As a long time magazine editor and writer and Mets fan, I have been desperately waiting for any new york sportswriter to write pretty much what you offer in this column. To say that you nailed the Willie Randolph problem is an understatement. I especially enjoyed the original notion that the team actually underachieved in Randolph's first year as manager, which was arguably his best and only because he was managing a young club. Willie is essentially Art Howe with a slighter more interesting personality and a better baseball playing resume. He has no imagination regarding strategy, doesn't inspire his players to perform at higher levels and can't articulate any baseball thoughts in much more than a cliche way. Anyone who doesn't think that last year's collapse should be laid at his doorstep is foolish. Yes, the players were responsible. But when you see your team is in trouble, you should be able to identify the problems and steal a game or two by the sheer force of your baseball acumen and leadership skills. Randolph has neither, couldn't do that last year and shouldn't have been retained based on that. It's time to turn this team into the 86 Mets, so get Wally Backman and Bobby Ojeda in here, make Keith and Gary coaches and dump Willie and the Jacket off on some American League team. Great job!
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I agree with your assessment and commentary 100%. It seems like you articulated exactly the things I've been groaning about... [MORE]
Alex Sabatino
May 15, 2008 03:38
You hit the nail square on the head.
Only problem is ... here we are May 14th and the Willie the... [MORE]
JJJJJ
May 14, 2008 22:24
What does this article achieve? Sure it is a commentary but it is simply a rant without substance. In the... [MORE]
rob mendel
May 6, 2008 15:37
This is ludicrous. The team has one of the top ten records in baseball, notwithstanding a barrage of injuries. To... [MORE]
LogeatShea
May 5, 2008 11:14
While you're at it, fire Omar Minaya, as well. He has been a pathetic disappointment and he is truly, most... [MORE]
J Dagostino
May 5, 2008 02:50
hmmmm.....I guess 2006 (one of the most successful seasons in Mets history) didn't exist. It's funny how you didn't mention... [MORE]
John
May 3, 2008 12:51
This is merely perfect. As I've been harping on Gotham Baseball online, Willie isn't a bad manager. He's no manager,... [MORE]
Al Cohn, former sportswriter, newsday
May 2, 2008 23:20
I'm not going to beat around the bush. Willie Randolph is an awful manager. I challenge anyone to point out... [MORE]
Eric Schnipper
May 2, 2008 22:05
Thank you for saying so well ....what so many Mets fans feels so strongly.
Bring back Bobby V......we certainly could use... [MORE]
john signorelli
May 2, 2008 19:11
Let me preface this by saying I like Willie Randolph. I think he has carried himself with dignity during the... [MORE]
Bob Kelly
May 2, 2008 16:35
I fully agree with your comments regarding the managerial skills or lack thereof regarding Willie Randolph. He has not connected... [MORE]