tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63409455041016978162024-02-19T12:08:43.775-05:00Bleeding Blue & OrangeJust another Mets blog...Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.comBlogger72125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-69266887415173384442008-03-31T13:02:00.002-04:002008-03-31T13:07:31.140-04:00Opening Day 2008<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMOz_a41CU7P9nPq4LGqGV4a1W87QMRLQoBAPrk30xR2iTgec93HHfscpykY0_AhhaPt_amEXtqNy-QVZLY-80KUiJK6AaE-pobzMR06mkj8-SHvFs8K9cIhUhV7VDrAbTs8Mtc79dAsk/s1600-h/johan+opener.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMOz_a41CU7P9nPq4LGqGV4a1W87QMRLQoBAPrk30xR2iTgec93HHfscpykY0_AhhaPt_amEXtqNy-QVZLY-80KUiJK6AaE-pobzMR06mkj8-SHvFs8K9cIhUhV7VDrAbTs8Mtc79dAsk/s200/johan+opener.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5183953069912766050" /></a>Happy Opening Day!! It's finally here! I will be the first to admit, last night I was not ready for Opening Night. Other things (ahem, WM 24) consumed my evening. But today I am ready. The Mets should be ready. Johan should be more than ready. I'll be in and out throughout the day, but I hope to recap some more later this evening. <div><br /></div><div>Enjoy the day everyone!! Let's Go Mets!<br /><br /></div>Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-92200196167063983412008-03-14T01:27:00.005-04:002008-03-14T02:00:39.621-04:00Ready for 2008I apologize for being so scarce. Later this week I will update you on the career side of my life, but for now the focus is on Spring Training. I had intended on taking an adventure to Port St. Lucie this year, but things did not go as planned. Needless to say, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">SNY</span> is filling my craving for baseball. I'm chomping at the bit though and ready for the real '08 season to begin.<div>As April is fast approaching, there's a few things to discuss. The Johan Santana phase has begun in Queens. It's exciting I know. I'm swept up in it too. I actually am obsessed with Johan's Malta Regional <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYFdFoU5xE0">commercial</a>. Please check it out if you haven't seen it yet. I also bought my Santana shirt already. I got caught up in the craziness, as we all did. But, let's not all get delusional. Johan Santana is not the wonder drug. He is not the answer to all <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span> woes. He is a miracle, but not the punched ticket to the World Series.</div><div><br /></div><div>The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> are already being plagued by injuries. Luis Castillo is still on crutches; Moises <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Alou</span> is going to spontaneously <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">combust</span> at any second; El <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Duque</span> has 15 bunions; Carlos Beltran has bad legs; etc, etc. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Mets</span> are a bit exposed in the outfield. Will Angel Pagan continue to lead the majors? <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Uhh</span>, no. So there's reason for concern.</div><div><br /></div><div>Is Carlos Delgado ever going to "return to form?" In my opinion...no. I know he's been a hurting unit, but have you tuned into a game lately?! He just looks downright silly at the plate. I can't turn on a major league fastball, but Carlos Delgado is just getting schooled. I don't want him to be done, but I just can't wholeheartedly believe there's much left in the big guy's tank.</div><div><br /></div><div>Will the real Mike <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Pelfrey</span> please stand up? I want to cheer for Big Pelf. He's got an endless amount of potential, but we can not put pressure on him. I want to believe he has grown and matured since last year, but as much as I want to see him succeed in the big leagues, he can't withstand another 0-7 start. Can he consistently find ways to minimize a big inning and maintain confidence in his stuff? I sure hope so. I like Pelf, but I don't want the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Mets</span> to be blinded by another good Spring. I honestly think he should start in New Orleans and we'll see how it goes from there.</div><div><br /></div><div>And last but not least, my friends in the bullpen. I wish Billy Wagner would shut his trap. It never ends with him. I will not put any stock in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Duaner</span> Sanchez. Anything I get from him is a bonus...as long as it's good. The bullpen is mediocre at best. Matt Wise is not the key to a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">WS</span> my friends. Joe Smith is not ready for NY yet. Scott <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Schoeneweis</span> is merely an afterthought to me.</div><div><br /></div><div>Are the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Mets</span> the team to beat in '08? I don't know if I would be as bold as Mr.Beltran. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Mets</span> are going to have some tough competition this year. I am looking forward to a few things this season. I'm anxious to see John Maine continue his development. He has shown so much promise as a Met and is such a likable guy. I'm rooting for John Maine in '08 and I think he'll be a joy to watch. I want Jose to continue being Jose. I don't want him to lose his enthusiasm for the game in his quest to be serious. I want him to steal less bases and continue to be our spark. September was so depressing watching Jose. I don't ever want to see that again. I want David to just continue to be himself. He has turned out to be such a gift to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Mets</span> fans and I expect him to be an even better ballplayer in 2008. </div><div><br /></div><div>This coming week, I plan on getting back on track. I apologize again for the lack of posts, but as the season gears up, expect more. Next week, I'll breakdown the 2008 rotation in depth, talk about the left side of our infield, and fill everyone in on my summer plans. Meaningful baseball, please come quick!</div>Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-61686307245764549942008-02-03T23:24:00.000-05:002008-02-03T23:48:07.947-05:00New York State of Mind<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IPciiPkWrH9oxJy28fnp2VWleveT3QmJeAGC5xk_tTDzYoV2W94e3b3TZ9da2Lyh9n4R2zcCNwmGmjhjSIPsDA2furOYMnf4WwMPvH7HbyWHQ8tYTbk6pPmYowpAMaVrPDsa8hH7L0A/s1600-h/johan_santana12.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IPciiPkWrH9oxJy28fnp2VWleveT3QmJeAGC5xk_tTDzYoV2W94e3b3TZ9da2Lyh9n4R2zcCNwmGmjhjSIPsDA2furOYMnf4WwMPvH7HbyWHQ8tYTbk6pPmYowpAMaVrPDsa8hH7L0A/s200/johan_santana12.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162982253423060482" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghPamvsb-L76CpN6tP7dFFwoT5hPjnBB7ioOkfGPwrHTpphIME5uoSnFVeCyZb55iDozz7zFOEFHvBoQbFuxbsx-1TxrEM49FNbs-LqRFlycHzVtXI1Hl8SrLfam2lG-7hImKL0gipaes/s1600-h/Giants+win.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghPamvsb-L76CpN6tP7dFFwoT5hPjnBB7ioOkfGPwrHTpphIME5uoSnFVeCyZb55iDozz7zFOEFHvBoQbFuxbsx-1TxrEM49FNbs-LqRFlycHzVtXI1Hl8SrLfam2lG-7hImKL0gipaes/s200/Giants+win.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162976815994463714" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>There are very few weeks that can trump one such as this one for those who are diehard NY sports fans. For Mets fans, Christmas came late for those of us holding our breath throughout the off season. As the contract negotiations came down to the wire with Santana & the Mets, I decided to wait until this deal was totally official to comment on a franchise-altering trade. I don't care what any has to say about the prospects the Mets dealt to Minnesota, but hands down the Mets stole Johan from the Twin Cities. I wish our former prospects the best of luck, but by retaining Martinez & Pelfrey, this trade was a no-brainer. Does Johan deserve the contract he received? Well in all honestly, salaries in baseball have become ludicrous. At the same time, why shouldn't he get what the market dictates. Does Johan deserve more than Barry Zito? In my mind thee is no argument there.</div><div><br /></div><div>I cannot get enough clicks on the Mets 40-man roster, which now include Johan Santana #57 as a New York Met. As much as this seemed like wishful thinking, it is hard to wrap my brain around the concept of #57 on MY team; OUR team. Omar & the Wilpons had to make this move to keep the fan base alive; talk about reenergize your fan base. This is the perfect medicine. Was I excited to buy tickets before Friday? Not so much...but that catchy email stating "Johan's coming...when are you?" officially sucked me in. We are a fortunate bunch now Mets fans. We get to sit back and watch 2 young stars in the game alongside the best pitcher in the game for a good chunk of years. Not too mention, open a brand new ballpark in 2009 with quite the lofty roster. I'm officially excited for 2008. Don't forget to tune in and watch the official presser on Wednesday. More about Johan later this week...</div><div><br /></div><div>What else could signify the start of baseball season but the end of football season. Not just any end of football season, but the New York Football Giants stopping the perfect season. As someone rooting for the Giants, I questioned if the Giants could overcome this Patriots team. But they did and where this game will rank all-time will be decided once the reality sets in. The Giants played one helluva game. Does it make this win bigger considering now New England can sit at 18-1? Of course it does. Has Eli Manning earned respect in this town? Has he ever! This kid was as poised as ever in this game. A stellar performance by the Giants. Period. Possibly as great a Super Bowl as I have ever watched. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's hard to believe but it's time to celebrate New York!! Enjoy every second of this championship! In about a week our attention will move south to the Florida fields and the first sights of summer. And one can only hope this is not the only celebration New York will see in 2008.</div>Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-1511603244757300612008-01-13T00:25:00.000-05:002008-01-13T01:18:15.165-05:00Still a Favorite<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuO_XmDS4dIOhyGHfO9mP2-tFqTEeiuy2G0tp0GdjSiBaJiFfIJNZJGUKZOwuTDeXgQl3IfInmUpgd5mWjKia3xySPMGzpwSdLPK4QhdiqLXL3R4DDLIbTKtbPO6WVJymt6Ar9pwKtkAk/s1600-h/robin+as+a+met.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuO_XmDS4dIOhyGHfO9mP2-tFqTEeiuy2G0tp0GdjSiBaJiFfIJNZJGUKZOwuTDeXgQl3IfInmUpgd5mWjKia3xySPMGzpwSdLPK4QhdiqLXL3R4DDLIbTKtbPO6WVJymt6Ar9pwKtkAk/s200/robin+as+a+met.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154831276313137474" border="0" /></a>There is nothing that is certain in baseball; in fact, players, rosters, and even the game itself is constantly changing. Each year stands on its own and few things transcend from year to year. For most of us though, there is a team, game, or even a player that transcends time. We will remember certain things fondly for our own reasons and these are the things that illustrate the beauty of baseball to each of us.<br /><br />I recall the announcement of Robin Ventura joining the Mets in December of 1998. I had heard of Robin during his long tenure with the White Sox and was eager to see how he would adjust to being a part of the Mets. Needless to say it didn't take long for Robin to become without a doubt my favorite Met. (Yes, even David has to get a few more years under his belt to try and trump Robin.) Granted Robin was only a part of the blue and orange for three seasons, some of the best memories I have as a fan come from those three seasons. Beyond his career with the Mets, I continued to follow Robin from the Yankees to the Dodgers and even now in his post-retirement days.<br /><br />Yes, it's lame but this guy was as cool as a cucumber. He had the driest sense of humor that at times got lost in the New York media who were seeking the flashy quotes, but he was as funny a guy you could find. Consider the fact that he started the mojo in Queens and mocked Mike Piazza in Yankee Stadium in the rain, he created a crazy culture during his tenure with the Mets. I can close my eyes and still see him making a play on a bunt down the third base line, where his body was parallel to the ground in his throw to first. He had that play mastered. What's better than all that, he was as selfless a ballplayer you will find, as the team always meant more than anything he did himself. (Exhibit A: post game comments from the Grand Slam Single).<br /><br />Just recently an article was posted on Mets.com and Mlb.com discussing the ankle surgery Robin endured following his retirement in 2005. This article can be read its in entirety <a href="http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080111&content_id=2343655&vkey=news_nym&fext=.jsp&c_id=nym">here.</a> I was unaware of the procedure and despite knowing of his injured ankle and the pain he endured, I think many of us were unaware of the actual extent of the pain he was playing through. It is through this that as fans we should learn our lesson as we are quick to judge, thinking we all know what's going on with our favorite players. This game is not as easy as we make it from the comforts of our couch.<br /><br />Robin Ventura may have had his career a bit shortened due to his injury, yet he was one of the gentlemen of the game. I know many Mets fans recall his time in Queens fondly and as easy as it is to get caught up in the present, it is these reminders that allow us to take a minute and appreciate the past. Robin has still been quite involved in the game as he has served as an ESPN commentator for the College World Series as well as appearances at White Sox Spring Training and Fan Fests. I hope for nothing more than to see Robin back in the big leagues someday, because the game can use a few more like him. We are blessed as Mets fans to have David Wright manning the hot corner these days, who will be one of the greats of his own time. Having him makes it a lot easier to adjust to a game without your favorite.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-81426298979810202372008-01-11T00:59:00.000-05:002008-01-11T01:38:41.116-05:00I See Santa in Santana<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn1N2gMZENwDX3MVQexpgx_zZZz0bQSEBc3Y-q-d0ZAd9ETXN3g-W2_RxJXOfGqlUvyCDe364-1M-NNjc-g47OZFO6ijBaxGlJWFjqI5KKA7uMmDxGupRZIBN0a4MJ90XZslU5Yxaxnas/s1600-h/johan.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn1N2gMZENwDX3MVQexpgx_zZZz0bQSEBc3Y-q-d0ZAd9ETXN3g-W2_RxJXOfGqlUvyCDe364-1M-NNjc-g47OZFO6ijBaxGlJWFjqI5KKA7uMmDxGupRZIBN0a4MJ90XZslU5Yxaxnas/s200/johan.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154096570617549090" border="0" /></a>There has been an incredibly long drought in my blog postings. For that I apologize...if there is even anyone left reading. To think that I could return to school, have a job, and still have time to amuse myself here, I was sadly fooling myself. That being said, I'm getting anxious as the off-season is winding down and I promise for real this time I will stick around. I will catch up on all I missed another day, but tonight I'm wide awake and I'm almost embarrassed to admit why.<br /><br />I woke up this morning to rampant reports that the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mets</span> are only an F-Mart away from sealing the deal. The deal for Johan that is. I tried to block it out and continue with my day. Instead I became this crazy woman checking every damn site compulsively. This is my effort to avoid all sites baseball and attempt some rest.<br /><br />The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span> need to make this deal. Yes, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> fans have suffered through miserable trade after miserable trade, but this one is different. It's Johan Santana. He's young, established, and the big splash this team needs. If they don't do something, it's going to be a pathetic 2008 to be a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mets</span> fan. Without a Santana-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">esque</span> move we may be able to say goodbye to any sanity we have left as well as Shea Stadium.<br /><br />Should the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mets</span> end up sending F-Mart, Gomez, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Humber</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Mulvey</span>, and Guerra to Minnesota, the probability of all of them see success is highly unlikely. I don't know how much longer I can ride the Santana roller coaster as this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">offseason</span> has been so lackluster. Reports like those circling on Thursday just get my hopes up. I'm so at peace with unloading the farm that I'll tell the Mets where they can borrow a John Deere from. I'm trying to stay level-headed as to not be disappointed. I feel like all those who support the blue and orange are collectively holding our breath. We are tossing and turning like a little kid on Christmas Eve...<br /><br />When I wake up...I want to see that Santa came a little late. Santana that is.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-48395890230141615722007-10-27T00:27:00.000-04:002007-10-27T01:06:49.312-04:00Baseball & Other Musings to Pass the TimeI'm a baseball fan first and a sports fan second. I thought this World Series was going to be a better <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">match up</span>. Apparently I was kidding myself...that or I was desperate for a feel-good story. Guess that may not work out. I'm already tired of the Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Sox</span> and their antics. Since when did they jump on a high horse?! It's funny for two seconds; oh and then I feel like I'm watching the dopey version of the late-90's Yankees.<br /><br />So besides the World Series & the inevitable end of another baseball season, the sports world is full of interesting tidbits. There's that NFL game in London this weekend...I'm sure that will go well. NFL and Europe are not compatible...I'm not even a football fan and I can recognize this. I will admit I have become a sucker for my grad. school's football team though. I'm learning to embrace the only game I've ever been a real outsider too. We'll see how long that last...<br /><br />The NHL is up and running. Yeah, I forgot too. I predict another lackluster season of NHL hockey, especially if Ryan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Smyth</span> continues to tour the country spreading his man tears everywhere. College Hockey is so much more exciting that the "show." That is one opinion I will never change.<br /><br />The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Knicks</span> & MSG are going to spontaneously <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">combust</span> at any moment. It all started when Mr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Marbury</span> started selling $15 shoes. You knew that was the beginning of the end. Apparently the World Series isn't front page worthy this week, as every damn magazine was committed to the Celtics. Real nice...<br /><br />Back to baseball. Barry Bonds is whining, Scott <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Boras</span> is talking about money, the Yankees are still making mistakes. The best news is that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Jacoby</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Ellsbury</span> is a modern day American Hero. With his stolen base Thursday night he swiped every <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">American</span> a free taco. Needless to say, this promotion by Taco Bell is absolutely genius. So hat tip to Taco Bell...and don't forget to get your taco Tuesday, Oct. 30 from 2-5pm.<br /><br />All is right in the world. As the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">offseason</span> progresses & the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">hotstove</span> heats up, I'll still be here to weigh in on all the action. What will be the biggest piece of news in my eyes is if this list from the Mitchell investigation is released. That should give us all plenty to talk about. If I throw in some non-baseball chit chat I hope you don't mind. Thanks to anyone who has continued reading! I truly appreciate it. Soak up the last few moments of baseball before we are subjected to a long winter...Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-81369837713433855522007-10-22T11:17:00.000-04:002007-10-22T11:52:01.095-04:00Rox & SoxTo the World Series we go. I'm mildly disappointed that the Indians couldn't pull out this series, but the Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Sox</span> were just too strong. Do I like the Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Sox</span>? Not so much. Do they make me laugh? Sure they do...<br /><br />Just 4 years ago, the thought of being a Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Sox</span> fan could make a grown man cry. Despite all the allure of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Fenway</span>, the Green Monster, Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Sox</span> Nation there was also a lot of despair. But since 2004, the attitude has changed. Did you watch that celebration last night? Who are these guys? Who are these Boston fans? It's almost as if now they expect to get there. And sure they are powerful and probably should be there, but I hate when fans and players walk around with a sense of entitlement.<br /><br />It should be clear that I'm rooting for the Rockies when the World Series gets underway. I'll have my purple all geared up for Wednesday. I give the Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Sox</span> a point for humor, but there gets a point when the bullpen band, Beckett's F-bombs, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Papelbon's</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">riverdance</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Papi</span> & This is why I'm hot, and Manny being Manny just gets to be too much. I'm sure if you're on the inside & the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Sox</span> are your team, all these things are endearing. Probably exactly why you love your team. Through this I can understand why people cannot stand <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Mets</span> home run celebrations. But what can you do? A team's personality is what it is...but the Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Sox</span> are a bunch of wackos.<br /><br />That being said...Terry <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Francona</span> is one hell of a manager. I'll give him that. And speaking of wackos, the poor lady presenting the trophies in the clubhouse last night was a mess and a half. I feel like the postseason is 15 years long. They can get rid of the 3 million off days any time now. 4 more wins and we'll be knee deep in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">offseason</span>. Until then I have my fingers crossed for the kids from Colorado. With the wintry conditions in Denver, an early Christmas present may not be too much to ask.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-63027273791240667862007-10-21T02:02:00.000-04:002007-10-21T02:22:34.598-04:00Worst Blogger EverWorst Blogger Ever = me! I have been a terrible lady blogger in these days since the regular season has ended. I think I was so wrapped up in the highs and lows of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mets</span> run, or lack their of, just made me so exhausted. That being said...I have been committed to the playoffs and they have been worth every second. I was happy to see the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Phils</span> bow out early; the Yankees and all their issues are such a joke; the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">D'backs</span> and Rockies series was a bit of a letdown, as I expected a closer series; and this stretched out playoff schedule is starting to drive me bananas.<br /><br />Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Sox</span> and Indians have come down to game 7. Enter anxious shiver here. I hate everything about game 7's now. The Indians cannot let this slip away after taking a 3-1 lead, but now it all comes down to just 9 innings. There is no tomorrow for one of these teams. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Fenway</span> is going to be crazy & the tribe needs to win the war. I'm disappointed in my boy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Fausto</span>...guy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">could've</span> gotten it together for this series. It would have been a thought. So before I move on, Come on Cleveland. Do it for my buddy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Zac</span>, who might just implode if you blow this!<br /><br />Now the Rockies. Is this team playing incredible baseball or what?! I have jumped on the purple bandwagon, despite my plea to ditch purple as a man's team color. It has been exciting to watch this run they have been on. I am concerned the long break before the series may not be the best of things, but only time will tell. I have always been on the fence about destiny...and teams of destiny. Ask me in November if I change my mind. <br /><br />And finally, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Mets</span>. I apologize for those of you who were reading regularly & may have believed I bailed for the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">off season</span>. Thankfully my schedule filled up as the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Mets</span> faded into the sunset. Until the hot stove heats up, the news in Queens has been slow. The Yankees gave us a hand in stealing all the nasty headlines so I offer them my thanks. I have avoided <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">SNY</span>; <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Mets</span> Weekly; my drawer of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Mets</span> apparel; and obviously my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Mets</span> blog. Then damn ESPN interviews my man D.Wright at the Rutgers game the other night. And as stupid as it may sound, then and there I missed our <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Mets</span>. I missed Gary, Keith, and Ron (who I believed used Just For Men before his TBS stint.) I missed Kevin Burkhardt eating everything in sight at a Dodgers game. I missed the obnoxious HR dances. I miss David everywhere. I miss Moises <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Alou</span> and his quads that make me hold my breath. I missed El <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Duque's</span> bunions & Willie's sketchy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">post-game</span> conferences. I miss the ride that is a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Mets</span> fan; even if it's not always very fun. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Sizemore's</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Holliday's</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Carmona's</span>, Beckett's, and Cleveland bugs will get me through October, but they will never be a sufficient substitute. I'm already flipping the calendar, counting down until Spring Training. Purple may be the color of the month, but I want my blue and orange back.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-17388498745066728202007-10-02T23:01:00.000-04:002007-10-03T17:21:42.061-04:00Still Not Happy...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpojzWyjixCVjPiJLPTHZDWMI5DPT8tTR3ueIvqpEnNSxfxHB_Z6H3IBVlIlnxiZh1tZsNhDzPXoUsgKNpbt_bPms3t3EsokVaBl23lpS-ttiofyFGEFzgJI3f7mYvhzhvq4b4ZZAxg8/s1600-h/yeah+this+is+support.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpojzWyjixCVjPiJLPTHZDWMI5DPT8tTR3ueIvqpEnNSxfxHB_Z6H3IBVlIlnxiZh1tZsNhDzPXoUsgKNpbt_bPms3t3EsokVaBl23lpS-ttiofyFGEFzgJI3f7mYvhzhvq4b4ZZAxg8/s200/yeah+this+is+support.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116943082440018450" border="0" /></a>Do you feel any better? I don't. Willie Randolph is coming back. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Yayyy</span>! Crack open the champagne....<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">errr</span> wait. What's that you say Willie? "When we do drink champagne it will be that much sweeter; if we don't, that's life." Right, right. Thanks for clearing that up. But you're coming back because Omar runs the show. I really used to like Omar but this year and the handling of "the collapse" thus far have not been scoring any points. My favorite tidbit from the announcement today. "At one point, he [Randolph] walked through the clubhouse and noted his missing mustache."I was going to slit my throat," Randolph said. "But my aim was high." I guess the past few days have made me quite morbid because that made me laugh out loud. P.S...check out the picture from the press conference today. It definitely looks like Willie and Omar have an outstanding relationship. I also just won a million dollars.<br /><br />Then let's talk about pictures of Carlos Delgado <a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/photo?slug=141606f5ce1b40959404e86aa129beeb.mets_collapse_baseball_nys113&prov=ap">carrying around</a> his Derek <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Jeter</span> jersey. That's really cute Carlos, really. Too bad Jeter will be in the postseason because a) he can still hit a baseball and b) he's not afraid of being a leader.<br /><br />Oddly enough Orlando Hernandez can't speak <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">English</span> now. He was talking to reporters on Monday through a translator. I mean, are you kidding me?! Arthritis, a bunion, 17 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">therapeutic</span> boots, 2 vacations a year, crapping out at the end of the past 2 seasons and a translator. You can get the heck outta here too.<br /><br />And then to make matters worse...in a move to protect my continued investment in this organization, the very concerned about Mets fans, Jeff <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Wilpon,</span> sent me an email on Monday. As if I had been living under a rock, he informed me that the season was a bitter disappointment, there would be meetings, improvements, and changes. Oh yes and the best part...."You deserve better results." <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Conveniently</span> that was followed by thanks again for your money. Thanks to the "Ownership Group" for telling me NOTHING I DIDN'T ALREADY KNOW!<br /><br />If you missed it the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Phillies</span> were throwing celebrations in Philadelphia for winning the division. Newsflash: You didn't win anything yet but a crappy white t-shirt. Win a World Series and then you can start clanging the Liberty Bell.<br /><br />One thing I was happy about...the Wild Card Tiebreaker. I was hesitant to put in on, but I'm so glad I did. After weeks of terrible baseball, last night was a perfect reminder of why baseball is the greatest game on earth. That was a phenomenal game last night in every sense of the word. Electric crowd, early leads, a grand slam, great bullpens, comebacks, extra innings, meltdowns, close plays, botched balls, and a walk off win. When you follow a team that has a monumental meltdown as the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Mets</span> did...it's easy to forget the beauty of baseball. But last night we had 13 innings of reason. I like the Rockies & I love the story. The Rockies were actually involved in the first baseball game I ever went to; so they are near and dear in a weird way. That they're playing the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Phillies</span> in the first round only makes me root for them that much more. I know it's tough to turn on baseball after what we just watched, but try to watch these playoffs. It proves to be a great month of baseball in general & the magic that happens in October cannot be re-created any time of year...regardless of the teams involved.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-28379543352496788492007-10-01T14:31:00.000-04:002007-10-01T14:54:48.140-04:00Yesterday = Numb, Today = AngryOkay, so yesterday I was numb. I had no other words than that. Today I am angry. After listening to yesterday's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">postgame</span> reactions I am angry, add to that annoyed. I have never felt more disrespected or brushed aside as a fan of this organization as I did yesterday. Let me begin my rant...<br /><br />Tom <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Glavine</span>: Thank you for telling me you weren't devastated. That's fine, but 54,000+ sat there yesterday and were. Add to that all those watching & listening at home and you have a whole lot of devastated people. So cut us some slack Tom. You're days are a Met have come to the end. Thanks for notching your 300<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span> win in the blue and orange, all while adding very little to the blue and orange. Okay, so you're a veteran and the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">consummate</span> professional...but when you had to lay it all out there, you dropped the ball. Parting in this case will not be sweet sorrow.<br /><br />Willie Randolph: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Umm</span> I just want to remind you that the fans are how you people eat at night. We allow for your paychecks. So have a little sympathy and realize that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mets</span> fans are not the same breed as Yankees fans. When the press asks you what kind of message you have for <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">devastated</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Mets</span> fans...what was your answer? "We're <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">devastated</span> too. But we're gonna learn from this and move on. But hey listen, I'm worried about my team first and foremost." Alright Willie, that's nice and all. I'm glad you're worried about patching <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">bandaids</span> for the grown men in your clubhouse. But in all due respect, throw us a little bit of respect. And you wonder why everyone is calling for your head.<br /><br />Omar <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Minaya</span>: If this guy tried to tell me ONE MORE TIME that "Look this is a good team. This is still a team who was in a pennant race. This is still a team that won 88 games. This is where we want to be. Ya know what I'm <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">sayin</span>." I was here for all 162 games Omar! I know you won 88 games and you probably could have won about 15-16 more if they didn't always cough it up. This season was a downgrade from last year, regardless of what names are on the paper. I'm not an idiot. Stop trying to make excuses and still say this team is a good team. Do something worthwhile this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">offseason</span> and I'll quit my bitching.<br /><br />Billy Wagner: Shut up already. You have managed to crap the bed in every damn big game and yes I'd keep you as my closer, but I still think you're overrated. Always have, always will. What I can't stand about you is you're pretty quick to always point the finger and throw someone else under the bus. You've always got something negative to say and I think you're a bad teammate. Yes you heard it here...a bad teammate & given the chance I'd ship you out on the first bus too. You and Tommy G. can hold hands on the way out of town. Again...shut your big fat trap.<br /><br />Jose Reyes: Find yourself already dammit. Will the real Jose Reyes please stand up? The boos will not go away next year if you do not get it together and lose the '<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">tude</span>. Please and Thank You!<br /><br />I would like to say a brief thank you to Pedro & Paul for showing they were angry. I was angry. Thanks for being a reflection of how your fans felt like. Thank you David Wright for being a real captain. This organization is yours for years to come & that is the only thing I am excited about.<br /><br />Today I am annoyed. Today I am angry. I have nothing positive to say today. Maybe in a few days I'll be able to see some positive. But today I feel disrespected. Beyond being letdown by my team on the field, I now feel letdown by my team in the clubhouse. In a place like New York the fans are the pulse of your team, and I don't need you to send me a box of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">kleenex</span>. What I would appreciate is a little recognition and not a slap in the face. The fans are devastated. The fans are angry. I don't care you won 88 games. I don't care Tom <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Glavine</span> won 303 games in his lifetime. I don't care Willie Randolph is a big boy and can take the heat. Recognize that your pulse is fading & you have to find a way to fix that, along with your team.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-29414665504726099062007-09-30T18:27:00.000-04:002007-09-30T18:40:20.866-04:00Enter Words Here<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjM8cH3ydS5B45bN3ZNGNq0ses3vD_nxZZequdsWhX0CRYY-Pj7-QLI4Vuoa0Ek1Nr6UwLMysaoLemrJTwrrUXl8X6Rx7Bg4Hileci3ETavSWa5kWejsgphN38si16ITZSrv6Kp_h7vM/s1600-h/blog.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116127600584695506" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjM8cH3ydS5B45bN3ZNGNq0ses3vD_nxZZequdsWhX0CRYY-Pj7-QLI4Vuoa0Ek1Nr6UwLMysaoLemrJTwrrUXl8X6Rx7Bg4Hileci3ETavSWa5kWejsgphN38si16ITZSrv6Kp_h7vM/s200/blog.jpg" border="0" /></a> This sucks. The fact that it ever came down to game 162 sucks. This one is painful because this...we took away from ourselves. This is one of the types of collapses that will have <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">repercussions</span> for a while. Heads are going to hang, changes are going to be made, some fans are going to jump ship. It's all going to happen and it's all quite understandable.<br /><br />Going into next year, the last year at Shea, this organization has some serious regrouping to do. But I can't even think that far ahead. I wish I could say I am surprised today, but you can just feel when you're team has that extra "thing." I haven't felt that in a long time about these <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span>, so maybe I was preparing for the worst as other teams all over the place seemed to be pouring killer instinct all over the place. That being said, it doesn't mean I enjoyed these guys any less, or this season any less. I rooted, I cheered, and hoped for the best until another strikeout ended another wasted season. Preparing for the worst didn't make it any easier, it has just made me feel numb.<br /><br />I'm not sure what to say to anyone reading or to my friends or even to myself. As exciting as the playoffs may be, I may take the week off from baseball. I'm tired, I'm burned out, I'm drained...like I said. Just plain numb. The Phillies did what they had to do and hats off to Jimmy Rollins and his big mouth. It worked, that's all I can say. Besides that, I have no desire to watch the Phillies play in October because the whole idea makes me want to throw up.<br /><br />Only time will tell how this all will play out and what after shocks the organization will feel, but this could take a while to bounce back from. It's not going to be an easy road ahead...but if it's any consolation, being a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> fan has never been easy. I don't have <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">eloquent</span> words yet, or any deep insight to the season. I need a day or two to let this sink in. If you're a reader here...which I know there are some, I encourage you guys to post today, tonight, tomorrow. Whenever. It's okay to vent...look ahead...whatever you do to cope with this meltdown. Unfortunately the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mets</span> have packed up until <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">February</span>...and until then, all we have is each other.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-52607219485761185372007-09-29T00:33:00.000-04:002007-09-29T01:25:17.648-04:00More Blue Than Orange<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6r6z25LmB8_yUxjf4NGUi_OpCrPyRGIpeNllF6opQbalZ1ucfPQYgYmZtyMGVl5W8m4beAbad67U2gL4Ef9RG_V7O01HdjrSxG7h0gqfMsEKMOd5IybgYBz7c6M9qilutNPzVTkznA7M/s1600-h/bbo+lose+lead.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115481719107755714" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6r6z25LmB8_yUxjf4NGUi_OpCrPyRGIpeNllF6opQbalZ1ucfPQYgYmZtyMGVl5W8m4beAbad67U2gL4Ef9RG_V7O01HdjrSxG7h0gqfMsEKMOd5IybgYBz7c6M9qilutNPzVTkznA7M/s200/bbo+lose+lead.jpg" border="0" /></a> <em>"I'm embarrassed. It's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">embarrassing</span>. It's pretty pathetic that we have this division within our grasp with 7 home games and we can't find a way to win one of them. It's a bad feeling. It's a feeling that the fans deserve better. Ownership deserves better. The front office deserves better. Willie, the coaching staff deserves better. This is on the players." D. Wright</em><br /><br />It came from David Wright's mouth, but it could have come from any of us. There's anger, frustration, disappointment, sadness, etc. Personally, I'm just very tired and well, a bit broken hearted. The faces of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> fans sitting in the stands tonight, staring into nothingness after the game was really too much to handle. It really was the epitome of gut-wrenching. End of story.<br /><br />This is the toughest day to be a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mets</span> fan in recent history. Game 7 last year was tough...but this is something beyond that. It's helplessness, it's confusing...and we have no one to blame but our own team. It does not rest on the shoulders of one guy...this team has lost it as a team. If it's not one thing, it's another; defense, offense, focus, starting pitching, bullpen. I don't need to describe games or mistakes to you, but there is nothing to take the sting out of tonight. To see the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Phillies</span> on top made me sick, but I am a realist and they have played like hell to get there. They didn't throw the towel in and boy do they ever have the momentum.<br /><br />I don't know what to make of anything. Or what to do if the worst-case scenario comes true. Everyone took this team for granted and at the worst possible time reality has set in. But here we are, and the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mets</span> are not mathematically out of it. I was a math major and appreciate the numbers game, so we cannot concede yet. Stranger things have happened in the realm of baseball & the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Mets</span> can still make the playoffs. Do I feel optimistic tonight? No. But there is still a glimmer of hope.<br /><br />I have never heard as eerie a silence as the one at Shea tonight in the 9<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">th</span>. The fans almost personified the lifeless team we have seen the past few weeks & other times throughout the summer. This team is on life support and so are their fans. It's hard to ask any more of each other at this point. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Mets</span> have collapsed. If they can climb above the rubble or fall deeper in the ground will be determined in the next few days. I still believe because I'm a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Mets</span> fan and I am doubtful because I am human. I know there is still hope & Carlos Beltran is telling me it's not over yet, but I never had such a "sky has fallen" feeling as tonight. We all will deal with this is our own way...and you may or may not believe. You may broken hearted as I am or still holding on for dear life...but there is one thing you need to be for the next 2 days. You need to be there. Whether it is in front of you TV watching your team, or in the stands willing them with the last sliver of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">energy</span> you have...but if you are a fan, YOU WILL BE THERE. Hold on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Mets</span> fans...we'll get through it together.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-71673317024795786412007-09-23T01:41:00.001-04:002007-09-23T02:25:22.871-04:00I'm Back to Being Normal...For Now<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJY-1Pnfo57UBtILfLyeCalAWawAaDqLGBNOyLqZIyU2cwu_dkIOHrquvZOYWb9saDTLzOIpJVXxj2sl0eAaN2dLE6nE-hEjtWBmeP5oEF5jr3NeNzJriV2J7HKqe9wg2Pb4glkPD7pk8/s1600-h/ollie+p+bbo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJY-1Pnfo57UBtILfLyeCalAWawAaDqLGBNOyLqZIyU2cwu_dkIOHrquvZOYWb9saDTLzOIpJVXxj2sl0eAaN2dLE6nE-hEjtWBmeP5oEF5jr3NeNzJriV2J7HKqe9wg2Pb4glkPD7pk8/s200/ollie+p+bbo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5113270871807237778" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Magic Number: 7</span></span><br /><br />Although Pedro was pitching last night...I chose happy hour (at a bar with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mets</span> on TV). That was as close to a night off as I could get. I didn't even turn it on when I got home and the rain had subsided. I couldn't do that to myself.<br /><br />Today, which by the way I can't stand 3:55pm starts, Ollie P needed to be a big shot. With one eye on a presentation for work and the other wandering eye on baseball, I think I saw him be effective & come up huge. I wasn't seeing things...that was the real deal.<br /><br />So 2 wins later, a bad attitude for all things Philadelphia, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span> in moderation...the good news is I am starting to return to a normal human being. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> were doing bad things to me. They were making me a very angry, annoyed, unpleasant baseball fan. Along with that people were telling me I looked like the dog I don't have died. I was losing my sense of humor & I was convinced the world as I knew it must hate me. Welcome to being a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mets</span> fan, circa 2007. This was not the season I've been waiting for, despite the word from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mets</span> marketing.<br /><br />The good news is I am going to be okay and so are all of you. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mets</span> have really tested our loyalty this season; but those who are true fans have earned their stripes in times that were ten times more terrible than this. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Mets</span> may scratch and claw their way to the playoffs and we may have some bumps and bruises from the ride this year, but we need to look alive. They need us more than ever now. So do what you can to freshen up...head to happy hour, take a nap, go to the gym. <br /><br />It always makes me sad when fall finally arrives. It is as bittersweet a time as I have each year. I love everything about a change in season, yet I dread the end of baseball season. I am usually exhausted at this time of year as I realize I'm far too emotionally invested in this team. Especially after a year of watching your team ride a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">rollercoaster</span>. So as exciting as playoff baseball can be, I always have a hard time. It's a long season, that goes by too fast. Then before you can blink, October turns your team into the past, despite the glory or heartbreak that comes of it. I hate the uncertainty that October brings; with 162 games a fan knows that it doesn't matter how good or bad their team is, they'll be there 162 times. October does not guarantee tomorrow. There's the part of me that needs 4 months to find sanity and have my nights to myself again, but just like anything you know is good for you, I'd like to avoid the off-season more than asparagus.<br /><br />8 more days of certainty, 8 more games, 8 more nights of wishing the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Phillies</span> would die already...soak it up everyone. Then we have to answer to October.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-64477036764044907742007-09-21T00:55:00.000-04:002007-09-21T01:05:46.689-04:00UGHHHHGood god. Can they put a solid effort on the field on back to back nights? NO. This is getting a little ridiculous. Okay I'm lying, ridiculous was a month ago. While Wagner is nursing back spasms and feeding his alpacas, I'm tossing my TV out the window because my left toe could be more effective out of the pen. <br /><br />Don't the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mets</span> understand that it is not easy to function as a normal human being while they continue to roll over for the East to keep running over us? Have they watched a highlight of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Phillies</span>? Do they not see that they are driven to win this thing? They've displayed 15 times the heart this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> team has...and I hate this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Phillies</span>, but it's the truth. Today I was breathing...tonight I need the oxygen mask again. Hell, why don't we just find some absurd way to let the Braves back in the race at this point. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Lead's</span> back to 1.5, the magic number will probably stay at 9 for another week, and I've concluded that no <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mets</span> blogger can make any coherent sense on their blog right now. I almost dread each game now and believe that the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Mets</span> could have a 27 run lead and still find a way to cough it up. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Ghajghkjagdkjagkdlih</span>!Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-50187834118865598262007-09-20T00:52:00.001-04:002007-09-20T01:26:57.450-04:00The Word of the Day is Potential<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7604OJCKY426KAdR406Hx8fUNxuZ5SB8CGOAL1MbBrCEsb63nuowRMu6b7XmWmzFXKZybW_vvabC3pljJmv3vCbEmQOdyOPAP_KI9_1V92d54kAc4viH1DVnCXAsoQxxAhQFRJenTdeA/s1600-h/bbo+willie.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7604OJCKY426KAdR406Hx8fUNxuZ5SB8CGOAL1MbBrCEsb63nuowRMu6b7XmWmzFXKZybW_vvabC3pljJmv3vCbEmQOdyOPAP_KI9_1V92d54kAc4viH1DVnCXAsoQxxAhQFRJenTdeA/s200/bbo+willie.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5112144921644589458" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Magic Number: 9</span></span><br /><br />Deep breath in...and now exhale slowly. Phew. A nice, solid win. You almost forgot what it felt like right? I had to laugh tonight though. The panic we have all been feeling even shook the marketing offices of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mets</span>. Tonight during the game as Gary Cohen is giving his usual plug to register for your opportunity to get postseason tickets...the promo on the bottom of my screen pops up that used to say "2007 Postseason Tickets." What did it say tonight? "2007 Potential Postseason Tickets." Willie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">may</span> be all about even-keel but someone out there is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">shakin</span>' in their boots. Thanks though, it made me chuckle.<br /><br />This <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ballclub</span> has so much potential though. That's where the root of our frustrations have come from this year. Watching a team play 75% of its season under the fan's opinion of their potential is enough to drive even the most <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">adamant</span> "Ya Gotta Believe"-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">ers</span> nuts. But potential is an imaginary concept if you can't stack up the W's. Tonight was a relief, but they have to keep moving in the right direction tomorrow night in Miami. <br /><br />Speaking of right, David Wright is still a potential MVP in my eyes. If not of the National League, he is this team's MVP. To think that just 3 years ago I saw him play with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Mets</span> in Montreal as a mid-season call up, all wide-eyed and bushy-tailed to be a big <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">leaguers</span>, and now he's a veteran on this team is very hard to believe. <br /><br />Mike <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Pelfrey</span>. I know many <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Mets</span> fan had enough of Mr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Pelfrey</span> after his 0-7 stint, but from Spring Training I really liked this kid. He is tonight's definition of potential. He was in a tough spot tonight. Despite the fact he was facing the Nationals, he had to step up and stop the bleeding. For the most part, he fought hard and answered the bell. If he continues to gain some poise and confidence in his stuff, he's going to make many of you happy in the future.<br /><br />The bullpen has the potential to be good...if you delete half of the members.<br /><br />The fact that the Yankees are 1.5 games behind the Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Sox</span> has the potential of making me throw up.<br /><br />And this picture from Yahoo...well it struck me in an ironic, corny kind of way. In all the struggles the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Mets</span> have faced this year, many fans <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">including</span> myself have questioned Willie Randolph's potential as a manager. I think so many people involved with this organization, from the marketers, to the media, to the fans felt a sense of entitlement with this team. That they deserved to be in the postseason because of last season and the names on the roster. But that expectation has set us up for a potential letdown because nothing in baseball is guaranteed. Willie Randolph has faced so much criticism this season; some of it deserved, some of it because our own personal expectations have not been fulfilled. In the face of it all he has remained true to himself and his way, even though he may not have support of the masses. Although I don't always agree with Willie, I respect him for that. So don't lose sight of the big picture everyone. We are still in first place. And it is Willie who has contributed to the turnaround of this organization. I don't know how long this will last, but I personally am going to try to be less critical of him (for now), because without him, we may not have a picture to look at.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-57545111373652684262007-09-19T00:01:00.000-04:002007-09-19T00:22:24.386-04:00If It's Not One Thing, It's AnotherI'm not as angry tonight. The offensive really gave it a whirl; the defense didn't look like 5 year-old T-ball players; most of the 'pen was better. But thanks John Maine for serving this one up on a silver platter. Seriously, when one thing goes right, the other goes wrong. Story of the season. I feel like the sky is falling and we can't stop it.<br /><br />I appreciate the players only meeting the team held today, if just to make me feel like they were annoyed by this streak too. I was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">encouraged</span> by the small signs of life tonight, but it still didn't produce the W. What's even more annoying is that it feels like every force in the universe is fighting against the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span>. As we speak the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Phillies</span> & Cards game is in the top of the 12<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">th</span>. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Phillies</span> will not die. Could it be anyone else but Manny <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Acta's</span> team that is playing the role of spoiler?! I used to like Manny a lot. Even worse, Moises <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Alou</span> has a tight quad. Wait and get this, El <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Duque</span> is out 7-10 more days and can't do ANYTHING because his foot is in a boot...for a bunion for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">christ's</span> sake. And the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Mets</span> keep rolling that "Your postseason has come." commercial as some kind of funny joke. I'm a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Mets</span> fan and I'm convinced the world hates me. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Haha</span>.<br /><br />I will not preach all this keep believing hoopla right now. Obviously some part of me still believes or else I wouldn't still be tuning in each night and blogging waiting for the turnaround. Right now I'm grumpy. But I'll be back tomorrow and so will each of you. Because we're <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Mets</span> fans. And misery loves company.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-59221408751046338242007-09-18T01:09:00.000-04:002007-09-18T01:48:58.169-04:00I Can't Even Sleep<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NZmjBxWStQkLfrz7je0hbxiIRPRhleUfxYjN73TpU68JndTq9cj_uxO9Hvpjuw5yBWPb2D5TK49_xBdFXX9QUcgFSXPkpwUTLAecNZVhshU82DZlUFP6h3OIlY4V9h1Ti2EEDt80cmY/s1600-h/bbo+errors.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NZmjBxWStQkLfrz7je0hbxiIRPRhleUfxYjN73TpU68JndTq9cj_uxO9Hvpjuw5yBWPb2D5TK49_xBdFXX9QUcgFSXPkpwUTLAecNZVhshU82DZlUFP6h3OIlY4V9h1Ti2EEDt80cmY/s200/bbo+errors.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5111409038957474658" border="0" /></a>When it comes to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mets</span> I try to see the big picture; not get too high, not get too low. I try to stay optimistic; because I was raised a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span> fan, so when it comes to baseball you are bred to see the optimism. I was even going to hold out until tomorrow morning, when I would be in a much safer state to post. But I'm still angry. And the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> never make me this kind of angry.<br /><br />If Willie Randolph was coming to a slow boil tonight, then my pot over-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">floweth</span>. I am not qualified to be a manager, but is Willie an idiot? Really? To double switch <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">LoDuca</span> out of the game when you're trailing and you're team can't seem to catch or throw the ball...was that the brightest move he could come up with? Is he serious?<br /><br />This bullpen is terrible. There's really no way to sugar-coat the obvious anymore. Willie has not managed the bullpen effectively all year; now they're being pushed beyond their limits; and the quality out there has really been disheartening. Thanks to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Metsblog</span> for making me chuckle tonight...reminding me that today's disaster did not feature <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Mota</span>. Now that my Met friends is a terrible day. I mean when Brian Lawrence is pitching on Sept. 16th in the heat of a pennant race, I ask myself where all our "pitching depth" went? I know, I know. El Duque has a bunion. And I have a hangnail. It's a tough life.<br /><br />Earlier this season I said on this blog that I did not think Willie's even-keel attitude would help this team when it came down to do-or-die. They're showing that right now and as I said before, I do not think this team could respond to October pressure. I just don't believe it from the product they have put on the field this season. You can only turn so many pages before the book ends. If they don't pull their heads out of their behinds soon, your postseason will never come. They have been banking on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Phillies</span> to have another letdown, or that they will magically win tomorrow, but the game doesn't happen that way. Passive teams do not win championships. And this team is the top-notch definition of passive.<br /><br />Much appreciation to Omar <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Minaya</span> who went to the clubhouse for hugs and encouragement after the game. I'll take one if he wants to come visit me. Also hat tip to Manny <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Acta</span> for a) the job he's done in his first year in general and b) for not sending his running in the 6<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">th</span> with a 3-2 count and only 1 out. Thanks Manny for trying to minimize the embarrassment.<br /><br />I do not blame Willie or Omar or any ONE person for this complete meltdown. If the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Mets</span> lose this division lead, it will be a collective effort. But in my eyes, Willie has lost control. He can't seem to rally the troops in and what's worse is he's upsetting the apple-cart. Check out <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">LoDuca's</span> post game reaction if you don't know what I mean. I'm sure many of you are as angry and frustrated as I am. I hope the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Mets</span> are too. I hope they can't sleep either.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-61744459654848394422007-09-17T15:43:00.000-04:002007-09-17T15:56:01.440-04:00Wright Joins 30-30 Club<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Cz1qbZvG2UIVomkEjTLioKlGGgwBuQjKR0utTrwIa-h-6tAdCTIEKGa7u6cdgPle-qCPv3aGu4xJWMhT1slSAew28wRy58WuMnl6mjVVBlBCTdwzN68GBNQozKr6PM90zM-mjyQ9dOE/s1600-h/stellar+pic+before+the+fundraiser+may+17.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Cz1qbZvG2UIVomkEjTLioKlGGgwBuQjKR0utTrwIa-h-6tAdCTIEKGa7u6cdgPle-qCPv3aGu4xJWMhT1slSAew28wRy58WuMnl6mjVVBlBCTdwzN68GBNQozKr6PM90zM-mjyQ9dOE/s200/stellar+pic+before+the+fundraiser+may+17.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5111262808205947730" border="0" /></a>Although the past weekend ended with few positives to note, one was Pedro's performance on Saturday afternoon; the other was David Wright joining the 30-30 club Sunday afternoon. Despite an awful April, Wright has provided consistent all-around production since the beginning of May. He becomes only the 3rd Met to reach the plateau, along with Howard Johnson and Darryl Strawberry. He is also the 30<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> player in Major League history to accomplish 30-30 and only the fourth to do so before the age of 25. <br /><br />There's differing opinions regarding wright's MVP candidacy, but I believe he stands as good of a chance as anyone else out there. What he has provided this team at the plate, in the field, and in the clubhouse has not been replicated by any of his teammates. As a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span> fan it's been hard to find players who we have felt <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">privileged</span> to have on our team over the years. Wright is that guy and we are a lucky bunch to have him in our corner for years to come. Congrats to David on the his great season!Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-20018694910234958112007-09-17T15:18:00.001-04:002007-09-17T15:43:13.714-04:00Cuidado Con El Martillo!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CzP_CG0_nwJWjvJ-U-LYctmTAMWdJXl91u3Glqlepp9dAdOskECAkP1T4wYcje2IJYVmnCf6T5q0Yy-_krJ-T3yHkhkgX7yvODqHRw4b1osdFeb8fOSPxVSqfu9a5hkhZ5McKeqyzM0/s1600-h/ugh+blog.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CzP_CG0_nwJWjvJ-U-LYctmTAMWdJXl91u3Glqlepp9dAdOskECAkP1T4wYcje2IJYVmnCf6T5q0Yy-_krJ-T3yHkhkgX7yvODqHRw4b1osdFeb8fOSPxVSqfu9a5hkhZ5McKeqyzM0/s200/ugh+blog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5111254836746646338" border="0" /></a>Check so many quotes from before the start of the Philly series and there was a lot of talk about stepping on their throats; getting some revenge; putting this race away; throwing down the hammer. Friday night ,Ollie Perez stepped in as a substitute for Professor Reyes. As always it was entertaining while expanding my limited <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">spanish</span>, but this night it was a bit ironic the phrase would be "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Cuidado</span> con <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">el</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">martillo</span>". Translated...be careful with the hammer. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Hmmm</span> interesting.<br /><br />The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mets</span> played like crap all weekend. Thanks D.Wright for finally hitting a HR in my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">presence</span> and the diving catch of the bunt was the icing on the cake. The umpires did not help this weekend. Neither did Willie Randolph's lethargic trot to the field to protect his players. Way to leave them <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">hanging</span> out to dry buddy.<br /><br />I was embarrassed that was my team on the field this weekend. What is Reyes' deal? With the exception of Sunday afternoon, could someone translate clutch hitting for Carlos Beltran? Could Pedro have had more incredible an outing, only to be wasted but this bullpen? Could the fans of Philadelphia be anymore obnoxious? I understand their team was killing the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Mets</span>, but seriously. I lost count of all the fist fights in the stands after I gave up on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Mets</span> Saturday afternoon.<br /><br />I did not have any kind of luck in the first drawing for playoff tickets, but I did have enough luck to pick the exact car on the 7 train Friday night in which a far too serious Met fan was reaching in his pocket to "cut up" a Philly fan. Mr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Met's</span> mustache on Friday night was a cute little touch; so was Chris <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Coste's</span> kick of Marlon Anderson's helmet on Saturday. <br /><br />I've seen the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Phillies</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Mets</span> square off at Shea 6 times this season. This weekend was by far the worst couple games I've attended at Shea. While people have been concerned by the rivalries with the Braves and Yankees, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Mets</span> fans and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Phillies</span> fans have developed quite the angry rivalry. If the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Phillies</span> are sitting home in two weeks none of this will matter, but I am concerned that the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Mets</span> just cannot get the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">umph</span> to the this thing away. That when it comes down to "win today!", they may not have that killer instinct. Forget being careful with the hammer, it's more like "No <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">podemos</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">encontrar</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">el</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">martillo</span>!"Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-13891546570857435762007-09-13T23:12:00.000-04:002007-09-13T23:32:10.157-04:00Cruising Along<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3ohNUGLEfEFwLQBinxfmvxme_Xfh3Nve2Hq4za98L_PVCQESgaf-dGSKqpYQmhU-Yjt-dAyS5R7U9SINS63oUSiqIJgLpgXhiGjBz6fGxn9G34pPlOwEHvyMDDdCOebSOB59ocx70cY/s1600-h/excited+blog.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3ohNUGLEfEFwLQBinxfmvxme_Xfh3Nve2Hq4za98L_PVCQESgaf-dGSKqpYQmhU-Yjt-dAyS5R7U9SINS63oUSiqIJgLpgXhiGjBz6fGxn9G34pPlOwEHvyMDDdCOebSOB59ocx70cY/s200/excited+blog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5109893516797408050" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Magic Number: 11</span><br /><br />The sweep by the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Phillies</span> seems so long ago. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span> have been in cruise control since that bump in the road, but I'm glad it happened. That sweep shook this team and made them wake up. Stop playing like crap! Play the baseball you're capable of. Despite some bullpen issues that I deal with everyday, I'm happy with the way the team's been playing of late. 7 games up, magic number dwindling, and assisting the Braves with their October golf reservations have been the results of the past week. Job well done.<br /><br />Of course all good work can be erased with a stumble this weekend. I'm hoping this team will be more than all talk and really get some revenge this weekend against Philadelphia. They need to "put the hammer down" this series. Don't let the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Phillies</span> back in the race again. Beat them...beat them badly, because we know they're the team to beat. <br /><br />Apologies to any readers for my lack of daily updates. This grad. school thing is taking up a huge chunk of time. Weird how that has happened. I am taking a break to attend some games this weekend, most notable Friday night which is Keith Hernandez Mustache night. Yes, I am very excited! I hope to get some pictures to post when I get back.<br /><br />Unfortunately, not counting any luck I may have with this stupid postseason ticket drawing, these will probably be my last games of the season. Where the season went...I'm not really sure. It's a little depressing to think that just yesterday it was February; now there are 17 reg. season games to play. Too often I find myself getting caught up in the numbers, the wins, the losses, the magic number, that I don't appreciate just the game itself as it's happening. Then before we all know it some of us are looking at snow. I think last season with such a huge lead we had the opportunity to kick back, relax and enjoy the Mets. With the ups and downs of this year's team, we devoted too much time to worrying and less to enjoying. So as I head to Shea this weekend, I pass along some advice to any readers out there. Take time in the next couple weeks to really soak up this team and everything about it. Don't watch the scoreboard & don't count the days until the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mets</span> clinch. Laugh at their absurd celebrations, appreciate David Wright's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">presence</span> on this team, recognize the promise of the youth on this team, applaud the old-age excellence, hold your breath for Pedro, and yes, keep booing Guillermo <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mota</span>. Before you know it, we'll be baseball-less again.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-13224640373154136172007-09-10T00:25:00.000-04:002007-09-10T00:41:49.325-04:00Homecoming<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDle37_fWEZgsEYPA0NpXomVm1xoMb0yIslM7tXY5bVWrh3Dn4VdnkUbfaIat1qhTXpXPmRpJrVmVqYtncWqkdMTLeHc4xSaru5tyeWbmF6iiI7e8YzIC2VRfS-r02v_beOfZ26yLGbI/s1600-h/pedro+at+shea.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDle37_fWEZgsEYPA0NpXomVm1xoMb0yIslM7tXY5bVWrh3Dn4VdnkUbfaIat1qhTXpXPmRpJrVmVqYtncWqkdMTLeHc4xSaru5tyeWbmF6iiI7e8YzIC2VRfS-r02v_beOfZ26yLGbI/s200/pedro+at+shea.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5108427262619663426" border="0" /></a>This weekend was homecoming weekend on the campus that I am attending Graduate School. I wasn't as concerned with that as I was another homecoming of sorts that <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">occurred</span> today at Shea. First off let me apologize for my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">absence</span> this weekend. I had to get away for the weekend, so <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">unfortunately</span> no updates. We all survived though, meanwhile the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mets</span> continued to prosper.<br /><br />Pedro Martinez was as good as we can expect from him. It seems as though it's been forever since we've seen signs for Pedro at Shea and it sure was nice to see the energy in the ballpark today. His velocity had improved since his last outing and he showed he was capable of getting guys out with a nasty pitch. He got into some jams, but most importantly, he got out of them. At this stage in his return the majors, that is all you can ask from him. To make his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">return</span> Pedro-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">esque</span>, of course he would hit a double.<br /><br />Pedro's curtain call in the middle of the 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">th</span> was more than deserved. For the first time Shea was able to pat him on the back from the tedious work he has done to get back to this team. The way he <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">approached</span> his rehab was phenomenal and he is to be commended for the way he went about this surgery from day 1. Pedro has shown his dedication to this team and to the fans of New York; the reaction today from both Pedro and those in attendance defined the love affair between the two.<br /><br />It's hard to forget how <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">devastated</span> Pedro was at this point last year when his injuries finally became too much to bear. Losing Pedro down the stretch last year was a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">huge</span> blow to the team, yet I don't think we've seen how much of an impact is was until now. After Pedro went on the shelf in 2006, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Mets</span> did play the rest of their season a bit flat, much like the majority of this season. But with the return of Pedro last week, this team seems to have found itself. I don't think that's a coincidence. After today it's quite easy to see, Pedro is without a doubt the pulse of this team.<br /><br />This week is huge for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Mets</span>. With the Braves and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Phillies</span> in town, this is the time for this team to finally put this thing away, rather than just talk about it. The Braves must be handled first, but I'm anxious for that series against Philly. Time to take care of business fellas...bring the division home!Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-54208703068722390202007-09-06T01:22:00.000-04:002007-09-06T01:29:42.557-04:00You Know What Off Days Mean...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKzMehep4Xk09hTZeER87jAUnjM6qppd22-7kpnjiVu1YBd8yMi5m0kf26bBhMq-HkQbvLNwY3_bUfQBqqRAFWXlahxWYYmT0EiTS3Fa_5NJ1VyESQJaUW7R60-wb032Zz00UFKXb_4o/s1600-h/bbo1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKzMehep4Xk09hTZeER87jAUnjM6qppd22-7kpnjiVu1YBd8yMi5m0kf26bBhMq-HkQbvLNwY3_bUfQBqqRAFWXlahxWYYmT0EiTS3Fa_5NJ1VyESQJaUW7R60-wb032Zz00UFKXb_4o/s200/bbo1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106957507631103026" border="0" /></a>Is it me or did this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">roadtrip</span> seem like the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span> were gone for 3 weeks? There were enough ups and downs to fill an entire month of baseball...the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> packed it into 9 days. Thanks guys.<br /><br />After the terrible start to this trip to go 5-5 is more than acceptable. You would have hoped for better, but it is what it is. What did we expect from a still fatigued John Maine backed up by the "B" <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mets</span> today? A run or two would have been nice, but I didn't anticipate a win this afternoon.<br /><br />Thankfully these off days have been coming at the right time; right after a stretch when the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mets</span> put us through the ringer. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mets</span> can't read the calendar as they thought today was the off day, but hey, at least the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Phillies</span> lost.<br /><br />So if you've been reading, you know how I feel about off days. They throw them in there to give players a break..but we need a break too. Use today to turn off the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Mets</span>. Don't get worked up and relax. I'll stick to my trend and pay no attention to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Mets</span> today. Rest up <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Mets</span> fans...we're going to need our energy down the stretch!Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-71385582162849040192007-09-05T01:19:00.000-04:002007-09-05T01:24:06.816-04:00Alive at FiveDespite many <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mets</span> fans pushing the panic button last Thursday night, just five days later the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mets</span> are alive and well. Was the four game sweep from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Phillies</span> finally the last straw of complacency? Was it Pedro's return to the clubhouse & rotation that bolstered the attitude and confidence level of this team? Everyone has their own theories and opinions; I believe it was a little bit of both. Either way, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mets</span> have finally won 5 in a row. They may have waited until the last hour of the regular season to find it, but this team has a pulse.<br /><span style="display: inline;" id="fullpost"><br />Make no mistake about it, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mets</span> bats are alive. If this was the lineup everyone raved about in April, then there is reason for excitement. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mets</span> have been quite balanced in their offensive approach in the past 6 days, with the bottom of the lineup putting up pretty hefty numbers. Since the beginning of the Atlanta series, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Mets</span> have outscored their opponents 36-15. They have outhit the opposition 51-27, with 11 home runs. The opposition has 1 long ball, which came off the bat of Brandon Phillips, courtesy Scott <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Schoeneweis</span>. The pitching has been strong; the defense has been solid despite a few spotty moments; the offense has been relentless. Put the panic button away.<br /><br />Oliver Perez's stubborn ways are also alive and well. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">rollercoaster</span> ride that he is may be a ride we never get off. Despite all that you still have to like the kid and be content with 13 victories to this point. My only concern is that if he continues to walk 127 batters every outing, his hopes of being a part of the postseason rotation may not live much longer.<br /><br />Many people have spent countless hours trying to compare the 2006 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Mets</span> to the 2007 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Mets</span>, which I believe is a complete waste of time and energy. Team dynamics, injuries, the competition, etc all vary from year to year. That is the beauty of baseball so to expect a replica of 2006 is absurd. As fun as last year was, I don't want the '06 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Mets</span>. The 2006 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Mets</span> broke my heart. Would you rather have a team that dominates all year, only to look a little flat in September like last year...or a team that goes up and down all year, only to peak at the right time heading down the stretch? I would take the latter. Only time will tell if that will be the tale of this year's team. One thing is for sure, we can take this team off life support. They look alive. There is a pennant in sight and October is just a calendar page away. This is the stuff baseball fans live for. And over the next 25 days , the 2007 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Mets</span> will begin to define their season. We'll see how long they can stay alive...or if they will make this a season that live forever.<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="display: inline;" id="fullpost"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;">(This post was also featured on the <a href="http://globalnym.blogspot.com">Global NYM Fan Blog.</a>)</span><br /></div><span style="display: inline;" id="fullpost"></span></div>Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-90482589784328183982007-09-03T17:41:00.000-04:002007-09-03T18:06:20.168-04:00A Big Win-Win<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZ2rSDsw6XekpzX83uuWCmVNUQwS_-yKDXKuXVmcR2o8cEOxlz9f9GxnN_ziq5Eq8cAqxklfRg7vTC9Y2Ys5b1iaQNJNa4RIXw2qaopfKvepUSM-O7GUsNQ90Rcf2MpVfHxAWuBRt68k/s1600-h/yay+pedro.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZ2rSDsw6XekpzX83uuWCmVNUQwS_-yKDXKuXVmcR2o8cEOxlz9f9GxnN_ziq5Eq8cAqxklfRg7vTC9Y2Ys5b1iaQNJNa4RIXw2qaopfKvepUSM-O7GUsNQ90Rcf2MpVfHxAWuBRt68k/s200/yay+pedro.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106098204934257698" border="0" /></a><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Nevermind</span> the sweep yesterday of Atlanta. That was big, but we all knew that. I didn't need to remind anyone. In my eyes, today was bigger. Pedro Martinez made his return with all the pomp and circumstance only Pedro would bring. There is no doubt he brings an emotional lift to this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ballclub</span>. He brings levity and humor to a team that has walked around like they have wet underwear for quite some time. Besides all that, he is Pedro. It's undeniable this guy is a start. Delgado said it best when he said, "he (Pedro) is showbiz."<br /><br />Despite all the hoopla, I was nervous how today would go. I don't know if the majority of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> fans would have been able to cope with Pedro getting shelled. So many fans are counting on him to be the savior that takes the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mets</span> to the promised land this year. Who knows if that will happen, but it's important to keep our expectations of Pedro realistic. <br /><br />Only Pedro would be the first know pitcher to pitch in less than a year of his <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">rotator</span> cuff surgery. He had good stuff today and he showed great command for his first big league start in a year. He worked out of a jam and kept his team in the game. Pedro notched his first win of 2007, while the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Mets</span> continued to prosper in his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">presence</span>. And for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Mets</span> fans that should be enough this year. If Pedro Martinez can go out there every 5-6 days and keep the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Mets</span> within striking distance of a W, combined with the aura he brings to the mound, we should be content. Even after today's successful effort, to expect too much from Pedro could only lead to a letdown. In the meantime, count today as 2 wins. A win in the standings and a win on the mound.<br /><br />Aside from Pedro, I have changed my mind. Earlier this season I would have agreed Jose Reyes is the MVP of this team. He still is a major catalyst for this offense. But ask me today and without a shadow of a doubt, David Wright has become the MVP. After his terrible April, he has been consistent and has stepped up as the leader of this team. He is the will of this team and maybe the real face of the franchise. For the past couple years he has easily been my favorite player and person on this team, but I try not to go bananas and see the big picture. I try to stay focused on the team and not gush too much, but not today. Today, I officially join the Wright for MVP club.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6340945504101697816.post-30455696324021876232007-09-02T01:38:00.000-04:002007-09-02T01:50:03.350-04:00It Took Long Enough<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhgLFVigfkap4PmDzhCcjpbITp8zW07PqV12QDDhQdtalBt6jrVFPcUFcqdfIS7fIkj1fQwPU_p6A4WuyOIZgutSxTlw9JnuscIBcoKvKHW2TCcV0kNSw0AR9ucdkqRmYmZFlEr_ZTuI/s1600-h/pelf.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhgLFVigfkap4PmDzhCcjpbITp8zW07PqV12QDDhQdtalBt6jrVFPcUFcqdfIS7fIkj1fQwPU_p6A4WuyOIZgutSxTlw9JnuscIBcoKvKHW2TCcV0kNSw0AR9ucdkqRmYmZFlEr_ZTuI/s200/pelf.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5105477509145541650" border="0" /></a>Finally the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mets</span> won a series in Atlanta. FINALLY! It couldn't have come at a more crucial time. It may have taken five attempts, but that's okay. I'm licking my chops at the thought of a sweep tomorrow. I know you are too.<br /><br />Finally we may see an offensive outburst from Carlos Delgado. I won't hold my breath though. This could disappear again in a couple days.<br /><br />Finally Pedro is coming back. Monday is the big day. I'm excited and nervous all at the same time. I can barely take the buildup.<br /><br />Finally people may start liking the black jerseys. I know a lot of fans think they are terrible, but if you caught the game on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">WFAN</span> Friday night you may have heard the story. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mets</span> have a habit of losing in their grey jerseys (yes that's what they wore in Philly.) Black may become the new road color.<br /><br />And finally Mike <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Pelfrey</span> got a win! He was huge today. This outing was reminiscent to his stuff in Spring Training. Patience with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Pelfrey</span> is key. This kid has the potential to become a very big part of our rotation. As I said yesterday, the twists of a season gave him the opportunity to get his first win on a huge stage. Hats off to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Pelfrey</span> for getting it together and thanks to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Mets</span> for sticking with him.Ella Bonitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08377653701707893089noreply@blogger.com0