OK, fine, that was the turning point, but the real indictment of the Mets came in the eight other innings. Johan Santana was professional enough to keep the game close, but the Mets’ offense slumbered through what they called a critical game. It’s not the adversity, but how you respond that is critical, and the Mets responded like a .500 team.
To a man, the Mets said they understood the magnitude of last night and this series. Can you imagine what would have happened had they not?
It arguably the most important game of the season, the Mets mailed it in. Yes, Castillo’s defense was sloppy, but the offense gave away too many at-bats and opportunities. They played with disinterest, without passion, without intensity.
Some might say, without heart.
In a game they had to win, the Mets gave up. This week is about trying to regain control their destiny. Instead, they surrendered meekly.
