Say one thing about the Mets: they never make a win easy. What appeared to be a laugher turned into a K-Rod ninth inning sweatbox, as he struck out Alex Rodriguez with the tying runs on base to preserve the Mets 6-4 win. The Amazin’s won the first Subway Series matchup of 2010 and will be rewarded with the Empire State Building displaying orange and blue today. For Jerry Manuel this game could be a synopsis of the wild ride the organization has taken him on. He continues to hang on and defy the logic of his employment.

Jeff Wilpon asked Jerry Manuel and Omar Minaya to do “more with less” this offseason and, so far, the less part should be accentuated. Outside of a 10-1 stretch this team is a very mediocre 12-22. That kind of record should get Jerry Manuel fired, especially when you couple in his handling of the team’s best prospect and overall bullpen management. We all knew Jerry wasn’t a brilliant strategist, but his in game management is downright ridiculous at times. Regardless, the Mets are a game under .500 and five games back of Philadelphia heading into the three game showdown at Citi Field this Tuesday. Jamie Moyer, Joe Blanton, and Cole Hamels shouldn’t strike fear into the hearts of the Mets after beating Phil Hughes and CC Sabathia this weekend. Could the Mets be headed for another decent stretch that will extend Manuel’s stay of execution? No one in the National League appears ready to run and hide. It gives the Mets time, which is something they need in order to figure this out.

As for the fans, does this change things? Does a Subway Series win at least give you reason to hope a bit? If the prognosis of a Beltran return in late June is correct, then we are in the homestretch of that situation. Remember, teams like Houston, Colorado, and even the Yankees have overcome dreadful starts in the last five years to make the playoffs. Unlikely when you look at the Mets roster, but not impossible.

Just like Al Pacino said in The Godfather “Just when I thought I was out… they pull me back in.” The Mets certainly did that this weekend by beating the Yankees 2 of 3. Put away the firing squad… for now.



Mike Silva is a freelance writer and radio host since March of 2007. This website is his own personal "digest" of New York Baseball He's also hosts NYBD Radio on Blog Talk Radio and 1240 AM WGBB. Check out his sports media commentary at www.sportsmediawatchdog.com. Check out his official website, www.mikesilvamedia.com

Mike Silva

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Tags: Alex Rodriguez, CC Sabathia, Cole Hamels, Jamie Moyer, Jeff Wilpon, Jerry Manuel, Joe Blanton, K-Rod, New York Mets, New York Yankees, Omar Minaya, Phil Hughes, Philadelphia Phillies