I'm also shocked how the media wants to portray this as a "monumental collapse" just so that they can continue to sell papers and radio/TV airtime. The fact that this team's season was really done in May and yet we are still fighting for a playoff spot is actually pretty incredible and reflective of the positive effect Manuel has had on this ballclub. Yes, we had leads late in the season, but with an ineffective bullpen with 29 blown saves and the loss of our star closer for the last two months of the season, did you really think that the chase for the pennant would be a done deal??? Hardly.
The bottom line is that there will be people who will see this year as a major failure and you have that right. There are others who see this as disappointing end to the season, but one that can be readily addressed in the offseason to make this team the dominant force in the NL. Unfortunately, for some of you who have seen the Mets win a championship or are too young to remember '86 (or before), I can see how this failure can lead to more anguish and disappointment. All I can say is "hang in there" for this is what being a Mets fan is all about. That is, what you think should be NEVER is...
Finally, I realize that many of you disagree, but I hope that Manuel gets a shot to manage this team for a full season. If it weren't for him, we wouldn't even be having IGTs at this point of the season. I truly believe that he was solely responsible for the resurgence of Delgado and Reyes. He also is extremely well-liked by the players, and, until recently, it has showed in their play on the field. |