So, despite protests that it was not going to happen, last night, WFAN announced that Christopher "Mad Dog" Russo (aka The Screaming Ninny here at Nice Level Swing) is leaving the "Mike and the Mad Dog Show".
Good.
Now, maybe people will wise up, not listen to His Pompous-ass, and he will leave to.
Which will lead to much rejoicing.
Vindication for Neil Best in Newsday who has been all over this for weeks.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Check Up
Let's see. When we last left off, the Mets were 2 games out. Since then, they have moved into a tie for first. How did this happen you may ask?
1. The Mets finally remembered that they are supposed to beat on teams like the Nationals.
2. The Phillies Pen finally realized that it is time to regress to the mean.
The record against Washington coming into this game - 4 wins, 5 losses. Not exactly a stellar showing against the basement dwellers. And how can we forget the end of last season, when they went 1-5 in the last six, including losses of 12-4 and 13-4, blown leads, and a 10-9 loss made to look that close by 6 runs in the 9th. One more win against them and the Mets tie for the division. This is a team that for some reason appears to have the Mets number. Is it Manny Acta trying to show he should be the manager? Is it the Nationals players deciding to show up against the big bad Mets? Or is it the Mets just not getting up for the series, thinking the Nats will lie down?
In any event, Tuesday saw the Mets win 4-3 thatnks to a hit batter with the bases loaded (and yes Manny, the ball did hit Easley, balls don't change direction like that on their own you know.) Johan got the win, giving up 3 runs on 8 hits and 2 walks.
Last night, John Maine returned from the DL, which of course meant we would all be worried about
1. His arm falling off
2. How the bullpen would pitch
Thankfully, Maine's arm was fine, as he went 5 allowing no runs on 1 hit with 4 walks. As for the bullpen, Brian Stokes came in and pitched the final 4, strangely earning a save even though the Mets were up 10-0 when he came in. Weird rule.
The offense showed up against an inferior team. It allowed Jerry to pull Dos Carlos' early, getting them some rest. Jose has 2 hits and 2 runs scored. DW had a hit, 2 walks, 2 runs. Tatis had a HR. And Daniel Murphy went 3-6 with a HR, 3 RBI and 2 runs scored. The only Mets non-pitchers who did not get a hit were Delgado (who walked 3 times) and Schneider (****ing Shocker). Schneider did have 3 walks though, so he had that going for him. Maine got an RBI by walking with the bases loaded. Even Stokes had a hit.
Murphy is continuing to impress. The guy seems to have 7 pitch at-bats every time up. He works a pitcher, something the other guys do not do enough of. He fights until he gets his pitch. The youngster does not look overmatched. He continues to show impressive power to the opposite field, as his home run last night went to left center, about 380 ft to the fence in Nationals Park. And the ball cleared the fence by a nice margin. He'll continue to "platoon" with Nick Evans, but he is making it hard for Jerry to do that. Jerry said that since he is an RBI guy, he will bat low in the order when Argenis Reyes is in the lineup, but should bat 2nd when Ryan Church comes back. That will be nice, seeing him feast on fastballs behind Jose.
Stokes looked good. Granted, the Nats, well, suck, but he still looked sharp. The fastball was popping, and his control was good. He gave the rest of the pen a night off, which is nice. A long man not named Carlos Muniz is what this team has needed. Hopefully Stokes can keep it up.
Tonight, Ollie vs. Balester. The Philth remain in LA. Let's get another W tonight, shall we?
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
1. The Mets finally remembered that they are supposed to beat on teams like the Nationals.
2. The Phillies Pen finally realized that it is time to regress to the mean.
The record against Washington coming into this game - 4 wins, 5 losses. Not exactly a stellar showing against the basement dwellers. And how can we forget the end of last season, when they went 1-5 in the last six, including losses of 12-4 and 13-4, blown leads, and a 10-9 loss made to look that close by 6 runs in the 9th. One more win against them and the Mets tie for the division. This is a team that for some reason appears to have the Mets number. Is it Manny Acta trying to show he should be the manager? Is it the Nationals players deciding to show up against the big bad Mets? Or is it the Mets just not getting up for the series, thinking the Nats will lie down?
In any event, Tuesday saw the Mets win 4-3 thatnks to a hit batter with the bases loaded (and yes Manny, the ball did hit Easley, balls don't change direction like that on their own you know.) Johan got the win, giving up 3 runs on 8 hits and 2 walks.
Last night, John Maine returned from the DL, which of course meant we would all be worried about
1. His arm falling off
2. How the bullpen would pitch
Thankfully, Maine's arm was fine, as he went 5 allowing no runs on 1 hit with 4 walks. As for the bullpen, Brian Stokes came in and pitched the final 4, strangely earning a save even though the Mets were up 10-0 when he came in. Weird rule.
The offense showed up against an inferior team. It allowed Jerry to pull Dos Carlos' early, getting them some rest. Jose has 2 hits and 2 runs scored. DW had a hit, 2 walks, 2 runs. Tatis had a HR. And Daniel Murphy went 3-6 with a HR, 3 RBI and 2 runs scored. The only Mets non-pitchers who did not get a hit were Delgado (who walked 3 times) and Schneider (****ing Shocker). Schneider did have 3 walks though, so he had that going for him. Maine got an RBI by walking with the bases loaded. Even Stokes had a hit.
Murphy is continuing to impress. The guy seems to have 7 pitch at-bats every time up. He works a pitcher, something the other guys do not do enough of. He fights until he gets his pitch. The youngster does not look overmatched. He continues to show impressive power to the opposite field, as his home run last night went to left center, about 380 ft to the fence in Nationals Park. And the ball cleared the fence by a nice margin. He'll continue to "platoon" with Nick Evans, but he is making it hard for Jerry to do that. Jerry said that since he is an RBI guy, he will bat low in the order when Argenis Reyes is in the lineup, but should bat 2nd when Ryan Church comes back. That will be nice, seeing him feast on fastballs behind Jose.
Stokes looked good. Granted, the Nats, well, suck, but he still looked sharp. The fastball was popping, and his control was good. He gave the rest of the pen a night off, which is nice. A long man not named Carlos Muniz is what this team has needed. Hopefully Stokes can keep it up.
Tonight, Ollie vs. Balester. The Philth remain in LA. Let's get another W tonight, shall we?
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Shit-Scho and the Craptastic Pen
It's all the rage to bash Aaron Heilman for yesterday's debacle. I do not come here to do that. The entire pen is to blame here, with the exception of Duaner. Joe Smith has been the suck of late. Pedro Dos, ditto. Scott (Shit-Scho) Schoeneweis sucks as well. And all 12 of you who read this know how I feel about Carlos Muniz and Eddie Kunz.
The problem my friends is that this pen has too many specialists. I do not mean they all specialize in sucking. I mean we have too many guys who are only ROOGY's or LOOGY's. Smith is only effective against righties. Aaron is better against righties this year as well (odd, since he used to do well against lefties as well). Dos and Shit-Scho against lefties. That leaves Duaner (when he can pitch) and Billy as effective against both sides. This leads Jerry to have to play match game, with disastrous results.
If we remember last year, the pen had similar issues, which were exacerbated by starters who could only go 5 innings. Little changed, with the exception of Mota being gone and Duaner being here. The same guys are doing the same things this year. The issue for the next couple of weeks is what to do until Billy comes back?
Simple, name Kunz the damn closer. Will it work? Who knows, but nothing else is with any consistency. Aaron did well Friday and Saturday, but crapped the bed yesterday. Shit-Scho should NEVER FACE RIGHTIES JERRY (did you not sit next to Willie last year and learn this lesson? WTF?) Smith looks dead. Sanchez is inconsistent with his velocity. Pedro Dos is a LOOGY right now. That leaves Kunz.
Now, the idea has been floated of moving Maine or Perez to the pen. This is a bad idea on so many levels it makes me question the intelligence of the local media for writing it, or, if they got it based on conversations with Mets officials, makes me question their smarts. I'll start with Ollie, who has only been the best pitcher of late. So move him to the pen, and who starts? Stokes? Please. Nice story the other night, but let's be real here. As for Maine, the guy has a bad shoulder, so let's make him pitch multiple times a week, oh, and have a shorter window in which to warm up. Yeah, that'll work real well.
If they want to change something, send Muniz down and call up Niese or Parnell. Oh, that's right, they don't want to start Niese's arbitration clock. Bullshit. This team prints fucking money. They spend it on shit like Show, Mota, Castillo, but are worried about having to spend it on Niese? Please. I am so sick and fucking tired of the money argument from this team.
Omar I am sure tried to make a trade, but he refused t0 give up young arms and/or bats to do so. Good. He gets killed (rightly in some cases) for trading away Bell, Lindstrom et al, but now he should trade Niese or Fernando! for a bullpen arm? We rue the day Kazmir was traded for Zambrano, yet want Omar to make a similar mistake? (Yes, I know Niese is not as highy touted, but the analogy still fits, it is all about the future. Remember, Pedro and Ollie are FA at season's end.)
So, here is Ed's plan.
Kunz - Closer
Niese/Parnell - set up
Sanchez - set up
Heilman - set up
Smith - ROOGY/mop up
Dos/Shit-Scho - LOOGY
Stokes - long man/set up
Muniz - gone
This team is adverse to using youngsters until their hand is forced (see Gomez, Carlos; Murphy, Daniel; Evans, Nick). In most cases, those worked out. Why not try it with a young arm. Last year in September, Humber sat on his ass for most of the month while the pen imploded. Then, he started, but could last only 4 innings since he was so out of a rhythm. Do not fall into the same trap.
These next 7 games are a chance to feast. Washington for 3, Pitt for 4. The Philth and Marlins have tougher weeks. We can take over first. If the pen is fixed.
Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
The problem my friends is that this pen has too many specialists. I do not mean they all specialize in sucking. I mean we have too many guys who are only ROOGY's or LOOGY's. Smith is only effective against righties. Aaron is better against righties this year as well (odd, since he used to do well against lefties as well). Dos and Shit-Scho against lefties. That leaves Duaner (when he can pitch) and Billy as effective against both sides. This leads Jerry to have to play match game, with disastrous results.
If we remember last year, the pen had similar issues, which were exacerbated by starters who could only go 5 innings. Little changed, with the exception of Mota being gone and Duaner being here. The same guys are doing the same things this year. The issue for the next couple of weeks is what to do until Billy comes back?
Simple, name Kunz the damn closer. Will it work? Who knows, but nothing else is with any consistency. Aaron did well Friday and Saturday, but crapped the bed yesterday. Shit-Scho should NEVER FACE RIGHTIES JERRY (did you not sit next to Willie last year and learn this lesson? WTF?) Smith looks dead. Sanchez is inconsistent with his velocity. Pedro Dos is a LOOGY right now. That leaves Kunz.
Now, the idea has been floated of moving Maine or Perez to the pen. This is a bad idea on so many levels it makes me question the intelligence of the local media for writing it, or, if they got it based on conversations with Mets officials, makes me question their smarts. I'll start with Ollie, who has only been the best pitcher of late. So move him to the pen, and who starts? Stokes? Please. Nice story the other night, but let's be real here. As for Maine, the guy has a bad shoulder, so let's make him pitch multiple times a week, oh, and have a shorter window in which to warm up. Yeah, that'll work real well.
If they want to change something, send Muniz down and call up Niese or Parnell. Oh, that's right, they don't want to start Niese's arbitration clock. Bullshit. This team prints fucking money. They spend it on shit like Show, Mota, Castillo, but are worried about having to spend it on Niese? Please. I am so sick and fucking tired of the money argument from this team.
Omar I am sure tried to make a trade, but he refused t0 give up young arms and/or bats to do so. Good. He gets killed (rightly in some cases) for trading away Bell, Lindstrom et al, but now he should trade Niese or Fernando! for a bullpen arm? We rue the day Kazmir was traded for Zambrano, yet want Omar to make a similar mistake? (Yes, I know Niese is not as highy touted, but the analogy still fits, it is all about the future. Remember, Pedro and Ollie are FA at season's end.)
So, here is Ed's plan.
Kunz - Closer
Niese/Parnell - set up
Sanchez - set up
Heilman - set up
Smith - ROOGY/mop up
Dos/Shit-Scho - LOOGY
Stokes - long man/set up
Muniz - gone
This team is adverse to using youngsters until their hand is forced (see Gomez, Carlos; Murphy, Daniel; Evans, Nick). In most cases, those worked out. Why not try it with a young arm. Last year in September, Humber sat on his ass for most of the month while the pen imploded. Then, he started, but could last only 4 innings since he was so out of a rhythm. Do not fall into the same trap.
These next 7 games are a chance to feast. Washington for 3, Pitt for 4. The Philth and Marlins have tougher weeks. We can take over first. If the pen is fixed.
Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Get Ready for Your Close-Up Eddie...
So, the Aaron Heilman Experiment lasted all of one game. We hope. Given the state of the rest of the pen, it is time for Jerry to stop the Willie-like aversion to using youth out of the bullpen, and let Eddie Kunz close.
I like Aaron. I've supported him over the years. He's blown games, and also come into sticky situations and gotten the job done. But somewhere between the spring, when Billy said Aaron had the stuff and mentality to close and, oh, say April, something went wrong. The change-up that used to beffuddle lefties disappeared. He started to right the ship shortly after The Jacket was fired, even throwing some effective sliders (a pitch Rick had him eschew). However, that did not last long and Aaron of late has fallen back to his pre-June funk. If Jerry so much as looks at Aaron in a tight game in the late innings, he could join Aaron as a target in the eyes of the fans.
One thing though. When Aaron came into the game last night, he was booed. Now, I know Aaron has done poorly, but sweet jeebus people, the dude is being called on to close out a game. How about a little fucking support? How about instead of booing him before he throws a damn pitch, you clap for him, get behind him. You know, build up his confidence? As savvy as NY fans are supposed to be, we get this wrong too often. I'm not saying you should not boo if he sucks, but at least give him a chance. Who knows, maybe a show of support from the fans may have helped. (well, that and some help from the defense.)
I'm off the soapbox now.
Basically the pen looks like this
LOOGY - Show, Pedro Dos
ROOGY - Smith
CRAPPY - Lugo
UBERCRAPPY - Muniz, Heilman
Unknown - Kunz
Smith is having a hard time against lefties. Pedro Dos (before last night) was having trouble keeping inherited runners from scoring. Show should not face a righty unless there is a 10 run lead.
Muniz sucks. Lugo is not much better. These guys are mop-up guys, nothing more. Lugo will be the long man per Jerry.
That leaves Kunz. Now, I'm not saying the guy is gonna come out and be dominant. He may blow up. But you know what? The dude has closed, in college (where he led his team to the College World Series), in AA and AAA this year. He knows what is needed. Is he untested at the ML level? Sure. But guess what? He's the best option at this point.
There is no time to mess around here. The deficit is 2 games. Billy is out for 2 weeks. We cannot continue blowing games late, or using 3 guys to pitch the ninth. Give Eddie the damn ball and see what he can do. He's got a good sinker, something that will work in his favor. He throws hard. He misses bats. He's not gonna come in and strike out the side, but who cares? The job is to get 3 outs without allowing the other team to erase the lead. That's it. The rest of the guys have not shown the ability to do so.
Let Eddie try.
Onto last nights game. The hitting star was Fernando Tatis, who erased two Padre leads, first with a solo shot to the picnic area, and later with a 3-run shot that he waved fair in the leftfield loge. (The morons at Baseball Tonight killed him for his celebration. Note to morons, please review tape of Fisk, Carlton in 1975 WS. or any home run by Sammy Sosa. In other words, have a tall glass of STFU.) Supporting roles were played by Daniel (don’t call him Dan) Murphy, who had an RBI and went 1 for 2 with 2 walks, Delgado who had 2 walks and 2 runs scored, Beltran who went 2 for 4 with 2 runs scored, including the 6th run, scoring on a double by Nick Evans and a mistake prone relay by the Padres.
On the mound, Pelfrey went 6 2/3, allowing 9 hits, 2 runs on 2 homers, a walk and 3 k’s. He did well, and got himself out of trouble. Pedro Dos pitched 1 1/3 scoreless, stranding an inherited runner in the 7th. We’ll skip over Heilman and talk about Smith who retired the only batter he faced, and Show, who did likewise, though the out was hard hit to center.
I’m liking what I see from Murphy. He has a real good eye, and his hit was a great piece of hitting, driving a low pitch to deep left center for a double driving in Argenis Reyes. He might not be a true left fielder, but his bat should keep him in the lineup. See, youth can work from time to time.
On the injury front, we all know Billy is on the DL now. Hopefully the rest will heal his forearm, and he will be able to close once he comes back without making everyone reach for the Tums.
Maine is progressing well. He is due to throw a simulated game Friday and is on track to return from the DL next week. (My fantasy team is thankful for this).
Luis Castillo is playing rehab games. :shudder:
Ryan Church took BP yesterday after not having done so for a couple of games. Not a lot of details on what is happening. Some days he feels 100%, others, only 90% or so per reports. I’m not counting on having him back anytime soon.
Tonight, Pedro vs. Cha Seung Baek, who faced the Mets in June in a game they lost 2-1. He went 6, allowing 7 hits and 1 run, 2 BB and 2 K. He got 11 ground ball outs. Hopefully, the Mets fare better against him this time. As for Pedro, hopefully he can give the team some length, like 7 full innings. And hopefully the bats score enough to make the question of who will close moot.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
I like Aaron. I've supported him over the years. He's blown games, and also come into sticky situations and gotten the job done. But somewhere between the spring, when Billy said Aaron had the stuff and mentality to close and, oh, say April, something went wrong. The change-up that used to beffuddle lefties disappeared. He started to right the ship shortly after The Jacket was fired, even throwing some effective sliders (a pitch Rick had him eschew). However, that did not last long and Aaron of late has fallen back to his pre-June funk. If Jerry so much as looks at Aaron in a tight game in the late innings, he could join Aaron as a target in the eyes of the fans.
One thing though. When Aaron came into the game last night, he was booed. Now, I know Aaron has done poorly, but sweet jeebus people, the dude is being called on to close out a game. How about a little fucking support? How about instead of booing him before he throws a damn pitch, you clap for him, get behind him. You know, build up his confidence? As savvy as NY fans are supposed to be, we get this wrong too often. I'm not saying you should not boo if he sucks, but at least give him a chance. Who knows, maybe a show of support from the fans may have helped. (well, that and some help from the defense.)
I'm off the soapbox now.
Basically the pen looks like this
LOOGY - Show, Pedro Dos
ROOGY - Smith
CRAPPY - Lugo
UBERCRAPPY - Muniz, Heilman
Unknown - Kunz
Smith is having a hard time against lefties. Pedro Dos (before last night) was having trouble keeping inherited runners from scoring. Show should not face a righty unless there is a 10 run lead.
Muniz sucks. Lugo is not much better. These guys are mop-up guys, nothing more. Lugo will be the long man per Jerry.
That leaves Kunz. Now, I'm not saying the guy is gonna come out and be dominant. He may blow up. But you know what? The dude has closed, in college (where he led his team to the College World Series), in AA and AAA this year. He knows what is needed. Is he untested at the ML level? Sure. But guess what? He's the best option at this point.
There is no time to mess around here. The deficit is 2 games. Billy is out for 2 weeks. We cannot continue blowing games late, or using 3 guys to pitch the ninth. Give Eddie the damn ball and see what he can do. He's got a good sinker, something that will work in his favor. He throws hard. He misses bats. He's not gonna come in and strike out the side, but who cares? The job is to get 3 outs without allowing the other team to erase the lead. That's it. The rest of the guys have not shown the ability to do so.
Let Eddie try.
--------------------------
Onto last nights game. The hitting star was Fernando Tatis, who erased two Padre leads, first with a solo shot to the picnic area, and later with a 3-run shot that he waved fair in the leftfield loge. (The morons at Baseball Tonight killed him for his celebration. Note to morons, please review tape of Fisk, Carlton in 1975 WS. or any home run by Sammy Sosa. In other words, have a tall glass of STFU.) Supporting roles were played by Daniel (don’t call him Dan) Murphy, who had an RBI and went 1 for 2 with 2 walks, Delgado who had 2 walks and 2 runs scored, Beltran who went 2 for 4 with 2 runs scored, including the 6th run, scoring on a double by Nick Evans and a mistake prone relay by the Padres.
On the mound, Pelfrey went 6 2/3, allowing 9 hits, 2 runs on 2 homers, a walk and 3 k’s. He did well, and got himself out of trouble. Pedro Dos pitched 1 1/3 scoreless, stranding an inherited runner in the 7th. We’ll skip over Heilman and talk about Smith who retired the only batter he faced, and Show, who did likewise, though the out was hard hit to center.
I’m liking what I see from Murphy. He has a real good eye, and his hit was a great piece of hitting, driving a low pitch to deep left center for a double driving in Argenis Reyes. He might not be a true left fielder, but his bat should keep him in the lineup. See, youth can work from time to time.
On the injury front, we all know Billy is on the DL now. Hopefully the rest will heal his forearm, and he will be able to close once he comes back without making everyone reach for the Tums.
Maine is progressing well. He is due to throw a simulated game Friday and is on track to return from the DL next week. (My fantasy team is thankful for this).
Luis Castillo is playing rehab games. :shudder:
Ryan Church took BP yesterday after not having done so for a couple of games. Not a lot of details on what is happening. Some days he feels 100%, others, only 90% or so per reports. I’m not counting on having him back anytime soon.
Tonight, Pedro vs. Cha Seung Baek, who faced the Mets in June in a game they lost 2-1. He went 6, allowing 7 hits and 1 run, 2 BB and 2 K. He got 11 ground ball outs. Hopefully, the Mets fare better against him this time. As for Pedro, hopefully he can give the team some length, like 7 full innings. And hopefully the bats score enough to make the question of who will close moot.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Name the Players
A lot has been made about the Mets organizational depth (or lack thereof). Many complained that the Mets have depleted their farm. Others complained that they should have depleted it more at the recent Non-Waiver trade deadline. The feeling is that the Mets have traded away too much lately, and that had they not, they would be in a better place, since they would have depth. Such depth would have been used to fill in some holes on the team this year according to that theory.
So lets play a game. See if you can name the 4 players below:
Player 1 (ML) - .256 AVG, .288 OBP, .351 SLG%, 639 OPS 21 steals, 10 caught stealing
Player 2 (AAA) - 6-7 5.38 ERA 1.59 WHIP 4.04 BB/9 6.73 K/9
Player 3 (AAA) - 4-8 3.87 ERA 1.35 WHIP 2.92 BB/9 7.22 K/9
Player 4 (FSL) - 10-5 4.56 ERA 1.42 WHIP 4.04 BB9 4.82 K/9
Would you want any of those players playing for the Mets right now? Or would you rather have someone like this
Player 5 - 9-7 2.93 ERA 1.19 WHIP 2.38 BB/9 7.62 K/9
Did you guess yet?
Player 5 is Johan. Players 1 - 4 are Carlos Gomez, Philip Humber, Kevin Mulvey and Deolis Guerra. Now, tell me something, would you want Gomez playing the outfield on the Mets right now? Or Humber or Mulvey in the rotation or pen? Guerra is obviously some ways away from being ML ready.
It makes me laugh when people first bemoan the lack of depth and say that the Santana trade was a mistake. How exactly is that possible? Santana may not be the Best Pitcher in Baseball, but he gives the team a chance to win every time out. So you think Humber or Mulvey could do that? When Gomez got off to a hot start, people raved. Now however, people see what many Mets fans saw last year, a guy who is not ready for Prime Time. The Twins rushed him, possibly to justify the Santana trade, but rushed him nonetheless. Humber and Mulvey are not lighting it up in AAA either.
Many laughed at the Twins, saying the package was bad. They point to the package the Yankees had allegedly offered as better. Really? Kennedy has done nothing and got hurt. Hughes has been hurt all year. Melky Cabrera sports a 654 OPS. Is that package really all that much better?
The media likes to say that Omar was able to do this trade because the Yankees would not give in. Well, maybe the Twins thought the Mets package was better? Or maybe Omar was smart, putting out his highly rated guys and staying in the mix. In any event, he turned 4 guys who would not be able to help the Mets this year into a guy who will now and for years to come.
As for the present farm, there are some bright spots. Fernando! has looked good (when not hurt of course, what is it with Mets OF's getting hurt anyway?) Daniel Murphy has raked this year, earning a call up. Nick Evans did well in AA, Mike Carp has bounced back. Wilmer Flores, all of 17, has been hitting everything in sight, playing with guys 2 or more years older than he.
Yes, the Mets have erred in not going over slot. The early returns on Ike Davis are not promising (I'm not gonna worry yet. Let's give him some time shall we?) Brad Holt on the other hand is throwing nicely. Let's give the low level guys some time to grow. In a couple of years, they may surprise us.
In the meantime, the big club needs to start a winning streak tonight. Go Big Pelf!
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
So lets play a game. See if you can name the 4 players below:
Player 1 (ML) - .256 AVG, .288 OBP, .351 SLG%, 639 OPS 21 steals, 10 caught stealing
Player 2 (AAA) - 6-7 5.38 ERA 1.59 WHIP 4.04 BB/9 6.73 K/9
Player 3 (AAA) - 4-8 3.87 ERA 1.35 WHIP 2.92 BB/9 7.22 K/9
Player 4 (FSL) - 10-5 4.56 ERA 1.42 WHIP 4.04 BB9 4.82 K/9
Would you want any of those players playing for the Mets right now? Or would you rather have someone like this
Player 5 - 9-7 2.93 ERA 1.19 WHIP 2.38 BB/9 7.62 K/9
Did you guess yet?
Player 5 is Johan. Players 1 - 4 are Carlos Gomez, Philip Humber, Kevin Mulvey and Deolis Guerra. Now, tell me something, would you want Gomez playing the outfield on the Mets right now? Or Humber or Mulvey in the rotation or pen? Guerra is obviously some ways away from being ML ready.
It makes me laugh when people first bemoan the lack of depth and say that the Santana trade was a mistake. How exactly is that possible? Santana may not be the Best Pitcher in Baseball, but he gives the team a chance to win every time out. So you think Humber or Mulvey could do that? When Gomez got off to a hot start, people raved. Now however, people see what many Mets fans saw last year, a guy who is not ready for Prime Time. The Twins rushed him, possibly to justify the Santana trade, but rushed him nonetheless. Humber and Mulvey are not lighting it up in AAA either.
Many laughed at the Twins, saying the package was bad. They point to the package the Yankees had allegedly offered as better. Really? Kennedy has done nothing and got hurt. Hughes has been hurt all year. Melky Cabrera sports a 654 OPS. Is that package really all that much better?
The media likes to say that Omar was able to do this trade because the Yankees would not give in. Well, maybe the Twins thought the Mets package was better? Or maybe Omar was smart, putting out his highly rated guys and staying in the mix. In any event, he turned 4 guys who would not be able to help the Mets this year into a guy who will now and for years to come.
As for the present farm, there are some bright spots. Fernando! has looked good (when not hurt of course, what is it with Mets OF's getting hurt anyway?) Daniel Murphy has raked this year, earning a call up. Nick Evans did well in AA, Mike Carp has bounced back. Wilmer Flores, all of 17, has been hitting everything in sight, playing with guys 2 or more years older than he.
Yes, the Mets have erred in not going over slot. The early returns on Ike Davis are not promising (I'm not gonna worry yet. Let's give him some time shall we?) Brad Holt on the other hand is throwing nicely. Let's give the low level guys some time to grow. In a couple of years, they may surprise us.
In the meantime, the big club needs to start a winning streak tonight. Go Big Pelf!
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Monday, August 04, 2008
Um, What Happened to the Bats?
Swept by the Astros? Swept?
WTF?
A 7-3 loss Friday night, when the offense left 7 on base. Pedro pitched well for his first start after his latest long layoff. Yes, Heilman gave up the grand slam to break the 3-3 tie, but really, when you pound out 10 hits and get 2 walks, you should score more than 3 runs. They loaded the bases in the 7th with no outs, and came away with NOTHING. Endy struck out, DW grounded out, and Delgado flew out. That's what cost them the game.
Saturday, a 5-4 loss in 10, Heilman got the loss again (note, I dropped him from my fantasy team that morning, so I can't be blamed). Mets got 8 hits, Houston made 2 errors, and they left 8 runners on base. Danny Murphy made his debut, singled his first time up and scored. He also made a nice catch and throw double play later in the game. Nice debut, he did not look overmatched at all. Very smooth swing. You might even say Nice and Level. The pen choked this one away as well, as BMBB blew a 2 run lead in the 9th. Billy apparently was fighting some forearm stiffness, and will go for an MRI tomorrow (he cannot go today due to family obligations). I don't wanna sound the alarm here, but Billy had forearm issues 8 yrs ago that required tendon surgery. He claims the pain is different, but given the luck this team has had with injuries this year, I'm not buying it yet. Aaron took the loss as noted, allowing a walk and a hit, and Pedro Dos allowed the inherited runner to score. Ramon Castro was hurt on a play at the plate as the Astros scored 2 runs on the same play at the plate, shades of the NLDS from 2006 against the Dodgers.
Yesterday, no runs. Nada, zip, zilch, against Randy Wolf. Eleven left on base yesterday, 9 hits and 4 walks. Wright had a poor trip, going 3-22. Beltran was moved up to the #2 spot, and went 2-5. Delgado went 3-4. Beltran and Cancel were thrown out trying to steal 3rd. Nick Evans went 0-4, but feeling the heat in the field from Murphy's fine play Saturday, threw out two runners at second who were trying to stretch singles to doubles.
Now, I know July was incredibly hot, but the bats need to step it up, given the issues with the pen and the rotation. Maine is now on the DL. Wagner could be heading there. Sanchez has no zip. Heilman, well, he's just flat out struggling right now. Pedro is still a worry with his control issues. Eddie Kunz was called up, and he could be the closer while BMBB is out. I like guys named Eddie :)
Beltran needs to get going. I know his overall numbers are there, but we need him to go on one of his 2 week long tears where he OPS' 1.123. DW needs to get right. Reyes needs to wreak havoc on the bases. With the bottom of the lineup being a mish-mosh of Murphy, Evan, Schneider and Cancel, the top 6 need to get the job done.
The August Schedule has opportunities
3 vs Padres
3 vs Marlins
1 vs Pirates (make-up)
3 @ Nationals
4 @ Pirates
3 vs Braves
4 vs Astros
2 @ Philth
3 @ Marlins
Dregs and divisional opponents.
26 games left in the month. They are 0-3 so far. A final record for August of 19-10 should allow the team to keep up with Philly and the Marlins before September starts. September will not be easy.
3 @ Brewers
3 vs Philth
2 vs Nationals
3 vs Braves
4 @ Nationals
3 @ Braves
4 vs Cubs
3 vs Marlins.
A lot of games against playoff teams, or at least teams fighting for the playoffs. The Braves are a nemesis. The Nats always play the Mets tough. No walks in the park there.
The time to take, yet another, stand is now. 19-7 for the rest of the month is not easy, but needed.
Just.Win.Series. (a couple of sweeps would be nice though)
LGM!
WTF?
A 7-3 loss Friday night, when the offense left 7 on base. Pedro pitched well for his first start after his latest long layoff. Yes, Heilman gave up the grand slam to break the 3-3 tie, but really, when you pound out 10 hits and get 2 walks, you should score more than 3 runs. They loaded the bases in the 7th with no outs, and came away with NOTHING. Endy struck out, DW grounded out, and Delgado flew out. That's what cost them the game.
Saturday, a 5-4 loss in 10, Heilman got the loss again (note, I dropped him from my fantasy team that morning, so I can't be blamed). Mets got 8 hits, Houston made 2 errors, and they left 8 runners on base. Danny Murphy made his debut, singled his first time up and scored. He also made a nice catch and throw double play later in the game. Nice debut, he did not look overmatched at all. Very smooth swing. You might even say Nice and Level. The pen choked this one away as well, as BMBB blew a 2 run lead in the 9th. Billy apparently was fighting some forearm stiffness, and will go for an MRI tomorrow (he cannot go today due to family obligations). I don't wanna sound the alarm here, but Billy had forearm issues 8 yrs ago that required tendon surgery. He claims the pain is different, but given the luck this team has had with injuries this year, I'm not buying it yet. Aaron took the loss as noted, allowing a walk and a hit, and Pedro Dos allowed the inherited runner to score. Ramon Castro was hurt on a play at the plate as the Astros scored 2 runs on the same play at the plate, shades of the NLDS from 2006 against the Dodgers.
Yesterday, no runs. Nada, zip, zilch, against Randy Wolf. Eleven left on base yesterday, 9 hits and 4 walks. Wright had a poor trip, going 3-22. Beltran was moved up to the #2 spot, and went 2-5. Delgado went 3-4. Beltran and Cancel were thrown out trying to steal 3rd. Nick Evans went 0-4, but feeling the heat in the field from Murphy's fine play Saturday, threw out two runners at second who were trying to stretch singles to doubles.
Now, I know July was incredibly hot, but the bats need to step it up, given the issues with the pen and the rotation. Maine is now on the DL. Wagner could be heading there. Sanchez has no zip. Heilman, well, he's just flat out struggling right now. Pedro is still a worry with his control issues. Eddie Kunz was called up, and he could be the closer while BMBB is out. I like guys named Eddie :)
Beltran needs to get going. I know his overall numbers are there, but we need him to go on one of his 2 week long tears where he OPS' 1.123. DW needs to get right. Reyes needs to wreak havoc on the bases. With the bottom of the lineup being a mish-mosh of Murphy, Evan, Schneider and Cancel, the top 6 need to get the job done.
The August Schedule has opportunities
3 vs Padres
3 vs Marlins
1 vs Pirates (make-up)
3 @ Nationals
4 @ Pirates
3 vs Braves
4 vs Astros
2 @ Philth
3 @ Marlins
Dregs and divisional opponents.
26 games left in the month. They are 0-3 so far. A final record for August of 19-10 should allow the team to keep up with Philly and the Marlins before September starts. September will not be easy.
3 @ Brewers
3 vs Philth
2 vs Nationals
3 vs Braves
4 @ Nationals
3 @ Braves
4 vs Cubs
3 vs Marlins.
A lot of games against playoff teams, or at least teams fighting for the playoffs. The Braves are a nemesis. The Nats always play the Mets tough. No walks in the park there.
The time to take, yet another, stand is now. 19-7 for the rest of the month is not easy, but needed.
Just.Win.Series. (a couple of sweeps would be nice though)
LGM!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Bring Me the Shoe of Carlos Muniz
So I can Milbury him.
(For those who don't get this reference, Mike Milbury, while a player for the Bruins, was involved in an altercation in the stands at MSG. He beat a patron over the head with the dude's own shoe).
I want this guy off the team. Now. I know, he didn't cost them the game (Brian Schneider is apparently allergic to baseballs), but he is of no help to this team if he can't get through an inning. He is supposed to be the "long" man. Well, he ain't. He stinks. His run at the start of the year looked nice, but he is very hittable.
I would have preferred Willie Collazo last night. You know, the guy they called up because the pen was spent Saturday. Well, poor Willie is sitting on his ass out there. It's like last year, when Randolph wouldn't use him (or other young guys). If they don't think he can help, then why the hell is he here?
Of more immediate concern is John Maine's shoulder. He felt tightness prior to last night, which explains why Jerry was so quick to pull him in the 5th. One pitch too late alas (not blaming Jerry, just saying). Keep your fingers crossed that this is a minor thing. He will have an MRI in NY today.
The offense was dead last night. Jose did nothing, DW ditto. Tatis and Easley were the only guys who hit Nolasco, and nobody hit the Marlins pen. Everyone on the Marlins hit the Mets pen though. Joe Smith gave up a hard hit double to left, then a flipping baltimore chop up the middle driving in the tying run. It got worse from there, as Joe was removed for Sho, who showed again that he can't pitch to multiple righties. Looks like Jerry was reading from the book of Willie in the 8th.
It is one game, and the hope is that the boys follow the pattern and bounce back to win the next two. I think they will. I just hope the pen isn't overworked the next two games.
Friday, Pedro comes back, but will be limited to 80 pitches. Which means the pen is going to have to go long. Aaron, I hope you are ready baby. Methinks you might be the first arm out, so long as Jerry doesn't need you to do so today or tomorrow. Ollie tonight and Big Pelf tomorrow. Let's hope they continue their excellent runs. Even with the off day Thursday, I worry about the pen Friday with Pedro being so limited.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
(For those who don't get this reference, Mike Milbury, while a player for the Bruins, was involved in an altercation in the stands at MSG. He beat a patron over the head with the dude's own shoe).
I want this guy off the team. Now. I know, he didn't cost them the game (Brian Schneider is apparently allergic to baseballs), but he is of no help to this team if he can't get through an inning. He is supposed to be the "long" man. Well, he ain't. He stinks. His run at the start of the year looked nice, but he is very hittable.
I would have preferred Willie Collazo last night. You know, the guy they called up because the pen was spent Saturday. Well, poor Willie is sitting on his ass out there. It's like last year, when Randolph wouldn't use him (or other young guys). If they don't think he can help, then why the hell is he here?
Of more immediate concern is John Maine's shoulder. He felt tightness prior to last night, which explains why Jerry was so quick to pull him in the 5th. One pitch too late alas (not blaming Jerry, just saying). Keep your fingers crossed that this is a minor thing. He will have an MRI in NY today.
The offense was dead last night. Jose did nothing, DW ditto. Tatis and Easley were the only guys who hit Nolasco, and nobody hit the Marlins pen. Everyone on the Marlins hit the Mets pen though. Joe Smith gave up a hard hit double to left, then a flipping baltimore chop up the middle driving in the tying run. It got worse from there, as Joe was removed for Sho, who showed again that he can't pitch to multiple righties. Looks like Jerry was reading from the book of Willie in the 8th.
It is one game, and the hope is that the boys follow the pattern and bounce back to win the next two. I think they will. I just hope the pen isn't overworked the next two games.
Friday, Pedro comes back, but will be limited to 80 pitches. Which means the pen is going to have to go long. Aaron, I hope you are ready baby. Methinks you might be the first arm out, so long as Jerry doesn't need you to do so today or tomorrow. Ollie tonight and Big Pelf tomorrow. Let's hope they continue their excellent runs. Even with the off day Thursday, I worry about the pen Friday with Pedro being so limited.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Isn't This a Lot More Fun?
Another series, another win. This time, the Cardinals were the victims. Another excellent outing by Pelfrey on Friday, a good comeback on Saturday (though a loss notnetheless) and a, should I say DOMINANT outing by Johan yesterday.
Let's start with Friday. Mike Pelfrey has been amazing. The turnaround from early this year, much less last season has been outstanding. The interesting thing to read was the response to a question about why he had stopped throwing his curveball, which was supposed to be an OK pitch when he was drafted. Peterson apparently told Big Pelf to stop throwing it after a side session where he threw 20 curves, and only hit the strike zone with one. So instead of working on it, he had Pelf scrap it for a slider, which he also had trouble with. I loved Petersen, but this is one of those things that makes Ed go hmmm. In any event, Warthen has him throwing it, as well as the slider, and it has enabled Pelf to mature before our very eyes. Another strong outing, 7 innings, 7 hits, 1 run and 5 k's. Nice. The bats supported him , beating up on Mitchell Boggs for the second time this year, though this time he only gave up 6 runs, not 10, so he's got that going for him at least. Delgado went yard, and Argenis Reyes hit his first major league home run. Only Beltran failed to get a hit.
Saturday, Brandon Knight got the call in place of Pedro (my condolences to the Martinez family on the passing of Pedro's dad). The first inning went poorly, as he got smacked around for 4 runs. But the boys came back, and even took a 5-4 lead on a Jose HR (no finger in the air this time, then again, this wasn't the Phillies). Alas, the pen leaked in the 6th, as Muniz (who I do not like), Pedro Dos (who is scaring me a bit) and Smith allowed the Cards to score 4 runs. Jerry over managed a tad to me, but what was done was done. In the bottom of the sixth, former Yankee Ron Villone came in for the Cards, allowed a walk to DW and then a bomb to Delgado, his second of the game. It stayed 8-7 until the bottom of the ninth, when Fernando Tatis hit a homer just over the glove of Rick Ankiel. The good vibes were flowing. The bats stayed silent after that though, as they blew several chances against the Card pen, who liked to walk guys with frequency. The pen was depleted, and Aaron Heilman was needed to go 3 innings, which led to an Albert Pujols bomb in the top of the 14th. Aaron had done well until then, so I can't kill him. He is not stretched out (to all who call for him to start, this is an example of why it cannot happen right away). So, resiliancy, but no win.
Yesterday, Johan was the man. Complete game, 1 run on 6 hits 1 walk and 6 k's. He saved the pen, which is good with the trip to Florida for 3 starting tonight. The bats kept the beat going, as Wright, Tatis and Castro hit homers. Tatis and Jose each had 2 doubles as well. Everybody had a hit, including Johan (who had 2).
There are a number of things that have led to the improved play. The starting pitching has been stellar. The pen for the most part has been good, but the resurgence of Carlos Delgado is the key IMNSHO. This guy was being killed by EVERYONE, including me. I say mea culpa, and I know many other bloggers and fans feel the same way. Though I am sure there are some who continue to think this is a fluke, and that he will come back to earth. He now has 67 RBI with 22 hr and an OPS of 840. His July 3's are flat out sick
386 avg, 480 obp, 771 slg, 1.251 OPS. 8 home runs, 21 rbi.
July still has 4 days left. Now, his July and September last year were good, but not close to this. August 2006 was the last time he hit like this. If he keeps it up, man, things are gonna continue to be fun in Queens.
The schedule over the next couple of weeks looks like this
7/28 - 7/30 - @ Marlins
8/1 - 8/3 - @ Astros
8/5 - 8/7 - Padres
8/8 - 8/10 - Marlins
8/11 - Pittsburgh (make up)
8/12 - 8/14 - @ Washington
8/15 - 8/18 - @ Pittsburgh
8/19 - 8/21 - Atlanta
This is a prime chance to put some distance between the Mets and Marlins. As for the Philth, well, let's not worry about them (though they do have the Marlins Cards, Pirates, Dodgers, Padres and Nats on the schedule). Take care of ourselves.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Let's start with Friday. Mike Pelfrey has been amazing. The turnaround from early this year, much less last season has been outstanding. The interesting thing to read was the response to a question about why he had stopped throwing his curveball, which was supposed to be an OK pitch when he was drafted. Peterson apparently told Big Pelf to stop throwing it after a side session where he threw 20 curves, and only hit the strike zone with one. So instead of working on it, he had Pelf scrap it for a slider, which he also had trouble with. I loved Petersen, but this is one of those things that makes Ed go hmmm. In any event, Warthen has him throwing it, as well as the slider, and it has enabled Pelf to mature before our very eyes. Another strong outing, 7 innings, 7 hits, 1 run and 5 k's. Nice. The bats supported him , beating up on Mitchell Boggs for the second time this year, though this time he only gave up 6 runs, not 10, so he's got that going for him at least. Delgado went yard, and Argenis Reyes hit his first major league home run. Only Beltran failed to get a hit.
Saturday, Brandon Knight got the call in place of Pedro (my condolences to the Martinez family on the passing of Pedro's dad). The first inning went poorly, as he got smacked around for 4 runs. But the boys came back, and even took a 5-4 lead on a Jose HR (no finger in the air this time, then again, this wasn't the Phillies). Alas, the pen leaked in the 6th, as Muniz (who I do not like), Pedro Dos (who is scaring me a bit) and Smith allowed the Cards to score 4 runs. Jerry over managed a tad to me, but what was done was done. In the bottom of the sixth, former Yankee Ron Villone came in for the Cards, allowed a walk to DW and then a bomb to Delgado, his second of the game. It stayed 8-7 until the bottom of the ninth, when Fernando Tatis hit a homer just over the glove of Rick Ankiel. The good vibes were flowing. The bats stayed silent after that though, as they blew several chances against the Card pen, who liked to walk guys with frequency. The pen was depleted, and Aaron Heilman was needed to go 3 innings, which led to an Albert Pujols bomb in the top of the 14th. Aaron had done well until then, so I can't kill him. He is not stretched out (to all who call for him to start, this is an example of why it cannot happen right away). So, resiliancy, but no win.
Yesterday, Johan was the man. Complete game, 1 run on 6 hits 1 walk and 6 k's. He saved the pen, which is good with the trip to Florida for 3 starting tonight. The bats kept the beat going, as Wright, Tatis and Castro hit homers. Tatis and Jose each had 2 doubles as well. Everybody had a hit, including Johan (who had 2).
There are a number of things that have led to the improved play. The starting pitching has been stellar. The pen for the most part has been good, but the resurgence of Carlos Delgado is the key IMNSHO. This guy was being killed by EVERYONE, including me. I say mea culpa, and I know many other bloggers and fans feel the same way. Though I am sure there are some who continue to think this is a fluke, and that he will come back to earth. He now has 67 RBI with 22 hr and an OPS of 840. His July 3's are flat out sick
386 avg, 480 obp, 771 slg, 1.251 OPS. 8 home runs, 21 rbi.
July still has 4 days left. Now, his July and September last year were good, but not close to this. August 2006 was the last time he hit like this. If he keeps it up, man, things are gonna continue to be fun in Queens.
The schedule over the next couple of weeks looks like this
7/28 - 7/30 - @ Marlins
8/1 - 8/3 - @ Astros
8/5 - 8/7 - Padres
8/8 - 8/10 - Marlins
8/11 - Pittsburgh (make up)
8/12 - 8/14 - @ Washington
8/15 - 8/18 - @ Pittsburgh
8/19 - 8/21 - Atlanta
This is a prime chance to put some distance between the Mets and Marlins. As for the Philth, well, let's not worry about them (though they do have the Marlins Cards, Pirates, Dodgers, Padres and Nats on the schedule). Take care of ourselves.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Which Team Has Heart?
I'm sitting here watching this afternoon's game on the SNY Encore. I just saw Jayson Werth go yard. A month ago, I, and every other Met fan would have gone into panic mode, awaiting the inevitable Ollie implosion. Today, that did not happen. THAT, my friends, is a sign of a good team. That is the sign of a team that has basically said "Screw it, we're gonna win" before and during every game.
Oh, the Philth had their fun on Tuesday, smacking the bullpen around. The media had their fun questioning the Mets leadership, and talking about how the Philth just don't quit, and how they have such great leaders in Jimmy Rollins. The Philth had fun showboating at second base after a double (Rollins), and standing on home plate for 3 seconds after scoring (Victorino). The media, Philth and their phucking philth phans expected the Mets to roll over after that.
They were wrong.
Last night, Maine pitched well, and the Mets got a timely go-ahead 3 run homer from Jose, who trotted quickly around the bases, while raising his index finger in the air. Now, this act offended the Philth Phans, and their broadcasters, even Skip Bayless from ESPN (well, to be fair, Skip is kind of a moron). How dare Jose celebrate hitting a 3 run homer that broke a 3-3 tie. He should be classy like Rollins and Victorino. Oh, wait.
Let me tell you something. I am sick and damn tired of the media and opposing teams bitching about Jose, but overlooking, or even celebrating, the antics of other players. No one says boo about Victorino, who couldn't hold Jose's fucking jock, or Rollins, or Manny hi-fiving a fan DURING A PLAY for pete's sake. But Jose holds up a finger and it is like he murdered someone. STFU Skip Bayless, and the rest of the ESPN assholes, and Tom McCarthy and other out of town announcers.
As for the Phillies, don't some into our house and stand on home plate and mock Jose and the other Latin players and then turn around and bitch about Jose's trot. Oh, and Jimmy, next time, try to show up on time for the game. I think it is lovely how you drive yourself to the game while the rest off your teammates take the bus. I hope ESPN mentions this just once. That will probably be more than it will actually happen. Now, if a Met did that, it would be on "the crawl" for the next week, and would be the top story for every edition of SportsCenter. But since it is Jimmy, who ESPN loves nearly as much as Derek Jeter, nothing will be said. (side note, do you think ESPN suits would just cream themselves if Rollins was to somehow become a Yankee? Of course, he would have to play 2nd, since Jeter would not move for him.) The reigning MVP was benched today because he was late. Again, imagine if that was anyone on the Mets.
Today, Ollie pitched his ass off. Twelve k's, including Utley and Howard multiple times each. He went 7 2/3. He left with the Bases Loaded with Philth, and in came Aaron. I liked this move. Jerry showed Aaron he had faith in him in a tough spot against the Phils, a team that, well, Aaron doesn't exactly have a good track record against. Aaron got the last out. Mission Completed. Wags pitched a strong 9th, which was nice, especially given the quick turn around from last nights game.
The offensive hero today was Carlos Delgado, who drove in the winning run in the 8th with an 3 run opposite field double. I admit, I was down on Carlos, but the man has been on fire since June, and even hotter in July. So hot that he was moved back to cleanup last night and today. The bats overall were quiet against 85 year old Jamie Moyer, but at the end of the day, they won, and are in first alone by 1 game.
A team that had it's heart questioned showed it is strong.
The team that is supposed to be all heart has its leader show up late to the game today and get benched.
Has the tide turned? It's early still, but the signs are promising.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Oh, the Philth had their fun on Tuesday, smacking the bullpen around. The media had their fun questioning the Mets leadership, and talking about how the Philth just don't quit, and how they have such great leaders in Jimmy Rollins. The Philth had fun showboating at second base after a double (Rollins), and standing on home plate for 3 seconds after scoring (Victorino). The media, Philth and their phucking philth phans expected the Mets to roll over after that.
They were wrong.
Last night, Maine pitched well, and the Mets got a timely go-ahead 3 run homer from Jose, who trotted quickly around the bases, while raising his index finger in the air. Now, this act offended the Philth Phans, and their broadcasters, even Skip Bayless from ESPN (well, to be fair, Skip is kind of a moron). How dare Jose celebrate hitting a 3 run homer that broke a 3-3 tie. He should be classy like Rollins and Victorino. Oh, wait.
Let me tell you something. I am sick and damn tired of the media and opposing teams bitching about Jose, but overlooking, or even celebrating, the antics of other players. No one says boo about Victorino, who couldn't hold Jose's fucking jock, or Rollins, or Manny hi-fiving a fan DURING A PLAY for pete's sake. But Jose holds up a finger and it is like he murdered someone. STFU Skip Bayless, and the rest of the ESPN assholes, and Tom McCarthy and other out of town announcers.
As for the Phillies, don't some into our house and stand on home plate and mock Jose and the other Latin players and then turn around and bitch about Jose's trot. Oh, and Jimmy, next time, try to show up on time for the game. I think it is lovely how you drive yourself to the game while the rest off your teammates take the bus. I hope ESPN mentions this just once. That will probably be more than it will actually happen. Now, if a Met did that, it would be on "the crawl" for the next week, and would be the top story for every edition of SportsCenter. But since it is Jimmy, who ESPN loves nearly as much as Derek Jeter, nothing will be said. (side note, do you think ESPN suits would just cream themselves if Rollins was to somehow become a Yankee? Of course, he would have to play 2nd, since Jeter would not move for him.) The reigning MVP was benched today because he was late. Again, imagine if that was anyone on the Mets.
Today, Ollie pitched his ass off. Twelve k's, including Utley and Howard multiple times each. He went 7 2/3. He left with the Bases Loaded with Philth, and in came Aaron. I liked this move. Jerry showed Aaron he had faith in him in a tough spot against the Phils, a team that, well, Aaron doesn't exactly have a good track record against. Aaron got the last out. Mission Completed. Wags pitched a strong 9th, which was nice, especially given the quick turn around from last nights game.
The offensive hero today was Carlos Delgado, who drove in the winning run in the 8th with an 3 run opposite field double. I admit, I was down on Carlos, but the man has been on fire since June, and even hotter in July. So hot that he was moved back to cleanup last night and today. The bats overall were quiet against 85 year old Jamie Moyer, but at the end of the day, they won, and are in first alone by 1 game.
A team that had it's heart questioned showed it is strong.
The team that is supposed to be all heart has its leader show up late to the game today and get benched.
Has the tide turned? It's early still, but the signs are promising.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Tonight, the Rest of the Season Begins
Color me Captain Obvious. Of course the rest of the season begins. It begins every game. Anyhow...
Three against the Philth starting tonight. Johan, Maine and Ollie for the good guys. Blanton, Myers and Moyer for the Philth. After this, 5 games remain between the two teams. It is time for a statement from the Mets. Two of three is the minimum. A sweep would be beautiful.
After floundering for the better part of the first half of the season, the Mets have gotten on a roll. The Phils on the other hand did not take the opportunity to run away from the Mets or even the Marlins during a first couple of months where they played well. The Philth received good starting pitching for the most part, good hitting, and very good work from their pen. Of late however, the pen has started to leak, the hitting has slowed, and the starters, well, they just traded for 5-12 Joe Blanton, so that speaks for itself.
Myers is fresh off a rehab stint in the minors, after performing to the tune of a 3-9 5.84 era 1.56 WHIP. This after moving back to the rotation following the aquisition of Brad Lidge in the off season. Myers was supposed to solidify the Philth staff, but has failed to do so. We shall see if a stint in the minors has helped.
Moyer is 45 and is 9-6 with a 3.90 era and 1.36 WHIP. He is 1-1 vs the Mets this year, with a 3.83 ERA and 1.3 ish WHIP. He is positively Glavinesque at this point, he throws slop, which of course means the Mets struggle against him.
Tonight, Joe Blanton, the "innings eater" who has been linked to the Mets seemingly forever, makes his first start for the Philth. It will be interesting to see the approach the Mets hitters take. He is not overpowering. Shea may be a pitchers park, but it is no Oakland Coliseum, with its vast stretches of foul territory.
Last season, the Phils won the final 8 against the Mets. This year, the Mets own a 7-3 edge. Time to make that edge a bit larger. The Mets taking two of three will mean a 1 game lead. That's not enough. I want a 3 game lead for the Mets once the series is over. The Philth are having some internal troubles, Cholly is upset about situational hitting, Burrel is upset over being lifted late in games. Rollins may be playing hurt. Feast on them Mets. Beat them down. Take this opportunity by the throat and grab it. As PLD said in 2006 - Bury Them. Or at least throw a few shovel fulls of dirt on them.
________________________________
Mets Worries
Well, Angel Pagan and Moises are done for the year. El Duque may be as well. Pedro has a groin issue. Castillo is still aching. Church is an unknown. Easley has leg pain, and Endy causes Mets fans pains when they watch him swing for the fences every at-bat. The walking wounded are increasing in numbers. I was already ruling out El Duque and Angel. I had hoped Alou could come back, but torn hammies are bad. Castillo could be back next week, or later, who knows. Same for Church. He was to be re-evaluated this week. Figure a couple of weeks for him once he is cleared to resume baseball activities.
And now Billy has pain in his upper back/arm/shoulder and went for an MRI. No word on if he is available for this series. Fine. The bats simply need to explode and win each game by 5. Let Billy have a few days of rest. I for one have concerns about Dirty or Heilman in the closer role, so lets not try them out, OK?
Just.Win.Series.
LGM
Three against the Philth starting tonight. Johan, Maine and Ollie for the good guys. Blanton, Myers and Moyer for the Philth. After this, 5 games remain between the two teams. It is time for a statement from the Mets. Two of three is the minimum. A sweep would be beautiful.
After floundering for the better part of the first half of the season, the Mets have gotten on a roll. The Phils on the other hand did not take the opportunity to run away from the Mets or even the Marlins during a first couple of months where they played well. The Philth received good starting pitching for the most part, good hitting, and very good work from their pen. Of late however, the pen has started to leak, the hitting has slowed, and the starters, well, they just traded for 5-12 Joe Blanton, so that speaks for itself.
Myers is fresh off a rehab stint in the minors, after performing to the tune of a 3-9 5.84 era 1.56 WHIP. This after moving back to the rotation following the aquisition of Brad Lidge in the off season. Myers was supposed to solidify the Philth staff, but has failed to do so. We shall see if a stint in the minors has helped.
Moyer is 45 and is 9-6 with a 3.90 era and 1.36 WHIP. He is 1-1 vs the Mets this year, with a 3.83 ERA and 1.3 ish WHIP. He is positively Glavinesque at this point, he throws slop, which of course means the Mets struggle against him.
Tonight, Joe Blanton, the "innings eater" who has been linked to the Mets seemingly forever, makes his first start for the Philth. It will be interesting to see the approach the Mets hitters take. He is not overpowering. Shea may be a pitchers park, but it is no Oakland Coliseum, with its vast stretches of foul territory.
Last season, the Phils won the final 8 against the Mets. This year, the Mets own a 7-3 edge. Time to make that edge a bit larger. The Mets taking two of three will mean a 1 game lead. That's not enough. I want a 3 game lead for the Mets once the series is over. The Philth are having some internal troubles, Cholly is upset about situational hitting, Burrel is upset over being lifted late in games. Rollins may be playing hurt. Feast on them Mets. Beat them down. Take this opportunity by the throat and grab it. As PLD said in 2006 - Bury Them. Or at least throw a few shovel fulls of dirt on them.
________________________________
Mets Worries
Well, Angel Pagan and Moises are done for the year. El Duque may be as well. Pedro has a groin issue. Castillo is still aching. Church is an unknown. Easley has leg pain, and Endy causes Mets fans pains when they watch him swing for the fences every at-bat. The walking wounded are increasing in numbers. I was already ruling out El Duque and Angel. I had hoped Alou could come back, but torn hammies are bad. Castillo could be back next week, or later, who knows. Same for Church. He was to be re-evaluated this week. Figure a couple of weeks for him once he is cleared to resume baseball activities.
And now Billy has pain in his upper back/arm/shoulder and went for an MRI. No word on if he is available for this series. Fine. The bats simply need to explode and win each game by 5. Let Billy have a few days of rest. I for one have concerns about Dirty or Heilman in the closer role, so lets not try them out, OK?
Just.Win.Series.
LGM
Friday, July 18, 2008
And the Winning Continues
"Holy hell, we're relevant again!"
Rickey Henderson
Yes we are Rickey. Yes we are indeed.
Win #10 in a row. Tied for first. What was once a 7.5 game deficit back on June 18 is now gone. Little Jerry looks smarter with each passing day. The air smells cleaner, flowers perk up. Life is good.
Even the news that El Duque had more foot pain, Angel Pagan left his rehab start with shoulder pain, and Pedro got a cortisone shot cannot wipe the smiles off the faces of Mets fans this morning. I dare to say that even a classic Wally Matthews Mets blasting column, or a Marty Noble mailbag of asshattery could not do so.
It wasn't pretty, not by a long shot. Johan gave up 5 in the 4th, erasing a 2-0 lead that Carlos Delgado provided with a homer that left the GAB. After the Mets took a 6-5 lead, Heilman loaded the bases with 2 outs, then Show proceeded to give up a bases clearing double to Valentin. It looked bleak, especially since SNY showed the following graphic:
Not getting a warm fuzzy though I did hold out hope that the graphic jinx would work.
Francisco Cordero did have 4 blown saves entering the game, but had taken a loss only once. It was 8-6 going into the 9th, after the Mets went quietly in the 7th and 8th. Jose led off and struck out. A. Reyes followed with a single. DW followed with a wall scraper of a homer to the opposite field, tie ballgame. The wife was sleeping, so Ed simply raised his arms and left them like that as Beltran singled. Ed's arms got tired, so he put them down, only to raise them again as Easley singled, moving Beltran to third. Delgado followed with a single, 9-8 Mets, Easley moved to third. Fernando Tatis followed with a single, dring in Easley (3 rbi night for Tatis, as he also had a 2-run HR). Cordero was then pulled, and Bray got the last two outs.
Billy (thankfully) pitched a 1-2-3 9th, and it was over.
Now, I'm not gonna kill Santana for one bad start. What I do worry about is his inability to hold leads. This has happened a few times so far. I chalk last night up to the long layoff, especially cinsidering he only pitched 5 innings last time out due to a rain delay. I just hope that he can stop that habit. He has done better with giving up the long ball of late (though he gave up 2 in a row last night to Dunn and Encarnacion). I think many fans just expected him to be a shut down guy, and we are not seeing that consistently.
Three more against the Reds, then an off day Monday. Tuesday the Philth come to town for three games. Let's be a game or two up prior to that shall we?
One last thing, Joe Blanton? Really? Good luck with that Philly.
Just.Win.Series
LGM!
Rickey Henderson
Yes we are Rickey. Yes we are indeed.
Win #10 in a row. Tied for first. What was once a 7.5 game deficit back on June 18 is now gone. Little Jerry looks smarter with each passing day. The air smells cleaner, flowers perk up. Life is good.
Even the news that El Duque had more foot pain, Angel Pagan left his rehab start with shoulder pain, and Pedro got a cortisone shot cannot wipe the smiles off the faces of Mets fans this morning. I dare to say that even a classic Wally Matthews Mets blasting column, or a Marty Noble mailbag of asshattery could not do so.
It wasn't pretty, not by a long shot. Johan gave up 5 in the 4th, erasing a 2-0 lead that Carlos Delgado provided with a homer that left the GAB. After the Mets took a 6-5 lead, Heilman loaded the bases with 2 outs, then Show proceeded to give up a bases clearing double to Valentin. It looked bleak, especially since SNY showed the following graphic:
Reds are 34-1 when leading after 7 innings
Not getting a warm fuzzy though I did hold out hope that the graphic jinx would work.
Francisco Cordero did have 4 blown saves entering the game, but had taken a loss only once. It was 8-6 going into the 9th, after the Mets went quietly in the 7th and 8th. Jose led off and struck out. A. Reyes followed with a single. DW followed with a wall scraper of a homer to the opposite field, tie ballgame. The wife was sleeping, so Ed simply raised his arms and left them like that as Beltran singled. Ed's arms got tired, so he put them down, only to raise them again as Easley singled, moving Beltran to third. Delgado followed with a single, 9-8 Mets, Easley moved to third. Fernando Tatis followed with a single, dring in Easley (3 rbi night for Tatis, as he also had a 2-run HR). Cordero was then pulled, and Bray got the last two outs.
Billy (thankfully) pitched a 1-2-3 9th, and it was over.
Now, I'm not gonna kill Santana for one bad start. What I do worry about is his inability to hold leads. This has happened a few times so far. I chalk last night up to the long layoff, especially cinsidering he only pitched 5 innings last time out due to a rain delay. I just hope that he can stop that habit. He has done better with giving up the long ball of late (though he gave up 2 in a row last night to Dunn and Encarnacion). I think many fans just expected him to be a shut down guy, and we are not seeing that consistently.
Three more against the Reds, then an off day Monday. Tuesday the Philth come to town for three games. Let's be a game or two up prior to that shall we?
One last thing, Joe Blanton? Really? Good luck with that Philly.
Just.Win.Series
LGM!
Monday, July 14, 2008
9
So the 18 game stretch comes to a close. The record 13-5. The 9 game winning streak of course made that all possible.
The bats have been great of course. Beltran hit another one out last night. Delgado too. Both Carlos' have heated up at the right time. Reyes got many props from the ESPN booth last night. Joe Morgan basically told everyone to leave Jose the hell alone. Thanks Joe. (Of course, this was followed by 5 minutes of slobbering all over Yankee Stadium and the Yanks, ugh).
But the story this week has to be the pitching. The pen has been awesome. Heilman, save for his outing in Philly has been great. Joe Smith has gotten the job done. They came in for Pedro Saturday and pitched 5 scoreless and hitless innings. The pen hasn't been scored on since Philly. Even Wagner has looked good. And the starters, oh my, the starters.
Tuesday - Pelfrey 7 shutout innings, 3 hits, no walks
Wednesday - Santana 5 shutout innings, 3 hits 3 walks (left due to rain, FU Joe and Evan)
Thursday - Maine 4 2/3 innings, 3 runs 3 hits.
Friday - Ollie 6 innings, 2 hits 1 run
Saturday - Pedro 5 innings 1 hit 3 walks no runs
Sunday - Pelfrey 8 shutout innings, 6 hits, no walks.
That's dominance people. I don't care how bad the Giants and Rockies are. Giving up 3 hits or fewer in 4 straight games, 4 shutouts in 6 games is pure domination.
Mike Pelfrey is on fire right now. Did he basically say "Fuck the Jacket, I'm gonna do what works for me"? Who knows. Whatever he did, he has won 6 straight starts, and has been increasingly dominant in doing so. Run support is nice, but it is also nice that he hasn't needed it his last 2 starts, heck, in his last 7 he has given up more than 1 run twice, 4 runs against the Yankees and 6 against the Angels. Last night, 6 of 24 outs where hit into the air. there were 14 groundball outs, and 4 k's. He got 3 double plays. Now, some might say, "well, if not for those, he might not have been as dominant". That misses the point. When he needed the big out, he got it.
We are seeing him start to reach the potential the Mets saw when they drafted him so high. Yes, it would be nice if he could get a consistent off-speed pitch, but you know what, his 4-seamer and 2-seamer are working now. He is sprinkling in curves and sliders to keep hitters honest. That is the mark of a smart pitcher.
We enter the break with our team 1/2 game out. The bats are clicking. The arms are throwing well. Church could be back next week. So may Pagan. It would be nice is Omar could get a LF, but if the guys keep playing like this, and Church really is healthy, then there is no need. Of course, that is a lot to count on, so I expect Omar will try to get someone for OF depth. Just so long as Fernando! and Niese are not touched in a trade, I will be happy.
On July 4th, the Mets were 5.5 back of the Phillies. Things turn quickly. We saw that last year.
Don't let up now.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
The bats have been great of course. Beltran hit another one out last night. Delgado too. Both Carlos' have heated up at the right time. Reyes got many props from the ESPN booth last night. Joe Morgan basically told everyone to leave Jose the hell alone. Thanks Joe. (Of course, this was followed by 5 minutes of slobbering all over Yankee Stadium and the Yanks, ugh).
But the story this week has to be the pitching. The pen has been awesome. Heilman, save for his outing in Philly has been great. Joe Smith has gotten the job done. They came in for Pedro Saturday and pitched 5 scoreless and hitless innings. The pen hasn't been scored on since Philly. Even Wagner has looked good. And the starters, oh my, the starters.
Tuesday - Pelfrey 7 shutout innings, 3 hits, no walks
Wednesday - Santana 5 shutout innings, 3 hits 3 walks (left due to rain, FU Joe and Evan)
Thursday - Maine 4 2/3 innings, 3 runs 3 hits.
Friday - Ollie 6 innings, 2 hits 1 run
Saturday - Pedro 5 innings 1 hit 3 walks no runs
Sunday - Pelfrey 8 shutout innings, 6 hits, no walks.
That's dominance people. I don't care how bad the Giants and Rockies are. Giving up 3 hits or fewer in 4 straight games, 4 shutouts in 6 games is pure domination.
Mike Pelfrey is on fire right now. Did he basically say "Fuck the Jacket, I'm gonna do what works for me"? Who knows. Whatever he did, he has won 6 straight starts, and has been increasingly dominant in doing so. Run support is nice, but it is also nice that he hasn't needed it his last 2 starts, heck, in his last 7 he has given up more than 1 run twice, 4 runs against the Yankees and 6 against the Angels. Last night, 6 of 24 outs where hit into the air. there were 14 groundball outs, and 4 k's. He got 3 double plays. Now, some might say, "well, if not for those, he might not have been as dominant". That misses the point. When he needed the big out, he got it.
We are seeing him start to reach the potential the Mets saw when they drafted him so high. Yes, it would be nice if he could get a consistent off-speed pitch, but you know what, his 4-seamer and 2-seamer are working now. He is sprinkling in curves and sliders to keep hitters honest. That is the mark of a smart pitcher.
We enter the break with our team 1/2 game out. The bats are clicking. The arms are throwing well. Church could be back next week. So may Pagan. It would be nice is Omar could get a LF, but if the guys keep playing like this, and Church really is healthy, then there is no need. Of course, that is a lot to count on, so I expect Omar will try to get someone for OF depth. Just so long as Fernando! and Niese are not touched in a trade, I will be happy.
On July 4th, the Mets were 5.5 back of the Phillies. Things turn quickly. We saw that last year.
Don't let up now.
Just.Win.Series.
LGM!
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Attention NY Media
You would think from the back pages today that the Yankees moved to within 1.5 games of first place. You would think that they got a dominating performance from a 24 year old pitcher who many had bashed as overrated. You would think that they were the team that has won 4 in a row. About the only thing the Yankees did that the Mets did last night was beat up on a heralded young pitcher.
Every paper had back-page main stories about the Yankees win over the Rays last night. Guess what though? The Yanks are still 7.5 games back, and 4.5 games behind in the Wild Card. They still have serious pitching issues, and they still have serious injury issues. Add to that the level of competition in the AL East, not to mention the WC, and they have a very tough road to travel.
Sal Marciano started off his sports report on the CW 11 last night with "Overrated? Let's see what Jeter did tonight." Wow, Derek got a "clutch" 2 run double. Of course, it came in the third inning. And he made a "patented" leap and throw to record an out at 2nd late in the game. I will admit the throw was nice, but since when did a 3rd inning hit become "clutch"? If that was clutch, then Beltran's 3-run homer in the 1st inning was as well right?
I am so sick and tired of the pro-Yankee slant in this town. Jeter was voted as most overrated by his PEERS. Yet the media circles the wagons around the golden child. Meanwhile, his stats are nothing special, and despite the play last night, his range at shortstop is mediocre at best. But the propaganda keeps coming.
/End Anti-NY Media rant
Meanwhile, much to the consternation of Chris "Screaming Ninny" Russo, the Mets smacked Tim Lincecum around last night to the tune of 4 runs, 9 hits, and 2 walks in 6 innings. Every ball seemed to be hit hard. Beltran took him deep in the first, Delgado in the 6th. Lincecum had given up all of 5 hr's this year. Poor Chris, his boy let him down.
Meanwhile, Mike Pelfrey continued to grow. Last night he went 7 scoreless, giving up 3 hits, with 5 k's and NO walks. He won his 5th consecutive start, and dominated. He was pumping fastballs, threw a few sliders that looked quite nice, and even unleashed a couple of curveballs (you know, that near plus pitch from college that Hardwood Floors had him junk). This was possibly his best outing of his career. Schoeneweis pitched a hitless 8th, and Joe Smith a hitless 9th.
The offense continues to click, 14 hits last night to go with 7 runs. Tatis also homered. Jose had his 4th straight multiple hit game (I wonder if Delcos thinks he needs to be benched, or if the loudmouths think he should still be traded?) Beltran (that softy) finished 3-4 with 4 rbi, Delgado had 2 hits. Argenis Reyes collected his first major league hit (congrats kid), and later scored, and got a loud ovation from the crowd, as well as a hug from Jose after Jose scored later in the inning.
The bad news? Ryan Church was put back on the DL. Is it a migraine? Is it PCS? Who knows. I'm not a doctor, then again, neither is the media, but they claim to know what is right. The Mets made a smart decision to DL him again. How long will he be out? We don't know. It could be he comes back after the 15 days. He could be out the rest of the year. The important thing is to let him rest. It saddens me, as I have (as many others have) seen too many careers of NY Sports stars cut short due to PCS. Al Toon. Wayne Chrebet. Pat LaFontaine. Brett Lindros. Eric Lindros. The brain is something doctors don;t have all the answers to. Some guys bounce back right away, others take longer. Hopefully Ryan is able to come back.
The one thing I do not want to see or hear is anyone saying "well, this makes the Milledge deal that much worse." We know this will happen. And it will still be bullshit. Nobody could have know this would happen. But there will still be those who hated the trade who will use this as a way to justify bashing Omar.
Tonight, Johan vs. Sanchez. Johan (and the Mets) have not won in his last 6 starts. A win tonight makes it a 5 game winning streak. The last time they won 5 in a row was April 14 - 19. Three against the Nationals, two against the Philth.
Lets make it 9 in a row going into the break. I'm greedy. But greed, for lack of a better word, is good.
Just
Win
Series
LGM
Every paper had back-page main stories about the Yankees win over the Rays last night. Guess what though? The Yanks are still 7.5 games back, and 4.5 games behind in the Wild Card. They still have serious pitching issues, and they still have serious injury issues. Add to that the level of competition in the AL East, not to mention the WC, and they have a very tough road to travel.
Sal Marciano started off his sports report on the CW 11 last night with "Overrated? Let's see what Jeter did tonight." Wow, Derek got a "clutch" 2 run double. Of course, it came in the third inning. And he made a "patented" leap and throw to record an out at 2nd late in the game. I will admit the throw was nice, but since when did a 3rd inning hit become "clutch"? If that was clutch, then Beltran's 3-run homer in the 1st inning was as well right?
I am so sick and tired of the pro-Yankee slant in this town. Jeter was voted as most overrated by his PEERS. Yet the media circles the wagons around the golden child. Meanwhile, his stats are nothing special, and despite the play last night, his range at shortstop is mediocre at best. But the propaganda keeps coming.
/End Anti-NY Media rant
_______________________________________
Meanwhile, much to the consternation of Chris "Screaming Ninny" Russo, the Mets smacked Tim Lincecum around last night to the tune of 4 runs, 9 hits, and 2 walks in 6 innings. Every ball seemed to be hit hard. Beltran took him deep in the first, Delgado in the 6th. Lincecum had given up all of 5 hr's this year. Poor Chris, his boy let him down.
Meanwhile, Mike Pelfrey continued to grow. Last night he went 7 scoreless, giving up 3 hits, with 5 k's and NO walks. He won his 5th consecutive start, and dominated. He was pumping fastballs, threw a few sliders that looked quite nice, and even unleashed a couple of curveballs (you know, that near plus pitch from college that Hardwood Floors had him junk). This was possibly his best outing of his career. Schoeneweis pitched a hitless 8th, and Joe Smith a hitless 9th.
The offense continues to click, 14 hits last night to go with 7 runs. Tatis also homered. Jose had his 4th straight multiple hit game (I wonder if Delcos thinks he needs to be benched, or if the loudmouths think he should still be traded?) Beltran (that softy) finished 3-4 with 4 rbi, Delgado had 2 hits. Argenis Reyes collected his first major league hit (congrats kid), and later scored, and got a loud ovation from the crowd, as well as a hug from Jose after Jose scored later in the inning.
The bad news? Ryan Church was put back on the DL. Is it a migraine? Is it PCS? Who knows. I'm not a doctor, then again, neither is the media, but they claim to know what is right. The Mets made a smart decision to DL him again. How long will he be out? We don't know. It could be he comes back after the 15 days. He could be out the rest of the year. The important thing is to let him rest. It saddens me, as I have (as many others have) seen too many careers of NY Sports stars cut short due to PCS. Al Toon. Wayne Chrebet. Pat LaFontaine. Brett Lindros. Eric Lindros. The brain is something doctors don;t have all the answers to. Some guys bounce back right away, others take longer. Hopefully Ryan is able to come back.
The one thing I do not want to see or hear is anyone saying "well, this makes the Milledge deal that much worse." We know this will happen. And it will still be bullshit. Nobody could have know this would happen. But there will still be those who hated the trade who will use this as a way to justify bashing Omar.
Tonight, Johan vs. Sanchez. Johan (and the Mets) have not won in his last 6 starts. A win tonight makes it a 5 game winning streak. The last time they won 5 in a row was April 14 - 19. Three against the Nationals, two against the Philth.
Lets make it 9 in a row going into the break. I'm greedy. But greed, for lack of a better word, is good.
Just
Win
Series
LGM
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
New Math and a Pulse Check
First, the "20 game stretch" should be 18. Ed was apparently using the new math. The pulse check is now 7-5, as the Mets took 3 of 4 from the Philth. It wasn't easy, and it sure wasn't pretty, but they got it done.
This series was key. We are in July now. A move needs to be made. A statement sent as it were. Well, taking 3 of 4 sends a message. The message is "don't get cocky Philth". What was once a 6.5 game lead for the Phils on June 15th, is now all of 2.5 games, and the Mets are only 2 back in the loss column.
A loss in game 1 had me on edge. Santana pitched well again, but Dirty lost the game. Saturday, Maine started and left with pain in his left elbow. Church left with dizziness. The Mets lost leads of 3-0 and 4-3, yet scored 3 in the 8th and 3 more in the 9th to win. A previously strong Philly bullpen was abused. JC Romero was victim #1, Flash Gordon was #2, and Rudy Seanez was #3. The Mets pounded out 14 hits, whilst the Philth got all of 4.
Sunday Beltran staked the Mets to a 2-0 lead, but Big Mouth Billy Bass blew it for Oliver Perez, allowing a 2-run shot to Jayson Werth. Perez pitched well for the 2nd straight start. Ollie went 7, allowing 4 hits, 2 walks with 6 k's and no runs. Dirty, Pedro Dos, Heilman all pitched 1/3 of an inning. Then BMBB did an Ollie impression and blew it. Ollie to his credit said nada about it. Schoeneweis pitched 2/3 scorelss, and Joe Smith pitched 2 1/3 scoreless to get the win, as Fernando Tatis hit a 2-run homer to nearly the same spot as Werth off Chad Durbin. Surprisingly, this team that lacks "fire" didn't cave after the Werth homer. (that's sarcasm folks.)
Last night, Pedro pitched well for 5 1/3. The bats finally beat the snot out of Adam Eaton, touching him for 8 runs on 10 hits in 2 2/3. Wright had a homer and a double. Delgado went 2-5 and looked good doing so. Easley is making us all forget Castillo, as he went 3-5. Only Brian Schneider failed to get a hit, as even Pedro got a single to drive in the 10th and eventual winning run.
It was 10-2 when Pedro left the game. Tony Armas relieved and gave up 3 in 1 1/3 innings. One of those runs should be charged to the umps, as they absolutely BLEW a call, giving Howard a homer when in reality it should have been a double as a fan reached out over the fence to touch a ball. Heilman struck out 4, but allowed a 2-run shot to Jenkins, making it 10-7 after 8.
In came Billy for the 9th. Victorino doubled. BMBB then walked Bruntlett (who had replaced Utley earlier). He then struck out Howard and got Burrell to fly out to left. Pedro Feliz followed with a seeing eye single up the middle that drove in two. The second scored when Beltran threw to 3rd, and Wright went for a snap tag and the ball got by him. Bad throw (should have gone to 2nd Carlos), and bad play by Wright (he should have worried about the ball, not the runner there). So now it is 10-9, and Jayson Werth was at the plate. I think Billy just wanted redemption, so he allowed a couple of hits. He got Werth to fly out to right.
So, not pretty, but you know what? Who cares. They went into Philly and won one game after blowing a lead in the 9th, another after blowing 2 leads, and then won last night. At the end of the day, it doesn't matter how they did it. Just that they did.
San Fran tonight. Lincecum vs. Pelfrey. Lincecum is damn good. Should be a good game.
Just
Win
Series
LGM
Oh, and before I go. Back when I took my hiatus, I heard from some Philth fans.
You kiss your mom/sister with that mouth? I particularly loved the "worthless bloggr". If I'm so worthless, why did you respond?
Oh, I am mediocre, not argument there. I may not have been missed. But I did not fade into oblivion. And neither have the Mets.
Considering the Phils only won last year because of a stretch of extremely shitty baseball not seen since, well, April of 2007 by the Phils, the Phans would be wise to not count their chickens before they hatch.
"Objects in mirror are closer than they appear" - Doc on Metsgeek.
This series was key. We are in July now. A move needs to be made. A statement sent as it were. Well, taking 3 of 4 sends a message. The message is "don't get cocky Philth". What was once a 6.5 game lead for the Phils on June 15th, is now all of 2.5 games, and the Mets are only 2 back in the loss column.
A loss in game 1 had me on edge. Santana pitched well again, but Dirty lost the game. Saturday, Maine started and left with pain in his left elbow. Church left with dizziness. The Mets lost leads of 3-0 and 4-3, yet scored 3 in the 8th and 3 more in the 9th to win. A previously strong Philly bullpen was abused. JC Romero was victim #1, Flash Gordon was #2, and Rudy Seanez was #3. The Mets pounded out 14 hits, whilst the Philth got all of 4.
Sunday Beltran staked the Mets to a 2-0 lead, but Big Mouth Billy Bass blew it for Oliver Perez, allowing a 2-run shot to Jayson Werth. Perez pitched well for the 2nd straight start. Ollie went 7, allowing 4 hits, 2 walks with 6 k's and no runs. Dirty, Pedro Dos, Heilman all pitched 1/3 of an inning. Then BMBB did an Ollie impression and blew it. Ollie to his credit said nada about it. Schoeneweis pitched 2/3 scorelss, and Joe Smith pitched 2 1/3 scoreless to get the win, as Fernando Tatis hit a 2-run homer to nearly the same spot as Werth off Chad Durbin. Surprisingly, this team that lacks "fire" didn't cave after the Werth homer. (that's sarcasm folks.)
Last night, Pedro pitched well for 5 1/3. The bats finally beat the snot out of Adam Eaton, touching him for 8 runs on 10 hits in 2 2/3. Wright had a homer and a double. Delgado went 2-5 and looked good doing so. Easley is making us all forget Castillo, as he went 3-5. Only Brian Schneider failed to get a hit, as even Pedro got a single to drive in the 10th and eventual winning run.
It was 10-2 when Pedro left the game. Tony Armas relieved and gave up 3 in 1 1/3 innings. One of those runs should be charged to the umps, as they absolutely BLEW a call, giving Howard a homer when in reality it should have been a double as a fan reached out over the fence to touch a ball. Heilman struck out 4, but allowed a 2-run shot to Jenkins, making it 10-7 after 8.
In came Billy for the 9th. Victorino doubled. BMBB then walked Bruntlett (who had replaced Utley earlier). He then struck out Howard and got Burrell to fly out to left. Pedro Feliz followed with a seeing eye single up the middle that drove in two. The second scored when Beltran threw to 3rd, and Wright went for a snap tag and the ball got by him. Bad throw (should have gone to 2nd Carlos), and bad play by Wright (he should have worried about the ball, not the runner there). So now it is 10-9, and Jayson Werth was at the plate. I think Billy just wanted redemption, so he allowed a couple of hits. He got Werth to fly out to right.
So, not pretty, but you know what? Who cares. They went into Philly and won one game after blowing a lead in the 9th, another after blowing 2 leads, and then won last night. At the end of the day, it doesn't matter how they did it. Just that they did.
San Fran tonight. Lincecum vs. Pelfrey. Lincecum is damn good. Should be a good game.
Just
Win
Series
LGM
Oh, and before I go. Back when I took my hiatus, I heard from some Philth fans.
PHILLIES OWN UR STUPID ASS U UGLY MOTHA FUCKA U AINT NEVA GETTIN 1st placeTHE PHILLIES WILL WIPE THE FLOOR WITH UR USELESS ASS TEAM SO GO FcuK YOURSELF U FcukIN WORTHLESS BLOGGER!!! PHILLIES IN 08- anonymous
You kiss your mom/sister with that mouth? I particularly loved the "worthless bloggr". If I'm so worthless, why did you respond?
Congratulations on recognizing your mediocrity and pulling the plug on your blog. Your blog will not be missed and neither will your team as it fades into oblivion.- I love the Phillies
Oh, I am mediocre, not argument there. I may not have been missed. But I did not fade into oblivion. And neither have the Mets.
Considering the Phils only won last year because of a stretch of extremely shitty baseball not seen since, well, April of 2007 by the Phils, the Phans would be wise to not count their chickens before they hatch.
"Objects in mirror are closer than they appear" - Doc on Metsgeek.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Pulse Check
So, we are 6 games into the 20 game stretch. The record 3-3. My hope was that the Mets would go 14-6 during the stretch. Four against the Yanks (2-2), Four against the Cardinals (1-1 so far, 2 left), Four against the Philth, then 3 against the Giants and Rockies.
Very little in the way of wiggle room in order to hit the goal. They can only lose 1 game against the Philth, and one each against the Giants and Rockies. That of course assumes they win the next two against the Cards.
Speaking of the Cardinals, tonight, Pedro goes for the Mets, while the Cards send Joel Pineiro to the hill. Ugh. Pineiro is the type of guy who gives the Mets bats fits. See last year. Tomorrow, Pelfrey vs. Boggs, a rookie who the Mets have never faced. Of course.
Against the Phillies, the Mets will toss Santana, Maine, Ollie and Pedro. The Philly rotation is not yet set, as Hamels may pitch Thursday. Not sure what they are thinking, but we shall see.
Last night, Tony Armas jr. went 6, allowing 4 runs. By no means is he a "savior". He is what he is, a fill in guy. The double header last Friday caused the need, otherwise the Mets would have had to throw guys on short rest. He did what they mets needed, keeping them in the game. Luckily, the offense had one of its periodic games that makes you wonder WTF happens all the other games.
Seven runs, 14 hits. Endy had 2 hits, DW had 3, including a long home run. Church continued to rake, and even Delgado had 3 hits (2 doubles), while Castro (starting in place of Schneider) had 2 with 3 RBI's.
After Armas, Heilman, Pedro Dos (1 pitch, one batter retired), Dirty and Wags finished it up. Nice all around effort, both on the mound and at the plate.
Consistency is needed from the bats. They cannot afford to be up and down. It's nice to score runs in bunches, but not if the next game is flat. Hopefully, the return of Church (especially to the #5 spot) will help.
This weekend is HUGE. If the Mets can be 3 out going in, and can take 3, the lead will shrink. They can also possibly get into the Phillies heads. The Mets are 4-2 so far against the Phils. They need to improve on that and make some noise.
Injury Report
Moises Alou had 3 hits while playing left for St. Lucie last night. One hit was a home run. Jerry thinks he may be ready to come back this weekend. IF he does, and IF he is able to stay healthy, the lineup will be scary. Big If's right there of course. Remember though, Moises just flat out rakes. He is one of those pure hitters who can roll out of bed and go 2-5. His return will be a tremendous help.
El Duque is apparently throwing off a mound, has adjusted his delivery to alleviate stress on his foot, and could make a rehab start next week. Sure, when have we heard that before. Frankly, who does he replace, even if he is healthy? Pelfrey, who has improved? Ollie? Well, maybe Ollie, if Sunday was an aberration. I'm not holding my breath on either Duque or Moises. Though I think Moises is the better bet to come back. How long he will last is another question.
Very little in the way of wiggle room in order to hit the goal. They can only lose 1 game against the Philth, and one each against the Giants and Rockies. That of course assumes they win the next two against the Cards.
Speaking of the Cardinals, tonight, Pedro goes for the Mets, while the Cards send Joel Pineiro to the hill. Ugh. Pineiro is the type of guy who gives the Mets bats fits. See last year. Tomorrow, Pelfrey vs. Boggs, a rookie who the Mets have never faced. Of course.
Against the Phillies, the Mets will toss Santana, Maine, Ollie and Pedro. The Philly rotation is not yet set, as Hamels may pitch Thursday. Not sure what they are thinking, but we shall see.
Last night, Tony Armas jr. went 6, allowing 4 runs. By no means is he a "savior". He is what he is, a fill in guy. The double header last Friday caused the need, otherwise the Mets would have had to throw guys on short rest. He did what they mets needed, keeping them in the game. Luckily, the offense had one of its periodic games that makes you wonder WTF happens all the other games.
Seven runs, 14 hits. Endy had 2 hits, DW had 3, including a long home run. Church continued to rake, and even Delgado had 3 hits (2 doubles), while Castro (starting in place of Schneider) had 2 with 3 RBI's.
After Armas, Heilman, Pedro Dos (1 pitch, one batter retired), Dirty and Wags finished it up. Nice all around effort, both on the mound and at the plate.
Consistency is needed from the bats. They cannot afford to be up and down. It's nice to score runs in bunches, but not if the next game is flat. Hopefully, the return of Church (especially to the #5 spot) will help.
This weekend is HUGE. If the Mets can be 3 out going in, and can take 3, the lead will shrink. They can also possibly get into the Phillies heads. The Mets are 4-2 so far against the Phils. They need to improve on that and make some noise.
Injury Report
Moises Alou had 3 hits while playing left for St. Lucie last night. One hit was a home run. Jerry thinks he may be ready to come back this weekend. IF he does, and IF he is able to stay healthy, the lineup will be scary. Big If's right there of course. Remember though, Moises just flat out rakes. He is one of those pure hitters who can roll out of bed and go 2-5. His return will be a tremendous help.
El Duque is apparently throwing off a mound, has adjusted his delivery to alleviate stress on his foot, and could make a rehab start next week. Sure, when have we heard that before. Frankly, who does he replace, even if he is healthy? Pelfrey, who has improved? Ollie? Well, maybe Ollie, if Sunday was an aberration. I'm not holding my breath on either Duque or Moises. Though I think Moises is the better bet to come back. How long he will last is another question.
Monday, June 30, 2008
"Gangsta Ollie"
So, we wind up with a split of the weekend set against the Yanks. A rout in the opener Friday, thanks to Delgado was followed by an ass-whooping in the nightcap, and a squeaker of a loss Saturday. So, Mets fans could be forgiven if they were worried going into yesterday's game, with Ollie facing Rasner. Before we get to that, lets go over some things from the other 3 games.
The opener Friday was nice to see, since the Mets actually battered a pitcher they had never seen before (Giese). Everyone hit. Wright had a strong game, going 4-5. Beltran went yard. Jose had a hit and 2 walks. Castillo had 2 hits, 3 walks and scored 5 runs. The hero from the bats was Delgado. Carlos went 3-5 with 9 RBI, a double and two homers, one the first Grand Slam by a Met since 2006 (and boy, did he CRUSH that ball). Only Marlon Anderson from the regulars failed to get a hit, though he did walk.
From the mound, Pelfrey did not make it easy, but he sucked it up and pitched tough when he had to. He struck out 3 in the first, though he did give up a run. Very few balls were hit hard off of him. He hurt himself with 4 walks, and with an error (though Tatis was charged with it, he should have held the ball). Castillo also made an error. Pedro Dos pitched an inning and allowed a HR to A-Rod. Heilman pitched a scoreless 7th, and Muniz allowed a run in 2 innings of mop-up duty.
In the nightcap, Sidney Ponson owned them. Ponson went 6, giving up 5 hits. The Yanks pen shut them down from there. Pedro was, well, awful. It is thought he was tipping his pitches, particularly his change-up. Hopefully he can fix that, because this team needs a good Pedro if they are going to make any noise. Schoenweis gave up 3 runs in 2/3 of an inning, with Joe Smith and Wagner finishing it up. Anemic output from the lineup, what, were they all tired out having scored 15 in the day game?
Saturday was a nailbiter, as Johan faced Dandy Andy, the bestest most honest HGH user in baseball. Johan was a tough luck loser again, 6 innings, 4 hits, 4 bb's, 8 k's and 3 runs. Pedro Dos and Dirty finished it up. Johan was a bit perturbed with the Ump, and also seemed a bit annoyed at lack of support from the lineup (you would think he was used to it from his Twins days). It sucks, but he was right, this team should score more than 2 runs (Castro and Wright went yard).
So, the stage was set for Ollie. Which one would we get. Much like Two-Face, you never know which Ollie you are gonna get. Of course, since he was facing the Yanks, we got Good Ollie, or as Jerry called him after the game "Gansta Ollie". Seven innings of 1 run ball. Eight strikouts, including A-Rod with a runner on second. They key, NO WALKS. That is huge for Ollie. He didn't even get flustered by a Reyes error (though Jose did, and threw a fit on the field. I know you were upset Jose, but dude, keep it in the locker room, mkay? You are just feeding the media trolls who think you are out of control, excellent hitting stats aside). Was it the new motion? Maybe. But let's see Ollie put together a few dominant starts like this before we proclaim him fixed. Though maybe he likes Tuscany Tile better than Hardwood floors and ketchup on his ice cream.
The offense didn't do much against Rasner, but it did enough. Delgado continued his beating of the Yanks with another long homer. Reyes went 2-4 with a walk and a run scored. Endy went 3-4 with a run scored. Not a lot, but enough.
Tonight they start a 4 game set against the Cardinals in Stl. Alex Nelson at Metsgeek has the analysis of the opposing starters. The Mets will have Maine, TBN, Pedro and Pelfrey. Four tough games against the Wild Card leading Cardinals. Just.Win.Series. guys.
LGM
The opener Friday was nice to see, since the Mets actually battered a pitcher they had never seen before (Giese). Everyone hit. Wright had a strong game, going 4-5. Beltran went yard. Jose had a hit and 2 walks. Castillo had 2 hits, 3 walks and scored 5 runs. The hero from the bats was Delgado. Carlos went 3-5 with 9 RBI, a double and two homers, one the first Grand Slam by a Met since 2006 (and boy, did he CRUSH that ball). Only Marlon Anderson from the regulars failed to get a hit, though he did walk.
From the mound, Pelfrey did not make it easy, but he sucked it up and pitched tough when he had to. He struck out 3 in the first, though he did give up a run. Very few balls were hit hard off of him. He hurt himself with 4 walks, and with an error (though Tatis was charged with it, he should have held the ball). Castillo also made an error. Pedro Dos pitched an inning and allowed a HR to A-Rod. Heilman pitched a scoreless 7th, and Muniz allowed a run in 2 innings of mop-up duty.
In the nightcap, Sidney Ponson owned them. Ponson went 6, giving up 5 hits. The Yanks pen shut them down from there. Pedro was, well, awful. It is thought he was tipping his pitches, particularly his change-up. Hopefully he can fix that, because this team needs a good Pedro if they are going to make any noise. Schoenweis gave up 3 runs in 2/3 of an inning, with Joe Smith and Wagner finishing it up. Anemic output from the lineup, what, were they all tired out having scored 15 in the day game?
Saturday was a nailbiter, as Johan faced Dandy Andy, the bestest most honest HGH user in baseball. Johan was a tough luck loser again, 6 innings, 4 hits, 4 bb's, 8 k's and 3 runs. Pedro Dos and Dirty finished it up. Johan was a bit perturbed with the Ump, and also seemed a bit annoyed at lack of support from the lineup (you would think he was used to it from his Twins days). It sucks, but he was right, this team should score more than 2 runs (Castro and Wright went yard).
So, the stage was set for Ollie. Which one would we get. Much like Two-Face, you never know which Ollie you are gonna get. Of course, since he was facing the Yanks, we got Good Ollie, or as Jerry called him after the game "Gansta Ollie". Seven innings of 1 run ball. Eight strikouts, including A-Rod with a runner on second. They key, NO WALKS. That is huge for Ollie. He didn't even get flustered by a Reyes error (though Jose did, and threw a fit on the field. I know you were upset Jose, but dude, keep it in the locker room, mkay? You are just feeding the media trolls who think you are out of control, excellent hitting stats aside). Was it the new motion? Maybe. But let's see Ollie put together a few dominant starts like this before we proclaim him fixed. Though maybe he likes Tuscany Tile better than Hardwood floors and ketchup on his ice cream.
The offense didn't do much against Rasner, but it did enough. Delgado continued his beating of the Yanks with another long homer. Reyes went 2-4 with a walk and a run scored. Endy went 3-4 with a run scored. Not a lot, but enough.
Tonight they start a 4 game set against the Cardinals in Stl. Alex Nelson at Metsgeek has the analysis of the opposing starters. The Mets will have Maine, TBN, Pedro and Pelfrey. Four tough games against the Wild Card leading Cardinals. Just.Win.Series. guys.
LGM
Thursday, June 26, 2008
OK Guys, Time to Put up or Shut Up
We've heard a lot this year from various players about how they need to play consistently good baseball. We haven't had that "we're gonna win" feeling here since early last year. Well, now is the time to do it. Put up or shut up time is here. Let's take a look at the schedule shall we?:
Friday - Sunday - Yanks (4)
Mon 6/30 - Thursday 7/3 - @ Cardinals (4)
Friday 7/4 - Monday 7/7 - @ Philth (4)
Tuesday 7/8 - Thursday 7/10 - Giants (3)
Friday 7/11 - Sunday 7/13 - Rockies (3)
The Yanks are hot right now. The Cardinals are in first. The Philth, well, they are the "Team to Beat". Then dregs in the form of Giants and Rockies.
20 games. This is the time to make a damn statement. The time for this team to say, "enough with the suck, it's time to kick some ass". The time to get uniforms dirty (I'm looking at youDornDelgado. I want someone to go Jake Taylor on his ass and say "I don't know what happened to you. But if you ever, ever tank another play like you did today, I'm gonna cut your nuts off and stuff em down your fucking throat! ") Beltran, forget the steals %, run. Castillo, wake the fuck up in the field. If you can't play, tell Jerry. You ain't helping if you can't move. Time for DW to be the DW of late last year and start hitting consistently and with power.
Jose has been pulling his weight, and then some over the past 2 months or so. Beltran has his moments, as does DW. But they need to be more frequent. Beltran spoke about being the team to beat. Well, so far, he hasn't held up his end of the bargain. he's got all the talent in the world. I'll give him a little bit of a pass, considering he had knee surgery, but the time to put up has come.
Considering the bottom of the lineup is a black hole of suck, the top of the order needs to do their damn job. Wright and Beltran need to drive in runs. Delgado needs to as well. Hopefully Church can come back and pick up where he left off. They need to compensate for the likes of Endy, Schneider and whoever else needs to play left any given day with Alou out.
From the pitching side, Santana has been good, and I expect him to improve as we hit the second half. Yeah, giving up a grand slam to the opposing pitcher sucks, but the numbers are still there. With some offense, he would have a couple of more wins and less losses. The ERA is good, the peripherals are good. Maine pitched well last night for the most part. He needs to continue. Pelfrey has seemingly turned a corner. Pedro should improve as he regains his control (remember, this is almost like ST for him). Ollie on the other hand needs to get fixed. Boras better call him up and remind him he is "pissing away a fortune" as was said during his start the other night. He faces the Yanks Sunday, a team he usually does well against. He needs to do it then, and for the rest of the year.
The pen is improving as of late. Scho has been good as a LOOGY. Wagner has gotten past his bad week. Heilman has had a very good June (though he needs to do it against the likes of the Yanks or Philth to regain the trust of many). Dirty was dialing it up a bit last night, so maybe he is getting past whatever fears he had about his shoulder (or maybe his arm strength is back). Pedro Dos needs to stop walking guys. And Joe Smith has done well as a ROOGY. Carlos Muniz is here for the weekend, but will probably be sent back to NOLA as the Mets need a starter July 1 (probably Tony Armas Jr., who has done quite well in NOLA so far). Keep up the good guys.
20 games. Under .500 is not an option. 10-10 is not an option. Something like 14-6 will go a long way towards starting to build their confidence, rebuild that of the fans, and put a scare into the opposition.
They should be embarrassed with how they have played to date. Forget the injury excuses. It is time to put up or shut up.
Just.Win.Series. (though a few sweeps would be nice)
LGM
Friday - Sunday - Yanks (4)
Mon 6/30 - Thursday 7/3 - @ Cardinals (4)
Friday 7/4 - Monday 7/7 - @ Philth (4)
Tuesday 7/8 - Thursday 7/10 - Giants (3)
Friday 7/11 - Sunday 7/13 - Rockies (3)
The Yanks are hot right now. The Cardinals are in first. The Philth, well, they are the "Team to Beat". Then dregs in the form of Giants and Rockies.
20 games. This is the time to make a damn statement. The time for this team to say, "enough with the suck, it's time to kick some ass". The time to get uniforms dirty (I'm looking at you
Jose has been pulling his weight, and then some over the past 2 months or so. Beltran has his moments, as does DW. But they need to be more frequent. Beltran spoke about being the team to beat. Well, so far, he hasn't held up his end of the bargain. he's got all the talent in the world. I'll give him a little bit of a pass, considering he had knee surgery, but the time to put up has come.
Considering the bottom of the lineup is a black hole of suck, the top of the order needs to do their damn job. Wright and Beltran need to drive in runs. Delgado needs to as well. Hopefully Church can come back and pick up where he left off. They need to compensate for the likes of Endy, Schneider and whoever else needs to play left any given day with Alou out.
From the pitching side, Santana has been good, and I expect him to improve as we hit the second half. Yeah, giving up a grand slam to the opposing pitcher sucks, but the numbers are still there. With some offense, he would have a couple of more wins and less losses. The ERA is good, the peripherals are good. Maine pitched well last night for the most part. He needs to continue. Pelfrey has seemingly turned a corner. Pedro should improve as he regains his control (remember, this is almost like ST for him). Ollie on the other hand needs to get fixed. Boras better call him up and remind him he is "pissing away a fortune" as was said during his start the other night. He faces the Yanks Sunday, a team he usually does well against. He needs to do it then, and for the rest of the year.
The pen is improving as of late. Scho has been good as a LOOGY. Wagner has gotten past his bad week. Heilman has had a very good June (though he needs to do it against the likes of the Yanks or Philth to regain the trust of many). Dirty was dialing it up a bit last night, so maybe he is getting past whatever fears he had about his shoulder (or maybe his arm strength is back). Pedro Dos needs to stop walking guys. And Joe Smith has done well as a ROOGY. Carlos Muniz is here for the weekend, but will probably be sent back to NOLA as the Mets need a starter July 1 (probably Tony Armas Jr., who has done quite well in NOLA so far). Keep up the good guys.
20 games. Under .500 is not an option. 10-10 is not an option. Something like 14-6 will go a long way towards starting to build their confidence, rebuild that of the fans, and put a scare into the opposition.
They should be embarrassed with how they have played to date. Forget the injury excuses. It is time to put up or shut up.
Just.Win.Series. (though a few sweeps would be nice)
LGM
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Certainly a Lot of Fertililzer Last Night
Ed made the trek to Shea last night, arriving a tad late. I hoped that would mean I would miss the "bad Ollie", since it was already 3-0 Mariners at 7:30. I was wrong.
The boos rained down last night, leading to fertile ground for growth. Of course, all that grew was the Mariners runs total. Ollie was awful. Vargas was bad (and was DFA'd at the end of the game, welcome back Carlos Muniz). The offense was putrid (which was to be expected, considering DW was sitting this one out, Delgado stinks, and the rest of the lineup save for Reyes and Beltran is not so good). Heck, Tatis had 3 hits, as did Schneider, and Marlon had 2. That was it folks.
The highlight of the night was Jerry Manuel getting run. You've all either read the stories, or saw it on TV (or in-house), but let me tell you, it was a sight. Rungee no doubt baited Beltran. Jerry did the smart thing coming out to protect Carlos, knowing that if he got tossed, things would go from bad to worse. Rungee decided he would bump Manuel, who went nuts. After Jerry got run, Beltran got fired up and went nuts on Rungee. I will be shocked if Carlos isn't suspended (he does NOT deserve it), but not shocked if Rungee isn't. I'm sorry, an ump should not initiate contact with a manager or player. If a manager does that, he gets suspended. Rungee has no fucking business doing that, and he should be banned from umping tonight. His strike zone was for shit last night, low pitch after low pitch was called a strike. It was like he thought T** G****** was on the mound (circa 2000 G******, not the most recent incarnation). Good for Jerry trying to protect his guy, and good for Carlos for calling Rungee on what he did. The good news was that Marlon Anderson was not put in center to replace Beltran, Send 'Em Sandy put him in left, moved Trot to right and Endy to center. Trot did show off an arm on a couple of plays.
After the game, Jerry said:
Now, that's nice Jerry, but what are you going to do? Half the team is hurt or sucking. Who replaces Delgado? Who replaces Ollie? Castillo? There is little in the minors that is ready (Sorry folks, Mike Carp is not ready, and Anderson Hernandez (called IPOR for a reason) is not an option).
I've been a big supporter of Ollie, but he has something seriously wrong. Is it stuff or mechanics, I don't know. But this team cannot afford to have him blow up like this. Billy Wagner was wrong to voice his displeasure a few weeks ago in the press, but he was right. Ollie needs to do better. Hell, they all need to do better.
We can hope that the day of rest for DW helps him find his swing against righties (do yourself a favor, don't look at the splits. You will get sick). We can hope that Church comes back healthy, same for Alou. But the bottom line is that this team has many issues that need to be fixed. It wasn't all on Willie.
I hope Omar is able to pull something out of his hat. Jerry showed fire last night, but it didn't do squat.
No series win. Tonight, a face saving game.
Still, I gotta say it:
LGM
The boos rained down last night, leading to fertile ground for growth. Of course, all that grew was the Mariners runs total. Ollie was awful. Vargas was bad (and was DFA'd at the end of the game, welcome back Carlos Muniz). The offense was putrid (which was to be expected, considering DW was sitting this one out, Delgado stinks, and the rest of the lineup save for Reyes and Beltran is not so good). Heck, Tatis had 3 hits, as did Schneider, and Marlon had 2. That was it folks.
The highlight of the night was Jerry Manuel getting run. You've all either read the stories, or saw it on TV (or in-house), but let me tell you, it was a sight. Rungee no doubt baited Beltran. Jerry did the smart thing coming out to protect Carlos, knowing that if he got tossed, things would go from bad to worse. Rungee decided he would bump Manuel, who went nuts. After Jerry got run, Beltran got fired up and went nuts on Rungee. I will be shocked if Carlos isn't suspended (he does NOT deserve it), but not shocked if Rungee isn't. I'm sorry, an ump should not initiate contact with a manager or player. If a manager does that, he gets suspended. Rungee has no fucking business doing that, and he should be banned from umping tonight. His strike zone was for shit last night, low pitch after low pitch was called a strike. It was like he thought T** G****** was on the mound (circa 2000 G******, not the most recent incarnation). Good for Jerry trying to protect his guy, and good for Carlos for calling Rungee on what he did. The good news was that Marlon Anderson was not put in center to replace Beltran, Send 'Em Sandy put him in left, moved Trot to right and Endy to center. Trot did show off an arm on a couple of plays.
After the game, Jerry said:
"It could mean some tough decisions," Manuel said. "Could be lineup changes, could be rotation changes, could be all types of changes. We have to do what we have to do to get this team on track. We have such great fans and they're just waiting and waiting and waiting and waiting for us to do well."
Now, that's nice Jerry, but what are you going to do? Half the team is hurt or sucking. Who replaces Delgado? Who replaces Ollie? Castillo? There is little in the minors that is ready (Sorry folks, Mike Carp is not ready, and Anderson Hernandez (called IPOR for a reason) is not an option).
I've been a big supporter of Ollie, but he has something seriously wrong. Is it stuff or mechanics, I don't know. But this team cannot afford to have him blow up like this. Billy Wagner was wrong to voice his displeasure a few weeks ago in the press, but he was right. Ollie needs to do better. Hell, they all need to do better.
We can hope that the day of rest for DW helps him find his swing against righties (do yourself a favor, don't look at the splits. You will get sick). We can hope that Church comes back healthy, same for Alou. But the bottom line is that this team has many issues that need to be fixed. It wasn't all on Willie.
I hope Omar is able to pull something out of his hat. Jerry showed fire last night, but it didn't do squat.
No series win. Tonight, a face saving game.
Still, I gotta say it:
LGM
Monday, June 23, 2008
On Fertilizer and Birdcage Lining
So the Post had a front page story today that Jerry Manuel called Mets fans "shit". Of course, this is a complete twisting of the words. What Jerry said is this:
On the heels of last weeks' "I'll cut him" comment, Jerry is showing he has a way with words. You can go two ways with this. One, Jerry is out of his freaking mind. Two, Jerry is showing that he is human and is trying to take heat off the players. I have no problem with the above comment. Frankly, too many fans were booing for stupid ass reasons (booing Johan his first start anyone?) Support your damn team. If you boo, Jerry may cut your ass.
Seeing how his words get twisted, does make one think maybe Willie was a tad smarter than we gave him credit for. Willie was probably worried the media would twist his words. (Of course, the one time he did speak at length, he fucked up by the numebrs, see O'Conner, Ian story). The Post of course is leading the charge at this point. You know that if the team goes on a losing streak, they will be all over Jerry.
In any event, the Mets have won 6 of 10. Beltran and Reyes had very good weeks (interesting since both were "linked" as Willie haters). The starters for the most part have been good. The pen has gotten the job done. And thanks you California Angels for smacking the Philth around this weekend (yes, Ed knows they are not the California Angels, but this is my blog, and I shall call them whatever the heck I want.)
Jerry so far is making all the right moves and saying (mostly) all the right things. The seeds for a turnaround were planted a couple of weeks ago. The fertilizer has been added. Perhaps Jerry was a dash of Miracle-Gro.
The team does need more consistency out of DW. His hitting against righties, who he has owned in the past, is down a lot this year. He is a key part of the lineup (master of the obvious, I know). With Delgado still scuffling, it is imperative that DW drive guys in and get on base, so teams have to pitch to Beltran (for results of this, see LONG home run Beltran smacked yesterday).
Of course, a healthy Ryan Church will help. He is supposed to play for Brooklyn this week, and possibly return for the Yankee series this weekend.
Tonight, the Mariners come to town. King Felix vs. Johan. That's quite a nice match-up. Tomorrow, we have Ollie facing R.A. Dickey (Ed will be in the house for that one). Wednesday, Maine vs. Bedard. Alex Nelson over at Metsgeek has a scouting report on the opposing pitchers.
It is vital that they take 2 of 3 from the Mariners. This is the type of team they need to beat up on. Just Win Series guys.
LGM
“I’m going to say this, and I hope you all don’t take it wrong, I know you’re going to run out of here with something crazy on this: It’s very, very fertile ground for growth at Shea Stadium. It’s fertile ground for a team’s growth and development. Sometimes, fertile ground has fertilizer. But, fertilizer is a good thing. It’s a good thing. You get the greatest results, you get the most beautiful plants, when you put it in that type of fertile soil. That’s what we have the opportunity to do. Don’t take that wrong, because I know what you’re going to do with it.”
On the heels of last weeks' "I'll cut him" comment, Jerry is showing he has a way with words. You can go two ways with this. One, Jerry is out of his freaking mind. Two, Jerry is showing that he is human and is trying to take heat off the players. I have no problem with the above comment. Frankly, too many fans were booing for stupid ass reasons (booing Johan his first start anyone?) Support your damn team. If you boo, Jerry may cut your ass.
Seeing how his words get twisted, does make one think maybe Willie was a tad smarter than we gave him credit for. Willie was probably worried the media would twist his words. (Of course, the one time he did speak at length, he fucked up by the numebrs, see O'Conner, Ian story). The Post of course is leading the charge at this point. You know that if the team goes on a losing streak, they will be all over Jerry.
In any event, the Mets have won 6 of 10. Beltran and Reyes had very good weeks (interesting since both were "linked" as Willie haters). The starters for the most part have been good. The pen has gotten the job done. And thanks you California Angels for smacking the Philth around this weekend (yes, Ed knows they are not the California Angels, but this is my blog, and I shall call them whatever the heck I want.)
Jerry so far is making all the right moves and saying (mostly) all the right things. The seeds for a turnaround were planted a couple of weeks ago. The fertilizer has been added. Perhaps Jerry was a dash of Miracle-Gro.
The team does need more consistency out of DW. His hitting against righties, who he has owned in the past, is down a lot this year. He is a key part of the lineup (master of the obvious, I know). With Delgado still scuffling, it is imperative that DW drive guys in and get on base, so teams have to pitch to Beltran (for results of this, see LONG home run Beltran smacked yesterday).
Of course, a healthy Ryan Church will help. He is supposed to play for Brooklyn this week, and possibly return for the Yankee series this weekend.
Tonight, the Mariners come to town. King Felix vs. Johan. That's quite a nice match-up. Tomorrow, we have Ollie facing R.A. Dickey (Ed will be in the house for that one). Wednesday, Maine vs. Bedard. Alex Nelson over at Metsgeek has a scouting report on the opposing pitchers.
It is vital that they take 2 of 3 from the Mariners. This is the type of team they need to beat up on. Just Win Series guys.
LGM
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Ed Hates "Los Mets" Bulls**t
Ed returned today from a business trip to Boston. After my flight landed at LGA a little after 6 this evening, two gentlemen began discussing an upcoming Yankee game that they were attending. One of the gentlemen made a comment about the lack of intelligence on the part of Mets fans. Ed turned and gave him a relatively nasty look, but then smiled. The gentleman was probably about 50.
The gentleman then then began to discuss how the Yanks will rehire Willie. I said "do it, then the Wilpon's won't have to pay him". He then said they handled it wrong and disrespected him. My response "Well, they learned from the Yankees, and how they fired Billy, and Dick, and Yogi, and Billy, and Billy again..." He chuckled. The gentleman then said:
"The thing is Willie wasn't the problem. It was Minaya, signing all those latin players."
Ed was not happy. Ed said "That's kinda overblown". The gentleman then said "Well, he signed Alou, Pedro...". I cut him off and said "And Wagner, LoDuca, Schneider, Shoeneweis, Wise. Like I said, overblown." At that point, we deplaned.
This type of veiled racist bullshit pisses me off to no end. Mad Dog has done it. Some writers (I'm looking at you Larry Brooks) have made allusions to it. And the fans at many websites do it. Does Omar have a problem signing players he has past experience with (i.e., the Expos curse)? Yes. But to make comments about how the Mets have signed "too many latinos" IN PUBLIC is the height of stupidity. Funny how that gentleman said that Mets fans were stupid.
IMNSHO Omar obtains who he THINKS is the best available player. That might be Carlos Beltran. Or is might be Billy Wagner. It might be Carlos Delgado. Or it might be Paul LoDuca. The fact that there are people who drop to the "Los Mets" thing causes me to worry about this country. I don't give a crap if the player is white, black or latino. I care if the player is good. Bottom line, end of story.
The goal of a GM is to obtain the best available player. We may quibble with who Omar views as best available, but the fact of the matter is this team is a hell of a lot better than it was before he got here. Anyone really want to go back to 2004? Or 2003 or 2002?
I didn't think so.
Just
Win
Series
LGM
The gentleman then then began to discuss how the Yanks will rehire Willie. I said "do it, then the Wilpon's won't have to pay him". He then said they handled it wrong and disrespected him. My response "Well, they learned from the Yankees, and how they fired Billy, and Dick, and Yogi, and Billy, and Billy again..." He chuckled. The gentleman then said:
"The thing is Willie wasn't the problem. It was Minaya, signing all those latin players."
Ed was not happy. Ed said "That's kinda overblown". The gentleman then said "Well, he signed Alou, Pedro...". I cut him off and said "And Wagner, LoDuca, Schneider, Shoeneweis, Wise. Like I said, overblown." At that point, we deplaned.
This type of veiled racist bullshit pisses me off to no end. Mad Dog has done it. Some writers (I'm looking at you Larry Brooks) have made allusions to it. And the fans at many websites do it. Does Omar have a problem signing players he has past experience with (i.e., the Expos curse)? Yes. But to make comments about how the Mets have signed "too many latinos" IN PUBLIC is the height of stupidity. Funny how that gentleman said that Mets fans were stupid.
IMNSHO Omar obtains who he THINKS is the best available player. That might be Carlos Beltran. Or is might be Billy Wagner. It might be Carlos Delgado. Or it might be Paul LoDuca. The fact that there are people who drop to the "Los Mets" thing causes me to worry about this country. I don't give a crap if the player is white, black or latino. I care if the player is good. Bottom line, end of story.
The goal of a GM is to obtain the best available player. We may quibble with who Omar views as best available, but the fact of the matter is this team is a hell of a lot better than it was before he got here. Anyone really want to go back to 2004? Or 2003 or 2002?
I didn't think so.
Just
Win
Series
LGM
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
