Terry Stay or Terry Go?

Earlier today, the Mets announced they have signed manager Terry Collins to a 2 year extension with a team option for the 2016 season.  This comes on the heels of the Mets second straight 74-88 season and the third straight losing season under Terry Collins since he took over the manager's job for the 2011 season. He has a 225-261 (.462) overall record as manager of the Mets.

At first glance it seems odd to re-up a manager with such a dismal record and no season that even sniffed the post-season. However, I am on board with Terry receiving this extension. Some argue that Terry will be a placeholder for the manager who actually takes the Mets into the post-season. We can call that the "Buck Showalter". Buck has a history of being great with young talented players, teaching them the game, crafting them into actual major leaguers, but lacks the skills to take a team deep into the playoffs...so, a team usually replaces Buck just as the team he manages gets good enough to contend for a championship.  I don't see this in Terry Collins.

Yes, he is very good with young players and does take on the role of teaching the young players what they need to know. However, I think that has more to do with his history as a member of the Mets minor league system, which gave him a relationship with many of the players he is managing today. I don't think this necessarily pigeon-holes Terry as a "teaching manager" instead of a "championship manager". Yes, he is clearly a teaching manager...but that doesn't preclude him from also being the championship manager. You can be both a Buck Showalter as well as a Joe Girardi/Bob Brenly.  A championship manager still needs to teach the game and will have to get more out of role players/young players than he should be able to in order to win. If there is anything Terry has proven in the last three years, it is that he is capable of getting blood from a stone.

The record over the last three years is bad.  However, look at the talent he has been working with. In those three years he lost his ace twice (Johan and Harvey). He's had what feels like 83 different outfielders in his lineup. He has had a front office looking to shrink payroll. He has had owners we don't even need to talk about.

We have finally started to surround him with major league talent. This is the off-season we are supposed to begin adding more. Why cut him loose now? He has shown he can handle youth and I believe he derserves the chance to take the next step.  And hey, even if he does end up being the Buck Showalter to someone else...that worked for the Yankees and Diamondbacks, didn't it?

A Case Of Yuengling For 74 Wins

It was another unsuccessful season for the Mets, another year with significantly fewer highs than lows. However, my personal high point was win number 73, which propelled the Mets past the 72.5 win line established by myself and noted b̶l̶o̶w̶h̶a̶r̶d̶  writer Rob Patterson, earning me a case of these guys:

Now before Rob comes on here and tells you about this, it is worth noting that I am currently a paltry 2-5 lifetime in these wagers. This makes the victory all the sweeter.

Pros and Cons of 2013

Well...the 2013 MLB season is (mercifully) over.  The Mets juuust missed the playoffs...but there is always next year. We've been told all along that there was a long-term plan. The team would be bad for a few years, but then in 2014, and even more so in 2015, the team would contend. I am still a believer in this plan. With that in mind...I am going to go through my pros and cons list for the 2013 season that was.

Pro: Matt Harvey

Yeah...sigh...he's hurt. We don't know if he's going to have surgery. We don't know when he'll pitch again. Here's what we do know. He's really really good. Like...historically good.

Con: Ike Davis

There is nobody on this team that I root for harder. Ever since he spent his first month diving over the first base railing to catch pop-ups...he has been one of my favorites. However, and quite unfortunately, he may not be a major leaguer. One year can be a fluke...but now it's two. Smarter people than me still believe he can hit (he did hit 30+ homeruns last year) and we all know he can field, however, I am no longer on board.

Pro: Zack Wheeler

Really not much you can say other than he exceeded expectations. He dramatically improved as the major league season went on and has put his first half of a year up there with Harvey's first half of a year. I don't think any reasonable person can expect him to have a sophomore year like Harvey's...but why not?

Con: Ruben Tejada

I'm done. Enough said.

Pro: The Wilpons

I know, I know. But, guess what? They didn't get pulled into a single ponzi scheme bankruptcy suit this year...that we know of. Not a single member of the Wilpon clan insulted a single member of our core players (I also realize we don't have core players) to the media this year. This is a vast improvement over previous year and I, for one, am thankful.

Con: The Wilpons

It's only a matter of time before they screw up again. Please David Einhorn...please.

Pro: Mr. Met

We still have the best mascot in baseball. Screw you Phanatic.

Photo courtesy of ESPN.com

Con: Citi Field Attendance

This probably isn't entirely our fault. The Mets have the 10th lowest attendance of any team in baseball this year. We don't have much reason to go besides the excellent Citi Field beer choices. Also, I sat in the Pepsi Porch for the first time this year and found the view wonderful and with a very fair price point. That'll be my go-to spot from now on. Attendance is understandably low. However, it's a self defeating cycle.We don't go because we want the team to be better. However, by not going, we are decreasing the chances of that happening. I get not going...but you know what Puddy said, "Support the Team!".

Pro: Bobby Parnell

He's good. We thought he could be...and he is. Now to just get him healthy.

Con: The Mets

I don't have to explain this one to Mets fans. This team has been steadily moving in a good direction for 2 or so years now. We've seen our youth begin to blossom. We've seen our favorite player sign-up for many more years. We are ALL waiting for the other shoe to drop. We know that it is right around the corner...lurking. I am very afraid.

Pro: Irrational Yankee Hate

No matter how bad the Mets were this year...no matter how injured Matt Harvey is...no matter how many times David Wright gets hit in the head....no matter how many times Ike Davis strikes out....the Yankee still didn't make the playoffs. This makes me feel good.

Angels In Our Outfield (Or Infield)?

Since the last offseason, the Angels have been theoretically paired with the Mets as a potential trade partner because of their glut of hitters compared to the Mets young pitching prospects. Throwing out the massive contracts of aging not-so-much stars anymore, Albert Pujols and Josh Hamliton, let's examine a few of the possibilities:

Peter Bourjos: Career .251 hitter with no power; doesn't seem to do one thing particularly well. Pass.

Mark Trumbo: Probably the most intriguing because he has averaged over 30 home runs the last three seasons, something no current Met can come close to claiming. However, the career average and OBP far from wow you. 

Howie Kendrick: Primary position is second base and his career numbers are comparable to Murph's; not sure there is any worth in making a trade for him. 

Erick Aybar: Better than anyone the Mets have put out at shortstop the last few years, unless anyone still thinks Ruben Tejada can make something of himself? Anyone?

Mike Trout: No, no you are looking for Effing Yankees, this is a Mets blog.

To me, Trumbo would be the play if you are looking to make a trade with the Angels. I can handle a .250 career average to actually watch some balls leave the ball park. Something we aren't too used to from our Mets the last several years. A trade package for both Trumbo and Aybar might be the most ideal situation, but it could cost you Jon Niese or several prospects. Still, both team's needs align and all possibilities should be explored by the Mets front office.

Arroyo royo royo roy!

Remind you of anything? Okay, I won't go there I am over Jose. Anyway, I read that soon to be free agent pitcher Bronson Arroyo told Mike Puma that the Mets are a team he would consider. As well as any other team that trains in Florida. I am not sure what the connection is there. Bronson is also quoted as saying he would fit in nicely with the Mets young group of pitchers.

Wait, did someone say they would fit into this ball club nicely? Someone pinch me and hard. This is refreshing to hear that someone might want to join this organization because we haven't had much reason recently to think anyone would. Who knows maybe some other bigger name free agents will want to. The pitching future is bright.

I wouldn't mind seeing this big leg kick in queens. Oh, and Bronson, if you are reading this, please bring the corn rows back if you come to New York. Style points go a long way and I would  love to hear Terry's reaction if he returns.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.com

follow me @jwil25

Do You Root Against The Mets?

It's a simple question. Are you currently rooting against the Mets? From a playoff standpoint, the Mets have been playing meaningless baseball for months. That is unless you consider the impact they're making on the race between Reds, Pirates, and Cardinals meaningful.

The Mets are playing for pride, for the future of Terry Collins and for the most part, the future. It's an epic conflict of interest. Players like Lucas Duda, Dice K, Juan Lagares and so many others are auditioning for roles in the majors. In the process however, they are risking a future portion of the franchise. 

The Mets currently sit in a fourth place tie for the ninth worse record in baseball. I haven't the first clue as to how the tie breakers work when it comes to protected draft picks, but the Mets recent stretch of good play has certainly put theirs in jeopardy. 

I may fall in the minority here, but there is no difference between 70 wins and 75 wins for me. The team will have still finished well out of the playoff picture and made little to no progress towards finding its future identity. The tiny moral victory that would be finishing ahead of the Phillies in the division is just that, nothing more than being able to say my team sucks a little bit less than yours. 

And so with one turn through the rotation to go, I'd actually prefer the Mets tank for a change. Lord knows they've been so proficient at it in the past. Lose now, so the front office has one less excuse at its disposal this winter when the free agent period opens. Lose meaningless games now, so there is even a slightly better chance you can win meaningful games later. 

To Tulo or Not to Tulo...

Photo courtesy of ESPN.com

Last week, in the New York Daily News, columnist John Harper wrote about the Mets potentially making an off-season run at trading for Troy Tulowitzki.  Tulowitzski is due to make about $134 million over the next seven years.  He is currently 28 years old and is one of, if not the best, short stop combination of defense and offense in baseball.  He is a career .295 hitter with a career .875 OPS. Now, Tulo plays in Colorado so you have to look at this Home vs. Away numbers.  He has a .931 OPS at home and a .819 OPS away from the friendly expanses of Coors Field.  However, .819 is still very good for a short stop.  He averages about 6.1 WAR per 162 games and is a plus defensive player with two Gold Gloves to his name.  To say that least, he is a really good, to potentially great, player.

The Mets do not have a shortstop.  Ruben Tejada recently broke his leg which, in this humble bloggers opinion, means little because I had already given up on him.  There is chatter about bringing the lovable Jose Reyes back.  Personally, I would love this because I miss Jose to death, however, I would not bet my or your life savings on this actually happening.

Harper, in his column, had a suggestion:

OK, so how about this: Travis d’Arnaud, Dillon Gee, and Rafael Montero for Tulowitzki.

At first I was taken back by the inclusion of d'Arnaud.  We have come to have many expectations for him and he is supposed to, one day, be a regular at the mid-summer classic. However, it appears the Rockies are in the market for major league ready position player talent...not exactly something the Mets are flush with.  So...I gave a second thought.

Typically I am not a person that likes to trade young pieces.  My pretend GM strategy is to compile young pieces...a ton of them...wait and see them rise up, then, being a large market team, strike while the iron is hot in the off-season with a spending spree that brings in 2-3 major pieces of talent to compliment the young players and role players.  My theory is this will buy you a 3-4 year window with which to win and if it doesn't work out, by the time the window is closed, those young'ns are ripe for trade or will move on allowing you to begin again.

But think about that trade.  Gee is a back of the rotation kind of guy.  You cannot consider him a big piece.  Rafael Montero is projected to be a middle of the rotation guy with the potential to move up if he can add pitches.  If there is one thing the Mets ARE flush with, it is very young arms.  Of the arms we do have, Montero has to be considered towards the bottom.  He is a great young prospect, but you don't get Tulo for free.  d'Arnaud is the crux of this trade.  This is the lynch pin.  The question comes down to, would you trade a'Arnaud?

I say yes. This isn't because of what we have seen so far offensively.  Yes, he has struggled mightily, but I do not listen to small sample sizes.  He has handled a young staff and been very effective behind the plate receiving pitches.  He has always hit, and will learn to hit here. However, he will not hit for Joe Mauer's average, he will not throw runners out like Yadier Molina, he will not hit for the power of a Mike Piazza, and he will not be Buster Posey.  He will be a good, all-star caliber catcher.  I would compare him to say...a Jorge Posada or maybe a Jason Varitek.  A guy you would love to have on your team...but a guy you can live without for the right price.

I would make that deal for Tulowitzski.  If the Rockies don't go for it...I would shop that deal. I think it can bring back a serious shortstop or a serious corner outfielder...and I think we can live without the three we give up.

Alderson Tepidly Supports Collins, Indicts Himself

Sandy Alderson spoke out about his view of manager Terry Collins' job performance yesterday, with Collins nearing the end of the last year of his contract. He spoke about the skipper in a positive light, highlighting the difficulties anybody would have in managing this ball club: 

He's done an excellent job across the board with the talent that he's had, with the injuries he's had to endure, with the other changes in personnel...

 Wins and losses I don't think ever determine a manager's fate, frankly. Even winning is not necessarily a guarantee of tenure. So it's always a little bit subjective. In this case, perhaps more so. But you have to temper your evaluation with the circumstances and the context, which includes the players, the injuries, the trades. - Alderson 9/23

Well, that's terrific Sandy. You feel like he's done a terrific job with the talent he's had. All we have to do is find the guy responsible for constructing this roster, which ranks 27th in team batting average, 25th in your beloved on base percentage, and next to last in front of only the Marlins in slugging percentage, and talk about that guy. Because that guy fielded a baseball team that only hit 128 home runs this year, while striking out 1337 times to date. 1337 strikeouts! Only the Twins and Astros have struck out more than that, in case anybody was wondering what kind of company this team keeps. So let's just find the guy in charge of building the team, of surveying the talent and then trying to put a competitive group of nine guys on the field, and talk to him about job security.

I know it's the Wilpons job to spend the money, and I'm not saying it's time to move on from Sandy. I just don't understand how a team's general manager gives a pass to their manager based on the lack of talent on the field, and not one person asks him why he didn't do more to change it. Put him on the spot, make him answer the questions. If it's not his fault and he's working with a ridiculously low spending cap, get the info out of him. He's probably dying to tell us this isn't his fault. So somebody ask him.

"Why is there such a lack of talent on this club that you think a 222-258 record is good enough over three years?"

"At what point will we begin fielding a team that we expect to play over .500 baseball?"

"Is there anything specifically that has prevented you from acquiring any front line free agents or making upgrades at the Major League level?"

Playing Out The String

The Mets dropped a thriller to the Cincinnati Reds last night 3-2 in ten innings in front of dozens of viewers. The good was that Aaron Harang looked okay and Lucas Duda hit another home run. The bad is that it was just one more meaningless, unwatchable crap show of a baseball game that the Mets have played in late September. Fall weather baseball used to be fun. Even in the collapse years, at least there was a reason to watch.

But it hasn't been fun for a while now. It's been torturous and slow, with the future seeming further away every year we are supposed to be closer to it. Want a young stud pitcher? We've got him. And now we'll only have to wait one more year to see him pitch again. Want to compete for the playoffs, make a run at the division? Well, we're looking to add some pieces and grow next year, but aren't going to overpay for anything (read: spend money).

One year soon, I'd like the lofty goal for the season not to be reaching .500.

And They Say There Is Never An Ugly Bride

Sooo, this happened over the weekend! What you're looking at is an annual hazing ritual that occurs every season in Queens. Rookies are made to dress up in whatever fashion veterans see fit. Last season saw them in cheerleading outfits. This years..it's a fairly awful looking bridal party!

Mets Put Protected Pick At Risk

Last night the Mets completed a three game sweep of the hated Philadelphia Phillies and in the process tied the team from the City of Brotherly Love for third Place in the NL East. The Mets have finished in fourth place in the division each of the previous four seasons, so if they can squeak out third that would have to be a moral victory at a minimum. We should be excited, right? Wrong.

The sweep of the Phillies now places the Mets on the bubble for a protected draft pick next year. They currently sit tied with the Phillies there as well, with the tenth worst record in baseball. If they rise even one position higher in the overall MLB standings, they will have to forfeit their first overall pick in next summer's amateur draft. 

As we've discussed here on Effing Mets several times, an unprotected pick was reason enough for the Mets to shy away from Michael Bourne last winter. It would be a shame to see them do the same again this year, when so many replacement parts look as if they'll be available. Such a scenario would put the acquisition of players like Shin-Soo Choo, Hunter Pence and/or Jacoby Ellsbury in question. 

With Just seven games to go this will all work itself out soon, but their recent stretch of good play may actually be bad for the franchise in the long run. And that my friends... Is sooo Mets!

CoLOLe HameLOLs

Just in case you missed it last night, not only did the Mets beat the Philadelphia Phillies..they also beat this clown:

The loss dropped perennial pretty boy and wanna be hard ass, Cole Hamels, to a comical 8-14 on the season.  Bear in mind he's making a fat $19.5 million this season for all his semi-hard work.

The guy who once call the Mets "choke artists" hasn't faired too well against them over the years.  With twelve career defeats at the hands of the Mets, Hamels has fallen victim to no other team more frequently.  The Mets have posted a 4.29 ERA against him over the years, well above his career average of just 3.36 and nearly a run worst than any other teams he's thrown more than 100 innings against.  Last but not least, it was nice to deny Hamels is 100th win last night.

This Day In Mets History: Piazza HR Heals New York

September 21st, 2001

On this day twelve years ago, Mike Piazza hit what is likely the most memorable home run in franchise history. With not only the entire city of New York, but most of the free world watching Piazza launched a one out offering from Steve Kotsay off the centerfield television tower. On any other night, this was a two-run home run that gave the Mets the lead, but on this night it was so much more.

As described here by Effing Mets' own Timothy, Piazza's  towering shot immediately sent the 57,000 present straight tears.  For the first time in ten days, the people of New York were given a brief reprieve from the horrors they had experienced in the days prior.  This was one of the few times that baseball in New York was as important was we always make it out to be.  On that night baseball was necessary because it returned a level of normalcy to New York City.

Mike Piazza had so many moments while playing in Queens, but this was without question the shot no one will ever forget.

Wright Returns With A Bang

I wasn't exactly behind the return of David Wright this week.  I wasn't alone.  Many Mets fans thought it was a bad idea to see Wright risk further injury to his ailing hamstring with just a weeks worth of meaningless games remaining.  David Wright..doesn't care what we think.  He made that quite clear when in his first at-bat since August 2nd he did this:

Sure, this would only be a long fly ball at Citi Field. However, this ballgame was being played at the little league bandbox that is Citizen's Bank Park in Philadelphia against the hated Phillies and pretty boy Cole Hamels.  All of that made this a lot more fun than it probably should've been.

This isn't the first time Wright has done something like this.  You'll recall that last season, after returning to the lineup after breaking his pinky finger Wright promptly launched a solo home run in his first at back.  In a fun twist of fate, that also came at the expense of the Phillies.

So far so good for Wright.  He should get credit for returning when he doesn't have to, and he will provided he doesn't suffer a set back between now and the onset of the offseason.  A quick side note: With nine games to go, Wright needs three more home runs to make it to twenty.

The lineup is always better when it has a little captain in it!

Which package will work?

As all of our effing eyes and ears turn away from the ghastly product on the field, we look to Sandy Alderson and think about all the potential moves (or pipe dreams) that could be made. Yes, the hot stove is warming up already for us Mets fans. While we throw around the names of the slugging outfielders we'd love to have in Queens, shouldn't the focus be more on who we'd have to give up to acquire one of those bats? Do we even have a good understanding of who Sandy Alderson is willing to part ways with? The cards seem to be played close to the chest when it comes to Sandy and his office mates.

Photo courtesy of nj.com

With several good, young arms within the system, a trade partner will no doubt want at least one of those individuals in return. In our heart of hearts I think we all want to see Noah Syndergaard in a Mets uniform by the second half of next season. However, which of the other young arms could likely be packaged? Rafael Montero has certainly impressed, but as someone who has generally been projected as a middle of the rotation starter, that may not be enough. Jack Leathersich has turned heads as well, but he is a reliever. Is anyone really going to trade a star outfielder with a minor league reliever as part of the package? Not to mention we probably will really need him. Travis d'Arnaud has been pegged as a big part of the Mets future but if he does become trade bait, has he shown enough in his short major league career for another team to gamble on? Seems doubtful at this point. We can throw out a host of other names but considering what we are looking for, the packages this organization can put together just might not be enough. If only we had Carlos Beltran to trade again.

We have all winter to debate...

Figuring Out Mets Fans

Players, personnel, team direction and team history.. Its all cause for argument.  There isn't much that Mets fans tend to agree on, but I think we're all in agreement that we comprise one of the most passionate, connected fan bases on the planet.  That said, there are certainly cliques within crowd.  Where do you fall?

The Eternal Optimists
I used to find myself here.  No matter what, things are going to get better.  They'll figure it out.  They'll get it done.  I believe in my Mets..They won't let me down!  And then they did..over and over again.  Some fans remain undeterred in the face of some pretty epic meltdowns and little progress in recent years.  They believe the Mets are only a few moves away from a World Series run and they also believe in each and every player that straps on the uniform.  This isn't a terrible mindset to have by any means.  It makes the games more fun and prevents fans from ever getting down on their team.  Its just at this point, I don't know how y'all do it...

The 'I Don't Care' Contingent
There are two subgroups within this larger group.  First and foremost there are a great number of fans who are so beaten down, so weathered by season after season of disappointment that they can no longer tune in on a nightly basis to watch the team flounder.  It may not be that they don't care, but they've certainly become apathetic towards the team's plight.  The other group that resides here are those who say, the Mets need to get better and "I don't care how they do it."  To trade you have to have players worth trading.  To sign players via free agency you need money.  To win games you need good players.  The circumstances make no difference to these folks.  Just get it done so I can enjoy my baseball team.

The Past vs. The Present
This has got to be the most tired group within the fan base.  I'm not talking about those who discuss the franchise legends like Tom Seaver or Cleon Jones.  I'm talking about those who still, to this day, argue about the departure of Jose Reyes.  Those who still make references to Carlos Beltran's strike out that ended the 2006 NLCS.  Those who discuss any one of an unending list of team failures.  I suppose there is a level of comfort in those years.  You know..when the Mets were good..or at least when we had reasons to be optimistic.  However, those days are long gone now.  Dwelling on the past takes what little fun there is in the present away, but that doesn't matter to this group..who just can't get over the mistakes of yesteryear.

The Righteous Reality
This tends to be an ever slowly growing group of Mets fans.  Those who read everything, understand the game, and the processes that go into putting a team on the field.  Its also has to be one of the most frustrated groups within the fan base.  These guys and gals are always looking forward.  The next draft or free agency period that will usher in the future.  They are aware that off-the-field circumstances effect the product on the field.  That baseball is a business and we may not always (or ever) get what we want.  These fans learn from the past and hope that the Mets can do the same.  They also try to impart that logic on other, often unsuspecting and less than willing, Mets fans.  These are the intellectuals (sometimes self-proclaimed), if you will.. and you're going to hear their opinion whether you like it or not.

The Bandwagon
Bueller....Bueller.... (If your too young for that joke, look it up.)  There probably aren't enough fans left here to warrant talking about, but the bandwagon fans are an integral part to any fan base.  Believe it or not, no baseball team in the country could fill their stadium without the bandwagon fan.  Show up when the getting is good and then find the exits when things start to spoil.  Baseball is supposed to be fun, and these fans won't partake in it any other way.  Well..baseball hasn't been all that fun in Queens lately and the stands at Citi Field reflect that.  However, the bandwagon fan is more important to team revenue that most people understand and its for that reason that they remain an integral part of the Mets fan base.

So, where do you stand?  Chances are you can probably align your thoughts with more than one of these groups.  Maybe you just hate labels, which is fine too.  While we all often disagree about the best players and the best courses of action, its important to remember that we're all still here.  Its important to remember that one day things will get better, and for those of use who've rode out the storm, it will be glorious to watch it all come together.  In the meantime...try not to kill one another!

If you like what you read, you can follow me on Twitter at @RobPatterson83.

Where Will Wilmer Wind Up?

TC said AAA if non-starter. MT @Canzo18: You've said Flores isn't considered SS so what do you think his role is next year with wright back?
— Adam Rubin (@AdamRubinESPN) September 19, 2013

According the ESPN's Adam Rubin, Terry Collins has said that if Wilmer Flores cannot crack the Mets starting lineup next season, he will return to AAA where he can play on a daily basis.  On the surface that makes sense, but I think there is a much better chance Flores ends up with another organization than him landing in the Mets minor league system next summer.

Collin's makes reference to Flores playing every day, but he has been unable to do that late this season (due in part to injury) with a much less formidable lineup in place than the organization hopes to have next winter.  The company line on Flores is that his bat will have to carry him.  Will that bat has managed only a .211 average and just a .250 on-base percentage this season.  Those aren't the type of numbers he needs to make up for his shoddy defense.

The Mets simply don't have a place for Flores right now and won't unless he learns to play first place.  Despite the fact that some fans are still enamored with his bat, Wilmer is much more likely to be a complimentary piece in a trade for an impact player this winter.  He has upside, to a team who needs a young third baseman with the ability to mash.  The Mets don't.  If he does happen to find his way to AAA next season, it will only be to keep him fresh to fill in should someone fall victim or injury, or continue to showcase his talents for an eventual trade down the line.

Flores isn't long for Queens, no matter how well he hits in my opinion.

Mets Renew Their Pursuit Of The Basement

After winning four of their last six games headed into the series finale with the San Francisco Giants, the Mets finally got back on track and squandered a gem of a performance from Jon Niese.  Seven innings pitchers, allowing only two runs wasn't enough as the Mets could muster little in the way of offense against Madison Bumgarner in route to a 2-1 loss.

While its difficult to straight out root against the team, the loss is good news in terms of this upcoming free agency period.  Remember, if the team does not finish with one of the worst ten records in baseball, their first round pick in next years amateur draft will go unprotected.  Such a situation was enough to see the front office steer clear of Michael Bourn last winter.  I'd hate to see a similar excuse come into play this winter too.

As it stands after last night, the Mets are in sole possession of the 8th worst record in baseball, but its certainly not a lock that they will remain there.  They stand a mere two games from climbing out of the all important bottom ten.  Here is a look at where they stand:

The Effing Offseason

Is it pathetic that I am greatly anticipating the off season so much that I could care less about any more baseball being played this season? I think not. For the past few years we Mets fans have waited and waited. Waited while Sandy has restocked the farm system. Waited for all this payroll to come off the books.

Well, finally the wait is over. Should be anyway. We have all heard that 2014 would be the year. As it sits right now I don't see it. It will be interesting to see how things shake out be it via trade or free agency and I can't wait. I think nobody in our farm system should be considered untouchable not named Noah Syndergaard.

Your move Sandy and you had better make many.

photo courtesy of: www.nj.com

More squinting and thinking about how to make us better.

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Ruben Tejada Broke His Effing Leg

This Kodak moment captured by Michael Baron

This is not the actual picture, but that would have made it a tad funnier.

In a collision with Andrew Brown that happened in short left field, Tejada came out with a broken right fibula, which will cost him the rest of what has already been a checkered year for the shortstop.

A long stint in the minors followed what some considered a very convenient injury after an atrocious start to the season for Tejada. After his stay in Las Vegas Lasted far past the rehabilitation of the injury, reports began to come out about his unwillingness to put in extra work from multiple media sources, and were eventually confirmed to some extent by Sandy Alderson.

Tejada had been thought of as the shortstop of the future, and looked poised to fulfill that role in the year immediately following the departure of Jose Reyes. However, there has been some backsliding since. His batting average, which had been .284 and .289 in 2011 and 2012, respectively, had dipped sharply to .202. An OBP of .259 and a slugging percentage of .260 made him a full blown liability in the lineup. He was tough to watch this year, but at the same time this is a terrible reason not to have to watch anymore.

But it did give us a new batch of Tejada/Reyes Mets tweets. Enjoy:

how facacta is this organization? gary & ron waxing about org wanting tejada 2 work out with REYES, a player they willingly let walk! #mets
— Poppi Kramer (@PoppiKramer) September 3, 2013

Good use of facacta there. Just don't see that enough.

Would love to see Jose Reyes in a Mets uniform again next year.
— Mike Maxwell (@MikeMaxwell18) September 19, 2013

Wouldn't we all? But file that under "Fat Chance".

Remember when we all thought Ruben Tejada was a more than capable replacement for Jose Reyes? That was awesome.
— Jerry Durney (@JerryDurneyPBP) September 19, 2013

Who was it that thought that?

Tejada is injured more than Reyes was
— Brian (@Ph0netic) September 19, 2013

And that is saying something.

Matt Harvey's Odd Qualcomm Interview

I'm sure you've heard or read about it by now, but here it is in all its absurd awkwardness. Dan Patrick was rightfully miffed at being blown off on actual sports topics and Mat Harvey, to his credit, tried to make amends later in the day. #LOLMets, right?

 

Been an exhausting couple of days. Apologies to @DanPatrick and @Qualcomm

— Matt Harvey (@MattHarvey33) September 18, 2013

This Day in 2006

The date is September 18th, 2006 and the Mets take the field in front of their home crowd in Shea Stadium, with an opportunity to clinch the division for the first time since 1988. Manager Willie Randolph sent longest-tenured Met Steve Trachsel to the mound against the Florida Marlins and Steve Trachsel delivered, hurling 6.1 scoreless innings. The bullpen combined to toss a 4-hit shutout to clinch the divisional crown. It was the Mets 91st win of the season and put the second place Phillies back 14.5 games with only 13 games remaining.

Although I was just 11 years old on this day, I still remember it all so well, specifically the last out; a lazy fly ball to left fielder Cliff Floyd off the bat of Josh Willingham which was caught and Floyd immediately threw his arms up in the air, Billy Wagner raced off the mound and into the arms of his catcher Paul Lo Duca as the home dugout emptied onto the field to join the celebration and the crowd cheering. The Mets broke almost a 20-year division championship drought for themselves, but also ended a streak of 11 consecutive NL East crowns for the Braves.

Every day that I think of the 2006 season, I always say to myself, "That was our year." To this day I strongly believe the Mets would've won the World Series if they found a way to take game 7 from the Cardinals in the NLCS. They had a dominant lineup featuring Jose Reyes, Paul Lo Duca, Carlos Beltran, Carlos Delgado, and David Wright as well as contribution from surprise players including Jose Valentin and Endy Chavez. It was a special season for sure, but injuries to Pedro Martinez and Orlando Hernandez which forced them both to miss the playoffs did not make it easier. Regardless, players such as John Maine and Oliver Perez stepped up in a big way, giving the Mets a chance to advance to the World Series only to fall just short.

Post-game, David Wright said, "If this is what baseball in New York is like, to me it's the best." Unfortunately for David and the Mets, baseball hasn't been that way in Queens since, as the Mets are still searching to punch their ticket into the playoffs for the first time since 2006, a drought of now 7 disappointing seasons. But regardless, this is David's home; a New York native who signed a long term contract this past off-season to remain a Met for life, is determined to bring this team and city a World Series.

As this date in Mets history brings back amazing memories, it is another opportunity for Mets fans to remain hopeful as the future is bright due to the organization's large depth of highly touted pitching prospects and plenty of money to spend in the off season it appears the losing seasons may be a thing of the past.

d'Arnaud To Miss Time For Shoulder

Photo by Michael Baron

Travis d'Arnaud left last night's game after taking a Hunter Pence foul ball off of his right shoulder. Terry Collins expects him to miss at least a few games, apparently disregarding my father's universal injury advice of, "Don't rub it," and, "Walk it off."

Obviously, this is bad news for a player who began the year on the DL with a broken bone in his foot. Additionally, d'Arnaud missed the end of last season with a torn PCL in his knee he suffered sliding into second base.

A couple of thoughts on the topic. First, d'Arnaud is really annoying to type. Lowercase letter, apostrophe, then an uppercase letter. Get a real name man, for crying out loud. I have to remember to just Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V his name next time, this is absurd.

Second, I guess we have no choice but to hope that this guy's injury problems are closer to the multiple isolated incident type, and not the recurring nicked up player type. He has made a habit of spending periods laid up; I understand it is, to some extent, unavoidable with catchers, but a fragile player can be tough to tie your franchise to. d'Arnaud, despite his struggles at the plate so far, seems to be universally recognized in baseball as a talented and promising young player, but that only matters if he can stay on the field.

We Wait On Wright

There has been much debate as to whether or not the Mets' captain and all-star third baseman, David Wright, should return to the lineup this season following the strained hamstring.  Wright was on pace for a 20/20 season with an average over .300 before the injury, which has held him out since August 2nd.

There was some belief that Wright would return to the lineup as early as last night for the start of the San Francisco series, however Jared Diamond of the Wall Street Journal would put those rumors to bed prior to last night's game.  As per Diamond, Wright will not play in the series versus the Giants and his status is unknown for the team's weekend series against the Philadelphia Phillies.

As I've said before, I realize that David Wright provide a reason for some to come to the ballpark, but I see no sense in even moderately rushing him back to play meaningless games in the last week of the season.  I fear he injures the hamstring yet again, causing concern about a reoccurring issue going into next year.  I just don't think its worth the risk.  Wright disagrees...

Stiff Shoulder For d'Arnaud

Rookie catcher Travis d'Arnaud, who had some durability concerns before ever reaching the major league level, was removed from last night's game after being struck in the shoulder with a foul ball.

d'Arnaud was struck by a ball off the bat of Giant's outfielder, Hunter Pence, in the second inning last night.  Despite staying in the game, Travis' shoulder would tighten up to the point of impacting his throws to second.  As a result he was removed from the game.

Both he and Terry Collins did not appear overly alarmed after the game and it appears he will only miss a few games going forward.  Such bumps and bruises go with the territory of being a major league backstop, however I am slightly interested to see how much time he misses after a prolonged rehab this summer from a broken foot.

The Wheelz Fall Off

Photo Courtesy of @Lets86It

Call it growing pains or simple fatigue, but Mets rookie Zack Wheeler is starting to come unglued as the season comes to a close.  Last night, the twenty-three year old posted a career high with six walks allowed over just five innings pitched during which he threw 107 pitches, allowed four earned runs and only struck out three.

Wheeler has now thrown 95 innings since joining the Mets, in addition to 68.2 in the minors prior to joining the team.  With a total of 163.2 on the year, he has now exceeded his previous career max by 24+ innings and is showing signs of wear.

Wheeler had managed an impressive campaign this season despite early walk concerns.  Despite the fact that his 7-5 record may not be an appropriate reflection on his pitching, Wheeler had managed to limit his walks during the months of July and August, before allowing five or more in two of of his past three outings.

Outside of walks, Wheeler's rookie season has been a successful one.  However, if he is to graduate to elite status he will need to find a way to curb the free pass.  Although he boasts a strike out rate of nearly eight per nine innings, his strike out to walk ratio is only about two to one.  His current ERA of only 3.42 may be a little lucky as Wheeler has been able to limit the damage all year, however control remains a concern for the fireballer as the season comes to a close.

Rehab First For Harvey

It appears that Matt Harvey will delay surgery in the hopes that he can rehab his injured right elbow.  This according to an article by CBS Sports baseball insider, Jon Heyman.  Harvey is expected to wait a month or two before beginning a throwing program.  A decision on surgery will be made based upon the successes and/or failures of that training program.

This information comes following the second opinion Harvey received yesterday when meeting with Dr. James Andrews, who is the most popular sports surgeon in the country.  

Although it isn't necessarily ideal, Harvey risks little by attempting to rehab the injury for now.  If the rehab is successful, he could potentially be ready to start the 2014 season.  If it isn't, waiting another few months doesn't impact his ability to be ready for 2015.

As Heyman explains, Tommy John Surgery is the alternative, and as is the case with any surgery carries risks with it.  Although it has evolved greatly in recent years, the surgery is only 90% effective and could cost Harvey significantly if unsuccessful.

Mets fans will once again fall into a wait and see approach as I'm confident that the team's writers will monitor the process closely.  Thus far all members of the Mets' organization have decline comment.  Should that change we'll have it here for you.

Jerry Seinfeld On Mets Fans At The ASG

Before he takes to the booth for tonight's Mets game, here is an interview with the legendary Steve Somers of WFAN, the future ex-home of the Mets. He talks Matt Harvey, Mets fans' reaction to the American League players at the All-Star Game, and I don't know, probably airplane peanuts.

Prospect Profile: Jack Leathersich

Bio: 5' 11" 205 lbs from Beverly, MA. Age 23.

Drafted: Fifth round of the 2011 amateur draft by the New York Mets out of UMASS-Lowell. 

Scouting Report: 

Leathersich has taken the minors by storm having progressed all the way to the AAA level in just two seasons.  He throws only two pitches and features an awkward delivery that has destined him for the bullpen at the professional level. His bread and butter is a mid-90s fastball, which he pairs with a fairly unpolished curveball.  Not necessarily an ideal arsenal, but his absurd strikeout rate through his first two seasons hasn't suffered as a result. 

2013 Stats (to date):

Binghamton (AA): 2-0, 1.53 ERA, 29.1 IP, 19 H, 5 ER, 1 HR, 16 BB, 55 SO

Las Vegas (AAA): 2-0, 7.76 ERA, 29.0 IP, 32 H, 25 ER, 2 HR, 29 BB, 47 SO

Potential:

Leathersich has drawn comparisons to former Met, Billy Wagner, due to his high velocity and small stature. The strikeout rate is no fluke, as he has maintained it at every level throughout the minors. He seems to have all the makings of a MLB closer, but will have to refine his curveball and limit his walks to make that dream a reality.  At the very least, Jack projects as a quality member of the bullpen.

What's Next:

This is tough. Leathersich has really struggled since being moved to AAA Las Vegas. Although the PCL is notoriously a hitter-friendly league, expect Leathersich to require more seasoning early next season, preventing him from joining the Mets out of spring training. With a WHIP north of 2.00, Jack may not be quite ready for big league hitters just yet, but his time is coming fast and fans can expect to see him by mid 2014. 

Twitter: @LeatherRocket

Mets Tease Their Fans With Harvey Info

Well, Matt Harvey did meet with Dr. James Andrews yesterday. He did receive his second opinion. He also reported back to the Mets in New York. What he didn't do was make a decision on surgery..apparently.

In a very odd twist that could only come from the team's public relations gurus (who couldn't find their way out of a paper bag I might add), the Mets used their twitter account to disseminate all of the   information I mentioned above. They then promptly teased the results, as if going to a commercial break on the radio. 

It was equally amazing and frustrating. As though it was nothing more than the upcoming weather report on the late night news. Bear in mind, I take no issue with Harvey taking an extra day to discuss the results with whomever he deems necessary. I just don't understand why the team would tease the fan base with said information, like a carrot in front of a donkey in an old childhood cartoon.

It's not as if the day Harvey was injured wasn't the single most deflating day in recent memory. Not like we haven't been awaiting closure like a high school girl after a bad break up.  What it is, is another terrific example of the organization floundering through the season seemingly asleep at the wheel once again. 

Same ol' Effing Mets...

Jerry Seinfeld In The SNY Booth Tonight

As if you needed another reason to watch the Mets open their series against the Giants tonight, multiple outlets have reported in recent days that comedian Jerry Seinfeld will spend some time in the SNY booth tonight.  That, along with the fact that this will be one of your final opportunities to see Zack Wheeler pitch this year almost make it must-see TV...almost.

Gary, Keith and Ron will likely welcome the reprieve that Seinfeld represents, as they've been forced to endure another awful September under the Terry Collin's reign.  We'll follow this post with a recap of Seinfeld's night, because lets face it..there is a 50/50 chance that it may be the most excitement we see!

Matt Harvey Say

As anyone reading this blog today has noticed, Matt Harvey is on our minds and rightfully so. Today, our caped crusader fled to Alabama to get his ulnar collateral ligament checked out by that orthopedic magician of the south, Dr. James Andrews. Word is we are not to expect a decision today and, in fact, the Mets have released a statement saying as much:

Harvey is on his way back to New York. We expect to have further information tomorrow.

— New York Mets (@Mets) September 16, 2013

So, my dear Met fan, you will likely have to wait a few more days for any decision from Mr. Harvey on what he plans to do with his elbow.

However, while we wait, it is worth weighing the options.

He could opt for Tommy-John surgery.  The typical comeback from surgery, assuming there is a comeback (GASP!), is 12 months, meaning if he has the surgery tomorrow, he could be back pitching for the last month of next season.  Whether or not he can be effective immediately is a different story.

He could also opt to go without surgery, continue his rehab, and pitch until such time as he's forced to have surgery.  Such pitchers as Ervin Santana, Zach Greinke, Adam Wainwright, and our own Scott Atchinson have avoided surgery and come back to pitch.  The up-sides are (a) Matt can avoid surgery, as any person should always do if possible, and (b) Matt will likely be back for the 2014 season.  However, there would always be that question of when that elbow was going to pop.

This is one instance where I believe the wishes of the fans and the organization should align against the (likely) wishes of the player.  Next year is supposed to be the Mets unveiling into relevance. We have been rebuilding for years and the 2014 season was the year we were finally supposed to see a quality product on the field.  This very well may still be the case. However, it is not likely, and I hope was not expected, to be a championship year.  The kids are still young and we have more on the way. Matt would help next year, yes.  However, if he misses the entire year, it probably is only going to serve to improve our draft position, not be the difference between winning a ring and not. To me, this means a fan should hope Matt chooses to have the surgery now. Moreover, if he has the surgery now, it will greatly decrease (though not get rid of) the worry regarding the health of his elbow going forward as the question of "when will it pop" will not be as relevant.

Photo Courtesy of TimesNews.net

For much the same reason I believe the Mets organization should be rooting for Matt to have surgery.  However, in addition to that reason, the Mets organization signs his paychecks and thus, should hope if he misses time, he misses time when he is not getting paid much. Relative to what Matt Harvey projects to make in the future, he makes absolutely nothing now.

In the end, this is Matt's decision. He may very well ingest all of these reasons and decide surgery is the best option.  However, even as a fan, I would understand if he did everything in his ability to avoid it.  For one, it is surgery after all. It is always a short term risk and even though advances in Tommy-John have been amazing, there is no guarantee you make it back. In addition, as we saw earlier, Matt has yet to receive his big payday. If he is able to go the Adam Wainwright and/or Roy Halladay route and pitch at a Cy Young level for many years without fixing a torn UCL, not only will he help the team in the short-term at minimum, but he will be in a position to sign a big contract within the next 12 months...as opposed to 24-36 months from now, which would likely be the case should he have surgery now. This is the difference of millions upon millions of dollars. To throw out some pre-arbitration years and sign that big deal now is a large boon for any young player and provides security for his and his families financial future sooner rather than later.

Would you really turn down that opportunity? I don't know that I would.

Harvey's Injury No Justification For Delaying Spending

As soon as the news about Matt Harvey's injury, and his likelihood of missing 2014, hit the headlines, the feeling of doom was almost palpable. 2014, once seen as a year when the Mets would begin to fulfill some of their promise, was going to be one more year of incompetence on a budget, fielding bargain basement players while we await Harvey's return.

Don't accept that answer. Refuse to be okay with waiting, again.

Matt Harvey was an incredible revelation but he was also just that: a revelation. While there was a lot of expectations on his future, nobody expected him to be what he was this year. His absence in the rotation leaves Jon Niese, Zack Wheeler, and Dillon Gee, supplemented by either a veteran presence or two of the franchise's highly touted prospects. Pitching will not be what holds this team back, and makes using Harvey as a rationalization to not spend nonsense.

They sold the fans on a three year plan, and spent this year telling us how exciting our future is. Guess what: It's time for the future. It's time to take some of the great prospects you've gotten and build a team around them. Field a big league ball club in 2014, or risk disenfranchising perhaps the most loyal fan base in baseball. We've stuck with the team through thin and thinner; we expect them to keep their promises. I truly believe Sandy wants to crack the purse strings open this offseason and next in an effort to build a real contender. It's up to the Wilpons to give him the green light to do so.

No more excuses, guys. It's been long enough.

Follow me on Twitter @kmflemming 

Matt Harvey Surgery Decision Could Come Today

Photo Courtesy Of @Lets86It

The day has finally arrived for Matt Harvey to get the all important second opinion on the right elbow that ended his season three weeks ago.  The question at hand is how unstable the UCL tear has cause the elbow to become.  If Dr. James Andrews deems the joint unstable, then surgery is imminent for the twenty-four year old ace.  If not, then Harvey could chose to rehab the injury and prepare for spring training next season.

In speaking with several people, it seems as though its not a matter of if he needs surgery, its more a matter of when.  There is a realistic shot that he can pitch on the arm for now, however he could lose velocity.

Mets fans will recall that RA Dickey pitched without a UCL, which is ultimately what caused him to adopt the knuckleball.  That's not to insinuate that Harvey will have to go that round, but there is a drastic difference between a pitcher who throws 97-98 mph and one who throws 94-95 mph.  These are the decisions facing Harvey this afternoon.

The Mets likely prefer that he have the surgery now.  Its highly unlikely that the Mets will be World Series in 2014, but if things go according the plan that could change in 2015 and beyond.  Therefore, the front office would like to have Harvey back in the fold by that time frame, as opposed to having his future in doubt. We shall see though..hopefully today.

T-Shirt Tuesday: Juan Bad Joke At A Time

The below image is a look at the t-shirt the Mets will give away tomorrow night when the San Francisco Giants come to town.  As the Mets count down the remainder of the season Juan game at a time, rookie outfielder Juan Lagares has earned himself a t-shirt night.  This is of course if the front office doesn't trade him the morning of, as they did with Marlon Bryd about a month ago.

Photo Courtesy of Mets.com

I know I poke fun at the Mets pretty much every opportunity I'm presented with (it helps my maintain my sanity), but its nice to see the organization reward a kid like Lagares with a promotion like this, no matter how cheesy it might be.

Lagares has been the lone remaining bright spot for the Mets in a second half full of disappointment.  He has emerged as one of the best defensive outfielders in baseball and has the inside line on the centerfield spot next season.  His ability to get on base will need to improve next year, as the team could likely live with a .260ish batting average, but a .295 on-base percentage simply won't get it done.  Time will tell if he is able to stick, but in the meantime its cool to see he and the Mets have some fun with his success this season.

If your brave enough to join the ten thousand or so faithful who are still venturing to Citi on a nightly basis and would like to grab one of these shirts, you can buy your tickets HERE.

CarGo Will Be Available, Mets Unlikely To Be Suitors

Photo Courtesy of RockiesReview.com

Rumor has it the Colorado Rockies will in fact entertain offers for slugging outfielder, Carlos Gonzalez, this winter.  He had been in the midst of the stellar season that featured a .302 BA, with 26 HR and 70 RBI until a sprained middle finger sidelined him in early August.  He missed nearly a full month of play before appearing as a defensive replacement multiple times this month, but has not batted and appears unlikely to do so.

Gonzalez led the National League in home runs at the All-Star break this season, but was ineligible to appear in the Home Run Derby due to a hand injury not unsimilar to the one that's ultimately ended his season.  In addition to being amongst the most formidable sluggers available this winter, he also remains under contract through the 2017.  As a result, it will take quite a haul to secure his services.

As per the New York Daily News' John Harper, the Rockies will seek a position player oriented package, due to the fact that pitchers often struggle at high altitude.  Harper goes on to explain that the Rockies remain unimpressed with the position players the Mets have to offer, which could leave them on the outside looking if/when he is dealt in the months to come.

Its no secret that the Mets best prospects are pitchers, however the team has said they will not move top prospect, Noah Syndergaard, and remains hesitant to deal anyone who could impact the rotation next season as a result of the injury to Matt Harvey.  As a result, a position player package would have to revolve around the likes of Wilmer Flores, Ike Davis, Lucas Duda, Matt den Dekker, etc.  In any case, these players either haven't carved out a role at the major league level or find their role in question going forward.

As a result, none will have the impact potential necessary to acquire Gonzalez from the Rockies in the months to come.  While it's assured that the Mets will find their way into the rumor mill, they may be forced to turn their sights to Marlin's slugger, Giancarlo Stanton, if he too becomes available.  With all the farm system building the front office has done in recent years, it would be a shame if they don't have the horses to land one of the biggest fish on the market this winter, but that remains to be seen.  Which would be a better fit in Queens has been the topic of much debate, but at this point that may unfortunately be a moot point.

d'Arnaud's Walks Off A Somewhat Depressing Win

Photo Courtesy of @Lets86It

If you were one of the 25,165 who were unfortunate enough to have paid for a ticket to today's Mets/Marlins game we feel sorry for you.  If you were one of the.. maybe half of that actually in attendance than you deserve a strong adult beverage.

First things first, the Mets and Marlins have played a twenty-three extra frames this season.  That's more than two and a half games worth of extra baseball, mostly due in part to each teams inability to push runs across the plate.  Secondly, if you were in attendance you sat at Citi Field for a full three hours and thirty five minutes before a single run was scored.  Lucky for you, that run ended the game.

I suppose the only caveat is that if you were in attendance you did have the opportunity to witness Travis d'Arnaud's first walk-off hit.  Bear in mind, it was his first run batted (and 10th hit) in since August 27th so lets not celebrate too much.  The team's "catcher of the future" has batted a mere .169 since being promoted.  He has not had an extra-base hit in the month of September.

To many depressing details to overshadow an otherwise successful day..I suppose

Week In Review: Top Posts

In case you missed them, or perhaps you've just found us, but these were our most popular posts of the week.  Enjoy!

1) Should We Be Here? Yes - Tim discusses the fact that he was in attendance for the first game at Shea Stadium following the September 11th, 2011 terrorist attacks, and what that game meant to him.

2) Giancarlo Stanton or Carlos Gonzalez - Kieran takes a look at the pros and cons to the two players who will land on the Mets radar this offseason, should their teams decide to trade them.

3) Mets By The Numbers: September - Rob takes a statistical look at how bad the Mets have been since the final month of the season began.

Photo Courtesy of @Lets86It

What You'll Miss While You're Watching Football

With their pursuit of a .500 season behind them, the question now becomes just how bad will the Mets be?  Will they earn one of the coveted ten protected picks that will allow Sandy Alderson to go after any available free agent without penalty?  Will they secure their fifth consecutive fourth place finish?

Sitting at 66 wins on the season with 14 games to go, the Mets current boast the eighth worst record in baseball, leaving them in line for that aforementioned protected pick.

Today the Mets will send fifth starter and overall team leader in wins, Dillon Gee (11-10) to the mound against the Marlins' Tom Koehler (3-10).  A win today would be the team's first series victory since taking two of three from the Washington Nationals between 8/30 and 9/1.

One thing of interest for me will be the attendance for today's game.  Regardless of what the paid attendance numbers have been of late, I don't think the Mets have surpassed more than 10,000 fans in the stands on this homestand.  Last night's game was easily the worst, and with football on this afternoon I'm not sure I would expect much better today.

Enjoy the game today, whichever sport you decide to tune into.  As always, make sure you have a beer for us too!

Photo Courtesy of @Lets86It

Mets Secure Another Losing Season

In losing the first game of yesterday's doubleheader, the Mets have lost 82 games this season and in the process have secured a fifth consecutive losing season.  As per ESPN's Adam Rubin, the organization has had only three worse stretches: Two stretches of seven years taking place from 1962 to 1968 and again from 1977 to 1983, then another period of six years from 1991 to 1996.

Times are tough in Queens, as illustrated by the maybe 5,000 fans in attendance for the night cap yesterday.  Some question whether things are set to get better or worst next season.

Plenty has been said this week about the Pittsburgh Pirates securing their first winning season since 1992.  Now that that streak is over, its important to note that by season's end the Mets and Astros will be deadlocked as the only team's to not have a winning season since 2008.

Call them inept, incompetent, or flat broke.  Fan morale has reached new lows this season for good reason.  The Mets must make strides this winter before the franchise becomes irrelavent in the New York sports landscape, because right now its five seasons and counting...

Photo Courtesy of @Lets86It