A handful of new Mets boarded the ship for the season opener at HP against TUSA. Always a tough opponent, the Mets were able to bring reliable/sturdy D to the party and timely hitting to seal the win to start the season. Stand out players were Jon Quintal (who from this moment forward will be referred to as JQ) who went a tidy 1-2 scoring 2 runs, Brendan Seaman pounding the rock for a 2-3 evening, and Nick Rangos opening the season with a double whilst wearing grey pants.
On the visiting side of the ledger - the Mets sent Anthony Juliano to the perfectly manicured mound (thank you, Rick) at HP to navigate the zone even though it shall be noted that the zone may have been tight for the southpaw to work with. Final line on AJ: 5IP, 6K, 4ER, and whatever else will require a couple clicks for the reader to determine. Jordan Mancillas strutted to the hill to pick up the save with a tiny bit of drama but ultimately making sure the good guys in blue secured the most important statistic in baseball: a W.
Mr. Mets fund contributions: ….. someone lost/left one of the weighted balls used in the cage. Mr. Met is going to have to bust out the weedwacker to find it and use it for forensic evidence to determine who is responsible for oat-sodas in the coming future.
(editors addendum: good lord it was chilly at the end of this game, with the addition of the breeze at sub 50 temps.....)
Mets walked off by A’s in extra frame: 6-5 at Ford
This game was ripe for the taking for the Mets, but the A’s (as they always have) were pesky, and hanging around right down to the bitter end to walk-it-off in the bottom of the 8th.
The Mets sent MSBL Rookie Ben Regner to the bump, and watched him tame the A’s through 6. Final line on Big Ben: 6IP, 3ER, 10K, 2BB - with a ball that was hit “out” in the 4th inning that was debated by everyone on the field (including blue) to be a ground rule double. With the game “in hand” the ball was passed to Spencer Checkoway to close it out, but the one run lead turned into a balanced affair after the lead-off walk came around to score. After Spence struck out the side with some heat, the Mets were in position to put up the dub with the meat of the line up in the top of the 8th.
The 8th inning is where some real tough calls didn’t go the way of the Mets, and while the Met’s EIR was scored on a smash Rangos double, the Mets could not add on as the 3rd out was called on a 3-1 A’s defensive play that involved a lot of leather juggling, dust, dirt and obviously the cloud of confusion made for a Mets rally to be ended. …..Then, the Mets boarded the ship, starting with a perfectly executed 1-3 out, followed by a play at 3rd that should have been reviewed by New York - or appealed, but what’s history can’t be changed. The next two batters pushed across that EIR and an arrant throw put another man on 2b. The game ended with a FC to the left side, and as-if the runner had eyes in the back of his head, the throw to the bag hit the runner in the shoulder and the ball squibbed over toward the 3b dugout where that runner made it to the dish for a walk off FC.
Players of note from the game: Nick Rangos put up 2 doubles, Spencer Checkoway went 2-3 and Tyler Kozinski also went 2-3.
Mr. Mets fund contributions:
We have a sombrero that may be excused (due to a rookie clause that has been enacted by the editor), and then Robey left on 5 runners meaning that cold ones are coming for the next affair.
The Mets will regroup and look forward to a Cubs matchup on Monday!
The carnival is in town again, and that means that HP is due for some outfield work in the next couple of weeks.
Also, between all of the massive rigs bringing in the tilt-a-whirl and the bearded lady, there was a baseball game going on that included a classic rivals’ matchup of the Cubs/Mets. AJ took the bump for the Mets, and went the distance putting up a ‘should have been good enough’ performance of 7IP, 7R, 5ER, 12K and so forth.
On the offensive side of the rock, the Mets had 3 stand out contributors for this one - Brendan Seman, Ty Kozinski and Justin Chandler each put up 2 knocks on the evening. Editor's note - Brett Davis also chimed in with his 100th career knock in the 18+.
Mets slide continues into holiday weekend: 5-3 Redbirds at Capitol
The Mets sent Ben Regner to the hill at chilly capitol to face the birds watched him navigate the line up top-down with his southpaw mix. With the traffic jam making it nearly impossible to get to the park in a timely manner - a critical inning with a couple errors sank the ship, and Reg took the tough luck loss. Final line: 7IP, 12K, 7BB, 7H and serious street cred from the blue crew.
On the offensive side of the pill, the Mets faced RHP Jesse Rometty for the majority of the game. The Mets had a 2 run lead going into the 5th that was lead by Brett Davis (2-3 with a double) and Jordan Mancillas blasting a ground-ruled double into the gap near the train tracks.
The lone Mr. Mets fund contribution came from Robey for not running out a GB and having a small mini-tantrum en-route to the general vicinity of the bag.
This game was a one run affair until the add-on runs came in the 6th and 7th.
The Mets sent Spencer Checkoway to the hill at Kyte 1 featuring Fisher D’s loading dock in CF that was brightly illuminated. In his first start as a Met, Spencer went the balance, and brought the goods to impress, with a final line of 10k, 2BB, 7H - with a couple difference making balls that exited the playing area.
It’s tough for a team to put up a dub with -0- runs (factual evidence provided by the baseball historians to date) - The Mets got the task to face Steve Simmons for the yanks. The offensive difference was the Mets leaving 7 runners on, and the beef of the order putting up 10k on the evening. Offensive performances of note came from Spencer Checkoway and Brendan Seman each putting up 2 knocks (all 4 with solid exit velo, as captured by the scouting department that got lost on the way to the field).
Mr. Mets contributions could come from those who put up a sombrero (Mancillas and Kozinski) but someone forgot their spikes (Kenny) that will cost postgame sodas for this Friday’s affair.
Thin air leads to Mets loss 10-7 to Motor City Blackjaxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx*
HP hasn’t seen much water in a while, and the dusty pills lead to a bit of an ugly one with a bit of an error-fest from both sides - unfortunately leading to another Mets loss. This time it was the Motor City Blackjaxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx* (from this point forward will be abbreviated to MC BJxxxxxxxxxxx unless (of course) there is another team name change) who were able to outlast the Mets. Editors note: I am not sure if the WGAW/WGAE would approve of the use of a parenthetical within a parenthetical, but who cares - they're on strike!
Mets sent Ben Regner to the bump in his quest for his first MSBL dub - one inning that featured 4 unearned runs sank that ship turned to be the difference maker. The Mets scrapped a bit; but were unable to recover from that blow - the final line on Ben - 5IP, 8R, 4ER, 5K and the rest is minutia. The ball was sent to Jordan Mancillas who took the final 2 innings keeping the contact limited, but the MC BJxxxxxxxx were able to add on another pair late in the game.
On the offensive side of the rock, the Mets put up 7 runs on 8 hits, but ironically there wasn’t any one player who was able to put up a multi-hit game. Noteworthy performances came from Jon Quintal, Nate Hill and Kenny Woodmore who each put up a double, and then late in the game Denzel Herring swiped 2 bags after being inserted as a pinch runner.
Mr. Mets fund contributors for this one is going to get a flyer. There were some shenanigans, but adding a fine on top of loosing this one the way it went is just salt in the wound.
In the toughest start for the Mets in club history, the Mets put another one in the L column against the Giants. Unfortunately - this one was over soon after the ball was put in play when the lineups were exchanged at the dish. AJ took the tough luck loss going 1.1, Jordan Mancillas went 3.2 in mop-up, and then Tyler Kozinski faced 2 batters in the final frame plunking one (the giant’s elder) and whiffing one.
On the offensive side of the rock, the Mets pushed one across the dish late in the game, when it seemed to be at a time that was getting close to ‘time limit’. Offensive performances of note came from Brendan Seman going 3-3, ending one PA away from the cycle.
Mr. Mets fund contributions: blue will be fined for knowing and paying closer attention to the clock than necessary. We get it, a blow out is not fun to call…….
Mets slide continues in 5-4 loss against A’s at FF
The Mets are starting to set records that are not exactly the desirable type.
Ben Regner took the bump at the dust-haven that is Ford, and went 5.1 in a tough luck loss, giving up 4 free passes and a painful one to finish his day after punching 4 tickets. In the 6th, the Mets passed the ball to Spencer Checkoway who went the balance, shutting down any hope of any type of rally starting to surface. While the pitching staff did what they could to keep the game in reach, the Mets just could not claw their way to a dub - as 10 hits yield 4 runs, and there were 7 LOB.’
Offensive performances of note came from Jordan Mancillas going 2/3 with a swiped bag and new-comer Jake Zeeb putting up a 2/2 evening.
Mr. Mets fund contributions: nada - but - the Mets will use the weekend to regroup to look forward to a basement battle against the Cubs on Monday.
The Mets were in search of their second dub of the season (….isn’t it mid June?) but the baseball gods just were not smiling in the favor of the Metropolitans in this fateful evening.
Ben Regner was SP for this one and put up a strong 6IP, 2ER, 3H, 7K - unfortunately ending with a “no decision” variant of a quality start.
The Mets scrapped their way to a 1 run lead in the form of 1 run in each of the 4th, 5th and the 6th. The 1 run lead looked like it would stand, but the game ended with TUSA pushing across an unearned run to tie it, and then an earned run to walk it off with a Wodja 2 run knock down the LF line.
The lone offensive performance of note came from Spencer Checkoway who continues to drive the rock with 2 hits including a double.
On a Friday evening where there were many Mets with other commitments — 9 Mets gathered to put up a game against the Giants. This game was tied at 0-0 until the 7th.
The Mets had to piece together a “bullpen day” with the 9 that showed, and - pitching duties were shared between Kyle Dalton (2IP, 3K, 3BB) and Nate Hill (5IP, 4R, 3ER, 3H, 5K, 5BB). Serious atta-boy goes to Hill for hanging in there through the remainder and putting up with a little bit of shenanigans behind him.
On the offensive side of the rock, the Mets put up 5 knocks and left on 7 runners against the always tough pitcher (name is unknown, but has been seen in the past) - unfortunately not being able to cash in on 2 enormous opportunities - one which was effectively ended with the bases drunk. The lone offensive performance of note came from Brett Davis: spankin the pill for a 2-4 day even though he was cut down at (near) the dish. POTG goes to the 9 Mets who came together for this one to keep the Giants honest.
Mr. Mets fund contributions: nada.
Happy Father's Day weekend, MFers. (<<—-yes; this is accurate, if you are a father).
Mets bring shutty to HP in 6-0 dub over MC BJxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
HP was the site for the 3rd consecutive game for the Mets, and this time (though traffic had it’s own ideas) the 10 Mets that came together brought the goods for a dub to end that nasty loosing streak. For a second there, there was some distant thought about the Mets “ever winning another one”.
For the Mets, the indisputable player of the game was the SP, Spencer Checkoway who went the distance, with a spit-shine-polish final line of 7IP, 0R, 10K, 3H (two of which should have been converted to outs, the other was a foul ball that was hit off the shin of the batter and trickled toward 3b, but ruled a fair ball) and 3BB - finishing the game with an explanation point by whiffing the final batter with a dirty breaker with a man on 3. Nice job, Spencer! Your first D-MSBL dub was a shut-piece!
On the offensive side of the rock, the Mets continued their at-em ball way of current hitting - and this was a balanced affair until the 5th inning. In the 5th, 2 walks and a rather strange double steal play delivered a second and third situation for Tyler Kozinski to get a turn in the 5th, and he pooped on one into the left center gap for a 2-out triple, and a big smile when reaching the bag. From there, the Mets tacked on just shy of a handful, and the rest is ancient history by the time this hits the eyes of the reader.
Offensive performances of note: Jake Zeeb and Bret Davis both ripped a 2-3 day in the meat of the order.
Mr. Met’s fund contributions: nada.
Editor’s note: Someone’s bat was ruled “not to be used again” in this game due to amount of pine tar *near* the barrel. There was not really a George-Brett style reaction when the umpires “put it in the done pile” however, this bat inspection was after a ball was hit to/near the SS, and was most certainly not going to have any chance of a HR in any league. Break out the 5-in-1 and cleaning solution moving forward, boys!
Editor's note #2 (quite literally): Even though HP is/was locked up, there must have been someone who was able to walk their dog in/near the 3b line, because there was a nifty dook pile left there from someone who wanted to make sure a play in that area would be more interesting - enjoy!
Mets were working with a tidy 8 at game time, and the lineup was a rush to push together as the meeting at the dish was attended (albeit late) with the 9 man lineup. As visiting crew, the Mets got to work quickly, added a few more Mets as time went on, and pushed across 15 runs on a combined attack including Bret Davis and Jake Zeeb both putting up multi hit, multi RBI performances. A feature of this evening: Bret put up 3 knocks, and Jake ripped a double and then went ahead and “dialed 9” in the second.
On the other side of the rock, there shall be note that the SP, Ben Regner (…who was forced to pick up a bat, and pound two runs in as well…) got his first D-MSBL win in style, keeping the Cubs to an honest 3 run, 1 ER finish, adding 8 punched tickets to the collection.
Mr. Met’s fund contributions come from: a sixer from the Mi-DOT who continue to make it damn near impossible to navigate from the west side to the medium east side in a reasonable amount of time. We will petition the Mi-DOT for this contribution, but does anyone know where to get the phone number?
Editors note: this game enabled Robey to (finally) pass Chris Smith in the all-time 18+ knocks statistical category. … however, it shall be mentioned that Matt Vangoss from the opposition (a couple games earlier) has passed into the top 5 of all time and added more hits in this game: congratulations buddy!
Mets get walked off by Redbirds, 2-1 in 8th at Macomb
Quote of the day, “there are no moral wins, eff that bro…..”
The Mets dug in against the Redbirds, and it was a pitchers duel supreme for a game that would not have been played if Scotty wouldnt have taken swift action (at 7’oh’something) to make this field worthy of a game. For the Mets, the schedules aligned, and Dylan Schils took the rock for the Mets, and Mitch Shedlowski went for the birds. Final line for Dylan was a tough luck loss, 8IP, 2ER, 4H, 4BB, 7punchies.
ON the other side of the pill, the Mets left 7 runners on, and had 3 runners CS — which would be the “tale of the tape” if one were to actually do that in this league. Featured offensive performances came from Jon Quintal and Jake Zeeb, both putting up 2 hits on the day. For the lone run that pushed it to extras (in the 7th) —- Jake hit a triple in CF that would have been out of most big league fields, but since Macomb has a bizarre 440 CF, a bunch of doods got to cheer on one of the longest developing triples in baseball history, and then he scored on an arrant PB/WP about 3 pitches later.
Mets take rubber match in Cubs series: 7-2 at Crapitol
For another 6:00 affair, the Mets were scrambling to get to the field for pregame activities - and all turned out well. The story of this game is two-fold: Kyle Dalton on the bump (better described as the capitol plateau) and the Mets pulling together a 12 hit attack.
As away crew - the Mets watched Kyle Dalton spin an eye-popping gem, bringing the goods for 7IP, 14K, allowing 2R, 1ER, and 3H.
For the offense, the Mets were facing a 2 run hill to climb and the 4th inning brought the dub with 3 runs pushed across, but the Mets weren’t done there. All told, the Mets pushed 7 runs across with offensive performances of note coming from Jon Quintal (3-4, 2R, 1 yard shot, 1 missed pizza delivery) and Justin Chandler bringing his daddy-strength for a 2-3 with a double and a SB.
The lone Mr. Mets fund contribution came from Jake Zeeb who bizarrely took his bat to 1b in a small mind-fart moment that may cost a 6er at a future game.
With the 4th of July in the very near future, it is appropriate to say - have a happy safe Independence Day - let’s not hear about someone blowing a finger or hand off.
July 5th affair was on tap between the always scrappy A’s and Mets at (where else?) Ford for the early game meaning that both teams were going to fight traffic and construction to make it on time.
The Mets sent Kyle Dalton for his second start in as many games, where he navigated the oppositions line up for a tidy final line of 5IP, 1ER, 11punchies, 5BB, 1HB. Unfortunately - the Mets could not put up just a little more, and Kyle got the ‘no-decision’. Jon Quintal went an inning + and got the tough luck loss, punching 2 tickets, and then Brett Davis went the final 3 outs to keep this game under control.
On the offensive side of the pill, the Mets were able to put up 3 runs on 9 hits against the familiar skipper arm Spillane. Unfortunately the key stats of this one came by way of 6LOB, and -0- “free” passes. Statistical performances of note came from Brett Davis (2-3 with an RBI) and Robey (2-3 with an RBI and 4 stitches).
Mr. Mets fund contributions - … we’re not positive, but someone left their Jaeger bands behind, and that will cost that someone a sixer.
Mets drop another in extra inning loss 3-2 to TUSA
Monday evening at HP was the sight for the early game affair between the Mets and TUSA. The Mets put up a 2-1 lead in the 3rd that look like it would stick, but TUSA was able to even the ledger in the 4th, and that is the way it would sit until the 8th. From there - TUSA pushed across the EIR on a double steal play that proved costly for the Mets, as they couldn’t pull off the same in their extra turn.
The Mets sent Spencer Checkoway to the hill, and watched him deal - bringing the goods for what should have been a dub - with a final line of 8IP, 4H, 3BB, 13K and 1ER.
On the offensive side of the rock, the lone statistical performance of note came from Nick Rangos going 2-3, and then being left on base both times (booooooooo!).
In the first late game affair in what seems like a month - the Mets faced off with the Giants in what was a see-saw battle that ended on the side of the Mets. (#YankeesandRedbirds,you’rewelcome)
The visiting crew Mets sent Kyle Dalton to the mess that some would consider a hill at Ford, and watched him dice up a potent Giants lineup - throwing smoke and bringing a sweet final line of 7IP, 3R, 2ER, 11K, 3H, 3BB — atta boy, K-D!!
The Mets cruised into the top of the 7th chasing a run, and percolated a MSBL style rally where Robey reached, Ben Regner placed a moon shot single into no-man’s land, K-D hit a scorcher for a FF hit (helping himself after squaring to bunt for 2 curves), and then Spencer Checkoway ripped a 2RBI single to put a bow on it for the Mets dub.
POTG share goes to Kyle Dalton and Spencer Checkoway.
Mr. Mets fund contributions: someone put up a sombrero in this one, but that will be overlooked given that he took CR duties for the pitcher and scored from 1b for that much needed geico.
The Mets were able to secure a season series win with this one — Ben Regner put up a solid no-no effort into the 5th, where reports are that a “free” pass led to a run for the opposition and then a couple add-ons came later by way of a bases jammed Vangoss single/hopper up the box. Final line on Big Ben: a stout 7IP, 3ER, 8K afternoon.
On the offensive side of the rock, the Mets scored 2 in the first and another 3 in the second, and that apparently was all that was needed even though there were 8 LOB in this affair.
Reports of POTG go to Ben Regner - who took it deep enough to be be mentioned, and JQ for taking a ripe FB off the ankle after moving all morning.
Kyte Monroe was the sight for another showdown for the Mets/Birds. In the final regular season meeting between these two teams, the Mets put up a 1 run lead early, but as anyone will tell you, there is not any 1 run lead that is remotely sacred in baseball. This 1 run lead lasted until the 3rd, where the birds put up 3, added one in the 5th, and then put the nail in the coffin with a 4 spot in the top of the 7th.
The Mets sent Kyle Dalton to the hill and watched him keep the birds honest until running out of steam in the 7th, unfortunately taking the tough luck loss with a final line of 6.1+IP, 8K, 7BB, 6H and so forth. Ben Regner took the ball for the remaining 2/3 and slowed a rally that was brewing.
On the offensive side of the leather; the Mets put up 2 runs on 8 knocks, 5 “free” passes, and left on 9 runners. The lone statistical performance of note came from Denzel Herring, going 2-2 with a smoked 3b deep into the RC gap.
The lone Mr. Mets fund contribution came from Robey - who threw a ball off the pitcher‘s calf while tossing his warm-ups. There may be an immunity clause enacted here as this arrant throw in warmups came just after breaking his 0ohfer-Redbirds streak that has been a bit of a fight since 2015. There may be a hand-full of REs over the years however, those aren’t knocks, and they don’t count.
Most of the season has been 1-run games that have ended in the wrong side for the Mets, this was no different.
The Mets were lean, with 8 men - and asked Scotty Misuraca to join in blue, and deserves a serious thank you for doing so. Spencer Checkoway took the rock, and went the distance - unfortunately in the loosing cause (the Mets squandered another Spencer start there....) Spencer started a touch shaky giving up a couple of hits and walks in the first, one being a 2 run HR. Soon after, he found his groove keeping TUSA in check for the most part. Sadly, another Spence outing ended in heartbreak as the Mets fell short in extras. Mets led this one going into the 5th inning 3-2 following a couple of line shots from Spence and Brett. Unfortunately, lead didn’t last long with T-USA battling back to grab the lead the following inning 4-3.
In this back and forth affair a bases loaded walk in the 6th inning brought the tying run across for the Mets to ultimately force this one to extras. Mets failed to plate the extra innings runner in the 8th while T-USA capitalized to walk it off in the second half.
Performances of note from this game: Scotty M who came up big as a substitute to get us to 9 players. (Thanks Scotty), Jacob Heins who made a throw to perfectly cut down an attempt for a double from RF. And of course, Spencer Checkoway, who pitched a great game.
A game that was having a bit of a manager’s scramble right up to game time: the Mets broke through victorious - salvaging one from the series with the A’s. On the back of Ben Regner - with a final line of 7IP, scattering 3 hits, and giving up 4 “free” passes while punching out 4, Ben was reported to be mixing masterfully in this affair.
On the offensive side of the rock, Tyler Kozinski had a 3-3 evening, with Brett Davis (acting manager) putting up a 2-4 evening collecting 2 RBI. (Sidebar: Brett’s winning percentage is much more noteworthy as manager than the other guy - therefore the editor’s note here is that Brett has charged this team during a nearly “forgotten” season for the Mets.).
From reports - there were not any Mr. Mets fund contributions.
Mets drop another close one to Yankees 2-0 at Hamtramck
In an ominous weather situation, home team Mets took the (beautiful) field in Pole-town for an early affair with the Yankees.
….It wouldnt be a traditional subway matchup if it wasn’t tight as a banjo string, and this game was no different. The Mets sent Spencer Checkoway to the perfectly groomed hill that is Hamtramck, and watched him dial in an outing that was perfectly suited for the dub. Unfortunately- the Yankees pushed across the first run in a rather dubious and frustrating run-down: where Oz spanked a sharp grounder to SS on a drawn in IF, and the ball was immediately fired to the dish where a run-down was started, and ended with the runner taking a face-plant about half way down the 3b line and was tagged out …..butttttt …. Was sent home on what was ruled a “players interference” situation for the Yankees first run (there was an apparent connection between the catcher and the runner). The second run was good hard baseball, where the infield was drawn in (again - because Oz reached 3rd on the previous run-down) and the righty Jansen greased a 2 strike line drive down the 1b line to score the second run. Final line on Spencer: 6IP, 4K, 3H, 2BB.
On the offensive side of the rock, there was a lot of air (9K and 2BB). The Mets got served a hot dish of no-no baseball, and - if the reader wants to hear more about that, look at the Yankees recap. All is to say that facing Sims is always tough, but this was a game that featured premium leather on both sides of the pill.
Mr. Mets fund contributions: we will pass even though the Mets were shut out.
Another loss in the book of what seems to be a bit of a lost season for the Mets - unfortunately the pot of gold was not found at Royal Oak memorial.
The Mets sent Ben Regner to the turf hill in what was a southpaw duel, and another QS was squandered by the Mets. Final line on Big Ben: 6IP, 2R, 1ER, 3K, 5H, 1BB. Unfortunately - the Mets had a tough time putting up runs when it mattered, and even though Ben was able to keep it in reach - 6LOB sank the ship.
On the offensive side of the pill, the Mets had a total charge of 5 hits with 2 BBs in this showdown. Jake Zeeb put up a 2-3 evening for the lone offensive performance of note.
Mets wrap regular season with a 3-2 loss to the blackjaxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx** at Crapitol.
** immediate editors note: we’re gonna credit this Mets loss to the Americans; who spotted the jaxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx 2 players who brought the goods, and one even went ya-ya for the bad-guys to take the win.
This is another page out of the difficult pill to swallow that has been the Mets season. The Bjxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx were light on players, and the Mets were lean; and the weather was looking ominous with rain on the whole commute for the whole team. In a bizarre set of circumstances— there was a force field that was around Crapitol that had the rain clear at 5:30, and it was game on.
Home squad Mets sent Spencer Checkoway to the “bump” and watched him navigate the “trouble is looming” line up bjxxxxxxxxxxxx presented, and he took the tough luck loss - going 7IP, punching 9 tickets, and keeping the opposition in check. Leather was clean in this affair on both sides, and the Mets were facing a 2-0 hill to climb in the bottom of the 6th. This is where DZ Herring put up a knock, stole a base, and found himself on 3b for Jake Zeeb to drive him home with a SF. Then, with Chandler on 1b, Brett Davis (in golf shoes) pounded a majestic drive toward the Choo-Choo, scoring JChan; but getting tagged out trying to stretch a double into a triple. (Side note: the relay was clean, quick and an absolute DOT to tag Brett out at 3b. Kudos to that American’s guy who executed). Rolling into the 7th, it was ‘new juego city’ - something the Mets are familiar with, but ………. That same guy from the Americans took a ball that was below the knees and left the park on the first AB of the 7th.
From there; the Mets brought a charge in the 7th with a Spencer Checkoway blast into deep RC making his own bid for the Choo-Choo, ending with a double, advancing on a WP to 3rd. With the Mets staring at a golden opportunity- a Kozinski line out to RF turned into a double play with Checkoway attempting to score. Another absolute dot was delivered to the dish to slam the door on the Mets. The rest of the game is minutiae from the standpoint of this editor.
Offensive players of note: nada. 5 hits, 2 runs, and 2K’s was a significantly less than optimal charge for this game, 5LOB is the key. Mr. Mets fund contributions: nada
Familiar foe and only D-MSBL active team that has over a .500 record against the Mets ends in the 8th. Tough season; tough ending; scrappy Mets (in iron man form) pushed the perrinial powerhouse to the 8th, and could not push that EIR across. Along for the ride, we were able to witness an ejection of an MLB HOFer (self appointed) that was rather circuitous and took about 15 minutes to conclude while getting lost in the grand stands.
In this game, there was only one offensive performance of note that came from Jake Zeeb putting up a 2 hit morning after getting a sweet buzz-cut off the dome late in the game.
Player of the game from the perspective of the Mets: Ben Regner who went the distance and put up a solid 8.1+ and only had 1 earned run throughout with 7 punchies against the "threat is looming" giants lineup.
This time of the year is always bitter sweet, with the end of the season coming a hair sooner than most Mets wanted.
The Mets returned to the Pistono division in 2023 after one season commanding the Esler division – with the deepest stocked roster in club history consisting of 23 players. With the signs of the season being tough in the beginning: the Mets were dealt a card that brought a new variable to the tough task of being competitive – the Mets lost the #1 pitcher Brendan Seman with a TJ surgery and had to shuffle some players around to accommodate for the loss. A few standout characters took the task, including Ben Regner, Kyle Dalton and Spencer Checkoway being the 1a, 1b and 1c (not necessarily in that order) pitchers to form one of the most competitive staffs in the Pistono division. While the Mets final record for 2023 made for only 7 wins, 9 of the losses were 1 run games, most of which were walk-off and/or extra inning action. While baseball is awesome, every baller will openly admit that playing on a team with a losing record makes for players to have to dig deep to get pumped for games. Many other clubs would describe the Mets as scrappy, the Mets will describe this season as an affirmative test of the brotherhood. The Mets did have a solid share of the league lead in post-game action, but chopping it up with the boys is so much more sweet when there is a dub to wash down. While the Mets season seemed a bit bleak through the end, there was a core nuclear group that will be able to do special things in the seasons/years to come.
Brendan Seman returned to the Mets for this year unfortunately only making it to 10 games prior to season ending TJ surgery. That did not stop him from hitting though and playing some OF – and he proceeded to hit 0.500 in 25 PA. Projections are that Brendan will return to the game in the next season, going the harper route and picking up the bat prior to throwing. Hopefully this will be able to happen.
Spencer Checkoway came to the Mets by way of the Bard pipeline, and quietly dominated the league on both sides of the rock. The league does not have a “ROY” award, but Spencer was a clear standout for such an award – hitting a near league leading 0.488 over 52 PA, and proceeded to do so while pitching with a stingy 2.56ERA over 45IP. It was a pleasure to be a teammate of Spencer as he was a premium utility guy who made every play and brought the goods with a stoic presence.
Jake Zeeb made his transition to the Mets on the 8th game of the season, and while it woulda been sweet for him to join the Mets prior; circumstances dictated accordingly. For this standout player, Jake made a contribution with a .405 BA and held the team-share in HR (1). Most of the time, Jake split time in the field either at 1b or in the OF, and did so with all routine plays being executed to perfection. Jake would be another candidate for “ROY” award based on these statistics – but this would have to be a shared award.
Brett Davis returned to the Mets for another season of abuse as a premium backstop – and this year assumed a share in the ‘management’ role. Over 76PA, Brett spanked the ball a stout .386 with a team lead of 15RBI. With the additional task of getting hitched this season to Courtney (Congrats!) – Brett caught the lion’s share of the games for the Mets, while stepping up as skip when needed.
Tyler Kozinski another D-MSBL rookie came to the Mets and commanded the OF, and then took some games behind the dish when called upon to do so. The season started a little slow for TK, but once that train started rolling, it was fun to watch him blast the rock for a solid 0.350BA. While working near the capital made for a difficult commute for games, Tyler made it work and brought a bit of flare to the game with a good smile behind the performance. After being welcomed into the 1,000 pound club – there were many goals declared for the season to come.
Justin Chandler returned to the Mets – this year as a part timer as a result of being welcomed to the “new dad” club during the off season. While showing his dad-strength J-chan brought a 0.342BA over 45PA – being able to put the ball in play at a solid rate. Justin played super-utility for the Mets this year, and brought the goods making routine plays exactly as they should be, while introducing the immaculate grid to the management. Hopefully the future will allow for more games and we can have another young Met to join the bench like many of the prior Mets.
Nick Rangos returned to the Mets this year – but unfortunately had a rather busy summer schedule that dictated a lower attendance rate than last year. Between moving and taking on more responsibility at the office, the season allowed for 12 games which is fewer than he forecast at the beginning of the year while juggling all of the other things that life threw his way. The season was stout for Nick, which is why we asked for more attendance as he lead the team in doubles (4) while hitting a tidy 0.300.
Jordan Mancillas returned to the Mets for another season taking most time as a 2b/3b regular. Jordan lead the team in BB (14) while hitting 0.281, and then got hitched (congrats!) in August which shortened his season – even though he was a veteran presence throughout. Jordan also took the ball on the hill for 6IP and lead the team in saves (…….1). Hopefully next year will allow for more PT while his golf schedule can get in the way.
Jon Quintal came over to the Mets as a one time giant and was the regular SS switch hitting lead-off guy to provide the spark for the Mets for the season. As the season got deeper, JQ stepped up as a leader and played a solid SS including a number of feature plays that further reminded the infield what a vacuum does and how e-free defense on the left side of the bag inspires confidence for the remaining 8 on the field. At the dish, JQ hit 0.242 over a team leading 76PA and ripped a no-doubt bomb mid-season in a dub at Crapitol (sharing the club-lead in that statistic).
Nick Peters returned to the Mets as one of the OG members – unfortunately on a part-time only basis. Work got in the way, and Nick was only able to make it to a handful of games while navigating the summer schedule. Hopefully next season will allow for more, as it is important to have some of the remaining OG Mets still kicking it in the league.
Kyle Dalton came to the Mets in June, and was able to bring the goods as a PO – with a 2-1 record, and a stingy 3.29 ERA before getting “called up” to the USPBL. Unfortunately, the schedules could not align to allow for Kyle to take more time on the hill for the Mets – as rain pushed games around, and then the season came to an end. Hopefully next year will enable Kyle to be a part of the Mets if the USPBL or Frontier league doesn’t call first.
Denzel Herring returned to the Mets for a sophomore season and undoubtably is the Mets most improved player this year. While there may not be statistics kept for the defensive side of the ball in this league, DZ played all 3 OF positions and was able to shag nearly all of the balls that were hit in his direction – with blazing speed and efficiency. Though times at the dish were a little tough (note: Pistono division pitching) – Denzel was able to hold the club lead with swiped bags (6) and keep the opposing pitcher off balance.
Brian Robert made his way to the field for his annual abuse as skip-share and played a fair amount of 1b through the year. This season was a brutal loosing fight at the dish with the Mendoza line, where the at-em ball was the curse – and luckily Robey was able to hit just above his weight because of his off-season weight loss program (earning another justified year in the 18+ league).
Jacob Heins returned to the Mets for another season where he was able to command the corner OF and hose a dood or two from the OF. While the season was a bit of a squeeze at the dish, Jacob kept a very positive attitude throughout the season and made the most of his time with his speed flagging down balls in the OF.
Dylan Reges came over to the Mets from the now defunct CRockies team. Rege had a tough season at the dish over 35PA, however was able to bring the goods as a solid utility player in the IF and OF. Dylan had a 100% conversion rate if a ball was hit at/near him and brought a love for the game/appreciation for a fresh pouch between juggling his work schedule.
Ben Regner D-MSBL rookie started the season as a “PO” and ended up picking up as a CF toward the midpoint of the season. Big Ben took a club lead in IP (63) and finishing the season with a staff lead of 3 wins with a 3.41ERA. While patrolling the OF, there were a few premium plays including a lay-out to hold the opposition from a few XBHs.
Anthony Juliano returned to the Mets for another year, however was only able to make it to a little over a handful of games. As a perennial member of the pitching staff, AJ did a very good job starting the season with a dub in game #1, but then wasn’t able to make it for a number of games, and fortunes turned. For the games that AJ wasn’t on the hill, he did a good job patrolling the OF, and unfortunately only got 12PA.
Nate Hill returned to the Mets for another year, and work got in the way down the stretch. For the games that Nate was able to make it, he was able to tame the Giants on the hill for 5IP, and then put up a good few shots over 30PA. We hope that the schedule will open up in the coming year so that we can get more time out of Nate so that he can do more time on the hill and dent a ball or two.
Kenny Woodmore returned to the Mets for the first 9 games, but then bowed out due to other commitments and was not able to make any other games. Hopefully Kenny can make things work in the future as the game will miss him.
James Barnes, Cody Kern, Jason Strattard and Dylan Schils also were Mets part timers and filled in as they could, with Dylan taking a start (against the Redbirds) but trashing his knee in the process. Hopefully, the future will enable these guys to play more as time allows.
With the Mets management putting a bow on the 2023 season, there is a thank you being sent to the various families, wives, siblings and other fans/contributors who came out to support the Mets through the 25 games this season. Every person is appreciated and is typically greeted with a pre-game smile from the old guy “…welcome to the Mets show!” - hoping that these friends and family members will continue to return/support the Mets for the future seasons to come.
Mets Schedule