Sitting in an empty Citi Field last night reminded me how disengaged the Mets fan base has become. What should have been a nightly sellout, or near sellout, of a ballpark that was long overdue has become a mausoleum in short time. With the early morning rain today, I can’t see tonight being much different, as a matter of fact, it could be worse. Before you write off the 2010 Mets and prepare for NFL training camps, remember there will be be reasons to get excited about this Mets team – win or lose because of some of the kids.
Last night Ike Davis got two hits and Tobi Stoner pitched a strong 3 plus innings. I suspect the Mike Jacobs/Fernando Tatis era might not last much past Mother’s Day if things go according to plan. Even though John Maine’s velocity is down Tobi Stoner could very well step in and give the Mets the 6 innings/3 runs they will need to at least compete. If you get tired of Sean Green, Ryota Igarashi, or Jenrry Mejia (predictably) proves he needs seasoning, Bobby Parnell should ably slide in their place. Just a year ago we were raving about his 100 mph at Fenway Park, until the Mets got a bright idea to make him a starter. I haven’t even mentioned Fernando Martinez yet.
Howard thought this year would be a bridge to 2011. I still think we may see this team compete for the Wild Card on the peripherals when Reyes and Beltran return to the lineup. Add Ike Davis to that mix and it’s a lot better than what was fielded last night. The starting rotation is a concern, but they won with far less in 2006. I see many similarities to 2005, but without the Pedro “event starts” to pacify the fan base.
There is reason for concern and it’s your prerogative to be negative the entire season. There are still the issues with the GM and manager, but there is, unlike prior seasons, reinforcements on the way that could be far better than what is currently there. That is good to know.
