Before we begin the second half of the 2011 season, a second half that will start with the loss of the team’s closer, I wanted to take some time to acknowledge the wonderful job that Terry Collins has done since he took over as the Mets new manager.

First I want to share some glowing comments from GM Sandy Alderson, and then I want to add some of my own thoughts as well.

“Terry’s done a great job, and I think that’s evident from the record,” Alderson said. “It’s evident in the way the team has exceeded some expectations. I think it’s reflective in the way the team has played, not just the record.”

“We talked about how it was important for the team to establish some credibility and a reputation for doing things the right way and working hard and making an effort and that’s somewhat independent of the won-loss record, although the won-loss record shades anybody’s impression, but I think on that basis as well,” Alderson said. “Terry’s done a great job; the team has played hard. I do think the team has established a different kind of persona among the fans and maybe even the media, and it’s something we can build on.”

Alderson is spot on with these comments and I’m glad he took the time to acknowledge the incredible way in which Collins has changed our perception of this team and the manner in which he keeps each player focused and motivated for every inning of every game.

I may not have been one of Terry’s biggest supporters when he was first hired, but I kept an open mind about it and by the end of Spring Training I counted myself as one of his biggest fans.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this first half of the 2011 season. This Mets team has been so much fun to watch. I’ve loved the swagger the team has shown. I’ve enjoyed their remarkable resiliency to always come back after a tough loss. I’ve been thrilled with the performances of players like Dillon Gee, Justin Turner, Ruben Tejada and Daniel Murphy who each did there part to make up for the losses of some key players who became injured. I love the fight Terry has instilled in all his players. All of these things combined, has made for such an enjoyable season of Mets baseball, and I’m looking forward to even more in the second half.

I just wanted to let Terry Collins know that all of us have been watching, and most of us have been very impressed.

Thank You.