Billy Wagner has finally gotten used to the glaring heat that comes from being under the spotlight in New York. Last year he had a couple of rough stretches and even when things were going right, he just never looked comfortable as a New York Met. Despite that, he finished with solid numbers and racked up 40 saves.
This year, Wagner is a different pitcher. He has been of the most dominant closers in the game. He has a swagger that hasn’t been seen in him since he left Houston. He has become as important to the Mets as any of their offensive stars.
Currently Wags leads the majors with a 0.50 ERA. In 18 innings he has allowed only 11 hits and 4 walks while striking out 18 batters. He has 10 saves in 10 opportunities and has only given up 1 run all year.
Last night he struck out the major league’s leading hitter Jorge Posada, and Jason Giambi to pick up the save against the Yankees, while protecting a one run lead. He came up big. He’s been coming up big all year long this season. I used to get nervous whenever I heard "Enter Sandman" playing at Shea. Now I just stand up and I wait for him pump his fist in the air and seal the deal for the New York Mets.
