Can We Go Home Now?

No matter what the outcome of tonight's game; this has not been a good trip for The Mets. Two lost games, and now an artificial turf related injury to Jose Reyes. These games from the start had the feel of exhibition games with the loss of intensity and purpose. Once you let your guard down you open yourself up for mishaps and injury.

Now this is not meant to be a tirade against expanding the borders of major league baseball, or am I taking a disparaging view of this series. i just think that artificial turf is detrimental to the game and when it was in fashion in the 70s and 80s it was the cause of numerous and debilitating injuries. So in that regard, this stadium looks and feels like an anachronism and reminder of the bad old days of gaudy uniforms and goofy mascots(no offense to Mr. Met).

So lets hope for a win. But more importantly, lets hope that reyes' injury is not serious and that the rest of the team can leave healthy and unscathed.

addendum/ Ugly Loss

I published article as is. I started it with the thought that The Mets lost the game. I didn't change anything except the title and the ending. I thought it would be interesting for you the reader to view my thought processes. I am holding here as the Marlins bat in the bottom of the 9th tied at 6-6. Feliciano is throwing heat.

Cantu...double (groan).

UGGLA! NO

Yes We Can

Two straight losses. A little closer than last nights game, but a loss is a loss. Once again the starter didn't have it. Tashiaki pitched poorly although all of the damage came in the third inning.

I do not want to be a voice of panic; but maybe they do need that frontline starter. But what do they give up? Remember, someone like Lee will be nothing more than a hired gun. Not only is it a question of giving up the future for a loaner, but it also begs the the what if scenario: what if the young players can deliver this year? Maybe Pagan, Davis, and Dickie can; along with Wright, Reyes, and Pelfrey carry the team to the post season.

* Wrote this article at the top of the 9th inning. Had the game written off. Ye of little faith!!!!

Answer to my own question: Yes We Can. Yes We Can !!!

Stay tuned

A METventure To Forget

The Mets should have played beach volleyball, at least they would have been on natural surface and not that oversized pool table. Jose Reyes was clearly effected by the fake turf and did not have a very good game in the field.

But thats just the beginning. Dickey had trouble getting his knuckle ball over the plate and he just wasn't fooling anyone. In addition,both the hitting and the spark seemed to be missing.

It happens....

Final Score: Marlins 10 Bay 3

Kiner's Korner

"Home run hitters drive Cadillacs"

Ralph Kiner famously made this remark during his playing days in the 1940's.And while, i am not sure we would still use the Cadillac as the symbol of affluence and superstardom it is more than fitting that on the day Ralph Kiner is in the broadcast booth that The Mets hit three home runs.

Jeff Francoeur, David Wright, and Ike Davis combined for the home runs to help give The Mets a 6-0 victory over The Twins. Jon Niese pitched another gem giving The Mets the rubber game and another successful homestand.

Meanwhile back in the booth; the banter between Kiner and Gary and Keith is as entertaining as anything Seinfeld had to offer. Ralph's deadpan delivery and anecdotes are always enjoyable. When Keith harped about the hardships of west-coast travel, Ralph was quick to counter with train travel with no air conditioning. Kevin Burkhardt's "heavy" 34 oz. bat was rejoindered by Ralph's 42 oz. bat and Babe Ruth's 52 oz. bat!

Ralph Kiner is always a perfect foil to Gary, Keith, Ron, and Kevin and always a pleasure to hear.

Say it Aint So Jo

Santana's pitching performances of late are troubling. He hasn't 
pitched well. Santana's location is off and his velocity is down. This 
could spell trouble for The Mets.
For one thing, I'd his inconsistency a result of his off season 
surgery? Is it the wear and tear of his many innings?Can it be a 
result of his well documented off the field distractions?
We don't know, and I am sure Santana doesn't know either.
The point is; The Mets are looking to make a deal for a starting 
pitcher. Now, Santana is not going anywhere. We have our number one 
starter struggling, so if we make a trade what pitcher is out of the 
rotation? Almost any of them is performing more effectively than 
Santana.
My question is this: what are we really gaining by dealing for a 
starting pitcher? Who are we sending ?( it better not be Pagan). There 
just seems to be too many questionable variables to consider.
My take? I say The Mets would be wiser to look for relief help. Right 
now Santana is the weak link in the rotation, so trading for a pitcher 
is a wash. They would be replacing a good pitcher with another good 
pitcher. Relief help is less expensive and a more productive move in 
the long run.

Camille Uliano

METventure@gmail.com

Wright On !

David Wright enjoyed a great game at the plate tonight homering and 
hitting a double in a 5-2 victory over The Twins.
Once again however; the bigger story is how this team comes together 
to play just good enough to win. Pelfrey overcame early inning 
problems to fetch his tenth win with only two losses. Ike Davis 
contributed again at the plate and kept a steady glove at first. Jason 
Bay is starting to get into a batting groove, and the fact that he is 
such a notorious streaky hitter bodes well for The Mets as they wait 
on Angel Pagan's return to the lineup on Sunday.
But it is especially gratifying to watch David Wright at the plate and 
in the field. Wright hasn't been this good since 2006. Not only is he 
hitting on all cylinders, but he's finally fielding like a Gold 
Glover. There is no doubt in my mind that David finally feels relaxed 
and is staying within himself. He no longer feels he has to carry the 
team.i think this Mets team has learned that when you play as a team 
you will strive individually.

Camille Uliano

METventure@gmail.com

Maybe The Dingo Stole Their Bats

This was team effort at it's best. Situational hitting, great defense, 
and outstanding pitching was on display tonight.
That being said; R.A. Dickey was dominating. Think about it, a 
knuckleballer dominating the hitters!"he shut Detroit's batters down with no runs in 8 stellar innings" We expect Santana and even 
Pelfrey to overpower the batters, but not Dickey. This is exciting 
baseball because we never know who is going to stand out for The Mets 
next.
Let me say this; this team is fun. And if you can't enjoy watching The 
Mets this year maybe you're following the wrong team.
Enjoy the Spirit of METventure!

NL EAST STANDINGS

NL East	W	L	GB
Braves	42	29	—
Mets	40	30	1.5
Phillies	36	32	4.5
Marlins	34	36	7.5
Nationals	33	39	9.5

Angel in the Outfield

The good news is that Carlos Beltran is close to being ready to play 
again. The bad news is that it's going to cut into the playing time of 
The Mets most valuable player thus far this season.
Angel Pagan has played some inspired baseball this season. His hitting 
has been timely and effective, and his defense and running has been as 
exciting as anyone this side of Jose Reyes.
Mets management has difficult decisions to make here. How do you get 
maximum production from the centerfield position without stepping on 
anyone's toes? How do you placate both a former and potential all-star?
The real question is of course; what is best for the team?
I have been critical of Jerry Manuel in the past; but I must say this 
is not going to be an easy task. I hope that whatever transpires in 
the coming weeks prove to strengthen The Mets. If Manuel is successful 
in juggling his outfielders to their maximum effectiveness I will be 
duly impressed. But in any case I believe that in orderfor Pagan to 
maintain his sharpness he needs to play regularly.

By the way, another option would be to use Pagan as trade bait to get 
a frontline pitcher. There I said it; but let me close the article 
with this caveat: we don't know what Beltran is capable of doing yet. 
The Mets are playing some great baseball without a major trade. I just 
don't think trading someone like Pagan is a wise decision to make at 
this point. Not when there are so many unknown variables with Beltran 
and his injuries. Time will tell.

Heating up!

Summer has officially arrived. The air is heavy; the heat is 
sweltering and The Mets are simmering.
Yes The Mets took two tough losses against The Yankees, but that 
doesn't necessarily mean they have cooled off. The Tigers are in town 
and while they
can be tough; The Mets are more than up to the task. They have Niese 
on the mound who can be a stopper.
Once again, the fans need to get out there in full force. Show your 
support. Demonstrate that you appreciate the intensity and level of 
play that the team has shown thus far.
The pressure intensifies as the heat starts to stifle and rise. It's 
time for The Mets to turn up the heat against the competition , and 
for Mets fans to turn on the spark and electrify the stadium starting 
tomorrow night.

Camille Uliano

METventure@gmail.com

Can they at least put on The Odd Couple?

This is not a pretty game. Writing this during rain 
delay. I'm assuming the results will hold up. The Mets were never in 
this one. Sabathia was better than Santana today. No Met really 
distinguished themself. Not Reyes..not Wright...not Pagan. It happens 
that way sometimes.
Did The Mets accomplish what they wanted and needed to do? No; but 
it's a long season. There are many more games with Philidelphia and 
Atlanta. Games with greater importance. Defeating The Yankees had 
symbolic meaning; the significance of which I had expounded upon in a 
previous article. But in terms of the standings, these were just 
games. And The Mets need to think of it in those terms. No panicking 
or self loathing necessary.
Time to refocus...regroup...and rejuvinate.

Eight was Enough

The Mets win streak ended abruptly at eight. They came up short 
against The Yankees 5-3. Except for Reyes, The Mets played flat and 
uninspired baseball. With Jeter out of the lineup The Mets had an 
opportunity to take control of the series.The only production came 
from the bat of Jose Reyes who homered twice against Phil Hughes.
Mike Pelfrey clearly did not have it. His fastball lacked movement and 
he had trouble with his sinker. A disapointing loss, but they can 
rebound tomorrow.

Santana goes against Sabatha. If The Mets take it, they will have 
taken 4 out of 6 in the subway series and will have completed a 
tremendous road trip.

Open Letter To Jerry

Please do not mess with success. This was a great game against The 
Yankees. I am sure there will be numerous articles about it. But what 
stands out is the supurb pitching by Takahashi.
Meanwhile in Buffalo, John Maine completed a rehab assignment where he 
threw in the mid 80's and expressed frustration at the umpire and 
himself. This is a familiar scene. A familiar scene from the bad old 
days of sloppy play and a team most adept at self destruction.
This not meant as a knock on Maine. But he is a competitor who beats 
himself more than the other team.
Takahashi must remain in the starting rotation. He is a gamer who seems 
to embody the spirit of this Mets team: a never say die attitude, an 
unlikely hero, with a self confidence that borders on cocky and 
performance to match.
Maine has expressed a willingness to go into the bullpen; an unselfish 
offer that You must take him up on.
Takahashi was simply brilliant tonight and deserves a permanent spot in 
the rotation. This team has the potential for greatness and Takiashi 
is a vital contributor.
Jerry, it's your call. Make the move that shows you believe in this 
team.This is not the time to worry about bruised egos and past 
reputations. This is the time rather, to embrace the present and 
anticipate a summer of competitive and exciting play.
Camille Uliano
METventure@gmail.com

Mets and the City

Symbols tell us alot about our lives; how we view it and how others 
view us. In the world of sports there are certain things that become 
signifiers of success and failure.

In New York, claiming the back pages of the tabloids is a symbolic validation of 'making it' in the Big Town. This weekend is charged with meaning for The Mets. Taking 2 out of 3 from the Yankees in their yard would be sweet. Sweeping them would put Mets fans in ectasy. And it could change the conversation from Yankee Greatness and entitlement to the young upstarts in Queens. This city can swiftly become a Mets town once again.

Just remember; The Mets owned this town for much of the 70's and mid 
80's. And of course The Yankees were not even an afterthought in '69.
Tonight The Mets can start the new conversation. Mets fans at the 
stadium: be vocal and proud!

By Camille Uliano 

Bay Watch

With all the positive signs well documented here and and with other Mets scribes; nothing more epitomizes the changing Mets fortune than Jason Bay's tumble at first base. I know all Mets fans held their collective breaths at the sight of Bay grimacing in pain as he ran full speed to first. If this occurred last year it would have been disabled list here we go again.

But this is not last year and Jason Bay is not last year's player. You have to like how he hustles all the time. And if his tumble epitomized changing luck; his hustle personifies the 2010 NY Mets. He along with Jeff Francoeur are leading by example. Their attitude is always upbeat and they genuinely are enjoying themselves on and off the field. And its contagious. The team is playing with enthusisam and the fans are cheering with new excitement.

Big Step Forward

First of all I would like to thank the many well wishers who epressed 
concern about my absence. Glad to be back!

Last nights victory was a huge step forward for a team on the brink of 
true contention. For one; it was the 4th road victory in a row. A 
major and necessary feat for this team. They need to play hard and 
stay sharp, particularly with The Yankees series coming up.

For another; Santana needed a victory desperately. His pitching 
performance was so-so but gutsy. He pitched out of trouble but got it 
done. This could prove to be a significant win in the long run as 
Santana regains his confidence and edge.

There are alot of positives coming from some of the most surprising 
places this year. But when all is said and done, the pitching staff is 
anchored by Santana and he will lead the way.

Camille Uliano

Santana Gets Win!!!

And The Road Streak Continues! 


Sorry for The absence of an Article yesterday or today but Our editor is sick and will be back Tomorrow. LETS GO METS!

Baltimore Chopped

The Mets achieved what they had to do: A road sweep. It was an exhilarating victory, especially considering that Pelfrey didn't have his best stuff. Perseverance was the word for his performance. Wright and Bay are totally in the zone now, and while the competition this weekend was not particularly fierce; they did what winning teams do which is beat up on the weak.

Cleveland similarly is a lower tier club, but they have improved their play of late. The Mets cannot afford to take anything for granted. They have to be on their game against The Indians and come away with at least 2 out of 3 from them as its only going to get tougher.

I Dont Want To Speak Too Soon But....

The Mets are now guaranteed a series win over The Orioles thanks once again to timely hitting and pitching. This is getting to be a redundant refrain but true nonetheless. They have now won two in a row on the road. We have been saying all along this is what they must do.

Only a real cynic cannot feel just a little elated over this team. They are playing hard and have an edge. But what makes this team so fun to watch is the utter joy they display on and off the field. They genuinely seem to enjoy the game and all I can say is ....positive vibes are in the air!

Road Kill

The Mets take their winning combination of timely hitting and great pitching to the road. R.A. Dickey has proven that he can pitch with the pelfreys, and the Nieses. His knuckler dips, spins, and confuses both batter and catcher. But however he does it; he knows how to pitch; and he knows how to win.

This is a highly impressive win. As I have advanced in a previous column; it will be the road that determines if this team is for real. And it is particularly encouraging that it comes against a mediocre team. As we well know; The Mets famously lose to all the weak and anemic teams. And in fact they do it by beating themselves.

But again, this team is starting to put all the pieces together. If they can continue their winning ways on this road trip, we might just have an interesting year. This might be the start of a thrilling....

METventure!!!

Magnificent!

Jon Niese just completed pitching a one hit shutout gem. What can I say? If it's not Mike Pelfry dazzling the opposition with power, its Niese keeping everyone off balance.Command, Control, A COLOSSAL PERFORMANCE!!

ON TO BALTIMORE !

DEFINING MOMENTS

With every championship team there is a game, series, or moment that becomes a statement. A declaration that says they are as good or better than any of the competition.

In the early part of the 1969 season it was evident that The Mets were a much improved team.Tom Seaver was coming into his own, and was widely regarded as a great pitcher. Jerry Koosman was coming off a 19 win rookie season, and the rest of the staff was composed of capable veterans and young studs. the hitting was not great (let"s face it; Agee led the team with a paltry 26); but it was situational and timely. There was little question the team would improve on their 1968 showing.

But it was the July series against the first place Chicago Cubs (highlighted by Seaver"s near perfect game) that made the rest of league take notice. More importantly it was the moment that the team began to believe in themselves. Championship team exude confidence and swagger.

The 2010 Mets need to find that moment. But in order to do that they have to be able to recognize it, grab it, and run with it. I believe that moment must come on the road. We know they can win at home. They know they can win at home. What nobody is sure of is their ability to play on the road.

The Mets hit the road this weekend. I believe we will find out alot about this team"s character and resolve. I think they are capable of winning big this year. This weekend we will find out how much THEY believe it.

Iron Mike

Regardless of the outcome of tonights game against San Diego; Mike Pelfrey has emerged as a top tier pitcher: a go-to power arm who can dominate the league.

His 8 wins is tied for second in the Majors and combined with his 2.39 era; Pelfrey has become ( arguably) The Mets ace and ( inarguably) one of the elite pitchers in baseball. Without question if he continues on this course he should be a. All- star and legitimate Cy Young candidate. Most importantly for The Mets, Pelfrey is durable and not afraid to eat innings. He's got grit, guts, and game!

Camille Uliano (MetManiac) 

Mets Matter

It has been ages (it seems) since The Mets mattered in this town. Mets
fans have been complaining for years that The Yankees own the back
pages of the local tabloids. But let's be honest here; The Yankees put
out a winning product on the field year after year. The Mets tease and
ultimately disapoint. This year might be different. I can't explain
it; but the vibes around this team are very positive. There is
electricity in the stands and a hopefulness in the play by play voices
of Gary, Keith, and Ron.

But again, Jerry Manuel has to step up and act like a manager of a
championship calibar team,which means he has to expect and demand
greatness from his players. We have the right players. I hope we have the right manager.

METventure

The METventure chat room is now up and running. Go check it out on the left under "PAGES" or click the following link:


METventure chat room

So That Explains It!

Oliver Perez has been placed on the 15 day disabled list. Perez and his agent Scott Boros have been fighting The Mets over their desire to reasign (demote) him to Buffalo. They needed space on the roster for the returning Jon Niese. As we know it is part of Ollie's folly that he believes his 6 plus ERA is an asset to the team.
It is more than likely a face saving deal between Boros and The Mets. It says little for the integrity of Perez or his agent.  The Mets , for their part were not left with many options. My take, if upon investigation, the MLB voids this arrangementThe Mets should just cut Perez. Sure they would have to eat his salary, but they will be rid of this distraction. The Mets, for all their problems have a legitimate shot this year. Don't let this side show deflect from the main event.

The Imperfect Game

By now I'm sure you are aware of the horribly inept umpiring call by Jim Joyce that cost Detroit pitcher Armando Galarraga a perfect game. It would have been only the 21st pitching gem in baseball history.
 Shocking?...yes.  Appalling?...definitely.  Wrong?.....no brainer.   Reversible?....NO!...nor should it be.

This is a well worn argument but I'm going to make it anyway. Baseball is not a game of neatly configured minutes, quarters, and (until recently), inches recorded on video tape to be used as evidence. Baseball is a game of beauty and grace for the simple reason that it is played and officiated by human beings who are by definition; imperfect.
We have become a society that is too easily enamored with statistcs and standardized behavior. We want everything neat, explainable, and air tight. Was it fair? Of course not. But since when is anything fair? And while we're at it; if we are going to argue about fairness, what about managerial decisions that cost a pitcher a shut out? Should the manager's judgment be overruled because it was wrong?

Baseball is a game that has always spoken to a more human and forgiving society. It might not be considered cool to say all of this; but through experience I have learned that Mets fans are a pretty bright and open minded bunch of people. I hope this gets you thinking about our game and what it means to us.

Well, that's it for now.


Camille Uliano (MetManiac) 

What Was He Thinking?

I post this as the Padres tie the score in the 9 th inning. Regardless of the final outcome; why can't Jerry let Santana win or lose his own game? I dont get it. And it just confirms my conviction that Manuel over manages, and allows his ego to get in the way of what is farely basic and effective baseball decision making. This is not Quantum Physics or a philosophical discourse. And Jerry's no Socrates or Albert Einstein although he may think he is.

I would say this to Jerry: demonstrate that you have a feel for the game as a game. Don't overthink it. it's not about you! And sad to say Jerry; but as much as we love it; baseball is not going to save the world. The only thing green about  the game is the grass. That's why I contribute money to worthy causes like the Sierra Club, and my two cents to forums like this.

What's your two cents worth Jerry?


Camille Uliano

7TH INNING STRETCH

Ok summer is upon us, and even diehard Mets fans take a break and open 
a book. From time to time I will be recommending books. In particular, 
works that delve into Mets history, and not just on the Glory Years. The fans born after the '70's, know little about what came before.

My first recommendation has to be Amazin' by Peter Golenbock. It 
covers the team from its inception....the politcal haggling involved 
in bringing National League baseball back to New York, the colorful 
characters on the early Mets, and anecdotal remarks and recollections 
from the players. Memories that capture the spirit of METventure!

Camille Uliano