference page. Here's a quick rundown of how his season has gone:
Though my good buddy Dave over at Mets Lifers has a post claiming Heilman is this years Met villain, using a picture of Heath Ledger as the Joker, I think the Mets would be much more suited as Mr. Harvey Dent, a.k.a. Two-Face.
They have become the masters of inconsistency. They tease us with a three game win streak, where the show fire, fight, heart, and talent. Then they come out, fight a bit, surrender leads, and watch their bullpen implode in their face.
It's going to be a very long season. Unless this team can put together a 40-game win streak, I'm not going to stop worrying until the season is over.
Up and down, up and down, probably all season long. Mets fans, we must get used to this roller coaster season, now titled 2008: The Year of the Two-Face Mets.
For The Dark Knight, the latest installment in Christopher Nolan's Batman series, Aaron Eckhart (one of my favorite actors) will play Harvey Dent, better known as Two-Face.
Take note of the first names. Aaron Eckhart will play Two-Face in the theaters, while for Shea faithful everywhere, Aaron Heilman is playing Two-Face on the Mets.
Just take a look at Heilman's season so far by heading to his Baseball-Reference page. Here's a quick rundown of how his season has gone:- First two games, both against Florida, he pitches three innings and only allows one hit and one walk while striking out four.
- Over his next three appearances, against Atlanta and Philadelphia, Heilman allows six earned runs in three innings.
- Bouncing back, facing the Brewers and the Nationals, he pitches 4 2-3 innings, again allowing only one hit and one walk, striking out five.
- Over the next four appearances, Heilman doesn't log a full inning. Facing the Phillies, Cubs and Nationals, Heilman allows eight runs (four earned), while striking out four in 2 1-3 innings.
- Heilman then logged six quality outings, lowering his ERA each time. Over 8 1-3 innings, he let in only two earned runs on six hits and three walks. He struck out eight in that stretch.
- His next appearance did not fare so well, as Heilman allowed three earned runs on three hits in only 1-3 of an inning. He followed that up with a slightly better performance, allowing two earned runs in one inning of work. He followed that up with another better performance, allowing only one earned run on three hits.
- Recently, against Florida, Heilman logged four innings of one hit ball, striking out seven.
- He imploded again last night, getting tagged for four earned runs on four hits. He did not strike out any batters.
Though my good buddy Dave over at Mets Lifers has a post claiming Heilman is this years Met villain, using a picture of Heath Ledger as the Joker, I think the Mets would be much more suited as Mr. Harvey Dent, a.k.a. Two-Face.
They have become the masters of inconsistency. They tease us with a three game win streak, where the show fire, fight, heart, and talent. Then they come out, fight a bit, surrender leads, and watch their bullpen implode in their face.
It's going to be a very long season. Unless this team can put together a 40-game win streak, I'm not going to stop worrying until the season is over.
Up and down, up and down, probably all season long. Mets fans, we must get used to this roller coaster season, now titled 2008: The Year of the Two-Face Mets.
12 games: 2-1
Game 1: Mets 7 -- Marlins 6 (12 innings).
Game 2: Mets 8 -- Dodgers 4.
Game 3: Dodgers 9 -- Mets 5.
Record in the 12 games: 2-1. 9 left to play.
Game 2: Mets 8 -- Dodgers 4.
Game 3: Dodgers 9 -- Mets 5.
Record in the 12 games: 2-1. 9 left to play.
Friday, May 30, 2008
TSTDIA: Dodgers 9 -- Mets 5
The theme of tonight: close but no cigar. The Mets left 11 runners on base. They had the bases loaded three times and got one run out of it.
Missed opportunities all around.
Missed opportunities all around.
Clayton and I
Here I am, sitting on my butt, munching on pretzels and sipping some soda and watching the New York Mets take on the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Clayton Kershaw, the phenom starter for the Dodgers, is a mere 4 months older than me. So as I sit on my green couch, blogging away about the happenings at Shea, a guy four months older than me is on the bump in Shea Stadium in front of 40,000 fans.
A bit of disparity, no?
I mean, I'm no slouch, but I could not even begin to fathom the idea of being in the major leagues, pitching in New York at my age. Heck, at any age.
A hat tip must go out to him and his blossoming career. I think he's going to have a pretty stellar career. Didn't look like it in the first, as he gave up a first inning 2-run home run to Luis Castillo.
And who is this person masquerading as the Mets second baseman? Whoever he is, can this one stick around for a while, preferably the next four years?
Clayton Kershaw, the phenom starter for the Dodgers, is a mere 4 months older than me. So as I sit on my green couch, blogging away about the happenings at Shea, a guy four months older than me is on the bump in Shea Stadium in front of 40,000 fans.
A bit of disparity, no?
I mean, I'm no slouch, but I could not even begin to fathom the idea of being in the major leagues, pitching in New York at my age. Heck, at any age.
A hat tip must go out to him and his blossoming career. I think he's going to have a pretty stellar career. Didn't look like it in the first, as he gave up a first inning 2-run home run to Luis Castillo.
And who is this person masquerading as the Mets second baseman? Whoever he is, can this one stick around for a while, preferably the next four years?
Keith Hernandez and his love affair with camera angles
In another life, I think Keith Hernandez would have been either a photographer or cameraman. Or both.
Every single time, without fail, that SNY switches to a new or "exciting" camera angle, Hernandez swoons and exclaims his love for the newest video angle.
It's truly hilarious and is just another wonderful facet to the team of Gary Cohen, Ron Darling and Mr. Hernandez in the booth for SNY. They're the best in the biz (not just my personal opinion) and continue to keep us entertained through every game this year.
Kudos to you, SNY booth. Excellent stuff.
Every single time, without fail, that SNY switches to a new or "exciting" camera angle, Hernandez swoons and exclaims his love for the newest video angle.
It's truly hilarious and is just another wonderful facet to the team of Gary Cohen, Ron Darling and Mr. Hernandez in the booth for SNY. They're the best in the biz (not just my personal opinion) and continue to keep us entertained through every game this year.
Kudos to you, SNY booth. Excellent stuff.
Early Morning Madness -- 5/30
I never worry about David Wright. Any time he looks like he's going into a slump, or actually goes into a bit of a slump, I know within a few days, he'll turn it around.
He's rumored to be the hardest worker on the team, and when he was in the minors, they had to stop him from doing drills, lifting, etc. because he was wearing himself down.
He's a stellar young player, only 24 and years away from getting into his prime.
Scott Schoeneweis is having a stellar year. After stumbling through his first half year as a Met, he turned it on at the end of last year. That has carried over to this year, where he's been downright dominant against opposing batters. He's having a Carlos Beltran-esque sophomore explosion.
But feelings still linger, and as recently as 20 days ago, while Schoeneweis was still sporting a 1.74 ERA (down to a 1.25 ERA now) people were calling for his head.
I think Howard Johnson has earned a raise. This team is hitting again, and some guys are looking like they're going to have career years. Ryan Church and Wright are his disciples, and he's teaching them very well.
That two finger handshake needs to happen more often.
He's rumored to be the hardest worker on the team, and when he was in the minors, they had to stop him from doing drills, lifting, etc. because he was wearing himself down.
He's a stellar young player, only 24 and years away from getting into his prime.
#####
Scott Schoeneweis is having a stellar year. After stumbling through his first half year as a Met, he turned it on at the end of last year. That has carried over to this year, where he's been downright dominant against opposing batters. He's having a Carlos Beltran-esque sophomore explosion.
But feelings still linger, and as recently as 20 days ago, while Schoeneweis was still sporting a 1.74 ERA (down to a 1.25 ERA now) people were calling for his head.
#####
I think Howard Johnson has earned a raise. This team is hitting again, and some guys are looking like they're going to have career years. Ryan Church and Wright are his disciples, and he's teaching them very well.
That two finger handshake needs to happen more often.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
12 games: 2-0
Game 1: Mets 7 -- Marlins 6 (12 innings).
Game 2: Mets 8 -- Dodgers 4.
Record in the 12 games: 2-0. 10 left to play.
Game 2: Mets 8 -- Dodgers 4.
Record in the 12 games: 2-0. 10 left to play.
TSTDIA: Mets 8 -- Dodgers 4
Another perfectly solid, all-around-contributed-to victory for the New York Mets. Three in a row now, dare I say they're getting hot?
What the heck?
So the 4th inning seemingly ended with a ground out from Caludio Vargas to short. SNY went to commercial, as usual.
They just cut back, with Vargas on base, and Jose Reyes on first. Luis Castillo promptly doubled to left, scoring Vargas. Reyes came around to score on an errant throw.
David Wright just hit his second 2-run home run of the game. It's 6-0 now, and four of them came after the inning was seemingly over.
Ah!!! Gary Cohen just updated us. It was a catchers interference call when Vargas was batting.
So crazy. Did that happen to anyone else?
They just cut back, with Vargas on base, and Jose Reyes on first. Luis Castillo promptly doubled to left, scoring Vargas. Reyes came around to score on an errant throw.
David Wright just hit his second 2-run home run of the game. It's 6-0 now, and four of them came after the inning was seemingly over.
Ah!!! Gary Cohen just updated us. It was a catchers interference call when Vargas was batting.
So crazy. Did that happen to anyone else?
The 2-for-1 deal for Willie
I'm not yet ready to pronounce this team ready to win the next few games, much less the World Series, but last night was good. Very good.
Here's one of my problems: Willie Randolph still cannot manage a starting pitcher (among other things).
Last night Oliver Perez struggled with the long ball after looking positively dominant his first two innings, striking out four. In the fifth inning, he began to show signs of wildness and fatigue. He made it through the inning, and Randolph trotted him out there for the sixth. After quickly working himself into a jam, Randolph left him in to face Cody Ross, who had already homered off of him earlier in the game.
With Perez still throwing, Ross blasted a pitch, seemingly out of the stadium, erasing the Mets lead and putting the Marlins up by a run.
In a nutshell, I still don't think Randolph is the right manager for this team, even after a nice two game win streak over a "first place team."
I would like to propose a 2-for-1 program for Willie Randolph and his managing tenure.
For every one (1) win the Mets pull off, Randolph earns himself two (2) more games as a manager. With that said, and with this two game win streak, the Mets have bought Randolph four more games as their manager.
If the Mets lose four in a row (and they easily could), Randolph should be fired. If they win another game, Randolph gets at least six more as manager, and so on and so forth.
Sounds good to me, but I thought of it, so I better like it. What are some of your thoughts? I'm very intrigued to hear your side or plans.
Here's one of my problems: Willie Randolph still cannot manage a starting pitcher (among other things).
Last night Oliver Perez struggled with the long ball after looking positively dominant his first two innings, striking out four. In the fifth inning, he began to show signs of wildness and fatigue. He made it through the inning, and Randolph trotted him out there for the sixth. After quickly working himself into a jam, Randolph left him in to face Cody Ross, who had already homered off of him earlier in the game.
With Perez still throwing, Ross blasted a pitch, seemingly out of the stadium, erasing the Mets lead and putting the Marlins up by a run.
In a nutshell, I still don't think Randolph is the right manager for this team, even after a nice two game win streak over a "first place team."
I would like to propose a 2-for-1 program for Willie Randolph and his managing tenure.
For every one (1) win the Mets pull off, Randolph earns himself two (2) more games as a manager. With that said, and with this two game win streak, the Mets have bought Randolph four more games as their manager.
If the Mets lose four in a row (and they easily could), Randolph should be fired. If they win another game, Randolph gets at least six more as manager, and so on and so forth.
Sounds good to me, but I thought of it, so I better like it. What are some of your thoughts? I'm very intrigued to hear your side or plans.
A pretty good night, no?
The Mets win in extra innings, taking the series from the NL East leading Marlins.
and
Pedro Martinez throws six innings (82 pitches) allowing two runs on four hits. He struck out six and walked none in his rehab start in A-ball. Pedro might return June 3 in San Francisco.
I'd say that's a pretty good night for the Mets, all around.
and
Pedro Martinez throws six innings (82 pitches) allowing two runs on four hits. He struck out six and walked none in his rehab start in A-ball. Pedro might return June 3 in San Francisco.
I'd say that's a pretty good night for the Mets, all around.
Early morning madness -- 5/29
Here are some random thoughts as I wake up on this fine Thursday morning...
I hate to be "that guy" but just remember how inconsistently this team has played all year, I'm not ready to call this the team's "turning point" and declare them ready to go. Every time this team has shown the slightest bit of promise, they've turned around and looked hapless the next few games before flaring up another brilliant effort just to string the fans along.
Yes, last night's win was emotional and wonderful, as they had to battle back mutliple times, but let's see how the next 11 play out.
I hate to be "that guy" but just remember how inconsistently this team has played all year, I'm not ready to call this the team's "turning point" and declare them ready to go. Every time this team has shown the slightest bit of promise, they've turned around and looked hapless the next few games before flaring up another brilliant effort just to string the fans along.
Yes, last night's win was emotional and wonderful, as they had to battle back mutliple times, but let's see how the next 11 play out.
*****
Fernando Tatis couldn't catch up with a fastball at all last night, but came through in the end with a 2-run double. When it counts...
*****
The bullpen has been absolutely stellar over the past few days. I'm excited to see Carlos Muniz (probably tonight) pitch. They've been lights out, and Aaron Heilman looked especially good, striking out the first four batters he faced.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
TSTDIA: Mets 7 -- Marlins 6 (12 innings)
Fire, hunger and fight. This team showed all of them as they battled back, twice, to beat the Marlins and take the series over the first place Marlins.
Ya gotta believe!
Ya gotta believe!
Reyes' on base streak
Jose Reyes lead off the bottom of the first inning with a ground rule double to left field. Including tonight, Reyes has now been on base for the 28th straight game.
To me, it really doesn't seem like it. Everyone keeps talking about Reyes being in a funk when he's tearing it up and getting on base. The only reason we haven't heard anyone singing his praises is his miserable play in the field.
Reyes just stole third base and just scored on a Luis Castillo home run (I know!). Reyes is creating chances for the Mets, consistently. Let's celebrate his efforts instead of tearing him apart for plays in the field. Or at least let the two cancel each other out.
To me, it really doesn't seem like it. Everyone keeps talking about Reyes being in a funk when he's tearing it up and getting on base. The only reason we haven't heard anyone singing his praises is his miserable play in the field.
Reyes just stole third base and just scored on a Luis Castillo home run (I know!). Reyes is creating chances for the Mets, consistently. Let's celebrate his efforts instead of tearing him apart for plays in the field. Or at least let the two cancel each other out.
Still shaking
See this lineup? It's exactly the same tonight.
All the notes are the same too. Thank you for making tonight easy, Willie Randolph.
All the notes are the same too. Thank you for making tonight easy, Willie Randolph.
12 games: 0-0
The Mets next off-day is Monday, June 9th. Between now and then, the Mets will play 12 games. I feel the Mets season will be determined, for bettor or for worse, when these handful of games are complete.
The Mets play one game against the Marlins, then welcome the Dodgers for four, then head out west to play the lowly Giants for three and the even lowlier Padres for four more.
I can almost guarantee if the Mets go can't go 6-6 with these next 12 games, Willie Randolph will be a goner. I could be wrong, but we shall see.
12 games: 0-0.
The Mets play one game against the Marlins, then welcome the Dodgers for four, then head out west to play the lowly Giants for three and the even lowlier Padres for four more.
I can almost guarantee if the Mets go can't go 6-6 with these next 12 games, Willie Randolph will be a goner. I could be wrong, but we shall see.
12 games: 0-0.
Still feels like a loss; 12 games to determine the season
I woke up this morning feeling bitter about a Mets loss last night.
It didn't hit me until I started my morning ritual of browsing through all the articles published while I was asleep.
You know the team is in a funk, when even after a nice win with your ace on the mound and a bunch of bench players driving in the runs, you wake up the next morning and it still feels like they're losing. Because they are.
Obviously, you can't make a call where this team is going after one game, especially one where they really didn't play too well, and thanks to some clutch performances, they barely squeaked out a win.
The next Mets off day is Monday, June 9. Twelve games from here until that off day, one of which is supposed to feature Pedro Martinez back on the bump. I'm going to keep track of the next 12 games, see how they do, and make the call after that.
Build off the win, guys.
It didn't hit me until I started my morning ritual of browsing through all the articles published while I was asleep.
You know the team is in a funk, when even after a nice win with your ace on the mound and a bunch of bench players driving in the runs, you wake up the next morning and it still feels like they're losing. Because they are.
Obviously, you can't make a call where this team is going after one game, especially one where they really didn't play too well, and thanks to some clutch performances, they barely squeaked out a win.
The next Mets off day is Monday, June 9. Twelve games from here until that off day, one of which is supposed to feature Pedro Martinez back on the bump. I'm going to keep track of the next 12 games, see how they do, and make the call after that.
Build off the win, guys.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
TSTDIA: Mets 5 -- Marlins 3
The bench comes through and they don't call him the stopper for nuthin' as the Mets win for only the second time in nine games.
The Mets won. What do we do now? I'm not quite sure how to react.
The Mets won. What do we do now? I'm not quite sure how to react.
Johan is doubly good
Johan Santana just hit his fourth double of the year. Here's a little tidbit pointed out by my good friend Ryan P. on Mets Lounge:
Santana has tied the amount of doubles with Luis Castillo.That's a good sign.
Santana has 4 doubles in 22 ABs.
Luis Castillo has 4 doubles in 143 ABs.
Santana also has more doubles than Moises Alou (43 ABs).
Shake it up
Lineup for Mets vs. Marlins tonight:
SS Jose Reyes
2B Luis Castillo
3B David Wright
CF Carlos Beltran
1B Damion Easley
RF Fernando Tatis
C Ramon Castro
LF Nick Evans
LH Johan Santana
Carlos Delgado hits the pine to "clear his head." To me, it should read like "ween into sitting on the bench more." Ryan Church is home after seeing a neurologist. Hope this game ends in nine innings (or less).
I'm worried about Church. Heck, I'm worried about the whole team. Very worried.
SS Jose Reyes
2B Luis Castillo
3B David Wright
CF Carlos Beltran
1B Damion Easley
RF Fernando Tatis
C Ramon Castro
LF Nick Evans
LH Johan Santana
Carlos Delgado hits the pine to "clear his head." To me, it should read like "ween into sitting on the bench more." Ryan Church is home after seeing a neurologist. Hope this game ends in nine innings (or less).
I'm worried about Church. Heck, I'm worried about the whole team. Very worried.
Very Un-Wise
Matt Wise is back on the shelf.
The Mets placed Wise back on the 15-day disabled list with, and I quote, "weakness in his throwing (right) shoulder."
I really don't think the bullpen will miss a beat, and actually, I feel it improves, as Carlos Muniz gets called up from AAA New Orleans. Muniz is 2-2 on the year with a 1.80 ERA in 16 games.
Wise is truly not performing up to snuff and earning his money. I thought he was going to be a nice, solid middle reliever for us this year, but his inability to stay healthy has pretty much put an end to any thinking of that nature.
The Mets placed Wise back on the 15-day disabled list with, and I quote, "weakness in his throwing (right) shoulder."
I really don't think the bullpen will miss a beat, and actually, I feel it improves, as Carlos Muniz gets called up from AAA New Orleans. Muniz is 2-2 on the year with a 1.80 ERA in 16 games.
Wise is truly not performing up to snuff and earning his money. I thought he was going to be a nice, solid middle reliever for us this year, but his inability to stay healthy has pretty much put an end to any thinking of that nature.
Carter's flap shouldn't stand between him and the job (if it ever becomes vacant)
When Willie Randolph made his racially-sniffing remarks about SNY and the Mets organization last week, he apologized. The most boring press conference in the world reiterated the fact that Randolph is still the manager, and his "apology" has been "accepted" by the ownership.
If all it takes is a simple "I'm sorry!" to patch things up with The Wilpons & Co., why can't Gary Carter say he's sorry, and possibly get "back in the running" for the "managerial spot" if it ever becomes "available."
Sheesh. It seems like the New York media is really blowing this story out of proportion. Novel idea, right?
The story here should be Randolph and Omar Minaya on the hot-seat as the team continues to underachieve and go through the motions of playing baseball. "A few runs in the first inning should suffice, no?" They come out for one or two innings a game and then disappear back into the dugout "like a frightened turtle."
Minaya and Randolph should be in the spotlight, both as scapegoats, as it's really the players who are stinking up Shea Stadium in her final days. It's easier to fire a manager than it is to fire a player, and that's why Randolph has the giant bulls eye.
I think Omar is safe, for now. Great trades that brought quality players like Ryan Church and Johan Santana to Flushing should not be overlooked. I feel he's bought himself at least one or two more years as GM, even if they keep playing .500 ball.
Lay off Gary Carter. At least let him don the uniform and sit in the managers office before you start blasting him.
(Kidding, of course. Carter doesn't have a snowball's chance in Hell.)
If all it takes is a simple "I'm sorry!" to patch things up with The Wilpons & Co., why can't Gary Carter say he's sorry, and possibly get "back in the running" for the "managerial spot" if it ever becomes "available."
Sheesh. It seems like the New York media is really blowing this story out of proportion. Novel idea, right?
The story here should be Randolph and Omar Minaya on the hot-seat as the team continues to underachieve and go through the motions of playing baseball. "A few runs in the first inning should suffice, no?" They come out for one or two innings a game and then disappear back into the dugout "like a frightened turtle."
Minaya and Randolph should be in the spotlight, both as scapegoats, as it's really the players who are stinking up Shea Stadium in her final days. It's easier to fire a manager than it is to fire a player, and that's why Randolph has the giant bulls eye.
I think Omar is safe, for now. Great trades that brought quality players like Ryan Church and Johan Santana to Flushing should not be overlooked. I feel he's bought himself at least one or two more years as GM, even if they keep playing .500 ball.
Lay off Gary Carter. At least let him don the uniform and sit in the managers office before you start blasting him.
(Kidding, of course. Carter doesn't have a snowball's chance in Hell.)
Pedro return date set
According to Marty Noble at Mets.com, Pedro Martinez will make his return to the majors on June 3 in San Francisco.
I've said it time and time again, the Mets need a character and personality like Pedro in the clubhouse. He's a veteran, who knows how to talk with both the fellow old guys and the young guys.
Hopefully, he isn't a shell of his former self, but I'm not setting myself up for a big letdown. All he needs to do is pitch quality innings, nothing more.
Maybe Pedro will be the jolt this team needs, but I seem to be pinning that on everyone these days.
I've said it time and time again, the Mets need a character and personality like Pedro in the clubhouse. He's a veteran, who knows how to talk with both the fellow old guys and the young guys.
Hopefully, he isn't a shell of his former self, but I'm not setting myself up for a big letdown. All he needs to do is pitch quality innings, nothing more.
Maybe Pedro will be the jolt this team needs, but I seem to be pinning that on everyone these days.
Monday, May 26, 2008
"Fire Willie!"
You know it's bad when the Shea Stadium crowd starts chanting:
"FIRE WILLIE clap clap clapclapclap FIRE WILLIE clap clap clapclapclap"
Oh man. This is rough stuff. I can't see Willie Randolph making it through the week at this pace. I know fans shouldn't be able to call the shots, but fans pay the bills.
Something is going to happen, and soon.
"FIRE WILLIE clap clap clapclapclap FIRE WILLIE clap clap clapclapclap"
Oh man. This is rough stuff. I can't see Willie Randolph making it through the week at this pace. I know fans shouldn't be able to call the shots, but fans pay the bills.
Something is going to happen, and soon.
I hate snakes
This would be more fitting if the Mets were playing the Diamondbacks, I know.
The Mets will take on the Marlins tonight, but I'm going to see Indiana Jones (finally) so enjoy the game.
I hate fish.
The Mets will take on the Marlins tonight, but I'm going to see Indiana Jones (finally) so enjoy the game.
I hate fish.
Willie still employed
Willie Randolph is still the manager of the New York Mets.
Happy? Sad? Complacent?
Happy? Sad? Complacent?
Still talking
According to ESPNews, the meeting between Fred Wilpon, Omar Minaya and Willie Randolph is still in session.
The meeting was scheduled for 2 p.m. and it's now 4:37 p.m. I can't see them taking over two and half hours to fire a guy, so I think Randolph's job is safe for now. I could be wrong, but just a hunch.
The meeting was scheduled for 2 p.m. and it's now 4:37 p.m. I can't see them taking over two and half hours to fire a guy, so I think Randolph's job is safe for now. I could be wrong, but just a hunch.
Geremi Gonzalez killed by lightning
Geremi Gonzalez, who pitched in three games for the Mets in 2006, throwing 14 innings and amassing a 7.71 ERA was killed by lightning in Venezuela on Sunday.
That is really unfortunate and my thoughts go out to Gonzalez's family.
That is really unfortunate and my thoughts go out to Gonzalez's family.
A few thoughts on this beautiful Memorial Day
First off, if you're inside reading this and you're not at work, go outside! The weather outside is spectacular.
Mercifully, the Mets road trip ended yesterday, as they fell to the Colorado Rockies by a score of 4-1. They're record on the latest road trip was a pitiful 1-6.
Today, Willie Randolph will meet with Omar Minaya and The Wilpons in their usual quarterly meeting. This meeting is now under the magnifying glass as the team is playing some uninspired baseball and currently sits two games under .500 on the season.
Everyone and their mothers is claiming Randolph most likely will not be canned today. I'd have to agree, but if the team continues to play at this level, I can't see him making it through this homestand.
Adam Rubin in the Daily News is reporting there are whispers that the Mets are mulling a AAA sting for Aaron Heilman. The Mets would most likely call up Carlos Muniz, who is 2-2 with a 1.80 ERA in New Orleans.
Well I have to say, it's about time. He's young, struggling, and it cannot hurt to get out of New York right now to clear your head. I say pull the trigger, sooner rather than later.
Mercifully, the Mets road trip ended yesterday, as they fell to the Colorado Rockies by a score of 4-1. They're record on the latest road trip was a pitiful 1-6.
Today, Willie Randolph will meet with Omar Minaya and The Wilpons in their usual quarterly meeting. This meeting is now under the magnifying glass as the team is playing some uninspired baseball and currently sits two games under .500 on the season.
Everyone and their mothers is claiming Randolph most likely will not be canned today. I'd have to agree, but if the team continues to play at this level, I can't see him making it through this homestand.
*****
Adam Rubin in the Daily News is reporting there are whispers that the Mets are mulling a AAA sting for Aaron Heilman. The Mets would most likely call up Carlos Muniz, who is 2-2 with a 1.80 ERA in New Orleans.
Well I have to say, it's about time. He's young, struggling, and it cannot hurt to get out of New York right now to clear your head. I say pull the trigger, sooner rather than later.
*****
This guy seems pretty dead-set on Randolph's job security.
*****
Enjoy your Memorial Day. A huge "thank you" must go out to all the members of the military.
TSTDIA: Rockies 4 -- Mets 1
The Mets ran into another stellar pitching performance, as Aaron Cook pitched a complete game and the Mets end their road trip a dismal 1-6.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Game Preview: Mets @ Rockies
The Mets and Rockies square off in the rubber game at Coors Field.
Lineup:
SS Jose Reyes
2B Luis Castillo
3B David Wright
CF Carlos Beltran
1B Carlos Delgado
C Brian Schneider
LF Nick Evans
RF Endy Chavez
SP John Maine
There's the lineup for todays matinée in Colorado. Glad to see Evans still in there and moving up in the order. Chavez plays again as Ryan Church is still feeling the effects of getting a knee to the head.
Hopefully Church doesn't need to go to the disabled list, but it doesn't look promising. Maybe Mike Carp will get a call-up, if that happens.
Lineup:
SS Jose Reyes
2B Luis Castillo
3B David Wright
CF Carlos Beltran
1B Carlos Delgado
C Brian Schneider
LF Nick Evans
RF Endy Chavez
SP John Maine
There's the lineup for todays matinée in Colorado. Glad to see Evans still in there and moving up in the order. Chavez plays again as Ryan Church is still feeling the effects of getting a knee to the head.
Hopefully Church doesn't need to go to the disabled list, but it doesn't look promising. Maybe Mike Carp will get a call-up, if that happens.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Photo of the Day: Evans
Nick Evans had a pretty good MLB debut, if I do say so myself.I dare not resize this because this photo needs to be seen in all it's glory.
(Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)
Willie sees it coming
And how couldn't he?
But I feel bad for the Willie Randolph. He's a good (not great) manager and has been unlucky enough to be handed a team mostly of veterans who have been oft injured and declining in talent. The sprinkling of youth on the team has been good, but inconsistent.
From a Bart Hubbuch article in the Post:
Let's hold off on judging one way or another for now, but everything must be kept on a short leash.
But I feel bad for the Willie Randolph. He's a good (not great) manager and has been unlucky enough to be handed a team mostly of veterans who have been oft injured and declining in talent. The sprinkling of youth on the team has been good, but inconsistent.
From a Bart Hubbuch article in the Post:
In another sign that he realizes the end could soon be near, Randolph used some dark humor when talking about [Omar] Minaya's arrival."I thought I saw him in the back sharpening his machete," Randolph said. "I don't know if that feels too good. He saw me coming, so he kind of slipped it in his back pocket. I don't know if that made me feel better."
Later in a rambling, 20-minute interview, Randolph seemed resigned to his potential fate when asked about the ominous timing of Minaya's unexpected visit. Randolph even described Minaya's public voicing of support as "the kiss of death."
"I'm just so hell-bent on winning the game right now that whether Omar is here or not, whether they support me or not, is irrelevant really,"
Randolph said. "It's going to be what it's going to be. I'll go down to the last day trying to win a ballgame.
That's why I'm here. That's why I came here. All that stuff is out of my hands."
Oh boy. That is both sad and good at the same time.
The guy just wants to win, and he is "hell-bent" on doing it, something I never expected to hear from Randolph. Yes, this might just be his last ditch effort to stay employed, but I feel this is something he truly believes, just doesn't show it.
Today's win was nice. Solid all around, as I said, but it's only one win and this team needs more.Let's hold off on judging one way or another for now, but everything must be kept on a short leash.
TSTDIA: Mets 9 -- Rockies 2
An all around solid game from Claudio Vargas on the mound and Carlos Beltran, David Wright and especially Nick Evans at the plate.
So this is what it feels like to win. I forgot what this was like.
So this is what it feels like to win. I forgot what this was like.
Nick Evans
First AB: One pitch. One hit. One double. One RBI.
That was quick.
Second AB: Two pitches. Two hits. Two doubles.
Going on history, I'm calling a three pitch at-bat, resulting in a double his next time at the plate.
Third AB: Five pitches. One out. Now batting .666.
MLB fact: The last player to have two extra base hits in first two major league at-bats: Kazuo Matsui. Let's all hope Nick Evans has a more prosperous career with the Mets than Matsui did.
Fourth AB: Eight pitches. Three doubles. Two RBI. One run scored on a Luis Castillo single.
All hits to opposite field, to boot. That's how you break into the majors with style.
That was quick.
Second AB: Two pitches. Two hits. Two doubles.
Going on history, I'm calling a three pitch at-bat, resulting in a double his next time at the plate.
Third AB: Five pitches. One out. Now batting .666.
MLB fact: The last player to have two extra base hits in first two major league at-bats: Kazuo Matsui. Let's all hope Nick Evans has a more prosperous career with the Mets than Matsui did.
Fourth AB: Eight pitches. Three doubles. Two RBI. One run scored on a Luis Castillo single.
All hits to opposite field, to boot. That's how you break into the majors with style.
Evans is in
SS Jose Reyes
2B Luis Castillo
3B David Wright
CF Carlos Beltran
RF Fernando Tatis
1B Carlos Delgado
C Ramon Castro
LF Nick Evans
RH Claudio Vargas
I am absolutely shocked. Evans is making his major league debut today, starting in left field.
Hey Nick, start off on the right foot!
2B Luis Castillo
3B David Wright
CF Carlos Beltran
RF Fernando Tatis
1B Carlos Delgado
C Ramon Castro
LF Nick Evans
RH Claudio Vargas
I am absolutely shocked. Evans is making his major league debut today, starting in left field.
Hey Nick, start off on the right foot!
Why am I excited?
I woke up this morning and my first thought was "I can't wait to watch the Mets today!"
And then I remembered how they've played recently.
The only possible explanation I have for being excited in anticipation of today's game is the possibility of Nick Evans making an appearance. Knowing Willie Randolph, I doubt we'll see even a glimpse of Evans in the game.
Hopefully, if my wish comes true, Evans will be in left field today. I love young players.
Ryan Church will most likely return in right today, probably moving Endy Chavez (still statistically the worst player on the Mets according to VORP) to left field.
Willie, give the kid a chance. Mets, give me a reason to be excited.
And then I remembered how they've played recently.
The only possible explanation I have for being excited in anticipation of today's game is the possibility of Nick Evans making an appearance. Knowing Willie Randolph, I doubt we'll see even a glimpse of Evans in the game.
Hopefully, if my wish comes true, Evans will be in left field today. I love young players.
Ryan Church will most likely return in right today, probably moving Endy Chavez (still statistically the worst player on the Mets according to VORP) to left field.
Willie, give the kid a chance. Mets, give me a reason to be excited.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Evans reportedly called up
According to reports, Nick Evans was pulled from the 9th inning of his game in AA and will be called up, presumably to take the spot of Marlon Anderson, who came up lame early in the game.
Thank you! It's about time this team brought up some young talent and let him loose on the majors. Maybe he stinks it up, but who cares. He could bring some fire to this squad.
As usual, I have high hopes for Evans. He might be the shot in the arm this team needs. That might just me talking crazy at 1:30 a.m.
Probably.
Thank you! It's about time this team brought up some young talent and let him loose on the majors. Maybe he stinks it up, but who cares. He could bring some fire to this squad.
As usual, I have high hopes for Evans. He might be the shot in the arm this team needs. That might just me talking crazy at 1:30 a.m.
Probably.
TSTDIA: Rockies 6 -- Mets 5 (13)
The Mets can't hold a lead again...and again they lose.
This one stings.
This one stings.
Two notes: The Kid wants in and FJM takes down Lakas
Gary Carter is my new favorite choice for the next manager of the Mets, and not for purely nostalgic purposes, either.
Bart Hubbuch relays a quote from Carter while appearing on an XM sports show:
Seriously, hire him.
Lakas goes on some crazed, seemingly drunk tirade about how much he hates Mike Piazza for some of the most ridiculous reasons in the world. FJM breaks it down and makes him look like a fool. And rightfully so.
Bart Hubbuch relays a quote from Carter while appearing on an XM sports show:
The comments that David Wright made saying that, you know, there’s no spark, there’s no fire [on the Mets]. If anything I would love to bring that to the table because you know me, guys. I love the game, have a great passion for it and you know my enthusiasm and hopefully I would be able to bring that to maybe help turn that ball club around.Hire him. Now. That is the kind of talk I want to hear from a manager. Fire, passion and enthusiasm are all qualities I want in a manager.
Seriously, hire him.
*****
And my all-time favorite blog, Fire Joe Morgan, takes down Paul Lakas, a self-proclaimed Mets fan and all around fool.Lakas goes on some crazed, seemingly drunk tirade about how much he hates Mike Piazza for some of the most ridiculous reasons in the world. FJM breaks it down and makes him look like a fool. And rightfully so.
Just when you thought it couldn't get worse
The teams pinch hitting master and current starting left fielder just came up lame while running out a ground ball. Marlon Anderson had to be escorted off the field after the injury.
It looked terrible. Just a scary and painful sight.
Paging Valentino Pascucci...Pascucci...
Anderson will without a doubt hit the DL for an extended period of time.
It looked terrible. Just a scary and painful sight.
Paging Valentino Pascucci...Pascucci...
Anderson will without a doubt hit the DL for an extended period of time.
Countdown: 5...4...3...2...
I can feel it coming.
Reports are pouring in that Omar Minaya is heading to Colorado.
Depending on how the Mets fare against the Rockies, Willie Randolph's tenure as manager could be coming to a very abrupt end.
I doubt Minaya is going there to fire Randolph, but rather counsel the embattled manager on how to deal with the media, the team, and yes, his possible dismissal from his post.
Sorry Willie. I like you, but this team needs a different guy at the helm.
Joe over at Mets Today gives us this saucy tidbit:
Time will tell...
Reports are pouring in that Omar Minaya is heading to Colorado.
Depending on how the Mets fare against the Rockies, Willie Randolph's tenure as manager could be coming to a very abrupt end.
I doubt Minaya is going there to fire Randolph, but rather counsel the embattled manager on how to deal with the media, the team, and yes, his possible dismissal from his post.
Sorry Willie. I like you, but this team needs a different guy at the helm.
Joe over at Mets Today gives us this saucy tidbit:
In case you missed it, WFAN’s Mike Francesa asked Keith Hernandez if he would consider managing the Mets. To the surprise of many, Keith answered “yes”.Now, as enticing as that sounds, I don't know if he's the right guy either. And I really don't want to lose Keith's wit and insight in the booth. Maybe SNY can mic Keith up in the dugout and have him discuss the team during games for more than an inning.
Time will tell...
Beltran will not be pleased
From MLB's rule book, which will be enforced strictly from here on out:
Can't wait.
Not grant “time” to a batter who asks for time once the pitcher has begun hisThat's Carlos Beltran's key to disrupting pitchers. I can't wait to see him call time, think he's been granted it and step out, only to have a strike thrown right down the center of the plate.
delivery. If the batter leaves the batter’s box without time and the pitcher
delivers a pitch, the umpire will call the pitch as if the batter had not left
the box.
Can't wait.
Piazza and Clemens: Together again
Ken Davidoff posts 5 perdictions for the holiday weekend. Here's number five:
I burst out laughing, and got some strange sideways glances for it, but it was worth it. Well done, Davidoff.5. Mike Piazza, now retired, will cackle with glee when it
occurs to him that he and Roger Clemens will likely be on the
2013 Hall of Fame ballot together, and that Clemens won't get in. Piazza won't
stop laughing until it's time for his induction speech on July 28, 2013 _ at
which point he'll speak for 28 minutes, and then resume laughing.
Justified
If you were unlucky enough to catch a millisecond of the four game series in Atlanta this week, I hope you now realize how lost and confused this team looks.
Everyone and their mother wants David Wright to stand up and be the leader we all know he can. He's trying, you can tell, but he's still too young to truly step into the role. For now, the Mets are relying on Willie Randolph to steer this team in the right direction.
After the sweep in Turner Field, I think people, even the most die hard Randolph lovers, have begun to realize the team needs a change.
The sweep has shown me one thing: The Wilpons and Omar Minaya are completely and utterly justified to fire Willie as soon as possible.
Are we all in agreement now?
If not, you must be Randolph's wife, daughter, family member or accountant.
That leads me to the all important question of who is next.
Honestly, I don't have a person who I'd want to take a chance on 100 percent. Wally Backman might be nice, as would Bob Brenley, I feel. There is no clear cut leader in the race to replace Willie, which makes the idea of firing him that much more dangerous.
Jerry Manuel might be the best fit, at least for now, but he reminds me too much of the current fearless leader.
All we know for certain is the Mets are in trouble.
Everyone and their mother wants David Wright to stand up and be the leader we all know he can. He's trying, you can tell, but he's still too young to truly step into the role. For now, the Mets are relying on Willie Randolph to steer this team in the right direction.
After the sweep in Turner Field, I think people, even the most die hard Randolph lovers, have begun to realize the team needs a change.
The sweep has shown me one thing: The Wilpons and Omar Minaya are completely and utterly justified to fire Willie as soon as possible.
Are we all in agreement now?
If not, you must be Randolph's wife, daughter, family member or accountant.
That leads me to the all important question of who is next.
Honestly, I don't have a person who I'd want to take a chance on 100 percent. Wally Backman might be nice, as would Bob Brenley, I feel. There is no clear cut leader in the race to replace Willie, which makes the idea of firing him that much more dangerous.
Jerry Manuel might be the best fit, at least for now, but he reminds me too much of the current fearless leader.
All we know for certain is the Mets are in trouble.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
TSTDIA: Braves 4 -- Mets 2
While I am glad I finally got to watch a full baseball game, it was truly unfortunate to see Johan Santana staked to a lead and then let it slip away in the late innings.
This team is lost and out of luck. They need help.
This team is lost and out of luck. They need help.
Our Alou preview has ended
Moises Alou is heading to the disabled list, this time with a strain in his left calf.
The player being brought up to replace him on the roster is Raul Casanova.
This is one of the most confusing roster shuffles I've ever seen. Adding to the craziness, with Ryan Church still sitting out, Damion Easley is also unavailable tonight, as he is attending his sons high school graduation.
It should be interesting to see how Willie Randolph handles the team tonight.
How long did you really expect him to play? The Mets must enter 25 more cents to get another two weeks of play out of him.
The player being brought up to replace him on the roster is Raul Casanova.
This is one of the most confusing roster shuffles I've ever seen. Adding to the craziness, with Ryan Church still sitting out, Damion Easley is also unavailable tonight, as he is attending his sons high school graduation.
It should be interesting to see how Willie Randolph handles the team tonight.
Pedro playing at least two more years
Even though he said he was considering retirement after this season earlier this week, Pedro Martinez now claims he wants to play at least two more years.
From ESPN:
Here is something to be happy about, again from ESPN:
From ESPN:
"I feel great physically and for the record I haven't considered retirement. Retirement would only take place if my arm is badly hurt and if I have to face surgery or something near that nature," Martinez told ESPNdeportes.comUnfortunately, I highly doubt he'll be going it with the Mets. I could see the team picking him up for another year, or even two, but he has to truly prove he's still got it and can stay healthy. But again, I doubt it will happen.
Here is something to be happy about, again from ESPN:
Great news. Just stay on track and stay healthy. This team needs his charisma and character back in the clubhouse and his talent on the field."I'm completing the workouts and doing a great job. My arm feels excellent and the speed is showing, throwing well over the 90 miles-per-hour mark," Martinez said.
Poll: Keep Delgy on the field
After a long delay for no apparent reason, here are the results from the latest poll:
Where do you stand on Carlos Delgado?
Keep him: 60% (41 votes)
Cut him: 20% (14 votes)
Trade him: 13% (9 votes)
Bench him: 5% (4 votes)
I find it hilarious 14 people want to outright cut him. Delgado has gotten a tad bit better since this poll was posted, but he's quickly writing his ticket out of New York after this season is over with his play.
Next poll: Should the Mets fire Willie Randolph?
Where do you stand on Carlos Delgado?
Keep him: 60% (41 votes)
Cut him: 20% (14 votes)
Trade him: 13% (9 votes)
Bench him: 5% (4 votes)
I find it hilarious 14 people want to outright cut him. Delgado has gotten a tad bit better since this poll was posted, but he's quickly writing his ticket out of New York after this season is over with his play.
Next poll: Should the Mets fire Willie Randolph?
Going to baseball games is dangerous
Another fan fell and died while attending a Mets game, this time in Atlanta, GA.
From the AP:
Two deaths, both from apparently sliding on hand rails. People, if you're going to a Mets game, either home or away, steer cleer of the hand rails and take the stairs.
From the AP:
Authorities have identified the 25-year-old man who died after falling about 150 feet down a stairwell at Turner Field.
The senior investigator with the Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office, Mark Guilbeau, said Thursday that the man who fell was Justin Hayes of Cumming. Guilbeau says an autopsy will be done to determine the cause of death.
Authorities say the man fell during the eighth inning of Wednesday night's
game between the Atlanta Braves and the New York Mets.
Braves spokesman Brad Hainje said the man apparently fell from the club level to the landing on the stairwell on the field level.
Campbell says the man may have been sliding down the hand rails when he fell.
Two deaths, both from apparently sliding on hand rails. People, if you're going to a Mets game, either home or away, steer cleer of the hand rails and take the stairs.
That didn't take long: Alou heading back to NY
Moises Alou took himself out of the game last night and was diagnosed with a cramp in his calf.
He's now en route back to New York to have an MRI taken on the calf, as it might be more than a cramp, possibly a mild strain.
Alou just cannot stay healthy, and it stinks because he's a professional hitter and this team just can't seem to hit over the last three games. They're going to miss him.
He's now en route back to New York to have an MRI taken on the calf, as it might be more than a cramp, possibly a mild strain.
Alou just cannot stay healthy, and it stinks because he's a professional hitter and this team just can't seem to hit over the last three games. They're going to miss him.
TSTDIA: Braves 11 -- Mets 4
Happy trails, Willie Randolph as your fate is being sealed with each loss.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Alou leaves game
Moises Alou took a long, slow walk in from left field, taking himself out of the game.
He was not limping, so it might just be a stomach issue or something to that effect. Hopefully.
Update: It's a cramp in his left leg, per SNY.
That makes me breath a little easier.
He was not limping, so it might just be a stomach issue or something to that effect. Hopefully.
Update: It's a cramp in his left leg, per SNY.
That makes me breath a little easier.
Pedro and Church; One goes into a hospital, the other comes out of one
Pedro Martinez was scheduled to throw a bullpen session today at Turner Field in Atlanta as he inches his way closer to returning to the Mets rotation. Plans for the session were scrapped when Martinez learned via phone call that his ailing father suffered a setback in the Dominican Republic.
Pedro's father, Pablo, is suffering from brain cancer. My thoughts go out to Pedro and his family.
The Mets are looking for Martinez to make his return possibly as early as next week when the LA Dodgers come to Shea.
I'd love to see Pedro back so soon, but I don't want the team to rush anything and possibly lose him for an even longer amount of time.
Ryan Church, most likely still a bit dazed and confused after taking a knee to the skull last night, has been released from the hospital and will report to the stadium on time today, thought almost definitely will not play.
He's currently listed as "day-to-day" or in other words, "sitting on the bench all the time, but not going on the DL, therefore taking up a spot on the roster and not allowing another player to come up even if he can't play."
If you couldn't tell, I hate that term.
Hopefully Church will make a quick recovery. This lineup desperately needs his bat.
Pedro's father, Pablo, is suffering from brain cancer. My thoughts go out to Pedro and his family.
The Mets are looking for Martinez to make his return possibly as early as next week when the LA Dodgers come to Shea.
I'd love to see Pedro back so soon, but I don't want the team to rush anything and possibly lose him for an even longer amount of time.
~~~~~
He's currently listed as "day-to-day" or in other words, "sitting on the bench all the time, but not going on the DL, therefore taking up a spot on the roster and not allowing another player to come up even if he can't play."
If you couldn't tell, I hate that term.
Hopefully Church will make a quick recovery. This lineup desperately needs his bat.
Wave goodbye to Willie
After all Willie Randolph's latest comments on race and SNY, I get the feeling the Mets are beginning to search for a replacement.
Randolph's days are numbered.
Who do you want to replace Randolph if/when he is fired?
Randolph's days are numbered.
Who do you want to replace Randolph if/when he is fired?
Ding dong! Church has his bell rung
I had to.
The Mets are in bad shape. After looking so hopeful after sweeping the Subway Series in the Bronx, the Mets offense turned about-face on Tuesday, managing only three runs through 18 innings.
To cap it all off, the Mets MVP so far, Ryan Church, took a knee to the head on the final play of game two, capping off a terrible day for the Mets in Atlanta.
Church slammed into Yunel Escobar's knee as he slid into second and Escobar turned the game ending double play. Church stayed on the ground a while, bloodied and dazed. He is reported to have suffered a mild concussion, very reminiscent of his collision with Marlon Anderson back on March 1.
Hopefully Church will only miss a few days, but the way this team's luck has fared this season, I'm sure he will be out for longer.
Just out luck, right?
The Mets are in bad shape. After looking so hopeful after sweeping the Subway Series in the Bronx, the Mets offense turned about-face on Tuesday, managing only three runs through 18 innings.
To cap it all off, the Mets MVP so far, Ryan Church, took a knee to the head on the final play of game two, capping off a terrible day for the Mets in Atlanta.
Church slammed into Yunel Escobar's knee as he slid into second and Escobar turned the game ending double play. Church stayed on the ground a while, bloodied and dazed. He is reported to have suffered a mild concussion, very reminiscent of his collision with Marlon Anderson back on March 1.
Hopefully Church will only miss a few days, but the way this team's luck has fared this season, I'm sure he will be out for longer.
Just out luck, right?
TSTDIA: Braves 6 -- Mets 2
The Mets were held off the board until the 8th, 15 straight innings scoreless. How do you think it turned out?
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
My childhood hero retires
That's right. As I am sure you all have heard by now, Mr. Mike Piazza has hung up his cleats after 19 years in pro ball.
From Piazza:
We love you Mike, please come back to the Mets in any way as soon as possible. You were always more than just a great player.
From Piazza:
I'd like to thank Fred Wilpon, Nelson Doubleday and the New York Mets organization for giving me an opportunity to fulfill yet another dream, playing in a World Series. Steve Phillips, for not just bringing me to New York, but for having the confidence and vision to keep me in a Met uniform long-term. Within the eight years I spent in New York, I was able to take a different look at the game of baseball ... I wasn't just a young kid that was wet behind the ears anymore -- I was learning from other veteran guys like Johnny Franco, who taught me how to deal with the pressures of playing in New York and Al Leiter who knew what it took to win a World Championship. That knowledge is what helped me play for as long as I have and enjoy the career that I had. I'd like to thank New York Mets clubhouse manager, Charlie Samuels for always being on the same page and one step ahead of me.Steve Phillips should never be thanked.
We love you Mike, please come back to the Mets in any way as soon as possible. You were always more than just a great player.
Monday, May 19, 2008
The blown call and it's ripple effect
Bob Davidson, the home plate umpire in last nights Subway Series finale admitted he blew the call of Carlos Delgado's home run.
From ESPN:
Also, I am glad Willie Randolph argued, as I mentioned last night. I'm very surprised by Randolph's comments today, claiming it's not worth getting throw out of the game just to appease the fans and possibly rile up the team. Jerry Manuel took care of that for him, and got ejected.
Randolph isn't willing to sacrifice his ideals and stance on managing baseball games, even if fans and the media are calling for his head. Last night, the awful announcing team of Jon Miller and Joe Morgan mentioned a Ryan Church quote about Randolph and Manny Acta.
Church said that both Randolph and Acta are not the in-your-face-for-TV types, like Jim Leyland and Ozzie Guillen, but if needed, behind the scenes they will get in your face if your play warrants it.
Good. Very good.
It's too early to call, but this team might just be on the right track again.
From ESPN:
I (expletive) it up. I’m the one who thought it was a (expletive) foul ball. I saw it on the replay. I’m the one who (expletive) it up so you can put that in your paper," Davidson said. "Bolts and nuts, I (expletive) up. You’ve just got to move on. No one feels worse about it than I do.Well...I think the rest of New York actually took it better than Davidson. I am glad that he realizes it though and is man enough to admit his mistakes.
Also, I am glad Willie Randolph argued, as I mentioned last night. I'm very surprised by Randolph's comments today, claiming it's not worth getting throw out of the game just to appease the fans and possibly rile up the team. Jerry Manuel took care of that for him, and got ejected.
Randolph isn't willing to sacrifice his ideals and stance on managing baseball games, even if fans and the media are calling for his head. Last night, the awful announcing team of Jon Miller and Joe Morgan mentioned a Ryan Church quote about Randolph and Manny Acta.
Church said that both Randolph and Acta are not the in-your-face-for-TV types, like Jim Leyland and Ozzie Guillen, but if needed, behind the scenes they will get in your face if your play warrants it.
Good. Very good.
It's too early to call, but this team might just be on the right track again.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
TSTDIA: Mets 11 -- Yankees 2
All around, the Mets played amazingly solid all around baseball with Oliver Perez commanding on the mound giving up only two runs and the Mets tagging the Yankee ace for a ton of runs. Sweet.
OK, so that was two sentences. Shoot me.
OK, so that was two sentences. Shoot me.
Introducing: TSTDIA
The Sentence That Defines It All -- T.S.T.D.I.A.
From now on, most games will not get a full recap. As I stated before, I start an internship tomorrow, with some crazy hours, so I won't be able to watch most games the way I used to.
For the games that start at 7 and I can watch, in lieu of a full recap that you're used to from me, I'll sum it up in one sentence (or at least I'll try.)
TSTDIA number one, coming up later tonight!
From now on, most games will not get a full recap. As I stated before, I start an internship tomorrow, with some crazy hours, so I won't be able to watch most games the way I used to.
For the games that start at 7 and I can watch, in lieu of a full recap that you're used to from me, I'll sum it up in one sentence (or at least I'll try.)
TSTDIA number one, coming up later tonight!
I love this
Carlos Delgado just had a home run taken away from him. It wasn't obvious, as it hit the base of the pole, which for some reason is black instead of yellow.
Tough call, but on the replay you could tell, so I can't truly fault the umpires. But, it riled up Willie Randolph and his staff, which I couldn't be happier about.
Willie was out and arguing. Sandy Alomar Sr. was not happy with Mike Reilly. Jerry Manuel was just tossed from the game. Awesome.
This team has fire again, and I couldn't be happier.
Tough call, but on the replay you could tell, so I can't truly fault the umpires. But, it riled up Willie Randolph and his staff, which I couldn't be happier about.
Willie was out and arguing. Sandy Alomar Sr. was not happy with Mike Reilly. Jerry Manuel was just tossed from the game. Awesome.
This team has fire again, and I couldn't be happier.
String them together
The Mets have played inconsistently. We all know this, and the team knows it too.
They played a good game yesterday, getting a decent performance from their ace, playing good defense, and driving in some runs. Now, the team needs to start to roll off this solid win.
If they Mets could string together four or five in a row, or something like seven of 10, or even more, this team could quickly right it's own ship and get fans to rally behind them again. The Mets need to employ a snowball effect, building off of each win, and rolling deep into the season.
Sure, it's only words here, but I think the team can do it. Roll on, Mets, and string some wins together.
They played a good game yesterday, getting a decent performance from their ace, playing good defense, and driving in some runs. Now, the team needs to start to roll off this solid win.
If they Mets could string together four or five in a row, or something like seven of 10, or even more, this team could quickly right it's own ship and get fans to rally behind them again. The Mets need to employ a snowball effect, building off of each win, and rolling deep into the season.
Sure, it's only words here, but I think the team can do it. Roll on, Mets, and string some wins together.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Throw more junk
As I attempted to track the Mets game via text to Google and texts from a Yankee fan, I was glad to see the Mets take the lead and hold it. I'm down in Gettysburg, and we were visiting the battlefields when the game was getting close and tight at the end.
I flipped on the radio as we drove from one monument to another, and was able to make out Howie Rose's voice crackling through just as Billy Wagner was set to throw his payoff pitch to Morgan Ensberg to end the game. I yelled and clapped as usual, scaring my parents and cousins, and quickly shot off a victory text to my Yankee buddy.
I'm glad to hear and read that this team finally played like the well oiled machine that it is built to be. They're capable both at the plate and in the field. This win is no sweeter because it's the Yankees, but a win is a win for the Mets, and that's really all that matters.
My one problem I have with this is Johan Santana and his tango with the long ball. Santana gave up three more dingers today, brining him up to 11 on the season. I know Santana likes to challenge batters, trying (and usually succeeding) to strike out batters, but Santana needs to throw more balls, more junk if you will.
Get batters to swing at stuff out of the zone, stuff they can't hit over the walls. I'd rather see some swinging bunts as players barely get a bat onto the ball rather than balls flying over the wall.
So, Johan. I love you, and you've been freakin' awesome, but please, throw more junk!
I flipped on the radio as we drove from one monument to another, and was able to make out Howie Rose's voice crackling through just as Billy Wagner was set to throw his payoff pitch to Morgan Ensberg to end the game. I yelled and clapped as usual, scaring my parents and cousins, and quickly shot off a victory text to my Yankee buddy.
I'm glad to hear and read that this team finally played like the well oiled machine that it is built to be. They're capable both at the plate and in the field. This win is no sweeter because it's the Yankees, but a win is a win for the Mets, and that's really all that matters.
My one problem I have with this is Johan Santana and his tango with the long ball. Santana gave up three more dingers today, brining him up to 11 on the season. I know Santana likes to challenge batters, trying (and usually succeeding) to strike out batters, but Santana needs to throw more balls, more junk if you will.
Get batters to swing at stuff out of the zone, stuff they can't hit over the walls. I'd rather see some swinging bunts as players barely get a bat onto the ball rather than balls flying over the wall.
So, Johan. I love you, and you've been freakin' awesome, but please, throw more junk!
Shifting gears for the summer
Hello everyone out in internet land,
This is my letter to you, alerting you to some changes that will be rolling through here for the next three months.
A few months ago, I was lucky enough to secure an internship for the entire summer in New York City. I live about 40 some odd miles away from the city, so my commute will be a long one. What's worse is that my job begins at 7 a.m., which means I have to wake up at...3:30 a.m.
Yeah, it's going to be a long summer. But a worthwhile one, for sure.
So going to be early will be a priority, cutting into my Mets watching time. I'll still be writing everyday, but the site won't be run the same way you're used to, at least not for the majority of the summer.
So please, bear with me through this long, hard summer. I'll be writing more lengthy opinion pieces, I'm sure, and passing on updating you on all the teams moves and transactions as they happen.
I'm heading to Gettysburg right now for my cousins graduation. I should be back by Sunday night to catch the game (hopefully). I may or may not have internet in the hotel, so we'll see how that goes. Enjoy the Subway Series!
Thanks,
Andrew Vazzano
This is my letter to you, alerting you to some changes that will be rolling through here for the next three months.
A few months ago, I was lucky enough to secure an internship for the entire summer in New York City. I live about 40 some odd miles away from the city, so my commute will be a long one. What's worse is that my job begins at 7 a.m., which means I have to wake up at...3:30 a.m.
Yeah, it's going to be a long summer. But a worthwhile one, for sure.
So going to be early will be a priority, cutting into my Mets watching time. I'll still be writing everyday, but the site won't be run the same way you're used to, at least not for the majority of the summer.
So please, bear with me through this long, hard summer. I'll be writing more lengthy opinion pieces, I'm sure, and passing on updating you on all the teams moves and transactions as they happen.
I'm heading to Gettysburg right now for my cousins graduation. I should be back by Sunday night to catch the game (hopefully). I may or may not have internet in the hotel, so we'll see how that goes. Enjoy the Subway Series!
Thanks,
Andrew Vazzano
Friday, May 16, 2008
Photo of the Day: Wagner
"Splish splash, I was cursing out my teamLong about a Thursday night
A rub-a-dub, just runnin' on the field
Hopin' everything would be all right"
Simmons/News
Subway game set
According to my crosstown blogger in arms, tonight's game will be made up as one of those super special "Subway Games" in June.
The Yankees will play the Mets at Shea at the end of June, but the final date is yet to be nailed down. One game will be played in Shea, as previously scheduled, and the other game of the doubleheader will be played in Yankee Stadium on the same day.
I called it.
As of now, the game looks like it will be made up on June 27th.
The Yankees will play the Mets at Shea at the end of June, but the final date is yet to be nailed down. One game will be played in Shea, as previously scheduled, and the other game of the doubleheader will be played in Yankee Stadium on the same day.
I called it.
As of now, the game looks like it will be made up on June 27th.
No game tonight
It has been postponed. At least they banked the parking and concessions.
Makeup date TBA.
Makeup date TBA.
Shaking things up
Here's tonight's lineup, if there is a game:
SS Jose Reyes
DH Marlon Anderson
3B David Wright
CF Carlos Beltran
RF Ryan Church
LF Moises Alou
1B Carlos Delgado
C Brian Schneider
2B Luis Castillo
-----
SP Johan Santana
Very interesting. I don't like it, but I find it pretty odd to bat your DH second, and for Anderson to be batting second is so strange. I think it will work though, if they play. Anderson's been pretty hot as of late, which will set up nicely behind Reyes, if he gets on base.
Alou playing in the field on a day like this isn't even something I'm willing to try and wrap my mind around.
Still don't think they'll play though.
SS Jose Reyes
DH Marlon Anderson
3B David Wright
CF Carlos Beltran
RF Ryan Church
LF Moises Alou
1B Carlos Delgado
C Brian Schneider
2B Luis Castillo
-----
SP Johan Santana
Very interesting. I don't like it, but I find it pretty odd to bat your DH second, and for Anderson to be batting second is so strange. I think it will work though, if they play. Anderson's been pretty hot as of late, which will set up nicely behind Reyes, if he gets on base.
Alou playing in the field on a day like this isn't even something I'm willing to try and wrap my mind around.
Still don't think they'll play though.
Players only meeting planned
From Bart Hubbuch:
And I find it very telling that this is a "players only" meeting, don't you? And I don't know if Wright is the messenger or the organizer of this meeting, but that seems to be a good sign for him and his captain qualities.
David Wright told reporters this afternoon that the Mets New York Mets plan to hold a players-only meeting in the clubhouse at Yankee Stadium to clear the air after Billy Wagner's postgame rant Thursday.The short article goes on to point out Wagner has already apologized to Carlos Delgado, which is a good sign.
And I find it very telling that this is a "players only" meeting, don't you? And I don't know if Wright is the messenger or the organizer of this meeting, but that seems to be a good sign for him and his captain qualities.
As of 3:25 p.m.
Tonight's game at Yankee Stadium, the first of the Subway Series this year, is still on.
The outlook still does not look good, but maybe they'll actually play a game through some rain for once.
The outlook still does not look good, but maybe they'll actually play a game through some rain for once.
Willie Randolph will coach NL All Star team
From a MLB Press Release:
Clint Hurdle has asked New York Mets manager Willie Randolph and San Diego Padres manager Bud Black to join him as the N.L. coaches. The Colorado coaching staff - pitching coach Bob Apodaca, hitting coach Alan Cockrell, third base/infield coach Mike Gallego, first base coach Glenallen Hill, bullpen coach Rick Mathews and bench coach Jamie Quirk - will serve on the manager's staff.I have just one question: Is he still allowed to coach the All Star Game if he's no longer the coach of the New York Mets?
Weather at Yankee Stadium tonight
Oh boy. Tonight's outlook does not look conducive to baseball.I smell a crosstown subway ride at the end of June when the Yankees visit the Mets. I'm calling it now. Sunday, June 29. 1:10 p.m. game at Shea, and then a 8:10 p.m. game at Yankee Stadium to make up for tonight's possible rainout.
That's all assuming the rain doesn't let up.
Willie Randolph should be fired
That's right, everyone, I'm switching sides, defecting, moving to the dark side, if you will.
I believe Willie Larry Randolph (his first name isn't William?) should be fired as the manager of the New York Metropolitans.
This is not a knee jerk reaction.
Don't get me wrong here, I don't think he's a terrible manager, and I think he's been much better this season. He's learned the bullpen, to some degree, and his use of the bench has been pretty good. But he is not the manager for this team. Not now, not in the future.After Billy Wagner's explosion in the locker room, the notion that Randolph has lost control of his team was finally nailed shut into it's coffin. He does not inspire the team, he does not wrangle the team. He does nothing, and hopes the team does it's job.
Yes, there are professional baseball players getting paid millions of dollars to play a game, but sometimes, to mix and come together and play like a team they need a little direction.
This team, right now, has talent. Lots of it. This is the ideal case of a team being made up of players and not being a team. It's like every movie you've ever seen about a team facing adversity in some way, shape, or form. The team is fragmented, with sects and cliques forming all over the place. Someone, not Wagner because he's already burned his bridges, needs to step up as a player to rally behind and bring this team together as one.
Willie, I like you, but your time is up. You've lost control of this team, and it desperately needs a change of "scenery" in the managers office. They need a fresh face, someone who will crack down and hold the player accountable for things they've done. This team is starting to show fire, though they have no wins to show for it. Players are striking out, or lining out and slamming their bats, cursing, and in Moises Alou's case, getting thrown out of a game in two seconds flat.
This team needs a good, hard nosed, old style baseball guy who can rally the troops and get this players back on the straight and narrow. And no, Bobby Valentine is not coming back.
Wagner's words
"Somebody want to tell me why the closer is being interviewed and I didn't even play," Wagner said in an expletive-laced tirade, "and why they are over there and not being interviewed? I got it; they're gone. (Big) shocker."
-via Jeremy Cothran.
Good for you, Billy Wagner. Maybe you should be the next coach of the Mets.
I actually like this. He doesn't care if he burns bridges, he just wants to win. I don't think the other players would stoop low enough to throw a game or something like that, but I think the Mets now need to close the door to the clubhouse, and sit the entire team down. Players, coaching staff, trainers, and the lot.
Get them all in there, get a good motivational speaker, and let's get this team back on track.
-via Jeremy Cothran.
Good for you, Billy Wagner. Maybe you should be the next coach of the Mets.
I actually like this. He doesn't care if he burns bridges, he just wants to win. I don't think the other players would stoop low enough to throw a game or something like that, but I think the Mets now need to close the door to the clubhouse, and sit the entire team down. Players, coaching staff, trainers, and the lot.
Get them all in there, get a good motivational speaker, and let's get this team back on track.
And we're back...
So after a giant hiccup with the servers, TRO is back in business. Thanks for sticking with me though this debacle.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Game Recap: Nationals 1 -- Mets 0
This game went from promising to frustrating very quick.
Mike Pelfrey was sensational as he carried a no hitter through the sixth inning and into the seventh. Unfortunately for the Mets and Pelfrey, Aaron Boone led off the 7th inning with a single to right field to break up the no-hitter.
What else can I say about this? He walked three, eventually allowing three hits and one earned run through 7 2-3 of an inning. Pelfrey struck out four during his stint on the bump.
If his start against the Reds was telling of things to come, I can only imagine how he'll follow up this performance. Amazing, simply amazing. I'm very pleased by his poise on the mound his last few starts. He's really starting to blossom into everything the Mets thought he could be. Go Big Pelf!
The only run of the game came in the top of the 8th, as Jesus Flores doubled to lead off the inning. After pinch hitter Willie Harris, who would play a huge role in the next inning sacrificed Flores to third, Felipe Lopez hit a long fly ball to left field, deep enough to score Flores for the game's only run.
They executed this inning perfectly. Hats off to them. Wish the Mets could do that once in a while.
Jason Bergmann, a product of Rutgers University, matched zero's with Pelfrey the entire day. Bergman ended up going seven strong, allowing only thee hits and walking two while fanning nine. The Mets had huge chances in the 8th and 9th, but nice plays by the Nationals and bad luck for New York foiled their chances.
Jose Reyes led off the 8th inning with a swinging bunt up along the third base line. Luis Castillo was up next, and laid down a beauty of a sacrifice bunt to move Reyes to second. Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman came in to field the bunt, so third base was unoccupied. Reyes spotted this and took off for third. Again, unfortunately for the Mets, short stop Christian Guzman saw the vacant base and took off a few steps ahead of Reyes. A perfect throw from Aaron Boone from first to Guzman on the run, and a behind the back tag nailed Reyes for the second out, killing any rally in the 8th.
I like the idea, but not the execution. Man on second, one out with your 3, 4, 5 hitters coming up is something you kill for. Bringing the man to third would be nice, but only if you're absolutely sure you're going to make it. Reyes should have only taken off if Guzman was unaware of the empty bag.
In the ninth, with Carlos Beltran on first after leading off with a single, Ryan Church came to the plate and blooped a ball down the left field line. Harris, who as mentioned earlier was brought on in the 8th and laid down a successful sacrifice to help bring in the only run, made an absolutely amazing diving backhand grab on the foul line in left to erase Church and chase Beltran back to first.
Absolutely amazing. One of the best catches I've ever seen.
The bad luck wasn't done for the Mets in the 9th. With Carlos Delgado batting, Beltran broke for second, Flores popped up and airmailed the ball into centerfield, allowing Beltran to move all the way to third base with only one out. A few pitches later, Delgado smoked a ball to the right side, where Boone made a very nice catch at first. Beltran had broke for home on the ball, and was easily doubled up off the bag to end the game.
Rough game to cap off a rough series. You have to count on plays not going your way and need to cash in on the opportunities handed to you. Dropping three out of four to the Nationals is not good. Not good at all.
This has to be the most heartbreaking and frustrating loss all year.
Game Ball: Pelfrey, without a doubt.
Mike Pelfrey was sensational as he carried a no hitter through the sixth inning and into the seventh. Unfortunately for the Mets and Pelfrey, Aaron Boone led off the 7th inning with a single to right field to break up the no-hitter.
What else can I say about this? He walked three, eventually allowing three hits and one earned run through 7 2-3 of an inning. Pelfrey struck out four during his stint on the bump.
If his start against the Reds was telling of things to come, I can only imagine how he'll follow up this performance. Amazing, simply amazing. I'm very pleased by his poise on the mound his last few starts. He's really starting to blossom into everything the Mets thought he could be. Go Big Pelf!
The only run of the game came in the top of the 8th, as Jesus Flores doubled to lead off the inning. After pinch hitter Willie Harris, who would play a huge role in the next inning sacrificed Flores to third, Felipe Lopez hit a long fly ball to left field, deep enough to score Flores for the game's only run.
They executed this inning perfectly. Hats off to them. Wish the Mets could do that once in a while.
Jason Bergmann, a product of Rutgers University, matched zero's with Pelfrey the entire day. Bergman ended up going seven strong, allowing only thee hits and walking two while fanning nine. The Mets had huge chances in the 8th and 9th, but nice plays by the Nationals and bad luck for New York foiled their chances.
Jose Reyes led off the 8th inning with a swinging bunt up along the third base line. Luis Castillo was up next, and laid down a beauty of a sacrifice bunt to move Reyes to second. Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman came in to field the bunt, so third base was unoccupied. Reyes spotted this and took off for third. Again, unfortunately for the Mets, short stop Christian Guzman saw the vacant base and took off a few steps ahead of Reyes. A perfect throw from Aaron Boone from first to Guzman on the run, and a behind the back tag nailed Reyes for the second out, killing any rally in the 8th.
I like the idea, but not the execution. Man on second, one out with your 3, 4, 5 hitters coming up is something you kill for. Bringing the man to third would be nice, but only if you're absolutely sure you're going to make it. Reyes should have only taken off if Guzman was unaware of the empty bag.
In the ninth, with Carlos Beltran on first after leading off with a single, Ryan Church came to the plate and blooped a ball down the left field line. Harris, who as mentioned earlier was brought on in the 8th and laid down a successful sacrifice to help bring in the only run, made an absolutely amazing diving backhand grab on the foul line in left to erase Church and chase Beltran back to first.
Absolutely amazing. One of the best catches I've ever seen.
The bad luck wasn't done for the Mets in the 9th. With Carlos Delgado batting, Beltran broke for second, Flores popped up and airmailed the ball into centerfield, allowing Beltran to move all the way to third base with only one out. A few pitches later, Delgado smoked a ball to the right side, where Boone made a very nice catch at first. Beltran had broke for home on the ball, and was easily doubled up off the bag to end the game.
Rough game to cap off a rough series. You have to count on plays not going your way and need to cash in on the opportunities handed to you. Dropping three out of four to the Nationals is not good. Not good at all.
This has to be the most heartbreaking and frustrating loss all year.
Game Ball: Pelfrey, without a doubt.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Game Recap: Nationals 5 -- Mets 3
I have to be blunt. Aaron Heilman blew it again and this loss is all on his back.
Claudio Vargas was downright impressive in his first start with the Mets. He threw 6 1-3 innings, allowing only one run while on the mound and another was charged to him later on in the inning. He gave up three hits, walking four, while striking out six.
I had my expectations set very low for him, but he surprised me, as I'm sure he surprised you. Well done, Vargas. You earned yourself another start, at the least.
Vargas was handed a lead in the fifth inning when Brian Schneider homered to right field, right off the 1988 NL Division Champs banner for the first run of the game.
I'm very pleased by Schneider's hitting ability. Great to see some pop out of this guy who was billed as a "defensive catcher."
Vargas handed the lead right back, allowing Ryan Zimmerman to crank one off the front of the mezzanine level to tie the game up at 1-1.
Vargas was pulled from the game after issuing a one out walk to Elijah Dukes. Aaron Heilman was called in from the bullpen to try and finish out the inning. He eventually recorded three outs, not before the Nationals scored four runs to take the lead.
All the runs came with two outs, and I believe Heilman had two strikes on every batter he faced. He was even ahead 0-2 on Jesus Flores before allowing an RBI single to him.
Heilman needs a change of scenery. New Orleans or another organization, take your pick.
The Mets rally attempts fizzled out too early, as they scored one run in the 7th and 8th innings, but couldn't scratch out anymore. Schneider picked up another RBI with a ground ball to first base, allowing Endy Chavez to score. Carlos Beltran brought home the Mets final run, singling to right and plating Marlon Anderson.
The Mets went down in order in the ninth inning, striking out twice.
This team has fire, but it's equivalent to a cigarette lighter when they need a bonfire. Spurts are shown here and there, but overall, it's just not there. Moises Alou showed a bit of emotion and fire when he was ejected in the fifth after being called out on strikes. Alou immediately slammed his bat into the ground and was ejected seconds later by home plate umpire Dana Demuth.
You have to beat up on last place teams, and now they're heading into tomorrow's matinee hoping for a split of the series, at best. Not good.
Game Ball: Schneider
Claudio Vargas was downright impressive in his first start with the Mets. He threw 6 1-3 innings, allowing only one run while on the mound and another was charged to him later on in the inning. He gave up three hits, walking four, while striking out six.
I had my expectations set very low for him, but he surprised me, as I'm sure he surprised you. Well done, Vargas. You earned yourself another start, at the least.
Vargas was handed a lead in the fifth inning when Brian Schneider homered to right field, right off the 1988 NL Division Champs banner for the first run of the game.
I'm very pleased by Schneider's hitting ability. Great to see some pop out of this guy who was billed as a "defensive catcher."
Vargas handed the lead right back, allowing Ryan Zimmerman to crank one off the front of the mezzanine level to tie the game up at 1-1.
Vargas was pulled from the game after issuing a one out walk to Elijah Dukes. Aaron Heilman was called in from the bullpen to try and finish out the inning. He eventually recorded three outs, not before the Nationals scored four runs to take the lead.
All the runs came with two outs, and I believe Heilman had two strikes on every batter he faced. He was even ahead 0-2 on Jesus Flores before allowing an RBI single to him.
Heilman needs a change of scenery. New Orleans or another organization, take your pick.
The Mets rally attempts fizzled out too early, as they scored one run in the 7th and 8th innings, but couldn't scratch out anymore. Schneider picked up another RBI with a ground ball to first base, allowing Endy Chavez to score. Carlos Beltran brought home the Mets final run, singling to right and plating Marlon Anderson.
The Mets went down in order in the ninth inning, striking out twice.
This team has fire, but it's equivalent to a cigarette lighter when they need a bonfire. Spurts are shown here and there, but overall, it's just not there. Moises Alou showed a bit of emotion and fire when he was ejected in the fifth after being called out on strikes. Alou immediately slammed his bat into the ground and was ejected seconds later by home plate umpire Dana Demuth.
You have to beat up on last place teams, and now they're heading into tomorrow's matinee hoping for a split of the series, at best. Not good.
Game Ball: Schneider
Santana's numbers in the Bronx
Jeremy Cothran, one of the best in the biz, points out Johan Santana's ridiculous stats in Yankee Stadium, where he will pitch against Darrel Rasner on Friday.
"Santana is 3-0 in the Bronx as a member of the Twins, with an ERA of 0.79 in six games."
Investigating further, Santana's first appearance at Yankee Stadium came on April 10, 2003. Santana threw only four innings in relief, allowing four hits, walking none and striking out eight batters. He allowed no runs.
The second start in the Bronx came on September 29, 2004. Santana allowed one earned run on three hits and a walk in five innings. He struck out five that day. He ended up with a no decision that day, breaking a streak of 12 straight appearances with a win, ending the season with a record of 20-6.
The third start in the House That Ruth Built on July 27, 2005, saw Santana throw seven shutout innings, scattering seven hits and two walks. Santana struck out five in the Twins win. He earned the win, his first in Yankee Stadium.
His final start in Yankee Stadium was his "worst." Santana allowed two earned runs over seven innings. He let up four hits while walking two. Again, he struck out five batters. The Twins won the game 6-2, making a winner of Santana and moving his record at Yankee Stadium to 2-0.
So, after doing some research, Santana's numbers at Yankee Stadium are actually: 2-0, 23 IP, 18 hits, 5 BB, 23 K, 1.17 ERA.
Not too shabby. Let's hope he can turn out another one of these performance and show the Yankees brass and front office what they missed out on.
Update: A fellow blogger, MetsWalkoffs, points out that I completely left out Santana's starts during the postseason.
Santana pitched in two games at Yankee Stadium during the 2003 and 2004 ALDS.
On September 30, 2003, Santana threw four innings, allowing three hits and walking two. He did not allow a run and struck out three batters.
His other appearance came on October 5, 2004, where he went seven innings and scattered nine hits. He walked only one and struck out five. Again, he did not allow a run to score. The Twins won this game, and earned Santana his third win at Yankee Stadium.
Factoring the previously left out postseason appearances, Santana's adjusted numbers at Yankee Stadium for his career: 3-0, 34 IP, 30 hits, 8 BB, 31 K, 0.79 ERA.
So Jeremy had it right to begin with. Whoops!
"Santana is 3-0 in the Bronx as a member of the Twins, with an ERA of 0.79 in six games."
Investigating further, Santana's first appearance at Yankee Stadium came on April 10, 2003. Santana threw only four innings in relief, allowing four hits, walking none and striking out eight batters. He allowed no runs.
The second start in the Bronx came on September 29, 2004. Santana allowed one earned run on three hits and a walk in five innings. He struck out five that day. He ended up with a no decision that day, breaking a streak of 12 straight appearances with a win, ending the season with a record of 20-6.
The third start in the House That Ruth Built on July 27, 2005, saw Santana throw seven shutout innings, scattering seven hits and two walks. Santana struck out five in the Twins win. He earned the win, his first in Yankee Stadium.
His final start in Yankee Stadium was his "worst." Santana allowed two earned runs over seven innings. He let up four hits while walking two. Again, he struck out five batters. The Twins won the game 6-2, making a winner of Santana and moving his record at Yankee Stadium to 2-0.
So, after doing some research, Santana's numbers at Yankee Stadium are actually: 2-0, 23 IP, 18 hits, 5 BB, 23 K, 1.17 ERA.
Not too shabby. Let's hope he can turn out another one of these performance and show the Yankees brass and front office what they missed out on.
Update: A fellow blogger, MetsWalkoffs, points out that I completely left out Santana's starts during the postseason.
Santana pitched in two games at Yankee Stadium during the 2003 and 2004 ALDS.
On September 30, 2003, Santana threw four innings, allowing three hits and walking two. He did not allow a run and struck out three batters.
His other appearance came on October 5, 2004, where he went seven innings and scattered nine hits. He walked only one and struck out five. Again, he did not allow a run to score. The Twins won this game, and earned Santana his third win at Yankee Stadium.
Factoring the previously left out postseason appearances, Santana's adjusted numbers at Yankee Stadium for his career: 3-0, 34 IP, 30 hits, 8 BB, 31 K, 0.79 ERA.
So Jeremy had it right to begin with. Whoops!
Fan caught trying to steal part of Shea
Patrick Oriani, 18, of Jersey City, was caught trying to smuggle a seat from the upper deck of Shea Stadium out of the park, concealing it under a blanket.
First of all, does he really expect to make it out of the place carrying a giant seat?
And secondly, I really want to know what was said to him by the guards who figured out his dastardly plan.
Security guard: "Sir, is that a chair? Are you carrying a chair under that blanket?"
Patrick: "Uhhhh...no."
Security guard: "Come with me, sir."
Patrick: "Dagnabbit! I would have gotten away with it too if it weren't for you meddlingkids security guards!"
First of all, does he really expect to make it out of the place carrying a giant seat?
And secondly, I really want to know what was said to him by the guards who figured out his dastardly plan.
Security guard: "Sir, is that a chair? Are you carrying a chair under that blanket?"
Patrick: "Uhhhh...no."
Security guard: "Come with me, sir."
Patrick: "Dagnabbit! I would have gotten away with it too if it weren't for you meddling
Answers: Best pitching seasons
I received a few guesses for the four pitchers named in the Sports Illustrated list of 15 best pitching seasons.
Everyone nailed down the four pitchers names, but only one person correctly identified the year picked out by SI. Half-congrats to Andrew Fletcher of Scott Proctor's Arm.
The pitchers, and the years they had their best season are:
Tom Seaver, 1971.
Dwight Gooden, 1985.
Pedro Martinez, 2000.
Johan Santana, 2005.
Here are the blurbs:
Seaver won three Cy Youngs, but his best season may have been in a year in which he didn't win the award. In 1971, "Tom Terrific" validated his nickname by leading the league in ERA (1.76) and strikeouts (289) while going 20-10 for the Mets.
Few pitchers have burst onto the scene with as much promise and dominance as Dwight Gooden. "Doc" was a mere 20 years old and in just his second big-league season when he cut through the National League in 1985, going 24-4 with a 1.53 ERA, eight shutouts and 268 strikeouts.
Pedro Martinez's power pitching style was on full display during the 2000 season in which he won 18 games, posted a 1.74 ERA, hurled seven complete games, and whiffed 284 hitters. He also set a number of marks. His WHIP was 0.74, breaking a 77-year-old record set by Walter Johnson, and he also became the only starting pitcher to have more than twice as many strikeouts in a season (284) as hits allowed (128). The only question: How did he lose six times?
During his first full season as a starter in 2004, Johan Santana enjoyed one of the best second halves of a season for a pitcher. He went 13-0 and achieved a 1.21 ERA to finish the season with a 20-6 record, 2.61 ERA and 265 strikeouts on the way to his first of two AL Cy Young awards.
I'm predicting John Maine being added to this list after this season.
Also, I left off a player who completed the task with another team, and later pitched on the Mets for one season. Orel Hershiser's 1988 season was recognized, which he pitched over 10 years before coming to the Mets.
Everyone nailed down the four pitchers names, but only one person correctly identified the year picked out by SI. Half-congrats to Andrew Fletcher of Scott Proctor's Arm.
The pitchers, and the years they had their best season are:
Tom Seaver, 1971.
Dwight Gooden, 1985.
Pedro Martinez, 2000.
Johan Santana, 2005.
Here are the blurbs:
Seaver won three Cy Youngs, but his best season may have been in a year in which he didn't win the award. In 1971, "Tom Terrific" validated his nickname by leading the league in ERA (1.76) and strikeouts (289) while going 20-10 for the Mets.
Few pitchers have burst onto the scene with as much promise and dominance as Dwight Gooden. "Doc" was a mere 20 years old and in just his second big-league season when he cut through the National League in 1985, going 24-4 with a 1.53 ERA, eight shutouts and 268 strikeouts.
Pedro Martinez's power pitching style was on full display during the 2000 season in which he won 18 games, posted a 1.74 ERA, hurled seven complete games, and whiffed 284 hitters. He also set a number of marks. His WHIP was 0.74, breaking a 77-year-old record set by Walter Johnson, and he also became the only starting pitcher to have more than twice as many strikeouts in a season (284) as hits allowed (128). The only question: How did he lose six times?
During his first full season as a starter in 2004, Johan Santana enjoyed one of the best second halves of a season for a pitcher. He went 13-0 and achieved a 1.21 ERA to finish the season with a 20-6 record, 2.61 ERA and 265 strikeouts on the way to his first of two AL Cy Young awards.
I'm predicting John Maine being added to this list after this season.
Also, I left off a player who completed the task with another team, and later pitched on the Mets for one season. Orel Hershiser's 1988 season was recognized, which he pitched over 10 years before coming to the Mets.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Guess who: Best pitching seasons
Sports Illustrated put together a list of 15 of the best pitching seasons since 1961.
The list has two Mets pitchers who completed the task with the team and two pitchers who are currently on the roster who notched up their remarkable seasons with another team.
Can you guess who they are and the years they pitched well enough to make the list?
The winner gets...some respect and a high five.
Answers up tomorrow.
The list has two Mets pitchers who completed the task with the team and two pitchers who are currently on the roster who notched up their remarkable seasons with another team.
Can you guess who they are and the years they pitched well enough to make the list?
The winner gets...some respect and a high five.
Answers up tomorrow.
Game Recap: Mets 6 -- Nationals 3
Revenge is a dish best served by Ryan Church and Brian Schneider.
The ex-Nationals really handed it to their old team, combining to go 5-8, scoring three and driving in five as the Mets took the second game of the four game set by a score of 6-3.
The Mets got another stellar start from John Maine, as he extended his streak of only allowing two runs or less to eight straight starts, allowing just two runs on two hits through six innings. Maine struck out five and walked only one, needing 109 pitches to get through his night.
In the second inning, the Mets got on the board with a bases loaded fielders choice off the bat of Brian Schneider, driving in Moises Alou.
The Mets had the bases loaded with no one out, and managed to scratch out only one run. Something like that needs to change. To score a run without hitting the ball out of the infield is something special though.
The only runs Maine allowed came on a Ryan Zimmerman two run home run after a Damion Easley error. The error, one of two for Easley on the night, allowed Christian Guzman to reach, and later score on Zimmerman's homer to left field. Maine set down 10 in order after the home run, and only had one runner on base due to Easley's second error with two outs in the sixth. Maine bounced back and got Austin Kearns to strike out looking to end his night.
If it wasn't for Johan Santana, Maine would be the far and away ace of this pitching staff. Dominant, in control, and settled down. Simple beautiful. I think he could have gone another inning, easily, but his turn in the order came up in the bottom of the sixth, and the pinch hitter paid off for the Mets. Well done, John. Keep it up.
Church had an amazing day, starting it off with a solo home run to center field to lead off the third inning. Church's ball just missed nailing the home run apple.
I love this guy. I'm sure you've heard that from me before, but I have to say it again. What a steal.
In the sixth, Church kept his hot day going, bringing in two with a double to right. After Brian Schneider and Fernando Tatis both hit one out singles, Church came to the plate with two outs and runners on first and second. Church smoked a ball to right field, a ball that seemed like an easy out for Kearns to end the inning. I'm not sure if Kearns misplayed it or if the ball just hung up in the air, but the ball sailed over the jumping Kearns glove and bounced to the wall, driving in both Schneider and Tatis.
Good? Yes. Lucky? Yes. Will he take it? Yes.
He is getting things done in every way, shape, and form.
Matt Wise made his first appearance in a long while, allowing one run on one hit. Elijah Dukes doubled to left for his first hit of the year. Rob Mackowiack eventually drove him home with a ground ball to second base. Duaner Sanchez walked two batters in the eighth inning, but worked out of a jam without any damage, striking out one.
Strange to bring in a pitcher who hasn't been in the majors in a while and toss him into the fire with a two run lead. This will be questioned by the Willie Randolph haters, for sure. Good stuff from Sanchez, who as Gary Cohen pointed out, has had a few miles per hour knocked off his fastball from the accident. Hopefully he can work back to that over time, but if he's consistently good, it really won't matter.
In the 8th, the Mets tacked on some insurance runs. Jose Reyes broke up his 0-fer night with an RBI single up the middle, driving in Schneider. Church followed that up with a sacrifice fly to right field, plating Marlon Anderson.
Billy Wagner allowed a two out hit, but slammed the door on the Nationals for his eighth save of the year. He still has not allowed an earned run to score.
Keep on truckin'.
Game Ball: Church.
The ex-Nationals really handed it to their old team, combining to go 5-8, scoring three and driving in five as the Mets took the second game of the four game set by a score of 6-3.
The Mets got another stellar start from John Maine, as he extended his streak of only allowing two runs or less to eight straight starts, allowing just two runs on two hits through six innings. Maine struck out five and walked only one, needing 109 pitches to get through his night.
In the second inning, the Mets got on the board with a bases loaded fielders choice off the bat of Brian Schneider, driving in Moises Alou.
The Mets had the bases loaded with no one out, and managed to scratch out only one run. Something like that needs to change. To score a run without hitting the ball out of the infield is something special though.
The only runs Maine allowed came on a Ryan Zimmerman two run home run after a Damion Easley error. The error, one of two for Easley on the night, allowed Christian Guzman to reach, and later score on Zimmerman's homer to left field. Maine set down 10 in order after the home run, and only had one runner on base due to Easley's second error with two outs in the sixth. Maine bounced back and got Austin Kearns to strike out looking to end his night.
If it wasn't for Johan Santana, Maine would be the far and away ace of this pitching staff. Dominant, in control, and settled down. Simple beautiful. I think he could have gone another inning, easily, but his turn in the order came up in the bottom of the sixth, and the pinch hitter paid off for the Mets. Well done, John. Keep it up.
Church had an amazing day, starting it off with a solo home run to center field to lead off the third inning. Church's ball just missed nailing the home run apple.
I love this guy. I'm sure you've heard that from me before, but I have to say it again. What a steal.
In the sixth, Church kept his hot day going, bringing in two with a double to right. After Brian Schneider and Fernando Tatis both hit one out singles, Church came to the plate with two outs and runners on first and second. Church smoked a ball to right field, a ball that seemed like an easy out for Kearns to end the inning. I'm not sure if Kearns misplayed it or if the ball just hung up in the air, but the ball sailed over the jumping Kearns glove and bounced to the wall, driving in both Schneider and Tatis.
Good? Yes. Lucky? Yes. Will he take it? Yes.
He is getting things done in every way, shape, and form.
Matt Wise made his first appearance in a long while, allowing one run on one hit. Elijah Dukes doubled to left for his first hit of the year. Rob Mackowiack eventually drove him home with a ground ball to second base. Duaner Sanchez walked two batters in the eighth inning, but worked out of a jam without any damage, striking out one.
Strange to bring in a pitcher who hasn't been in the majors in a while and toss him into the fire with a two run lead. This will be questioned by the Willie Randolph haters, for sure. Good stuff from Sanchez, who as Gary Cohen pointed out, has had a few miles per hour knocked off his fastball from the accident. Hopefully he can work back to that over time, but if he's consistently good, it really won't matter.
In the 8th, the Mets tacked on some insurance runs. Jose Reyes broke up his 0-fer night with an RBI single up the middle, driving in Schneider. Church followed that up with a sacrifice fly to right field, plating Marlon Anderson.
Billy Wagner allowed a two out hit, but slammed the door on the Nationals for his eighth save of the year. He still has not allowed an earned run to score.
Keep on truckin'.
Game Ball: Church.
Maine does what's right
Forgot to mention this before...
With the first pitch of the game, John Maine nailed Felipe Lopez in the leg.
This has to be (hopefully) retaliation for the taunting and yelling that went on in the Nationals dugout on Monday night. If that's actually what it is, I must applaud Maine.
This is exactly what you do as a pitcher. Instead of talking about it later, you either peg a guy where it won't hurt the next day to send a message, or knock a guy on his butt with a pitch over his head.
Good stuff.
With the first pitch of the game, John Maine nailed Felipe Lopez in the leg.
This has to be (hopefully) retaliation for the taunting and yelling that went on in the Nationals dugout on Monday night. If that's actually what it is, I must applaud Maine.
This is exactly what you do as a pitcher. Instead of talking about it later, you either peg a guy where it won't hurt the next day to send a message, or knock a guy on his butt with a pitch over his head.
Good stuff.
I pray to Ryan Church
Ryan Church just took Jon Lannan deep to center, just missing nailing the home run apple with his 8th dinger of the year.
This is his fourth in the last seven games.
He and David Wright are battling for my love and affection right now.
Seriously, how good is this guy? I can't wait to see more.
Big praise must be paid to Howard Johnson for fixing and tweaking Church's swing and approach. Well done, HoJo. Well done indeed.
This is his fourth in the last seven games.
He and David Wright are battling for my love and affection right now.
Seriously, how good is this guy? I can't wait to see more.
Big praise must be paid to Howard Johnson for fixing and tweaking Church's swing and approach. Well done, HoJo. Well done indeed.
The roster shuffle
Off the Mets: Nelson Figueroa and Jorge Sosa have been designated for assignment. Angel Pagan has been placed on the 15-day DL.
On the Mets: Matt Wise was activated off the disabled list. Fernando Tatis and Claudio Vargas were called up from New Orleans.
Bye Figueroa, I'll miss you. Willie Randolph, when speaking to Eddie Coleman on WFAN, said he hopes Figueroa clears waivers and would like to see him as a long man out of the bullpen. I have to agree. Opposing teams are batting well under .200 against Figueroa the first time through the order, so he'd be perfect.
On Sosa, I'm so happy about. Took them long enough. Same for Wise.
The battle between Pagan and Tatis will begin. If Tatis can do anything worthwhile, I can see Pagan staying in AAA after he's healed up. Omar Minaya likes Tatis, so I think Tatis is in for the long haul.
For Vargas, I will abstain comment on until after tomorrow's start.
Overall, good moves by the Mets.
On the Mets: Matt Wise was activated off the disabled list. Fernando Tatis and Claudio Vargas were called up from New Orleans.
Bye Figueroa, I'll miss you. Willie Randolph, when speaking to Eddie Coleman on WFAN, said he hopes Figueroa clears waivers and would like to see him as a long man out of the bullpen. I have to agree. Opposing teams are batting well under .200 against Figueroa the first time through the order, so he'd be perfect.
On Sosa, I'm so happy about. Took them long enough. Same for Wise.
The battle between Pagan and Tatis will begin. If Tatis can do anything worthwhile, I can see Pagan staying in AAA after he's healed up. Omar Minaya likes Tatis, so I think Tatis is in for the long haul.
For Vargas, I will abstain comment on until after tomorrow's start.
Overall, good moves by the Mets.
More hips!
Here is Jose Reyes teaching some of the guys from SportsCenter how to dance in a recent "This is SportsCenter" commercials. It cracks me up every time I see it.
Hat tip to Ian from Sox & Dawgs.
Hat tip to Ian from Sox & Dawgs.
Many Mets moves
Adam Rubin updates us on a slew of moves the Mets made or are making or might possibly think of making at sometime.
1. Instead of Adam Bostick, as previously thought, Claudio Vargas will be called up to start tomorrow.
Well, this is interesting. Vargas isn't on the 40-man roster, so that means someone is getting booted off. My guess is Jorge Sosa, who will probably be demoted. Sosa has the ability to refuse demotion and become a free agent while still being paid his $2 million.
If that's the case, Vargas might stick with the Mets as their long man out of the bullpen. That's purely speculation, but it sort of makes sense.
2. Fernando Tatis might be coming up as well. This means either Luis Castillo or Angel Pagan won't be able to return as soon as they thought, and one of them will hit the DL. Update: Looks like Pagan.
Tatis has shown tons of pop in the minors, but his average is pretty low.
Update:
3. Joe Smith may have been pardoned and looks like he will stick with the team. Guess that makes "Poor Joe Smith" a moot post.
Sosa is really in trouble. And rightfully so.
1. Instead of Adam Bostick, as previously thought, Claudio Vargas will be called up to start tomorrow.
Well, this is interesting. Vargas isn't on the 40-man roster, so that means someone is getting booted off. My guess is Jorge Sosa, who will probably be demoted. Sosa has the ability to refuse demotion and become a free agent while still being paid his $2 million.
If that's the case, Vargas might stick with the Mets as their long man out of the bullpen. That's purely speculation, but it sort of makes sense.
2. Fernando Tatis might be coming up as well. This means either Luis Castillo or Angel Pagan won't be able to return as soon as they thought, and one of them will hit the DL. Update: Looks like Pagan.
Tatis has shown tons of pop in the minors, but his average is pretty low.
Update:
3. Joe Smith may have been pardoned and looks like he will stick with the team. Guess that makes "Poor Joe Smith" a moot post.
Sosa is really in trouble. And rightfully so.
New Mets song?
A guy by the name of Craig Haft e-mailed me with his new 8th inning song for the New York Mets.
Listen to the song here.
Hmm...I feel like I've heard this before. But where...
Yeah, that's the ticket.
If you like Craig's song, let him know. You can e-mail him at metssong@aim.com.
Yeah, that's the ticket.
If you like Craig's song, let him know. You can e-mail him at metssong@aim.com.
Poor Joe Smith
Ed. note: This entire post seems to be moot now.
After striking out the side on Monday night, the Mets rewarded Joe Smith with a demotion.
The Mets sent Smith back to the minors to make room for a spot starter for Wednesday's game, rather than pitch Johan Santana or Mike Pelfrey on short rest.
As I mentioned before, Adam Bostick was pulled from his start in AAA after three scoreless innings. According to Adam Rubin, Willie Collazo's name has also been tossed around.
Rubin also reports that after Wednesday's game, when the spot starter, whoever he is, is sent back to the minors, the Mets will activate Matt Wise from the disabled list.
Really, poor Joe Smith. He's probably been the best pitcher in the entire bullpen, aside from Billy Wagner. Just because he has options, and they don't owe his $2 million (Jorge Sosa), he gets demoted. Hopefully, the Mets realized their mistake and cut Sosa and eat the $2 mil.
They probably make that much off hot dog sales between the 3rd and 5th inning of a Wednesday night game anyway.
After striking out the side on Monday night, the Mets rewarded Joe Smith with a demotion.
The Mets sent Smith back to the minors to make room for a spot starter for Wednesday's game, rather than pitch Johan Santana or Mike Pelfrey on short rest.
As I mentioned before, Adam Bostick was pulled from his start in AAA after three scoreless innings. According to Adam Rubin, Willie Collazo's name has also been tossed around.
Rubin also reports that after Wednesday's game, when the spot starter, whoever he is, is sent back to the minors, the Mets will activate Matt Wise from the disabled list.
Really, poor Joe Smith. He's probably been the best pitcher in the entire bullpen, aside from Billy Wagner. Just because he has options, and they don't owe his $2 million (Jorge Sosa), he gets demoted. Hopefully, the Mets realized their mistake and cut Sosa and eat the $2 mil.
They probably make that much off hot dog sales between the 3rd and 5th inning of a Wednesday night game anyway.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Classless Nats
I'm usually not one to put a whole lot of stock into quotes as they are usually that same darn thing every time. "We just didn't hit." "Great pitching performance beat us." "I really felt it tonight." And so on and so forth.
Once in a while though, someone comes out and really says how then feel.
I present to you, Nelson Figueroa on the Nationals dugout antics, via Kevin Devaney:
Pay attention, Willie Randolph. There are faults with you, and I usually don't think they're glaring, but the lack of emotion, even to the press, is getting boring. Show some fire, just once, so I'll know you have it in you.
Round of applause to Figueroa for this quote and for calling out an entire team and it's staff. I like it. I smell a brawl tomorrow.
Once in a while though, someone comes out and really says how then feel.
I present to you, Nelson Figueroa on the Nationals dugout antics, via Kevin Devaney:
“They were cheerleading in the dugout like a bunch softball girls. I’m a professional just like anybody else, so I take huge offense to that. If that’s what a last-place team needs to do to fire themself up, so be it. I think they need to show a little more class and professionalism. They won tonight but, in the long run, they are still who they are.Amazing. Not only calling out the players, but the coaches too. It might have been a bit of frustration on Figueroa's part, as he got tagged for six runs (four earned) in only five innings, but it's good to see some emotion!
“Even for the manager and the coaching staff to let that stuff carry on, it’s truly unprofessional. That’s why they are who they are.”
Pay attention, Willie Randolph. There are faults with you, and I usually don't think they're glaring, but the lack of emotion, even to the press, is getting boring. Show some fire, just once, so I'll know you have it in you.
Round of applause to Figueroa for this quote and for calling out an entire team and it's staff. I like it. I smell a brawl tomorrow.
Game Recap: Nationals 10 -- Mets 4
I had tickets tonight, pretty glad I didn't go.
The Mets got trounced by the Nationals in the first game of a four game series, taking game one by a score of 10-4. Notch this up as another frustrating loss for the New York Mets. And cue the Willie Randolph haters..now!
Nelson Figueroa made the start for the Mets, and tallied only one scoreless inning out of five. Figueroa allowed one run in the second, third, and fourth. He then let up three in the fifth inning. Of the six runs he allowed, four were earned.
He struggled with the control, allowing five hits and walking five. Figueroa struck out four while on the bump. Figueroa walked in a run in the third.
He was just not very effective, at all. Usually he feeds off the energy at Shea, but it seemed pretty dead tonight. He needs a big crowd behind him. I hate to say it, but Figueroa's magic may be running out.
Jorge Sosa stunk, again. Sosa's line: 1 IP, 4 hits, 4 earned runs, 2 BB, 1 K.
Cut him. Now.
Duaner Sanchez pitched a scoreless and hitless inning, striking out one. Joe Smith and Billy Wagner both looked excellent as they both struck out the side in their respective innings.
Beautiful. I love Joe Smith. Let me make it easy, Mets. Cut Sosa, keep Smith. It's not too hard.
The Mets pounded out 12 hits, but only managed four runs. Odalis Perez threw 6 1-3 innings, scattering 11 hits and only allowing four runs.
The team got on the board early, scoring one in each of the first three innings. Carlos Beltran picked up an RBI single in the first, driving in David Wright. In the second, Damion Easley crushed a solo home run to deep center field to lead off the inning. Easley picked up another RBI, driving in Moises Alou from second with a single to right. Alou, who doubled earlier in the inning, had a nice headfirst slide to beat the tag at home.
And from there, they were held in check until the seventh inning. I thought this was going to be one of those crazy blowouts where they can't help but score, but I couldn't have been more wrong. They looked flat. Perez wasn't excellent, there was no need for them to shut down like that. And for the love of everything holy, don't blame Willie.
Wright went yard with no one on base in the seventh.
Yay.
Game Ball: Easley.
The Mets got trounced by the Nationals in the first game of a four game series, taking game one by a score of 10-4. Notch this up as another frustrating loss for the New York Mets. And cue the Willie Randolph haters..now!
Nelson Figueroa made the start for the Mets, and tallied only one scoreless inning out of five. Figueroa allowed one run in the second, third, and fourth. He then let up three in the fifth inning. Of the six runs he allowed, four were earned.
He struggled with the control, allowing five hits and walking five. Figueroa struck out four while on the bump. Figueroa walked in a run in the third.
He was just not very effective, at all. Usually he feeds off the energy at Shea, but it seemed pretty dead tonight. He needs a big crowd behind him. I hate to say it, but Figueroa's magic may be running out.
Jorge Sosa stunk, again. Sosa's line: 1 IP, 4 hits, 4 earned runs, 2 BB, 1 K.
Cut him. Now.
Duaner Sanchez pitched a scoreless and hitless inning, striking out one. Joe Smith and Billy Wagner both looked excellent as they both struck out the side in their respective innings.
Beautiful. I love Joe Smith. Let me make it easy, Mets. Cut Sosa, keep Smith. It's not too hard.
The Mets pounded out 12 hits, but only managed four runs. Odalis Perez threw 6 1-3 innings, scattering 11 hits and only allowing four runs.
The team got on the board early, scoring one in each of the first three innings. Carlos Beltran picked up an RBI single in the first, driving in David Wright. In the second, Damion Easley crushed a solo home run to deep center field to lead off the inning. Easley picked up another RBI, driving in Moises Alou from second with a single to right. Alou, who doubled earlier in the inning, had a nice headfirst slide to beat the tag at home.
And from there, they were held in check until the seventh inning. I thought this was going to be one of those crazy blowouts where they can't help but score, but I couldn't have been more wrong. They looked flat. Perez wasn't excellent, there was no need for them to shut down like that. And for the love of everything holy, don't blame Willie.
Wright went yard with no one on base in the seventh.
Yay.
Game Ball: Easley.
Figures
I had tickets tonight. I thought it was going to rain. I didn't go. And now it looks like they're going to play.
As Alanis Morisette would say, "It figures."
As Alanis Morisette would say, "It figures."
Castillo diagnosed with strained quad
Just as he was getting hot...
Luis Castillo will likely spend some time on the disabled list after pulling up while running into third with a triple in Sunday's game.
And MRI showed a strain in the muscle, which will likely put Castillo on the DL, possibly making some other moves easier for the Mets. If they game is still played tonight, which it looks like it will be, the Mets will need a spot starter for Wednesday's game.
If they put Castillo on the DL, and bring up Adam Bostick, as I mentioned before, and then activate Matt Wise after the game, everything seems to work out, though they will run without a bench player for some time.
This stinks. Just as the Mets got their starting lineup back and looked like they were starting to click as a team, one cog goes down. Here's to a speedy recovery and being able to pick up where you left off.
Luis Castillo will likely spend some time on the disabled list after pulling up while running into third with a triple in Sunday's game.
And MRI showed a strain in the muscle, which will likely put Castillo on the DL, possibly making some other moves easier for the Mets. If they game is still played tonight, which it looks like it will be, the Mets will need a spot starter for Wednesday's game.
If they put Castillo on the DL, and bring up Adam Bostick, as I mentioned before, and then activate Matt Wise after the game, everything seems to work out, though they will run without a bench player for some time.
This stinks. Just as the Mets got their starting lineup back and looked like they were starting to click as a team, one cog goes down. Here's to a speedy recovery and being able to pick up where you left off.
Is a win Willie's fault too?
After every Mets loss, without fail, I hear people clamoring for Willie Randolph to be handed a pink slip.
If these people subscribe to that theory, shouldn't every Mets win solidify his place in the dugout?
After pegging the Reds for 12 runs in the early game of the doubleheader on Saturday, Bronson Arroyo came out and pitched his best game in years. Is that the Mets, and specifically Willie's fault? No. It happens. Good teams will be shut down by good pitching from time to time.
I know it's easy to argue against that while looking at Arroyo's numbers this year, but he had everything working for him Saturday night and, as Gary Cohen says, good teams sometimes just have to tip their hat to a great pitching performance.
So after the Mets saw Oliver Perez pitch five great innings and one crappy one, a significant improvement from his last few starts, and the Mets take 2 out of 3, with the one loss coming during Arroyo's brilliance on the mound, where are people praising Willie?
What about Rick Peterson? Oliver looked a lot more in control, though he still walked four, as he struck out eight batters, and only allowed three hits. Shouldn't Peterson be getting a bit of praise for this performance?
I think some fans are inherently negative, and have learned to be negative through the bad years of the early 90's, and don't want to change. It's easy to have a sourpuss attitude and blast every little fallacy or flaw rather than praise the good (I know, because whenever I write papers, I always argue against the point, it's just easier that way).
So as the Mets just to 19-16, three games over .500, and move into a tie for second place behind the playing-over-their-heads Florida Marlins, maybe, just maybe, you can cut Willie Randolph and Rick Peterson some slack, as the team has looked pretty darn good over this past week, and it's only looking up from here.
If these people subscribe to that theory, shouldn't every Mets win solidify his place in the dugout?
After pegging the Reds for 12 runs in the early game of the doubleheader on Saturday, Bronson Arroyo came out and pitched his best game in years. Is that the Mets, and specifically Willie's fault? No. It happens. Good teams will be shut down by good pitching from time to time.
I know it's easy to argue against that while looking at Arroyo's numbers this year, but he had everything working for him Saturday night and, as Gary Cohen says, good teams sometimes just have to tip their hat to a great pitching performance.
So after the Mets saw Oliver Perez pitch five great innings and one crappy one, a significant improvement from his last few starts, and the Mets take 2 out of 3, with the one loss coming during Arroyo's brilliance on the mound, where are people praising Willie?
What about Rick Peterson? Oliver looked a lot more in control, though he still walked four, as he struck out eight batters, and only allowed three hits. Shouldn't Peterson be getting a bit of praise for this performance?
I think some fans are inherently negative, and have learned to be negative through the bad years of the early 90's, and don't want to change. It's easy to have a sourpuss attitude and blast every little fallacy or flaw rather than praise the good (I know, because whenever I write papers, I always argue against the point, it's just easier that way).
So as the Mets just to 19-16, three games over .500, and move into a tie for second place behind the playing-over-their-heads Florida Marlins, maybe, just maybe, you can cut Willie Randolph and Rick Peterson some slack, as the team has looked pretty darn good over this past week, and it's only looking up from here.
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