What the hell was with the Nationals Monday night, specifically, Elijah Dukes and Lenny Harris? It was like little league out there. A last place team chanting in the dugout, during a meaningless game, as each player stepped into the batter’s box. Were they that bored? That cold? Figueroa had the perfect response, if you were observant enough to read his lips as he walked off the mound at the end of the inning. But seriously, was that necessary? Leave it up to the fans – that’s their job! I think most Mets fans would agree that when John Maine hit the first batter he faced last night, a little retaliation was behind it. Good for Maine! (Boy, I just love a controversy!)
Ok, now that that’s out of the way, good choice keeping Smith here and designating Sosa. His time was up, at least for now, and he had to go. I wish things would have worked out better for Figueroa, though. I think being a Brooklyn native and a Mets fan growing up, it would have been great for him, the team and the fans if he was here. But I am sure that we have not seen the last of him. And I am sure he will only improve as he works towards a return later in the year.
As far as the team – where they stand, how they are playing, etc. – no need to beat a dead horse. I think most other bloggers who posted already today (and in days past) have covered it all. And yes, while I have been known to repeat my self (and others), I’m just not in the mood for it today. The bottom line is, this team needs to be consistent and start putting together big innings (which they have, to an extent), longer winning streaks and quality performances. They win one, they lose one. I don’t know about you, but that causes me to ask the question, which is the fluke and which is the real deal? Is this team just so-so or do they have what it takes?
I know it’s only May. Then it will be only June. Then before you know it, it’s already September and the team is 72 and 68 and in fourth place behind the Marlins, Phillies and Braves, and no hope is in sight. Then we are right back in the position we were last year, and no fan – neither you, nor I, or anyone else – is going to put up with that again.
