Author: John Delcos

Saluting the 1973 Mets

This article was originally posted by the late John Delcos in 2013. The 1973 Mets clinched the NL East title on this date.  The Mets have made four World Series appearances, with each of those seasons and Octobers giving us cherished memories. But, only one – the nearly forgotten 1973 team, with the still memorable rallying cry of “Ya Gotta Believe,’’ – identifies with the tumultuous ride this...

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Twenty Years Later: The Grand Slam Single

One of the players I most enjoyed covering was Robin Ventura for those two years he played for the Yankees. In a clubhouse full of stars and egos, Ventura was a voice of calm, reason and humorous relief. I enjoyed stopping by his locker to shoot the breeze for a minute or two, talking about things other than baseball. Very smart, clever and possessing an insight on numerous issues. When there...

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Matz Giving Mets Strong Punch in Top of Rotation

Watching Steven Matz toy with the Miami Marlins tonight I couldn’t help but wonder what might have been or what could be. The New York Mets were supposed to go deep into the playoffs this season with five starters and two reliable reserves just in case something happened. Well, something did happen and six of those pitchers have spent some time on the disabled list. Teamed with Jacob deGrom,...

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Frustrated Collins Tries To Keep Season From Slipping Away

Welcome, my friends, to Panic City, where your mayor, GM Sandy Alderson and his deputy, Terry Collins, have some serious scrambling to do before they take their last place Mets into Washington for a three-game series with the Nationals. While Alderson was in his office after today’s 7-5 loss to the Braves – the Mets’ sixth straight – weighing his limited options, Collins was delivering his...

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How Exactly Will Collins Work In Reyes?

Among Mets manager Terry Collins‘ more interesting decisions this season will be where he’ll play Jose Reyes. Shortstop? Third base? Second base? The outfield? It has been a long time since Reyes played second – remember the Kaz Matsui fiasco? – and the outfield would be forcing the issue considering the Mets have a glut of outfielders already. Satisfied with Asdrubal Cabrera at shortstop, the...

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