Well it’s been a tough run for both the Yankees and the Mets. But I still thought I’d put some random thoughts together.
First the Mets because they are easier. Sigh. Wow how they fell apart after the break. They have been pretty sad to watch. Still some positive signs: Ike Davis is starting to hit, Tejada has been better than expected. Murphy can it. I still think Duda will be decent some day. The Mets must sign Wright and Dickey. Then if some of the young arms develop, dare a dream it, the Mets might challenge for a playoff spot next year.
As for the Yankees, they are still challenging for a playoff spot this year despite lots of injuries — but that’s part of the game. The Yanks just haven’t been playing well lately. I don’t think the O’s, Rays and Yankees will all make the playoffs. I am hoping it’s the Rays who are odd men out. But right now it’s looking like the Yankees will be. Yeah they got ripped off a bit on that call to end the game last night when Tex hit into the DP that wasn’t. But really, when your team needs a fly ball to tie it, a ground ball to second isn’t very good. And come on what’s the deal with sliding into first? You only do that if you are avoiding a tag.
As for the Nats. On one hand kudos to shutting down Strasberg and protecting their long term investment. One the other hand, with hindsight being 20 20 maybe they could have handled the situation better. For future reference for teams that might be thinking of limiting their top pitching prospect’s innings, perhaps they would consider pitching that prospect on six days rest. This way if that team makes the playoffs that prospect will still be available. Yeah, the rest could interfere with a pitcher’s rhythm but I think the inning’s limit really got into Strasberg’s head. Still the Nats are fine team even without Strasberg.
