Andy Phillips, we hardly knew ye.
Phillips was DFA as the Mets called up Tony Armas Jr. to make Tuesday's start against the Cardinals.
Our first tri-state nightmare came when the Mets tested Abraham Nunez out to the tune of two AB's. Phillips was lucky enough to score five at bats with the Metropolitans, making me half right. Last Thursday, I predicted Phillips' tenure with the Mets would last ten at bats.
Good luck, Armas. Find some way to right this Mets ship.
6/30/08
TSTDIA: Cardinals 7 -- Mets 1
Let's see...
Starting Pitching: negative.
Relief Pitching: negative.
Defense: negative.
Hitting: negative.
Pinch hitting: negative.
When Andy Phillips scores your only run, I'm pretty sure it's not a good night for your team.
Starting Pitching: negative.
Relief Pitching: negative.
Defense: negative.
Hitting: negative.
Pinch hitting: negative.
When Andy Phillips scores your only run, I'm pretty sure it's not a good night for your team.
Steve Phillips should never call Mets games
Is this some sort of sick joke to torment Mets fans? Why must Steve Phillips analyze every Mets downfall this season?
ESPN exec: "Hey, we have a Mets broadcast coming up. Who do you think we should put in the booth?"
Other ESPN exec: "Haha! Let's give them Steve Phillips! They'll hate it!"
ESPN exec: "Genius!"
ESPN execs in unison: "Bwahahaha!" (manic laughter)
Seriously, Bristol? What do you have against us Shea Faithful?
Note to ESPN: Never ever put Phillips on a Mets broadcast again. You made a bad game even worse by making me listen to his "baseball mind" blab on about who knows what.
ESPN exec: "Hey, we have a Mets broadcast coming up. Who do you think we should put in the booth?"
Other ESPN exec: "Haha! Let's give them Steve Phillips! They'll hate it!"
ESPN exec: "Genius!"
ESPN execs in unison: "Bwahahaha!" (manic laughter)
Seriously, Bristol? What do you have against us Shea Faithful?
Note to ESPN: Never ever put Phillips on a Mets broadcast again. You made a bad game even worse by making me listen to his "baseball mind" blab on about who knows what.
Halfway there: 40-41
With yesterday's win over the Yankees, the Mets completed the first half of their 2008 season exactly one game under .500.
The first 81 games were interesting. You never know what you're going to get with these Mets. One day you can get a pitching meltdown coupled with an offensive explosion. Other days it's dominant performances on the mound and a sub par effort at the plate.
The Mets will keep you guessing. So far their play has been decent, as shown by their record of 40-41. It doesn't seem new manager Jerry Manuel has done enough to light a fire under some of the players, but they do seem to be smiling and enjoying the game more.
The Mets really need to turn it on for the next eight games. They'll face the St. Louis Cardinals and their NL east rivals Philadelphia Phillies, both on the road, before coming home for a home stand before t he All Star break.
Their division is wide open and ripe for the taking. The Phillies, Marlins, Mets and Braves are all have a very good shot at winning the division. All four teams are within four games of first place. The last 10 games have seen the Phillies go 2-8, the Marlins go 4-6, the Mets go 5-5, and the Braves go 4-6.
With the Mets taking on St. Louis, the Phillies and Braves will face each other in the "I don't know who to root for" series. Still, I feel the Marlins are playing way over their heads and won't hold on for the whole season.
I'll come right out and say it: the Mets have a definite shot at winning this division. With tighter play over the next 82 games, the Mets can make the playoffs, and I think they will.
The first 81 games were interesting. You never know what you're going to get with these Mets. One day you can get a pitching meltdown coupled with an offensive explosion. Other days it's dominant performances on the mound and a sub par effort at the plate.
The Mets will keep you guessing. So far their play has been decent, as shown by their record of 40-41. It doesn't seem new manager Jerry Manuel has done enough to light a fire under some of the players, but they do seem to be smiling and enjoying the game more.
The Mets really need to turn it on for the next eight games. They'll face the St. Louis Cardinals and their NL east rivals Philadelphia Phillies, both on the road, before coming home for a home stand before t he All Star break.
Their division is wide open and ripe for the taking. The Phillies, Marlins, Mets and Braves are all have a very good shot at winning the division. All four teams are within four games of first place. The last 10 games have seen the Phillies go 2-8, the Marlins go 4-6, the Mets go 5-5, and the Braves go 4-6.
With the Mets taking on St. Louis, the Phillies and Braves will face each other in the "I don't know who to root for" series. Still, I feel the Marlins are playing way over their heads and won't hold on for the whole season.
I'll come right out and say it: the Mets have a definite shot at winning this division. With tighter play over the next 82 games, the Mets can make the playoffs, and I think they will.
Remember me? The missing Mets
Have a good memory? See if you remember these Mets...
from left to right: Moises Alou, Orlando Hernandez, Matt Wise, Ambiorix Burgos, Angel Pagan
Honorable mention: Ryan Church, who returned to the lineup yesterday against the Yankees.
These five players have appeared in a combined 54 games for the New York Mets in 2008. Two of them have not appeared in any games...at any level.
Alou has played in 15 games for the team, and is looking to come off his third DL stint, possibly as early as this weekend. A habitual member of the DL and has appeared in only 102 games for the Mets in two years. Alou is often seen without batting gloves and may or may not be riding around in a Rascal Personal Scooter.
El Duque has appeared in a total of 47 games for the Mets since coming over in a trade from Arizona for Jorge Julio. He has not pitched at all, in any level of professional baseball in 2008 and has been in a protective boot for months. Look for the limp and/or high leg kick.
Wise came to the Mets as a free agent in before the '08 season. Two stops on the DL has limited his playing time to only eight games (seven innings) for the team, sporting a 6.43 ERA. He's lanky, and that's about all the info we have on him.
Burgos has only appeared in 17 games for the Mets since coming over on December 6, 2006 for Brian Bannister. Burgos is often seen wearing lots and lots of bling, if it has not already been stolen.
Pagan, who had a breakout spring training to catch on with the Alou-less Mets, registered 91 AB in 31 games for the team. He went down with a shoulder injury after making a spectacular diving grab into the stands on May 7th. He may need surgery, which would cost him significantly more time off. Pagan can be seen jumping into the stands and hitting one game winning hit for the team.
If seen, please call the New York Mets at 718-507-METS.
Early Morning Madness: Tantrum edition
Jose Reyes is still maturing.
Every time someone claims Reyes has finally matured, become a man, stopped being a baby, he goes out and makes a bonehead move, then mopes about it. This time it was a throwing error allowing a runner on late in the game. Reyes took off his glove, tossed it to the ground, and stood with his hands on his hips.
When the inning finally ended, Reyes' sunglasses and glove were on the ground again, which he picked up before slowly making his way into the dugout.
Though it's nice to see him get mad at himself for botching an easy play, he needs to shake it off and get back in the game rather than sulk and take it to heart. Just turn around, say "I'll get it next time," and keep your head in the game, otherwise more errors will come your way.
Oliver Perez was simply magnificent yesterday, and most of it stemmed from his brand new windup.
While it wasn't a drastic change, Perez now has a bit of a rocking motion, where he steps back, then forward and his whole body goes into the pitch. This is something new pitching coach Dan Warthen has added to Perez's delivery.
Here I was worried that Perez would completely fall apart if not under the watchful eye of Rick Peterson, and then he comes out in his second start under Warthen and pitches a gem. I feel that Peterson had Perez over-thinking instead of just throwing. Perez came out yesterday pounding fastballs, throwing 25 of his first 30 pitches for strikes, almost all of which were his heater.
And welcome back to Ryan Church, who picked up two hits in his return to the Mets.
As I've said a million times before, his bat and presence was sorely missed in the Mets lineup, and now that he's back and healthy, this team is poised to make it's move.
Also, I dig the new facial hair sprouting up around the Mets, especially on Church. Maybe it's time to regrow my beard.
Every time someone claims Reyes has finally matured, become a man, stopped being a baby, he goes out and makes a bonehead move, then mopes about it. This time it was a throwing error allowing a runner on late in the game. Reyes took off his glove, tossed it to the ground, and stood with his hands on his hips.
When the inning finally ended, Reyes' sunglasses and glove were on the ground again, which he picked up before slowly making his way into the dugout.
Though it's nice to see him get mad at himself for botching an easy play, he needs to shake it off and get back in the game rather than sulk and take it to heart. Just turn around, say "I'll get it next time," and keep your head in the game, otherwise more errors will come your way.
** * **
Oliver Perez was simply magnificent yesterday, and most of it stemmed from his brand new windup.
While it wasn't a drastic change, Perez now has a bit of a rocking motion, where he steps back, then forward and his whole body goes into the pitch. This is something new pitching coach Dan Warthen has added to Perez's delivery.
Here I was worried that Perez would completely fall apart if not under the watchful eye of Rick Peterson, and then he comes out in his second start under Warthen and pitches a gem. I feel that Peterson had Perez over-thinking instead of just throwing. Perez came out yesterday pounding fastballs, throwing 25 of his first 30 pitches for strikes, almost all of which were his heater.
** * **
And welcome back to Ryan Church, who picked up two hits in his return to the Mets.
As I've said a million times before, his bat and presence was sorely missed in the Mets lineup, and now that he's back and healthy, this team is poised to make it's move.
Also, I dig the new facial hair sprouting up around the Mets, especially on Church. Maybe it's time to regrow my beard.
6/29/08
Oliver Perez to pitch in relief
For one game.Oliver Perez, who is coming off his best performance of the year, a seven inning, three hit performance against the Yankees, is now slated to pitch Wednesday or Thursday against the Cardinals out of the bullpen.
Pitching coach Dan Warthen and manager Jerry Manuel are trying to split up the lefty/lefty of Johan Santana and Perez. Perez will pitch against St. Louis from the bullpen before being moved back into the rotation next Sunday against the Phillies.
John Maine will slide in between Santana and Perez, stopping the two lefties from throwing on consecutive days.
The Mets rotation for the next two series will be:
6/30: John Maine @ STL
7/1: Tony Armas Jr. @ STL
7/2: Pedro Martinez @ STL
7/3:Mike Pelfrey @ STL
7/4: Johan Santana @ PHI
7/5: John Maine @ PHI
7/6: Oliver Perez @ PHI
7/7: Pedro Martinez @ PHI
Interesting plan for the rotation. I think these two should be split up, and it's interesting the way they're going about it. Good to keep Perez fresh though.
It's interesting that Perez may pitch again on Pedro's day on the bump. Obviously this couldn't have been planned, but with the way Martinez has been throwing of late, it might be a sign of things to come.
TSTDIA: Mets 3 -- Yankees 1
Behind an amazing effort from Oliver Perez (7 IP, 3 hits, 1 ER, 8 K, 0 BB), the Mets earned a win and finished the statistical first half of the season one game under .500.
Mets left on base -- 6/29
Let's track the number of Mets left on base for this Subway Series finale...
Team LOB, by inning:
1st: 2 LOB, 0 runs.
2nd: 3 LOB, 1 run. (Luis Castillo RBI infield single)
3rd: 2 LOB, 1 run. (Carlos Delgado solo HR)
4th: 1 LOB, 0 runs.
5th: 1 LOB, 0 runs.
6th: 1 LOB, 1 run. (David Wright sac-fly)
7th: 2 LOB, 0 runs.
8th: 0 LOB, 0 runs. Is that a good or bad thing?
-------------------
12 LOB
Thankfully it ended in a win, because if it didn't, every one would look to this statistic for the reason they lost. Good win. Great effort from Oliver Perez.
Team LOB, by inning:
1st: 2 LOB, 0 runs.
2nd: 3 LOB, 1 run. (Luis Castillo RBI infield single)
3rd: 2 LOB, 1 run. (Carlos Delgado solo HR)
4th: 1 LOB, 0 runs.
5th: 1 LOB, 0 runs.
6th: 1 LOB, 1 run. (David Wright sac-fly)
7th: 2 LOB, 0 runs.
8th: 0 LOB, 0 runs. Is that a good or bad thing?
-------------------
12 LOB
Thankfully it ended in a win, because if it didn't, every one would look to this statistic for the reason they lost. Good win. Great effort from Oliver Perez.
Hallelujah! Church is back
Ryan Church will return from the disabled list today, after finally recovering from his second concussion of this calendar year.
The odd man out in this situation is Trot Nixon. According to Adam Rubin, "team brass was discussing putting him on the DL over designating him for assignment."
What's hurt? His pride? The man is batting .171 with one home run and one RBI. He's scored twice. Is he really worth keeping around?
Also per Rubin, Church will apparently hit sixth in the order, behind Carlos Delgado. I don't know why Delgado continues to bat 5th in the order. He had one good day all season, yet he still bats fifth. He's put together an improved June, but not good enough to continue to justify batting fifth.
I figured when Jerry Manuel took over, the lineup would be shaken up a bit, but it's taken until now for that to happen. Rubin reports that Delgado will probably drop to seventh in the order when the Mets head to St. Louis in an attempt to split up the two lefties.
Either way, I'm sure the Mets and their fans are glad to welcome Ryan Church back into the fold. Stay away from other players, walls, peoples knees and any thing else that can hit your head.
The odd man out in this situation is Trot Nixon. According to Adam Rubin, "team brass was discussing putting him on the DL over designating him for assignment."
What's hurt? His pride? The man is batting .171 with one home run and one RBI. He's scored twice. Is he really worth keeping around?
Also per Rubin, Church will apparently hit sixth in the order, behind Carlos Delgado. I don't know why Delgado continues to bat 5th in the order. He had one good day all season, yet he still bats fifth. He's put together an improved June, but not good enough to continue to justify batting fifth.
I figured when Jerry Manuel took over, the lineup would be shaken up a bit, but it's taken until now for that to happen. Rubin reports that Delgado will probably drop to seventh in the order when the Mets head to St. Louis in an attempt to split up the two lefties.
Either way, I'm sure the Mets and their fans are glad to welcome Ryan Church back into the fold. Stay away from other players, walls, peoples knees and any thing else that can hit your head.
6/28/08
Santana isn't perfect, says so himself
Johan Santana:"All I know is that they brought me here to do a job and help the team and I have given them my best. It seems like every time I pitch I have to be absolutely perfect, or else we lose. I’m not perfect."It's about time someone stepped up and said something somewhat controversial. This team is still playing lackluster baseball, Willie Randolph or no Willie Randolph.
Omar Minaya better be looking around because Trot Nixon, Andy Phillips, Fernando Tatis and the rest of the cast of characters just are not cutting it at the major league level.
Moves need to be made and someone needs to step up in the clubhouse. Why can't it be Johan Santana?
TSTDIA: Yankees 3 -- Mets 2
Another flat offensive performance for a decent Johan Santana start. Johan is now 7-7 on the year, all with an ERA barely over 3.
Mets to hold Church on Sunday
Ryan Church, who is at Shea Stadium with the team, should be activated on Sunday for the Subway Series finale against the Yankees.
Church went 3-3 in his only rehab game for the Brooklyn Cyclones.
The Mets are sorely missing his bat and his glove. Hey Ryan, just make sure you protect your head, please.
Hopefully Trot Nixon takes a trot back to AAA. He's been flat out bad.
Church went 3-3 in his only rehab game for the Brooklyn Cyclones.
The Mets are sorely missing his bat and his glove. Hey Ryan, just make sure you protect your head, please.
Hopefully Trot Nixon takes a trot back to AAA. He's been flat out bad.
Weather at Shea Stadium tonight -- 6/28
Though it looks like they're going to get a game in sometime today, those heading out to the game might want to bring an umbrella or a poncho.The game should start on time, but don't be surprised if there are delays during the match up between the New York Mets and the New York Yankees for the second game of the final Subway Series.
A tale of two stadiums
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.
Only hours after the Mets pounded out 14 hits and 15 runs, did any Mets fan in their right mind actually think it was going to continue in the nightcap?If you've been a fan of this team, for just this year even, you would know the inconsistency of this team. 15 runs? Were you not screaming at the television (or at the players in person) "SAVE SOME RUNS!!!" I know I was. I knew it wouldn't last. And it didn't.
Of course, the Mets come to Shea Stadium, a mere two hours after the last
Sure they load the bases a handful of times, even one time with none out, but do they get any runs to show for it? Of course not.
Did Carlos Delgado come to Shea riding high off his 9 RBI performance, and then do something even more spectacular in the nightcap? No way. In fact, he didn't even get a hit. (He did walk twice, though)
Did Pedro Martinez flashback to his Red Sox days and pitch a masterpiece? Not even close.
Did the Mets bullpen stop the bleeding when Pedro was done and take over the game? Nope!
Sir Sidney Ponson was the victor last night, holding the Mets to just five hits over his six shutout innings. The Mets then got to face Kyle Farnsworth (4.11 ERA), Jose Veras (3.09 ERA), and Kei Igawa (13.50 ERA) for three innings and managed only three hits.
Simply a tale of two completely different games, played by two completely different teams, in two completely different stadiums only linked by location and their soon to be destruction.
TSTDIA: Yankees 9 -- Mets 0
In typical Mets fashion, after winning the first game by a score of 15-6, they can't scratch out one measly run a few hours later.
6/27/08
Oxymoronic titles are confusing
The title is confusing. The article is just as muddy. I just don't get it.TSTDIA: Mets 15 -- Yankees 6
That is not a misprint. This game truly belonged to Carlos Delgado, as he picked up 9 RBI's, including a grand slam and a three-run home run. Simply spectacular.
Carlos Delgado sets new Mets club record
Carlos Delgado now holds the New York Mets club record for most RBI's in one game.
Delgado picked up a two RBI double in the fifth, then hit a grand slam in the sixth, and just added a three run blast in the top of the 8th inning.
Coming into this game, even if you gave me 1,000,000 to 1 odds, I would not have taken any bet that Delgado would...
9 RBI's for Delgado. Well done.
As much crap as Delgado's has gotten over the past year, he has just shut everyone up, at least for the next few hours. Simply an unbelievable, amazing day for Carlos Delgado.
Hats off to Delgado today. This game truly belongs to him. Congrats, Carlos.
Delgado picked up a two RBI double in the fifth, then hit a grand slam in the sixth, and just added a three run blast in the top of the 8th inning.
Coming into this game, even if you gave me 1,000,000 to 1 odds, I would not have taken any bet that Delgado would...
- Hit a ball.
- Get an extra base hit.
- Drive in one run.
- Hit a home run.
- Drive in three runs.
- Hit a home run with runners on base.
- Drive in five runs.
- Hit two home runs.
- Drive in nine runs.
- Hit a grand slam, a three run jack, a double and drive in nine runs.
9 RBI's for Delgado. Well done.
As much crap as Delgado's has gotten over the past year, he has just shut everyone up, at least for the next few hours. Simply an unbelievable, amazing day for Carlos Delgado.
Hats off to Delgado today. This game truly belongs to him. Congrats, Carlos.
Wow
That ball was absolutely crushed. Holy mother.
Carlos Delgado, are you back?
I kid, I kid. But just an unbelieveable game for Delgado so far. Six RBI and it's only the sixth inning.
Carlos Delgado, are you back?
I kid, I kid. But just an unbelieveable game for Delgado so far. Six RBI and it's only the sixth inning.
The blue and the gray
No, this is not a post about the Civil War.
It's about Charlie Samuels making the wise decision to put the Mets in their road grays coupled with their blue caps and socks. This is most likely a tribute to the first game the Mets played at Yankee Stadium, in which Dave Mlicki's pitched an absolute gem.
One of my favorites, Metstradamus, says screw tradition and honoring Yankee Stadium, this uniform combination should make it's way back into the rotation.
I wholeheartedly agree.
Blue and gray more often, I say!
It's about Charlie Samuels making the wise decision to put the Mets in their road grays coupled with their blue caps and socks. This is most likely a tribute to the first game the Mets played at Yankee Stadium, in which Dave Mlicki's pitched an absolute gem.
One of my favorites, Metstradamus, says screw tradition and honoring Yankee Stadium, this uniform combination should make it's way back into the rotation.
I wholeheartedly agree.
Blue and gray more often, I say!
Next Mets series are big
Very, very big.
The Mets will play four games in three days against their crosstown counterparts. They'll get a day off on Monday, then head out to St. Louis for a three game set against the Cardinals. After that they're off to Philadelphia for four games against the Phillies.
11 games in 11 days.
After those games, they host some NL west teams before heading into the All Star break. San Francisco and Colorado make their way into Shea before the midsummer classic.
17 games in 17 days.
With the Phillies reeling, some wins here would be even more special. Philly has won only two of it's last ten games, and the Mets are back to 3.5 games back.
I'm not going to make any predictions, but if the Mets can play good, solid, fundamental baseball and win some series, and maybe even sweep one or two, it will be a brand new season during the second half.
These games are huge for the Mets. Must win games.
The Mets will play four games in three days against their crosstown counterparts. They'll get a day off on Monday, then head out to St. Louis for a three game set against the Cardinals. After that they're off to Philadelphia for four games against the Phillies.
11 games in 11 days.
After those games, they host some NL west teams before heading into the All Star break. San Francisco and Colorado make their way into Shea before the midsummer classic.
17 games in 17 days.
With the Phillies reeling, some wins here would be even more special. Philly has won only two of it's last ten games, and the Mets are back to 3.5 games back.
I'm not going to make any predictions, but if the Mets can play good, solid, fundamental baseball and win some series, and maybe even sweep one or two, it will be a brand new season during the second half.
These games are huge for the Mets. Must win games.
Some people aren't exactly thrilled for this Subway Series
From Peter Abraham's Yankees blog:
I must admit I enjoy the Subway Series and I can't wait. This is a huge series for the Mets, especially because the Phillies are absolutely tanking these past weeks.
The Mets need to win. Simple as that.
Then we had a rainout, the doubleheader was scheduled and now I have to race out of LaGuardia to get to Yankee Stadium then fight traffic going back to Queens. In all, this will be about a 19-hour day from wake-up call to getting home.Ouch. Today should be fun for all...if you're not a sportwriter that is.
But the good news is I get to go to Shea Stadium to see Sidney Ponson pitch. Print and save this post for the next time you think, “I’d love to be a sportswriter.” It’s generally a great job and I should not complain. But unless Marissa Miller is covering the game for Sports Illustrated and has the seat next to me in the press box, it’s not going to be a five-star day.
I must admit I enjoy the Subway Series and I can't wait. This is a huge series for the Mets, especially because the Phillies are absolutely tanking these past weeks.
The Mets need to win. Simple as that.
Early Morning Madness: Subway edition
Is everyone sick of the Subway Series by now?
I still find it somewhat interesting, the game that is, but the media attention to it is sickening. I know people still want to read about it, hear about it, and watch (about) it, but it's talked about ad nauseum as if it's some magical event that will bring peace and happiness to New York.
In reality, it's just another reason Yankee fans and Mets fans yell and scream and fight.
Thanks, MLB, for not letting me love my fellow New Yorker.
** * **
Ryan Church seemed to like A-ball, where he is now hitting 1.000 on the season.
As noted last night, Church went 3-3, with a double, RBI, and run scored.
Can Mets equipment master Charlie Samuels outfit Church with a John Olerud-esque helmet for the field? Maybe add some extra padding or just duct tape a pillow around his head. It might not be very aerodynamic, but whatever works.
** * **
I'm writing this post a mere 5 minutes before I get dressed and walk downstairs to get everything in order for my commute to work. Bottle of water, granola bar, book, ID badge, so on and so forth.
Even though I have a Post-It note on my keys, I can almost guarantee you that I forget to grab my AM radio so I can listen to the first game on the ride home. I'll forget it, and when I'm getting on the train, smack myself in the forehead with the palm of my hand and yell "Should have had a V8!" or "Doh! AM RADIO!" Either of those. I can't predict which, but it will definitely be one of those.
I'll update you once I get on a computer again.
Update: I remembered the radio. Don't ask me how, but I did.
6/26/08
Church's night in Brooklyn
Ryan Church, rehabbing his way back from his second concussion on the year, absolutely tore up A-ball on Thursday night.Church went 3-3 for the Brooklyn Cyclones against the Aberdeen IronBirds. He doubled, drove in one run and scored another as Brooklyn beat Aberdeen by a score of 4-2.
In typical Mets fashion, Brooklyn pounded out 15 hits but only tallied four runs.
Seems to me like Church is ready and raring for some action. Can't wait to get him back into the lineup.
Sorry just isn't good enough
Brian Runge, the umpire who bumped Jerry Manuel and ejected him and Carlos Beltran in the same inning on Tuesday was suspended by MLB for a grand total of: One game.
While the suspension seems a bit easy, Runge did issue an apology to Manuel which probably lightened his sentence a bit.
Things of this nature have become more and more common in baseball the last few years, and the Mets have been right in the middle. We all know the Mets and Angel Hernandez do not get along. Hopefully this suspension sparks a new trend of umpires simply doing their jobs.
Also, Beltran and Manuel were each fined an undisclosed amount of money.
While the suspension seems a bit easy, Runge did issue an apology to Manuel which probably lightened his sentence a bit.
Things of this nature have become more and more common in baseball the last few years, and the Mets have been right in the middle. We all know the Mets and Angel Hernandez do not get along. Hopefully this suspension sparks a new trend of umpires simply doing their jobs.
Also, Beltran and Manuel were each fined an undisclosed amount of money.
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Also, if you like what you read, please use those two little buttons on the bottom of each post. Click them and "up" the story to help me out a bit and drive more traffic to the site.
Thanks!
Phillies accused of stealing signs
According to Phillies Nation, a MLB official believes the Phillies may have been stealing in their recent series against Boston. It must not have worked very well, as the Phillies dropped two of three to the Red Sox.
From the Boston Globe:
From the Boston Globe:
Major League Baseball has not received a specific complaint about the Red Sox being victims of sign stealing, but the Phillies have been investigated for this in the past. The Sox played the Phillies last week, and one major league official thought the Phillies were taking Boston's signs. The Sox won two out of three in Philadelphia. Sox general manager Theo Epstein had no comment on the topic.
Spygate 2.0? Now, for me as a Giants fan, this would set up nicely. The Patriots get blamed for cheating and go on to lose the Super Bowl to the G-Men. Now that the Phillies are catching flack, does that mean the Mets will beat them in the division...or even the NLCS?
A man can dream, right?
Reader comment: Longest ever?
Here is a reader comment posted a few days back, with a new section added last night. Tom, whoever you are, this is some serious stuff for a comment! Here it is, originally posted on June 20:
The Mets may actually be coming along a little bit now. I watched the game with MLB TV with the home (Angels) announcers, so I don't know if people with SNY caught the statistic of the Angel's being 201-2 in the last three seasons when leading after the 8th inning.
For the Mets to be able to beat them was somewhat impressive.I've noticed some weird things about the Mets lately though. When the Mets are done one or two runs (especially when they gave up a lead), they're bullpen throws great. People don't realize it, but Scott Schoeneweis has improved a lot. I also think Pedro Feliciano is one of the most underrated lefty relievers in the game.The problem I've noticed are two big things. One, when they're down say 4-3 like they did when Perez gave up the lead, they go into what I call crap mode with the bats.
The second problem is when they do get a lead, they're bullpen begins to collapse. It happened last week when Joe Smith gave up three runs and it really angered me when Billy Wagner blew three saves in a row.If there's one thing that should have angered Met fans more than anything else, it was the constant using of Aaron Heilman in pressure situations. Heilman was lost his solidness and the Mets can't afford to be giving him loads of opportunities to rejuvenate himself. That's what AAA is for. The same problem existed with Guillermo Mota last year. I blame Minaya for not designating him for assignment too. The one thing I like about Jerry Manuel so far is that he's more out to designate roles. Hopefully, that means Aaron Heilman will be the ''mop up'' man.
Another thing is that the Mets simply have to get as much for Oliver Perez as they can. Honestly, Oliver can be a great pitcher at times, but he just isn't the guy you want to put out onto the mound in an important game. It's not even that he caves under pressure situations because he pitched great in game seven of the 06' NLCS, but he's literally like going to Atlantic City and playing black or red on the roulette table. I just can't stand watching him pitch and walk lots of people.The Mets have to continue to stay at least around .500 and hopefully at least a couple games above it by the All-Star break to determine how competitive they are.
The two four game sets against the Yankees and Phillies can make or break this season. Since pressure was put on Pelfrey about losing his role to Vargas, he's stepped up. He should be at least 5-6. In a playoff situation, you only need 4 pitchers. I'd rather have Pelfrey out there than Perez. Plus, who knows, maybe El Duque can actually pick the right time to stay healthy this year. Even if the Mets are competitive, I'd trade Oliver Perez. Right now he's 5-4 with a 5.06 ERA which isn't the most attractive so now isn't the time, but by the deadline if he's ERA is in the mid-4's and he still has a .500 type record and is healthy, the Mets could bring back a couple of decent prospects for him. Or maybe a good hitting OF. Unless Minaya's an idiot (he's half Genius/half Idiot in my mind kind of like Perez's pitching and the Mets abroad), he'd have to realize Perez is not the 14-15 million a year for a mediocre pitcher. The same production could come out of Livan Hernandez for one-third to half the price. And especially Kyle Lohse, who's having a good year.
I don't know how interested the Pirates would be in a guy like Perez if they aren't competitive, but if they Mets could swing a three way trade with a team that needs pitching that can send prospects over there possibly with a couple lower-level prospects from the Mets, the Mets should try to get Xavier Nady back. That way they can use him as their 1B or as their LF until Fernando Martinez is ready. The Pirates are too cheap to give Nady the money he'll want. Not even counting Pedro and Perez, the Mets have a lot of money coming off the books between Alou (7.5 mi), Delgado (16 mi), O. Hernandez (6 mi) and even 3.2 mi between J. Sosa and Wise.
Also, I know Robinson Cancel had a nice hit against Texas, but I can't comprehend why he's been on the roster for like twelve games and has two at bats. I don't know how good Castro could be at 1B, but they'd be able to utilize his bat against lefties instead of using Delgado. Also, Jose Valentin's had 42 at bats in the minors, so he's got to be healthy by now. He should be on the time with Church, Alou and Pagan injured. He'd help a lot more than Cancel in Manuel's plan to give Wright and Reyes more rest.
The spots where Castillo gets the day off from Easley can be replaced by Valentin so Easley can stay more fresh in LF/1B against lefties. The way how Kenny Lofton's able to adapt to new teams quick and produce, he might be worth taking a shot on too. Kind of like Nick Evans, I think Trot Nixon was a guy had a first great game, but hasn't been productive since.Minaya's got to start using his mind better, otherwise he'll turn out like Bill Bavasi.
I don't think it's much of a coincidence that the firing of Willie came shortly after such. It probably got him nervous. The Mets were 3-1 in Willie's last four games, so the firing really came at an awkward time.I've looked at the Mets record and noticed in their previous thirty games they've had a weird order too. Following the 2 game series against the Yankees in May, the Mets went on a 1-7 in eight games. Than after that, they went 7-2 in nine games. Than after that, they went 1-6 in four games. Now, they're 4-2 in their last six.
If they were to sweep the Rockies this weekend, they'd be 7-2 in their last nine identically to the same pattern following a nearly identical losing streak. They're on a little role now so anything is possible.Or a more simpler way to think about this streakiness the Mets have come across since the Yankees series, the Mets went 0-5, than 8-4, back to 0-5 and now 5-3. Either way, they're 13-17 in their last 30 games which isn't that good. Even if the Mets were able to take one out of each of those 4 game sets against ATL and SD which wouldn't have been a lot to ask for, they'd only be 3.5 games out of the NL East and Wildcard.
I think we should be watching the Wild Card just as much as the NL East now too because the horrible Royals just swept St. Louis.What's really killed the Mets are those two 0-5 slumps. The right time to fire Willie would have been following the Padres sweep. I think this is really the time though when the Mets turn it around. All it takes is one good streak to make yourself competitive. Either that or lots of other teams need to play crappy. Now's the time though and all of us can breath now that the deadbeat and guy who thought he could fix Victor Zambrano in ten minutes are gone.
That was only part one...Obviously since that was posted the Mets have played a few games and some news has come to light. Still, pretty good analysis. Here's the rest:
No problem. Yeah, you were right about Valentin. Valentin probably wouldn't have been able to help the Mets too much. He probably would have gotten injured again. I remember last year I kept on hearing a lot about replacing him because of injuries, even though the more plausible reason would have been to replace his .241 average.
Minaya was smart to pick Castillo up because he was really good, but he's only mediocre this year. The Mets are still playing mediocre baseball. On Monday and Tuesday, they simply couldn't drive in runs. The Mariners scored eleven runs and had 15 hits. The Mets had 8 hits, which is still more than half of Seattle's, but no runs. I went to the game on Tuesday and saw Perez once again not have it. It used to have been that he'd have one really good start and than a bad one, but now it's starting to side more the wrong way. Heilman's gotten a little better lately (I think Jerry's taken my advice on him being the mop up man lol), but if a starter pitcher with lots of starts has an ERA higher than him, that's not good. It's amazing how he has a .500 record, yet Pelfrey has average one less run a game than him. And Santana's average two less, but only has one win above .500. Sometimes judging on wins isn't always adequate, although more often are.
I like Jerry Manuel's energy though. I don't think he would have gotten in that umpire's face who showed up Beltran. Hopefully the Phillies lose tonight, because the Mets would only be three out. I don't think anyone would think that'd be possible with the Mets technically below .500.
Texeira's come on a little bit too now, but I'd expect the Yankees to compete for him. The Braves probably won't trade him even if they are around .500 around the deadline. He'd make some sense though. Pat Burrell could be an option in the outfield too. He's had some solid years and he wouldn't be able to kill the Mets anymore.
With Robinson Cancel, it didn't make much sense. If Castro were pinch hitting against lots of lefties it'd make sense, but the Mets have a bad habit of liking to hold onto useless catcher's who in their 30's. He'll be gone now that the Mets picked up Andy Phillips.Even though he hits righties better than lefties, he might work out good for them. Plus, now that the Mets should be getting back Church for the Yankees series, that'll be good too. It'll give the Mets a reason to get rid of Nixon, who was on a 1 for 24 slump.
When I said he in the last paragraph of message 5, I meant Willie. Than again though, maybe he would, although he appeared burnt out at times. They really got to do something about the LF situation, because Alou will never be healthy. He'd probably make a great player on a video game. Pagan has really fallen out of the picture too, but Chavez has done better lately.
The Andy Phillips move makes some sense too right before this series against the Mets, because he might be able to give them some stuff he knows on the pitcher's staff. Willie may have actually been a little bit of a weapon for that, although a lot of their roster has changed since the end of 04'.Phillips was on the Yankees last year and hit .292 for them, so he might be able to help them out a little bit. The Yankees have really been turning it up lately too.
This will definitely be an important series. Not really even because of the hype, but because they need these games while the Phillies and Marlins aren't playing well.
And if you read all that, like I did, then you deserve a pat on your back. Great stuff, Tom!
The Mets may actually be coming along a little bit now. I watched the game with MLB TV with the home (Angels) announcers, so I don't know if people with SNY caught the statistic of the Angel's being 201-2 in the last three seasons when leading after the 8th inning.
For the Mets to be able to beat them was somewhat impressive.I've noticed some weird things about the Mets lately though. When the Mets are done one or two runs (especially when they gave up a lead), they're bullpen throws great. People don't realize it, but Scott Schoeneweis has improved a lot. I also think Pedro Feliciano is one of the most underrated lefty relievers in the game.The problem I've noticed are two big things. One, when they're down say 4-3 like they did when Perez gave up the lead, they go into what I call crap mode with the bats.
The second problem is when they do get a lead, they're bullpen begins to collapse. It happened last week when Joe Smith gave up three runs and it really angered me when Billy Wagner blew three saves in a row.If there's one thing that should have angered Met fans more than anything else, it was the constant using of Aaron Heilman in pressure situations. Heilman was lost his solidness and the Mets can't afford to be giving him loads of opportunities to rejuvenate himself. That's what AAA is for. The same problem existed with Guillermo Mota last year. I blame Minaya for not designating him for assignment too. The one thing I like about Jerry Manuel so far is that he's more out to designate roles. Hopefully, that means Aaron Heilman will be the ''mop up'' man.
Another thing is that the Mets simply have to get as much for Oliver Perez as they can. Honestly, Oliver can be a great pitcher at times, but he just isn't the guy you want to put out onto the mound in an important game. It's not even that he caves under pressure situations because he pitched great in game seven of the 06' NLCS, but he's literally like going to Atlantic City and playing black or red on the roulette table. I just can't stand watching him pitch and walk lots of people.The Mets have to continue to stay at least around .500 and hopefully at least a couple games above it by the All-Star break to determine how competitive they are.
The two four game sets against the Yankees and Phillies can make or break this season. Since pressure was put on Pelfrey about losing his role to Vargas, he's stepped up. He should be at least 5-6. In a playoff situation, you only need 4 pitchers. I'd rather have Pelfrey out there than Perez. Plus, who knows, maybe El Duque can actually pick the right time to stay healthy this year. Even if the Mets are competitive, I'd trade Oliver Perez. Right now he's 5-4 with a 5.06 ERA which isn't the most attractive so now isn't the time, but by the deadline if he's ERA is in the mid-4's and he still has a .500 type record and is healthy, the Mets could bring back a couple of decent prospects for him. Or maybe a good hitting OF. Unless Minaya's an idiot (he's half Genius/half Idiot in my mind kind of like Perez's pitching and the Mets abroad), he'd have to realize Perez is not the 14-15 million a year for a mediocre pitcher. The same production could come out of Livan Hernandez for one-third to half the price. And especially Kyle Lohse, who's having a good year.
I don't know how interested the Pirates would be in a guy like Perez if they aren't competitive, but if they Mets could swing a three way trade with a team that needs pitching that can send prospects over there possibly with a couple lower-level prospects from the Mets, the Mets should try to get Xavier Nady back. That way they can use him as their 1B or as their LF until Fernando Martinez is ready. The Pirates are too cheap to give Nady the money he'll want. Not even counting Pedro and Perez, the Mets have a lot of money coming off the books between Alou (7.5 mi), Delgado (16 mi), O. Hernandez (6 mi) and even 3.2 mi between J. Sosa and Wise.
Also, I know Robinson Cancel had a nice hit against Texas, but I can't comprehend why he's been on the roster for like twelve games and has two at bats. I don't know how good Castro could be at 1B, but they'd be able to utilize his bat against lefties instead of using Delgado. Also, Jose Valentin's had 42 at bats in the minors, so he's got to be healthy by now. He should be on the time with Church, Alou and Pagan injured. He'd help a lot more than Cancel in Manuel's plan to give Wright and Reyes more rest.
The spots where Castillo gets the day off from Easley can be replaced by Valentin so Easley can stay more fresh in LF/1B against lefties. The way how Kenny Lofton's able to adapt to new teams quick and produce, he might be worth taking a shot on too. Kind of like Nick Evans, I think Trot Nixon was a guy had a first great game, but hasn't been productive since.Minaya's got to start using his mind better, otherwise he'll turn out like Bill Bavasi.
I don't think it's much of a coincidence that the firing of Willie came shortly after such. It probably got him nervous. The Mets were 3-1 in Willie's last four games, so the firing really came at an awkward time.I've looked at the Mets record and noticed in their previous thirty games they've had a weird order too. Following the 2 game series against the Yankees in May, the Mets went on a 1-7 in eight games. Than after that, they went 7-2 in nine games. Than after that, they went 1-6 in four games. Now, they're 4-2 in their last six.
If they were to sweep the Rockies this weekend, they'd be 7-2 in their last nine identically to the same pattern following a nearly identical losing streak. They're on a little role now so anything is possible.Or a more simpler way to think about this streakiness the Mets have come across since the Yankees series, the Mets went 0-5, than 8-4, back to 0-5 and now 5-3. Either way, they're 13-17 in their last 30 games which isn't that good. Even if the Mets were able to take one out of each of those 4 game sets against ATL and SD which wouldn't have been a lot to ask for, they'd only be 3.5 games out of the NL East and Wildcard.
I think we should be watching the Wild Card just as much as the NL East now too because the horrible Royals just swept St. Louis.What's really killed the Mets are those two 0-5 slumps. The right time to fire Willie would have been following the Padres sweep. I think this is really the time though when the Mets turn it around. All it takes is one good streak to make yourself competitive. Either that or lots of other teams need to play crappy. Now's the time though and all of us can breath now that the deadbeat and guy who thought he could fix Victor Zambrano in ten minutes are gone.
That was only part one...Obviously since that was posted the Mets have played a few games and some news has come to light. Still, pretty good analysis. Here's the rest:
No problem. Yeah, you were right about Valentin. Valentin probably wouldn't have been able to help the Mets too much. He probably would have gotten injured again. I remember last year I kept on hearing a lot about replacing him because of injuries, even though the more plausible reason would have been to replace his .241 average.
Minaya was smart to pick Castillo up because he was really good, but he's only mediocre this year. The Mets are still playing mediocre baseball. On Monday and Tuesday, they simply couldn't drive in runs. The Mariners scored eleven runs and had 15 hits. The Mets had 8 hits, which is still more than half of Seattle's, but no runs. I went to the game on Tuesday and saw Perez once again not have it. It used to have been that he'd have one really good start and than a bad one, but now it's starting to side more the wrong way. Heilman's gotten a little better lately (I think Jerry's taken my advice on him being the mop up man lol), but if a starter pitcher with lots of starts has an ERA higher than him, that's not good. It's amazing how he has a .500 record, yet Pelfrey has average one less run a game than him. And Santana's average two less, but only has one win above .500. Sometimes judging on wins isn't always adequate, although more often are.
I like Jerry Manuel's energy though. I don't think he would have gotten in that umpire's face who showed up Beltran. Hopefully the Phillies lose tonight, because the Mets would only be three out. I don't think anyone would think that'd be possible with the Mets technically below .500.
Texeira's come on a little bit too now, but I'd expect the Yankees to compete for him. The Braves probably won't trade him even if they are around .500 around the deadline. He'd make some sense though. Pat Burrell could be an option in the outfield too. He's had some solid years and he wouldn't be able to kill the Mets anymore.
With Robinson Cancel, it didn't make much sense. If Castro were pinch hitting against lots of lefties it'd make sense, but the Mets have a bad habit of liking to hold onto useless catcher's who in their 30's. He'll be gone now that the Mets picked up Andy Phillips.Even though he hits righties better than lefties, he might work out good for them. Plus, now that the Mets should be getting back Church for the Yankees series, that'll be good too. It'll give the Mets a reason to get rid of Nixon, who was on a 1 for 24 slump.
When I said he in the last paragraph of message 5, I meant Willie. Than again though, maybe he would, although he appeared burnt out at times. They really got to do something about the LF situation, because Alou will never be healthy. He'd probably make a great player on a video game. Pagan has really fallen out of the picture too, but Chavez has done better lately.
The Andy Phillips move makes some sense too right before this series against the Mets, because he might be able to give them some stuff he knows on the pitcher's staff. Willie may have actually been a little bit of a weapon for that, although a lot of their roster has changed since the end of 04'.Phillips was on the Yankees last year and hit .292 for them, so he might be able to help them out a little bit. The Yankees have really been turning it up lately too.
This will definitely be an important series. Not really even because of the hype, but because they need these games while the Phillies and Marlins aren't playing well.
And if you read all that, like I did, then you deserve a pat on your back. Great stuff, Tom!
Early Morning Madness: Pearl jammin' edition
Last night's Mets game was far from Sad. It had a better Even Flow as the Mets went Deep three times over. They were Faithfull to the balls that were Given to Fly. The Mets have a Habit of Sometimes making me Smile. Maybe Manuel and Omar Minaya will want to put the Present Tense in the Rearviewmirror and start to Do The Evolution, shaking up the team a bit.
If you didn't know, all the italics are Pearl Jam song titles.
MetsGrrl beat me to it. She was at the Pearl Jam show last night too, and Mr. Eddie Vedder gave us this little quote, right before playing "Rats":
Brian Runge, the ump that bumped Jerry Manuel, has since apologized to the manager.
From Manuel, on the apology:
Ryan Church will play for the Brooklyn Cyclones tomorrow night. He may DH, he may play the outfield, it all depends on how he feels when he wakes up tomorrow morning.
The way I feel waking up this morning, I don't even know if I'm suited to walk. Maybe Church should gauge it on how he feels around 10 a.m., just to let some grogginess wear off.
If you didn't know, all the italics are Pearl Jam song titles.
MetsGrrl beat me to it. She was at the Pearl Jam show last night too, and Mr. Eddie Vedder gave us this little quote, right before playing "Rats":
Oh, I was out at Shea Stadium the other night and they have big rats there.
** * **
Brian Runge, the ump that bumped Jerry Manuel, has since apologized to the manager.
From Manuel, on the apology:
Yes, he did (apologize). He felt very bad," Manuel said. "He had spoken to his father (former big-league ump Paul Runge), who actually is a good friend of mine. He felt very bad about the whole incident and I accepted it."See? The world isn't totally evil.
** * **
Ryan Church will play for the Brooklyn Cyclones tomorrow night. He may DH, he may play the outfield, it all depends on how he feels when he wakes up tomorrow morning.
The way I feel waking up this morning, I don't even know if I'm suited to walk. Maybe Church should gauge it on how he feels around 10 a.m., just to let some grogginess wear off.
Mets make move; It won't work out
The Mets seem hellbent on attempting to pick off of other teams scrap heaps.
On Wednesday they added Andy Phillips off waivers from the Cincinatti Reds. Robinson Cancel was cast away.
I'm expecting somewhere in the range on 10 AB's before Phillips' Mets career is over. Someone needs to remind the front office we have a minor league system.
On Wednesday they added Andy Phillips off waivers from the Cincinatti Reds. Robinson Cancel was cast away.
I'm expecting somewhere in the range on 10 AB's before Phillips' Mets career is over. Someone needs to remind the front office we have a minor league system.
6/25/08
Sad
A fitting title, I feel.
This series against the Mariners is downright sad. The Mets had an easy shot at sweeping the series and giving themselves a brand new season under their new manager. Instead, they've been beat up in the first two games by a combined score of 16-1.
Hopefully, they can salvage a win tonight and head into the four game-three day series against the Yankees on a slightly better note.
I'm off to see Pearl Jam at MSG tonight, and now that I think of it, I wouldn't mind hearing them play "Sad."
Let's go Mets!
This series against the Mariners is downright sad. The Mets had an easy shot at sweeping the series and giving themselves a brand new season under their new manager. Instead, they've been beat up in the first two games by a combined score of 16-1.
Hopefully, they can salvage a win tonight and head into the four game-three day series against the Yankees on a slightly better note.
I'm off to see Pearl Jam at MSG tonight, and now that I think of it, I wouldn't mind hearing them play "Sad."
Let's go Mets!
Maple bats
Ban them. Immediately.
It's as simple as that.
Maybe allow a few days to pass for current maple bat users to get their affairs in order and get some new bats shipped out to wherever they're playing at the time. After that, these weapons of mass destruction should be banned from Major League Baseball altogether.
It's simply not safe for the hitters, catchers, players on third base (Brady Clark spearing Carlos Delgado at third base in spring training), and especially umpires.
Though Carlos Beltran probably wishes he was using a maple bat last night.
Get them out of the league before someone is seriously injured, because I guess bleeding from the head isn't serious enough.
It's as simple as that.
Maybe allow a few days to pass for current maple bat users to get their affairs in order and get some new bats shipped out to wherever they're playing at the time. After that, these weapons of mass destruction should be banned from Major League Baseball altogether.
It's simply not safe for the hitters, catchers, players on third base (Brady Clark spearing Carlos Delgado at third base in spring training), and especially umpires.
Though Carlos Beltran probably wishes he was using a maple bat last night.
Get them out of the league before someone is seriously injured, because I guess bleeding from the head isn't serious enough.
Fix the Mets
We're having a pretty nice discussion over at Mets Lounge about what everyone would do if they were the GM of the Mets.
Pretty simple, I think, but I have a few moves I would make now or in the very immediate future. All moves are in-house.
Pretty simple, I think, but I have a few moves I would make now or in the very immediate future. All moves are in-house.
- Bring up Mike Carp. Send Robinson Cancel back to AAA. This would immediately put pressure on Carlos Delgado.
- Bring up Dan Murphy. Send Trot Nixon back to AAA. This would immediately put pressure on Luis Castillo.
- Look into trading Oliver Perez. If possible, pull the trigger, attempt to get at least two decent minor leaguers in return. Promote Tony Armas Jr.
- If Murphy/Castillo/Damion Easley doesn't work out, call Cincinnati or Baltimore about their second baseman. (via Wrighteous.)
- Don't hurry Ryan Church. Wait until Sunday to bring him back. Make sure he's 110 percent. The Mets need that bat.
- Platoon Endy Chavez, Marlon Anderson, Fernando Tatis in right field.
We're about to have a beat writer throwdown
It all started with Jerry Manuel's "fertilizer" comment, which I called "the biggest non story in a long time."
On Tuesday, I linked to a David Lennon post about the NY Post blowing the story out of proportion. Apparently, I picked the wrong beat writer.
Just read this quote from Bart Hubbuch (the man behind the NY Post article), as he talks about the Keith Olbermann (yuck) video, in which he was ranked as one of the "worst people." The juicy part is italicized and bolded for good measure:
On Tuesday, I linked to a David Lennon post about the NY Post blowing the story out of proportion. Apparently, I picked the wrong beat writer.
Just read this quote from Bart Hubbuch (the man behind the NY Post article), as he talks about the Keith Olbermann (yuck) video, in which he was ranked as one of the "worst people." The juicy part is italicized and bolded for good measure:
Here's the bottom line for Olbermann, the radio and blogger blowhards, one of my gutless, sycophantic counterparts (yeah, I'm talking about you, Adam) and all the cranks that have been filling my inbox with e-mails I never read and automatically delete:Every reporter in the room at Coors Field laughed out loud when Manuel said the word "fertilizer." I know this because I was sitting right there. You know why we all laughed? Because every one of us knew exactly what Manuel was talking about.
The fans.
That right there is a potshot at Daily News writer, Mr. Adam Rubin.
Oh baby!! Somebody get Don King on the phone and tell him there is going to be a good ol' fashion fist fight in the press box at Shea Stadium tonight!! Yee haw!
Muniz gets another shot
The Mets have designated Claudio Vargas for assignment and called up Carlos Muniz for his spot on the roster.
While Vargas had been fairly effective as a long relief man, he surrendered four runs in two innings last night against the Mariners.
Muniz, who had a much lower ERA at the beginning of the year, is now sporting a 3.18 ERA in 28 1-3 innings pitched.
Muniz is 2008's Heath Bell and Royce Ring. Up and down, up and down. Tony Armas Jr. must be wondering what else he must do to get the call.
While Vargas had been fairly effective as a long relief man, he surrendered four runs in two innings last night against the Mariners.
Muniz, who had a much lower ERA at the beginning of the year, is now sporting a 3.18 ERA in 28 1-3 innings pitched.
Muniz is 2008's Heath Bell and Royce Ring. Up and down, up and down. Tony Armas Jr. must be wondering what else he must do to get the call.
6/24/08
You're the GM: Make your moves
Say you are the general manager of the New York Mets, what moves do you make to fix the team?
Hit the comments and post all your wonderful ideas.
Hit the comments and post all your wonderful ideas.
Tossed
Both Jerry Manuel and Carlos Beltran were tossed in the fourth inning of the game.
Arguing balls and strikes, Manuel came out to talk to the umpire. After seeing the video, it looked as if home plate umpire Brian Runge bumped Manuel, which caused Manuel to flare up and take it to another level.
After Manuel was tossed, Beltran argued his own balls and strikes, and shrugged his shoulders at a pitch he did not think was a strike. Runge started yelling, to which Beltran responded. Runge quickly tossed Beltran, who got up in Runge's face and got his moneys worth.
While I love to see the fire and attitude of the team, it needs to parlay into runs and eventually wins, otherwise it's pretty worthless.
Sandy Alomar Sr. has taken over the managerial duties, while Marlon Anderson picked up where Beltran left off.
Anderson will man left field, Endy Chavez will move to center, and Trot Nixon will shift from left to right.
Arguing balls and strikes, Manuel came out to talk to the umpire. After seeing the video, it looked as if home plate umpire Brian Runge bumped Manuel, which caused Manuel to flare up and take it to another level.
After Manuel was tossed, Beltran argued his own balls and strikes, and shrugged his shoulders at a pitch he did not think was a strike. Runge started yelling, to which Beltran responded. Runge quickly tossed Beltran, who got up in Runge's face and got his moneys worth.
While I love to see the fire and attitude of the team, it needs to parlay into runs and eventually wins, otherwise it's pretty worthless.
Sandy Alomar Sr. has taken over the managerial duties, while Marlon Anderson picked up where Beltran left off.
Anderson will man left field, Endy Chavez will move to center, and Trot Nixon will shift from left to right.
Lennon lays down law
For what I hope will be the last time this event is mentioned on this website for sometime, David Lennon finally rings in with his opinion on the Willie Randolph situation:
Lennon also goes on to talk about the completely overblown "fertilizer" comment from Jerry Manuel. How can one man be so right sometimes?
First off, I'm supposed to believe that fans actually miss Willie Randolph now? That's a joke, right? Since last September, everyone has been screaming for Randolph to be fired. He was booed at Shea for the first 10 weeks of this season. I've been getting e-mails calling for his head. And now, because he was fired in the middle of the night a week ago, fans want him back?Thank. You.
Enough already. You got what you wanted. So keep the signs at home and stop with the sob stories.
Lennon also goes on to talk about the completely overblown "fertilizer" comment from Jerry Manuel. How can one man be so right sometimes?
Luis Castillo is bad
I can't believe we (fans) and the Mets have three more years (plus this year) of this hobbled, slow footed, injury prone shell of a man he once was.
Luis Castillo, the worst signing of Omar Minaya's career? Looks like it.
No one in their right mind was going to pay Castillo anywhere near that much money, for anywhere near that much time. Minaya went over everyone's heads and signed him for a ridiculous sum for much longer than needed.
Four more years. I wonder how low his disapproval rating will be.
Luis Castillo, the worst signing of Omar Minaya's career? Looks like it.
No one in their right mind was going to pay Castillo anywhere near that much money, for anywhere near that much time. Minaya went over everyone's heads and signed him for a ridiculous sum for much longer than needed.
Four more years. I wonder how low his disapproval rating will be.
Rebuttal: Blame Santana On This One
Lou Di Falco, over at Never Forget 69, pens his latest article entitled "Blame Santana On This One."
From Di Falco:
How could I not see that?
I do agree this is something I would more likely see out of Perez, or even Jorge Sosa, but we all know, or at least we should, that Santana gives up a lot of home runs. He lead the AL in home runs allowed last year with 33. So far in '08, he's given up 14, running at pretty much the same pace.
After that grand slam, Santana buckled down and allowed only three hits and one earned run through the next five innings. The Mets offense on the other hand, after knocking out King Felix in the fifth, managed only two hits off the beleagured Mariners bullpen.
If you're going to place blame, it's on the offense, not Santana.
From Di Falco:
No question the second inning was a bit bizarre. After walking a batter and giving up a hit, with two outs David Wright made an error on a routine ground ball that should have ended the inning. The next batter, the pitcher Felix Hernandez, on the first pitch he has seen all season hit an opposite field grand slam home run. How does this happen? Sorry, but Johan Santana has got to do a better job than that. This you would have expected from Oliver Perez, not Santana. He is supposed to be the Mets stopper. Since the Mets won on Sunday, you had to feel good that with Santana on the mound the Mets had a chance to end up on the right side of the .500 ledger.Ah yes. If you're Santana and your Gold Glove third baseman makes an error to keep the inning alive, then you throw a pitch high and outside of the strike zone to the opposing pitcher, he closes his eyes, swings, and hits a home run, it's obviously all your fault.
How could I not see that?
I do agree this is something I would more likely see out of Perez, or even Jorge Sosa, but we all know, or at least we should, that Santana gives up a lot of home runs. He lead the AL in home runs allowed last year with 33. So far in '08, he's given up 14, running at pretty much the same pace.
After that grand slam, Santana buckled down and allowed only three hits and one earned run through the next five innings. The Mets offense on the other hand, after knocking out King Felix in the fifth, managed only two hits off the beleagured Mariners bullpen.
If you're going to place blame, it's on the offense, not Santana.
Early Morning Madness: Smiles edition
Since Jerry Manuel took over, I've never seen the team smile this much.
Almost everywhere you look, players are flashing their pearly whites. U don't even think I saw Carlos Delgado or Carlos Beltran smile under Willie Randolph. Ever.
This team is playing in a completely new environment under Manuel. He demands hustle and quality play, but he also knows it's a game and you can't be 100 percent somber all the time.
The one smile noticeably absent is that of David Wright, who's struggling at the plate against righties. As mentioned below, Wright will finally see some rest tonight. Hopefully this allows Wright to clear his head and just relax at the plate, as it looks like he's pulling off pitches and trying to rush things.
Either way, players finally seem to be enjoying themselves, and instead of treating games like a funeral service, they look like they have a passion for the game again.
Finally, Manuel is fielding some praise in the New York media, though probably not for the reason one would hope.
From Bob Raissman:
Almost everywhere you look, players are flashing their pearly whites. U don't even think I saw Carlos Delgado or Carlos Beltran smile under Willie Randolph. Ever.
This team is playing in a completely new environment under Manuel. He demands hustle and quality play, but he also knows it's a game and you can't be 100 percent somber all the time.
The one smile noticeably absent is that of David Wright, who's struggling at the plate against righties. As mentioned below, Wright will finally see some rest tonight. Hopefully this allows Wright to clear his head and just relax at the plate, as it looks like he's pulling off pitches and trying to rush things.
Either way, players finally seem to be enjoying themselves, and instead of treating games like a funeral service, they look like they have a passion for the game again.
** * **
Finally, Manuel is fielding some praise in the New York media, though probably not for the reason one would hope.
From Bob Raissman:
It remains to be seen if Jerry Manuel can lead the Mets to the promised land - or at least a trip to the playoffs. But in the eight days since Omar (It Was My Decision) Minaya gave him the keys to his blue and orange jalopy, the interim manager has provided ample evidence that he deserves his own TV show.
** * **
Man, I miss Ryan Church.
6/23/08
It's about time: Wright will ride the pine
Jerry Manuel announced during the post-game that David Wright will sit tomorrow night against the Mariners.
Wright, who had played every inning of every game before assuming the role of DH in Anaheim last week, will finally hit the pine for the first time all season.
Originally, Wright was charged with two errors in Monday's game, but the official scorer eventually changed one to a hit, leaving him with only on error. Wright also grounded out three times, once into an inning ending double play.
As pointed out during out in-game chatter on Mets Lounge, Wright has watched his average slip roughly 20 points since the beginning of June. Enjoy the day off, Wright. Rest up and prepare for the stretch run to the All-Star game.
Wright, who had played every inning of every game before assuming the role of DH in Anaheim last week, will finally hit the pine for the first time all season.
Originally, Wright was charged with two errors in Monday's game, but the official scorer eventually changed one to a hit, leaving him with only on error. Wright also grounded out three times, once into an inning ending double play.
As pointed out during out in-game chatter on Mets Lounge, Wright has watched his average slip roughly 20 points since the beginning of June. Enjoy the day off, Wright. Rest up and prepare for the stretch run to the All-Star game.
TSTDIA: Mariners 5 -- Mets 1
Felix Hernandez hit a grand slam off of Johan Santana and the Mets bats were still in Colorado as the Mets dropped the first game to the worst team in the majors.
The biggest non-story in a long time
When Jerry Manuel said “It's very, very fertile ground for growth in Shea Stadium. It's fertile ground for a team's growth and development. Sometimes, fertile ground has fertilizer," I immediately knew it would be blown entirely out of proportion.
Just as I predicted, the NY Post took this story and ran with it. Here is the classic example of “taking the quote out of context.” When you look that term up in the dictionary, you see an issue of the New York Post. (Please don’t fire me, News Corp.)
If they wanted to be correct, they would have noted that Manuel said this, laughed, and then continued. He was smart enough to attempt to clarify, simply because he knows how some media outlets work.
It worked on one radio host, Mr. Craig Carton of WFAN. Hopefully, he was doing it for the ratings because I simply cannot believe that anyone who is sane and of clear mind would actually thing a new manager would come out and say the fans are akin to cow manure.
Of course, as I walked to Penn Station today, people were scooping up issues of the NY Post to see what Manuel had said. Obviously they’re doing something right, but I wish some of the editors had just the tiniest bit of discretion when it comes to using quotes out of context.
Just as I predicted, the NY Post took this story and ran with it. Here is the classic example of “taking the quote out of context.” When you look that term up in the dictionary, you see an issue of the New York Post. (Please don’t fire me, News Corp.)
If they wanted to be correct, they would have noted that Manuel said this, laughed, and then continued. He was smart enough to attempt to clarify, simply because he knows how some media outlets work.
It worked on one radio host, Mr. Craig Carton of WFAN. Hopefully, he was doing it for the ratings because I simply cannot believe that anyone who is sane and of clear mind would actually thing a new manager would come out and say the fans are akin to cow manure.
Of course, as I walked to Penn Station today, people were scooping up issues of the NY Post to see what Manuel had said. Obviously they’re doing something right, but I wish some of the editors had just the tiniest bit of discretion when it comes to using quotes out of context.
King Felix vs. Johan
Tonight, with the Mariners coming to town, we will be treated to a fierce pitching match up of Felix Hernandez and Johan Santana.
As I've said time and time before, a pitchers duel on paper rarely ever translates to a pitchers duel on the field.
I'd like to see the Mets sweep this series, and it all starts tonight against the M's best pitcher. Should make for a great game, either way.
As always, please join us on Mets Lounge for an in-game thread.
As I've said time and time before, a pitchers duel on paper rarely ever translates to a pitchers duel on the field.
I'd like to see the Mets sweep this series, and it all starts tonight against the M's best pitcher. Should make for a great game, either way.
As always, please join us on Mets Lounge for an in-game thread.
Can the Mets make the jump to FM?
With the Mets contract with WFAN ending this year, I've been wondering if it was remotely possible, plausible, or even smart for the Mets to abandon ship and move to an FM radio station.
Let me begin by saying that in my 1996 Infiniti G20, I might have the worst radio receiver in the world. If I am listening to WFAN, (which I do very often (Boomer & Carton in the mornings, because it's refreshing to hear Mets fans on the radio)) and I press on the gas pedal to get going, the radio starts to wheeze and squeal as I pick up speed. When I start to coast, I usually get an ear-piercing screech, making the station nearly unlistenable. My favorite event is during a thunder storm, as the station completely fuzzes out as lightning strikes in an estimated 50 mile radius.
And of course, I have terrible "dead zones" by my house. Almost without fail, during a critical moment during a Mets game, I drive into one of these "dead zones" and am treated to the loudest, most miserable static any man has ever encountered. I can't move my finger to the CD button quick enough.
But back to the subject at hand: If the Mets were ever to leave WFAN, I would be deeply saddened by losing the wonderful ditty of "LET'S GO METSF-A-N (da-da-DAH!)," and of course, the irreplaceable Steve Somers and Howie Rose. I could do without Wayne Hagin, that's for sure. At this point, I think I'm willing to make the trade and hear the game in her entirety (if need be) than me treated to those awful, awful sounds of static, screeches, whale calls, and howling.
I remember a few years ago when the New York Giants were featured on 102.7 FM for some, if not all of their games. It was refreshing to finally get a squeal-free broadcast, in much higher quality. If only the Mets could transition to that point.
If it's at all possible, I would hope the Mets would look into some sort of move. Fans deserve to hear their team in better quality than AM radio can provide. We have high definition TV's, and though WFAN claims "HD AM" I just don't hear it. HD AM radio seems like the oxymoron of all oxymoron's, with "jumbo shrimp" as the number two in that list.
I'd love to see WFAN make the jump to the FM band, but that's probably impossible. The Mets can move, and making the shift to a better quality FM radio station would be a treat to Mets fans, and especially my ears.
Let me begin by saying that in my 1996 Infiniti G20, I might have the worst radio receiver in the world. If I am listening to WFAN, (which I do very often (Boomer & Carton in the mornings, because it's refreshing to hear Mets fans on the radio)) and I press on the gas pedal to get going, the radio starts to wheeze and squeal as I pick up speed. When I start to coast, I usually get an ear-piercing screech, making the station nearly unlistenable. My favorite event is during a thunder storm, as the station completely fuzzes out as lightning strikes in an estimated 50 mile radius.
And of course, I have terrible "dead zones" by my house. Almost without fail, during a critical moment during a Mets game, I drive into one of these "dead zones" and am treated to the loudest, most miserable static any man has ever encountered. I can't move my finger to the CD button quick enough.
But back to the subject at hand: If the Mets were ever to leave WFAN, I would be deeply saddened by losing the wonderful ditty of "LET'S GO METSF-A-N (da-da-DAH!)," and of course, the irreplaceable Steve Somers and Howie Rose. I could do without Wayne Hagin, that's for sure. At this point, I think I'm willing to make the trade and hear the game in her entirety (if need be) than me treated to those awful, awful sounds of static, screeches, whale calls, and howling.
I remember a few years ago when the New York Giants were featured on 102.7 FM for some, if not all of their games. It was refreshing to finally get a squeal-free broadcast, in much higher quality. If only the Mets could transition to that point.
If it's at all possible, I would hope the Mets would look into some sort of move. Fans deserve to hear their team in better quality than AM radio can provide. We have high definition TV's, and though WFAN claims "HD AM" I just don't hear it. HD AM radio seems like the oxymoron of all oxymoron's, with "jumbo shrimp" as the number two in that list.
I'd love to see WFAN make the jump to the FM band, but that's probably impossible. The Mets can move, and making the shift to a better quality FM radio station would be a treat to Mets fans, and especially my ears.
Early Morning Madness: Injuries edition
Luis Castillo might be heading to the disabled list.
Castillo injured his left quad a few days ago and Damion Easley has been starting in his place. If Castillo was to go on the DL, do the Mets really call up AAA second baseman Anderson Hernandez?
Sure, he's got a glove, but the kid just can't hit a lick. He's batting a miserable .185. And looking even lower to Binghamton, Emmanuel Garcia is hitting a cool .225 and Jonathan Malo is stroking a tepid .233 in limited time.
So second base is practically depleted for the Mets and the current starter is signed to a four year contract and is slow, injured, and slaps at everything. I'll keep my eyes peeled for a trade.
Ryan Church could be back by next weekend, and I couldn't be happier.
I'm assuming once Church is ready to go again, we've seen the end of Trot Nixon, but as much as I thought I'd love Nixon, his .167 average just isn't cutting it for me.
If Church can come back, even at 80 percent, he'll be a huge addition to this club. Church hasn't played since June 5th, and since that time the Mets have gone 7-9. They're really missing his bat in the lineup, as the offense usually goes flat past the 4th inning.
I miss this guy and so do the Mets.
Things are lining up in Yankee-ville that the Mets will probably face newly acquired Sidney Ponson during their series at Shea Stadium (and Yankee Stadium) this weekend.
Stay sober, Sidney.
Castillo injured his left quad a few days ago and Damion Easley has been starting in his place. If Castillo was to go on the DL, do the Mets really call up AAA second baseman Anderson Hernandez?
Sure, he's got a glove, but the kid just can't hit a lick. He's batting a miserable .185. And looking even lower to Binghamton, Emmanuel Garcia is hitting a cool .225 and Jonathan Malo is stroking a tepid .233 in limited time.
So second base is practically depleted for the Mets and the current starter is signed to a four year contract and is slow, injured, and slaps at everything. I'll keep my eyes peeled for a trade.
** * **
Ryan Church could be back by next weekend, and I couldn't be happier.
I'm assuming once Church is ready to go again, we've seen the end of Trot Nixon, but as much as I thought I'd love Nixon, his .167 average just isn't cutting it for me.
If Church can come back, even at 80 percent, he'll be a huge addition to this club. Church hasn't played since June 5th, and since that time the Mets have gone 7-9. They're really missing his bat in the lineup, as the offense usually goes flat past the 4th inning.
I miss this guy and so do the Mets.
** * **
Things are lining up in Yankee-ville that the Mets will probably face newly acquired Sidney Ponson during their series at Shea Stadium (and Yankee Stadium) this weekend.
Stay sober, Sidney.
6/22/08
I beat an 8 year old; I now feel special
This link was passed along by a new blogger and friend, Andrew (great name) from Twins Fix:
Watch the video, it's pretty cool. I didn't start watching baseball until I was 11 or 12, so this kid has a bit of a head start.
I named all the players and I beat the little tike to naming the second baseman for the Houston Astros. A big accomplishment, right?
Any self respecting Mets fan who doesn't know who that player is, well, they're much better at putting bad signings behind them than I am.
Can you beat the 8 year old? I did, and for some reason, it's making me very happy. Hey CNN, come do a video on me!
Watch the video, it's pretty cool. I didn't start watching baseball until I was 11 or 12, so this kid has a bit of a head start.
I named all the players and I beat the little tike to naming the second baseman for the Houston Astros. A big accomplishment, right?
Any self respecting Mets fan who doesn't know who that player is, well, they're much better at putting bad signings behind them than I am.
Can you beat the 8 year old? I did, and for some reason, it's making me very happy. Hey CNN, come do a video on me!
TSTDIA: Mets 3 -- Rockies 1
While it wasn't an offensive explosion or a dominating pitching performance, the Mets took two out of three in Colorado, and will now head home to take on the worst-in-the-majors Seattle Mariners.
Manuel assigns roles to relievers
I can honestly say, this is something I've been waiting to happen for years. Jerry Manuel has finally assigned defined roles to the bullpen.
Of course, Billy Wagner will stay as the teams closer. Duaner Sanchez has officially been assigned as the teams setup man, always pitching in the 8th inning.
Joe Smith and Pedro Feliciano have been assigned as the lefty and righty specialists.
Aaron Heilman has been demoted to not pitching in "as many pressure situations."
It's about time. I think it's beneficial that the pitchers know when they will usually appear in a game, instead of having to wait and guess what inning they'll appear in. It allows them to psych themselves up for when they know they will enter the game, instead of waiting for the phone call.
I know I sound like a sap, but I really like the way Manuel has carried himself and made decisions in his short time at the helm.
Of course, Billy Wagner will stay as the teams closer. Duaner Sanchez has officially been assigned as the teams setup man, always pitching in the 8th inning.
Joe Smith and Pedro Feliciano have been assigned as the lefty and righty specialists.
Aaron Heilman has been demoted to not pitching in "as many pressure situations."
It's about time. I think it's beneficial that the pitchers know when they will usually appear in a game, instead of having to wait and guess what inning they'll appear in. It allows them to psych themselves up for when they know they will enter the game, instead of waiting for the phone call.
I know I sound like a sap, but I really like the way Manuel has carried himself and made decisions in his short time at the helm.
The Stache presses pause
Jose Valentin, slowly "making progress" on the rehab trail, has suspended his season.
He's not retiring, but he will no longer play this season.
Why he's not just up and quitting, I don't know. Maybe he thinks next year it will work out, I guess. Good luck, Stache. You're going to need it.
He's not retiring, but he will no longer play this season.
Why he's not just up and quitting, I don't know. Maybe he thinks next year it will work out, I guess. Good luck, Stache. You're going to need it.
6/21/08
Manuel vs. Manuel
Just a random thought that popped into my head:I wonder if there was ever a time when there were two managers with the same last name coaching in the same division?
Obviously I'm talking about Phillies skipper Charlie Manuel and new Mets manager Jerry Manuel.
I guess that's an interesting little tidbit to think about.
The Mets want to hear from you!
Do you want your team to hear your voice? The Mets want to hear your opinions and viewpoints in an upcoming meeting! Here's the gist:
Again, that e-mail is stylz917 at aol dot com. (She uses AOL on the road to avoid firewalls, I asked.)
The Mets front office is looking for feedback from at least 300 Mets fans for an upcoming meeting. It would be GREATLY APPRECIATED if you and your friends (and their friends) could e-mail me with thoughts on the last few days, whats been going on this season, thoughts on the players, organization, etc...Get e-mailing!
Please use the subject line: Fan Feedback!
Messages will be summarized and addressed during a meeting when we return, please send before we fly home after the Colorado series, thanks & Let's Go Mets!!
-Kelli
Again, that e-mail is stylz917 at aol dot com. (She uses AOL on the road to avoid firewalls, I asked.)
Early BP pays off
Yesterday, I wrote about how the Mets were taking early batting practice on a more regular schedule. Last night, the batting practice paid off to the tune of 15 hits and seven runs.
Jeremy Cothran fills us in on Jerry Manuel's new approach:
I always remember the story about how in the minors, they would have to stop David Wright from working out too much, because he would wear himself down just by training and working out. Of course, he's at all the early batting practice session.
I like the way this team is going.
So far, so good with the new manager. These next five games can change the season.
Jeremy Cothran fills us in on Jerry Manuel's new approach:
The Mets normally go with four shifts of eight swings each, and then rotate groups. Manuel has chopped those in half after noticing a lot of tired swings in games.So true. Without looking at statistics, and just going on info from recent memory, almost every game seems to go the exact same way.
"Pitches that we normally put in play or put in play with authority, we're popping up and doing those types of things."
- Mets score runs early. They look good, and show no signs of stopping through the first three innings.
- The fourth inning comes and now they can't hit.
- Mets pitchers can only do so much, and the early lead begins to shrink.
- The lead is gone, and the Mets bats are completely asleep.
I always remember the story about how in the minors, they would have to stop David Wright from working out too much, because he would wear himself down just by training and working out. Of course, he's at all the early batting practice session.
I like the way this team is going.
So far, so good with the new manager. These next five games can change the season.
6/20/08
TSTDIA: Mets 7 -- Rockies 2
The sentences that define it all...
Arguably the strongest game of the season so far. The Mets dominated on every side of the game to claw back to .500 on the season.
Arguably the strongest game of the season so far. The Mets dominated on every side of the game to claw back to .500 on the season.
Early bird gets the worm
Jerry Manuel has quickly instituted early batting practice, optional for the players.
I like this, and it seemed to only pop up when there was a dire need under Willie Randolph.
Today, as always, David Wright was out taking the early BP. Joining him, among others, was Brian Schneider and Carlos Delgado, someone who rarely came out early with the previous manager.
Hopefully it pays off, since the Mets struggled last time in Colorado, especially against tonight's starter, Aaron Cook. Last time the Mets visited Denver, Cook tallied a complete game, four hitter on May 25.
I like this, and it seemed to only pop up when there was a dire need under Willie Randolph.
Today, as always, David Wright was out taking the early BP. Joining him, among others, was Brian Schneider and Carlos Delgado, someone who rarely came out early with the previous manager.
Hopefully it pays off, since the Mets struggled last time in Colorado, especially against tonight's starter, Aaron Cook. Last time the Mets visited Denver, Cook tallied a complete game, four hitter on May 25.
Mets Wars IV: A New Hope
With a new manager at the helm, the Mets, and especially Mets fans, seem to be finding some new hope for this season.Yeah, it's been only two games. Believe me, I know. But the way Jerry Manuel
is carrying himself and dealing with the team, it's possible they might be turning a new leaf.
The next six games could turn the entire season around for the Mets. Tonight, the team will take on the Colorado Rockies, a rematch of the late May series where the Mets dropped two of three. Currently, the Rox are 31-42 despite winning seven of their last ten.
After the series in Denver, the Mets return home to take on the hapless Seattle Mariners. Also under a newly promoted bench coach, the Mariners are 25-47, the worst team in baseball.
Six games, six very winnable games. The Mets could turn their whole season around with four, five, or even six wins over the next six days.
And for Mets fans, that would be more than enough for a new hope. May the force be with them.
Willie pens his own article
Click here to read Willie Randolph's own article, appearing in the Daily News. It's very cool to see, almost play-by-play, how the whole thing went down between himself and Omar Minaya.
Some excerpts:
I don't think Randolph will get a job this year (Seattle?) or even next year. I can see the Yankees taking him back as a bench coach or in the minors somewhere.
Happy trails, Willie!
Some excerpts:
It got to the point over the last month or so that whenever I saw the word "sources" in a story, I knew either me or someone on my staff was going to be declared on the verge of unemployment.I suggest you go read the whole article. He handles himself fairly well, though it rubs off as somewhat forced. Randolph is a class act, but he just was not the fit for this team, right now.
...
Omar went on and on, looking very uncomfortable, this weird chill started to course through by body. I could feel myself going cold. He kept talking, almost stammering, and the chill got worse.Suddenly, it occurred to me that maybe he was talking about me. Maybe I was the one about to get whacked.
Finally, I stopped him. I looked right at him.
"Omar, are you firing me?" I asked. He looked away for a minute and then met my eyes. "Yeah, I'm going to make a move," he said. "It's a hard decision, but I have to make it."
...
"You don't have to say anything more, Omar," I said. "I came here to win, and if you don't feel I'm the guy to get that done, then it's your right to make a change. I'm eternally grateful for the opportunity you gave me. I want you to know that."
...
Look, nobody needs to tell me that the Mets have been maddeningly inconsistent for the last year and a half. If I want to take the credit for 2006 - when I felt we were the best team in baseball and our season ended one hit short of the World Series - then I have to take the hit for what happened since - the collapse last September, and the ups and downs of this year.
And you know what's also on me? The dumb, and horribly timed, remarks I made to a New Jersey reporter after we took two straight from the Yankees last month, when what I thought were private remarks became very public.
The bottom line is that by suggesting that the color of my skin had something to do with how I was judged, I did nothing but sow the seeds of my demise. I kick myself about that every day. It makes me angry - and really sad.
I don't think Randolph will get a job this year (Seattle?) or even next year. I can see the Yankees taking him back as a bench coach or in the minors somewhere.
Happy trails, Willie!
Third place
With the Atlanta Braves losing by a score of 5-4 today, the New York Mets moved into sole possession of third place in the NL East.
The Mets are only four out in the loss column, so this season is far from over. Let the slow, tedious climb begin.
91 games to play, and to me, it feels like a brand new season.
The Mets are only four out in the loss column, so this season is far from over. Let the slow, tedious climb begin.91 games to play, and to me, it feels like a brand new season.
6/19/08
It's all Nieto's fault
Reader Jonathon Neff e-mailed me a pretty hilarious article by Howard Megdal, blaming Tom Nieto for everything that has gone wrong with the Mets. Here's my favorite part:
And to think I "broke" the news of Neito's move to first.
Most inexcusable is Nieto's shackling of would-be base stealer Ramon Castro, an extra weapon who could have made the difference in New York's one-run losses. The deceptively fast catcher reached base at a .336 clip in 2007 and a .356 rate in 2008, but how many steals did he have to show for it? Zero. Considering his five thefts in 10 attempts for the 1994 Gulf Coast League Astros, as well as his steal in 2005, clearly talent isn't what kept Castro from utilizing his speed. But a quick look at Nieto's playing record, with his 251 games, 619 at-bats and zero stolen bases make it clear that "If I Couldn't Read the Pitcher's Move, No Catcher Can" Nieto simply didn't recognize that the fleet-footed Castro was a double waiting to happen.Forget Canada, blame Tom Nieto!
And to think I "broke" the news of Neito's move to first.
AM NY
Have a copy on AM NY from Wednesday June 18th? If so, I'd really like it.
I, along with my friends Joe from Mets Today, and Joe D. from Mets Merized Online, were quoted in the sports section with little snippets from our respective blogs.
Click here, and scroll down to page three to read the little blurbs.
If you happen to have it and are willing to give it up, please e-mail me (address in on the top-right of the sidebar)!! Thanks.
I, along with my friends Joe from Mets Today, and Joe D. from Mets Merized Online, were quoted in the sports section with little snippets from our respective blogs.
Click here, and scroll down to page three to read the little blurbs.
If you happen to have it and are willing to give it up, please e-mail me (address in on the top-right of the sidebar)!! Thanks.
Early Morning Madness: Attitude edition
So far, so good. Sure it's only two games, but I like the way Jerry Manuel is handling himself, and more importantly, his team.
He's laying down the law, making it clear he's not going to take any crap from the players, and if they don't give everything they have, they simply won't play.
The team seems like a weight has been lifted off of them. I've never seen them so happy, jovial, and excited to get out and play the bottom of the tenth inning as they were last night. A good start for Manuel, now the Mets just need to keep it going.
As Jerry says, "Gangstas on the field, ladies on the bus."
Every time I think Carlos Delgado is cooked, he does something to surprise me.
One at-bat he looks absolutely lost at the plate, swinging way too early or way too late. A few innings later he comes up and hits a screamer over the center field wall. He then proceeds to look like he's playing in a fog the rest of the game.
Part of me wants the Mets to call up Mike Carp, badly. But, and this part of me must be living in my little pinky toe, thinks Delgado is just a few lucky hits away from getting in the groove. His problem is that he's started to go to left field a whole lot less. Bunt more, I say. And if at all possible, hit the ball to the left side of the mound.
He's laying down the law, making it clear he's not going to take any crap from the players, and if they don't give everything they have, they simply won't play.
The team seems like a weight has been lifted off of them. I've never seen them so happy, jovial, and excited to get out and play the bottom of the tenth inning as they were last night. A good start for Manuel, now the Mets just need to keep it going.
As Jerry says, "Gangstas on the field, ladies on the bus."
** * **
A hand must go out to the Oliver Perez and the bullpen for their performances last night.
Ollie was not anything special, but after he gave up three runs in the bottom of the fifth inning, Manuel brought him out for the sixth, and he allowed only a single before inducing and inning ending double play.
The bullpen then came out and let up only one hit, a single in the bottom of the seventh inning off of Joe Smith. Lights out.
A hand must go out to the Oliver Perez and the bullpen for their performances last night.
Ollie was not anything special, but after he gave up three runs in the bottom of the fifth inning, Manuel brought him out for the sixth, and he allowed only a single before inducing and inning ending double play.
The bullpen then came out and let up only one hit, a single in the bottom of the seventh inning off of Joe Smith. Lights out.
** * **
Every time I think Carlos Delgado is cooked, he does something to surprise me.
One at-bat he looks absolutely lost at the plate, swinging way too early or way too late. A few innings later he comes up and hits a screamer over the center field wall. He then proceeds to look like he's playing in a fog the rest of the game.
Part of me wants the Mets to call up Mike Carp, badly. But, and this part of me must be living in my little pinky toe, thinks Delgado is just a few lucky hits away from getting in the groove. His problem is that he's started to go to left field a whole lot less. Bunt more, I say. And if at all possible, hit the ball to the left side of the mound.
TSTDIA: Mets 5 -- Angels 4
The sentence(s) that define it all: I'm so glad I stayed up for this one. Congrats to Jerry Manuel for picking up his first win as the Mets skipper.
The Mets battled back in the 9th inning, with David Wright driving in Jose Reyes to tie it, and rallied in the 10th to take the lead, thanks to a Damion Easley home run. Billy Wagner came in and shut the door, retiring the side in order, to earn the Mets easily their best win of the year.
This is the kind of game that can turn your season around. Big win.
The Mets battled back in the 9th inning, with David Wright driving in Jose Reyes to tie it, and rallied in the 10th to take the lead, thanks to a Damion Easley home run. Billy Wagner came in and shut the door, retiring the side in order, to earn the Mets easily their best win of the year.
This is the kind of game that can turn your season around. Big win.
6/18/08
Why the Mets should sign Richie Sexson
That's right everyone, I think the Mets should sign Richie Sexson.The extremely tall right handed first baseman is extremely close to being released by the Seattle Mariners. In 434 at-bats with the Mariners last year, Sexson hit a measly .205. This year, he's batting a cool .219.
Still, I think Sexson should be in the Mets organization for one reason, and one reason only:
- To take the place of Mike Carp in Binghamton if/when Carp gets promoted to New Orleans or, by some stroke of luck, the New York Mets.
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