The Happy Recap

After waiting the weekend, not to mention 18 years, the Mets clinched the NL East last night, topping the Marlins 4-0. The crowd could be heard loud and proud over the airwaves. The anticipation started early, and was helped along as the scoreboard showed the Cubs dismantling the Phillies. At the end, Cliff Floyd secured the win (and kept the ball, Fred, let him have it). The celebration began, on the field, then in the clubhouse, then back out on the field, as the team went out and showered some fans behind the dugout with champagne and beer. Nice of them to do it, and what a rush for th fans themselves.

It has been a long road to return to this position. Fans know the history of late, the loss in the 2000 World Series, the Art Howe Error, various players coming with promise, only to fail. Last year, they showed progress. Omar brought in Pedro and Carlos B to start off. However, he was stuck with guys like Braden Looper, so the progress was not as good as it could have been. Still, there was a 24 game improvement from the year before, and we had something that had been lacking for quite a while - reasonable hope.

This year, Omar brought in more reinforcements, Wagner, Delgado, Lo Duca, Filthy. During the year, he filled in holes with Green, Mota and Roberto Hernandez. The youngsters stepped up, as Wright and Reyes made the All Star team, having breakout seasons. The Mets have owned first place since the 3rd game of the season. Its been a great ride for all.

It was perhaps fitting that Steve Trachsel pitched and won the clincher. I posted on Metsgeek yesterday that Steve would go 7, giving up 3 runs. While he missed the innings mark, he exceeded the expectations of runs allowed in the best way, allowing none. Steve has 15 wins on the season. He may have caused a run on Tums, but he got the job done.

This was a season of redemption for a few guys. Carlos Beltran for one more than made up for last year, putting up MVP Type numbers for most of the season. Jose Valentin, who most fans wanted to run out of town earlier in the year, took over 2nd base and has not looked back. Fitting for him to have 2 home runs last night. Many thought the idea of Lo Duca batting second was wrong, but it could not have been more right. He may never replace the power of Mike Piazza, but he has earned a place in fans hearts.

Then there is Willie. Say what you want about his decisions from time to time, but he has gotten the team far in less than 2 seasons. Everytime he trotted out the "B" lineup, it seems to have worked. How many starting pitchers has he had to put out there this season? The injury to Filthy? Wagner's blown saves? Heilman's poor first half (when compared to last season's second half). Having to use Lima Time! as a starter a few times? He may make us scratch our heads from time to time, but he is doing something right.

Today is a day for us to reflect on the season, and to enjoy the first step. There are two rounds of playoffs, then the World Series to look forward to. There is Pedro getting ready for those games. Meaningful October baseball is back in Queens. As is Hope.

Tonight, I would expect to see the B lineup. I'm not afraid of it anymore.