Cowtipper

Loser Diaz is in. Come on now.

Martinez sucks.

I seem to recall the Mets getting to Law before, earlier in the season.

Game is tied! The magic is ba— Well let's not get ahead of ourselves yet.

The option of instant replay is making umps sloppy.

Now it's getting fun!

Taylor's going to wake up wearing concrete shoes!

Why did we pull Manaea? Especially with no off days and Megill tomorrow. Gotta make sure they lose. Tony "The Pug" Spanoli has big money on this game.

The bettors must have them at finishing no better than .500, so they're pulling out all the stops.

How about they try to not hit to that side of the field.

Time for another closed door meeting.

The Mets magic is fading away......................................................................................................

Bases loaded. Vientos up. 2-2 the count. Come on, Mark!

Braves losing 1-0.

I hope the Mets win.

Who was Al McBean? Alvin O'Neal "Al" McBean (May 15, 1938 – January 31, 2024) was a talented pitcher from the U.S. Virgin Islands, becoming the first major league pitcher from the region. Known for his versatile arm and hard sinker, McBean pitched ten seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He was valued as both a starter and a reliever, with some of his best seasons including a 15-10 record as a starter in 1962 and 22 saves in 1964, which ranked second in the National League. A colorful character on and off the field, McBean was beloved for his flashy style and playful spirit. His role in the Pirates' bullpen during the 1960s made him one of the league's top relievers, earning him the title of Sporting News Fireman of the Year in 1964. McBean also made appearances for the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers before retiring in 1971. After his baseball career, he returned to his native St. Thomas, where he became involved in public service and helped develop local sports programs. McBean passed away in 2024 at the age of 85. Who was Dave McCarty? David Andrew McCarty (November 23, 1969 – April 19, 2024) was an American professional baseball player known for his versatility as both a first baseman and outfielder. McCarty played in Major League Baseball from 1993 to 2005, representing several teams including the Minnesota Twins, San Francisco Giants, Kansas City Royals, Oakland Athletics, and Boston Red Sox. Born in Houston, Texas, he attended Stanford University and was a standout collegiate player before being selected in the first round of the 1991 MLB draft by the Minnesota Twins. McCarty's career highlights included a memorable 2004 season with the Boston Red Sox, where he contributed key pinch-hits and even made three pitching appearances, becoming a fan favorite. Although he did not play in the 2004 World Series, he was part of the team that ended Boston’s championship drought. After retiring, McCarty became a Red Sox analyst for NESN. He lived with his wife, novelist Monica McCarty, and their two children in California. McCarty died suddenly on April 19, 2024, at the age of 54 following a cardiac event, just days after attending a reunion of the 2004 Red Sox team. Who was Reyes Moronta? Reyes Armando Moronta (January 6, 1993 – July 28, 2024) was a Dominican professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Los Angeles Angels. Moronta began his career as an international free agent, signing with the Giants in 2010. Known for his powerful fastball, Moronta made his MLB debut in 2017 and quickly became a reliable reliever, earning a reputation for his strikeout ability. He pitched in MLB from 2017 to 2023, with standout seasons in 2018 and 2019 for the Giants. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his career, including a torn labrum that kept him out for the 2020 season. After leaving the Giants, Moronta had stints with the Dodgers, Diamondbacks, and Angels, as well as time in the Mexican League. In 2024, he was pitching for the Bravos de León before being released shortly before his death. On July 28, 2024, just days after his last professional appearance, Moronta tragically died in a motorcycle accident in the Dominican Republic at the age of 31.

Irvin since August 2: 2-4 W-L, 6.39 ERA. Since July 9: 3-6, 6.41 ERA. I'm hopeful.

This has been a fun year. Grimace, OMG, unexpected heroes like Iglesias, Torrens, Vientos, even Taylor and Winker. Even if they don't get very far in the playoffs—if they get there at all—2024 has certainly been memorable.

Should be an easy win. Magic numbers: Wild Card spot #3: 14 Wild Card spot #2: 16 Wild Card spot #1: 17 1st place in the division: 23

RIP.

T.J. McFarland, who pitched for the Mets in 2023, is 2-3 with a 3.71 ERA in a league-leading 73 relief appearances for the Athletics. He was originally signed by the Dodgers in January, but traded to the Athletics for cash in March. Billy McKinney, who played for the Mets in 2021, hit .200/.286/.240 with no home runs and 2 RBI in 25 at-bats for the Pirates. He's hit .299/.406/.460 with 5 home runs in 19 RBI in 43 games for their Triple-A club in Indianapolis and .200/.455/.267 in 6 games for their High-A club in Greensboro; overall, his minor league line is .290/.412/.441 with 5 home runs, 19 RBI and 44 hits in 49 games. He had originally been signed by the Yankees in December 2023, but was traded to Pittsburgh for cash just a few days later. Adonis Medina, who pitched for the Mets in 2022, is 8-3 with a 3.82 ERA in 48 relief appearances for the Washington Nationals Triple-A club, the Rochester Red Wings. He's currently on the 7-day IL.

Zeile, Kranepool and Samuel are correct! Well done. Zisk was a good guess, though he never played for New York. Three new questions have been added, with hints for the rest. 1. You might know me as a recent Met But there's still a chance you won't guess me, I bet I share the name of a former wide receiver But starting in '21 I was a Mets reliever Who am I? Hint: Pitched for the Mets in 2021 and 2022. Previously played for the Dodgers, later played for the Dodgers, Orioles and Dodgers again. The wide receiver he shares a name with wore #86 for the Vikings in the 1990s. Hint: https://i.imgur.com/8qXVRTT.png> 2. I perished in Tennessee ​But was born up in VA I once went 0-3 But lost none in my Mets stay New York was my last team Which perhaps was not my plan But I made all the clubs scream "You're over the hill, man!" Who am I? Hint: He was an original Met. 3. Who am I? https://i.imgur.com/0CFK3jq.png> 4. From the back of a baseball card: "Mets #2 pick in January '83 draft (secondary phase) out of West Arkansas JC. Played every position (except for pitcher) for Tidewater in '89, including 10 or more games at each infield position. Draws a lot of walks, second on Tides with .368 on-base percentage." Who am I? Jeff McKnight 5. What in the world, what is this? Did I do poorly, what did I miss? I hit .300 in 2013 And my OBP was hardly lean But that was my last stint in NY I guess they found a better guy But I took the cold shoulder like a man And left the Mets for Japan Who am I? Zach Lutz Running tally of correct guessers: Johnny Lunchbucket: 136 Edgy MD: 87 stevejrogers: 79 batmagadanleadoff: 34 DocTee: 18 The Hot Corner: 12 metsmarathon: 9 Benjamin Grimm: 6 MFS62: 4 Methead: 3 Batty31: 2 Marshmallowmilkshake: 1

Bob Blaylock died recently. https://www.fox23.com/news/oklahoma-native-former-mlb-pitcher-bob-blaylock-dies-at-age-89/article_b6a731bc-4af5-11ef-a68d-db7e80eb32f4.html Who was Bob Blaylock? Robert Edward Blaylock (June 28, 1935 – September 1, 2024) was a right-handed pitcher who played parts of two Major League Baseball seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1956 and 1959. A native of Muldrow, Oklahoma, Blaylock spent his entire ten-year professional career within the Cardinals organization after signing with the team upon high school graduation. Known for his hard-throwing abilities, he led the 1958 American Association in strikeouts despite having lost two fingers on his left hand in a farm accident as a child. Blaylock made his major league debut in 1956, pitching well in his first start but struggling with control in subsequent appearances, finishing the season with a 1-6 record and a 6.37 ERA over 14 games. After three more years in the minors, he returned to the majors briefly in 1959, appearing in three games, but lost his only decision. Over his MLB career, Blaylock pitched in 17 games, recording a 1-7 win-loss record and a 5.94 ERA. His minor league career, however, was more successful, as he amassed a 76-75 record with a 3.72 ERA over 1,344 innings pitched. Following his baseball career, Blaylock worked as a motel manager and lived in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He passed away at the age of 89 in Collinsville, Oklahoma. His grandsons, Josh and Justin Beal, also pursued careers in professional baseball. Minnie Mendoza also died recently. https://www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Cristobal-Minnie-Mendoza/#!/TributeWall Who was Minnie Mendoza? Cristobal Rigoberto "Minnie" Mendoza Carreras was a Cuban-born Major League Baseball infielder and coach who played briefly for the Minnesota Twins during the 1970 season. Born in Ceiba del Agua, Cuba, Mendoza spent ten seasons with the minor league Charlotte Hornets before making his major league debut at the age of 36, appearing in 16 games and compiling a .188 batting average. Although he had a short MLB playing career, Mendoza was involved in the controversy surrounding the origin of the term "Mendoza Line," which denotes a .200 batting average. While commonly associated with Mario Mendoza, some believed the term might have referred to Minnie Mendoza, though this is disputed, as he did not play during George Brett's time (Brett coined the term "Mendoza Line"). After retiring as a player, Mendoza embarked on a coaching and managerial career. He coached the Charlotte O's and served as the first base coach for the Baltimore Orioles in 1988. He also managed teams in the minor leagues, including the Burlington Indians in 1992, and worked as a roving minor league instructor for the Orioles. Mendoza continued his involvement in baseball as a manager in the Mexican League and Colombia's Liga Colombiana de Béisbol Profesional. In his later years, he worked as the Latin American field coordinator for the Cleveland Indians. Mendoza was one of only four Cuban players to debut in the 1970s and spent more than two decades in professional baseball.

Urdaneta, Jones, Kent and O'Brien are correct! Four new questions have been added. 1. You might know me as a recent Met But there's still a chance you won't guess me, I bet I share the name of a former wide receiver But starting in '21 I was a Mets reliever Who am I? Hint: Pitched for the Mets in 2021 and 2022. Previously played for the Dodgers, later played for the Dodgers, Orioles and Dodgers again. The wide receiver he shares a name with wore #86 for the Vikings in the 1990s. 2. I perished in Tennessee ​But was born up in VA I once went 0-3 But lost none in my Mets stay New York was my last team Which perhaps was not my plan But I made all the clubs scream "You're over the hill, man!" Who am I? 3. Before Ryan Zimmerman broke the record, which former Met held the MLB record for the most career home runs among players with a last name starting with "Z"? 4. Which former Met holds the single-season record for highest batting average as a pinch hitter (min. 30 ABs)? 5. Which former Met holds the record for most at-bats in a rookie season? He might not have done it as a Met. Running tally of correct guessers: Johnny Lunchbucket: 133 Edgy MD: 87 stevejrogers: 79 batmagadanleadoff: 34 DocTee: 18 The Hot Corner: 12 metsmarathon: 9 Benjamin Grimm: 6 MFS62: 4 Methead: 3 Batty31: 2 Marshmallowmilkshake: 1

Who was Gordy Lund? Gordon Thomas Lund was an American Major League Baseball infielder who played as a shortstop, second baseman, and third baseman. Born on February 23, 1941, in Iron Mountain, Michigan, Lund stood 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighed 170 pounds. Over two seasons in the Major Leagues, he batted .261, with 12 hits and one run batted in. Primarily known for his defensive skills, Lund spent most of his 11-year playing career in the minor leagues. He briefly played for the Cleveland Indians in 1967 before being traded to the Baltimore Orioles, and later to the Seattle Pilots, where he appeared in 20 games during the 1969 season. Despite his strong minor league fielding, Lund struggled defensively in the Majors. After his playing career, he managed in the Chicago White Sox farm system from 1974 to 1982, amassing a managerial record of 608-615, with his 1978 Appleton Foxes winning the Midwest League championship. Lund passed away on April 10, 2024, in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Who was Willie Mays? Willie Mays, often considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, had an extraordinary career that spanned over two decades. Known for his all-around excellence, Mays excelled in hitting, fielding, and base running, making him a complete player. He began his career in the Negro Leagues with the Birmingham Black Barons before joining the New York Giants in 1951, later missing the 1953 season due to military service. Mays became famous for his remarkable catch during the 1954 World Series and for setting a record of 22 home runs in extra innings. Over his career, he accumulated numerous accolades, including being a 20-time All-Star, a 12-time Gold Glove winner, and a two-time National League MVP. Mays was traded to the New York Mets in 1972, where he had a game-winning RBI in the 1973 World Series, his final postseason appearance. In addition to his on-field success, Mays was also recognized for his contributions off the field, becoming the first recipient of the Roberto Clemente Award in 1971. His influence extended beyond baseball, with appearances on television shows and public support for his godson, Barry Bonds. Mays was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, earning 94.6% of the vote in his first year of eligibility. He was honored with numerous recognitions throughout his life, including the renaming of the World Series MVP Award in his honor in 2017 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015. Mays passed away in 2024 at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy as one of baseball’s all-time greats. More Willie Howard Mays Jr. (1931–2024), known as "the Say Hey Kid," was an American baseball legend, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Mays played 23 seasons, primarily with the New York/San Francisco Giants, and briefly with the New York Mets. His career began in the Negro leagues with the Birmingham Black Barons before joining the Giants in 1951. That year, he won the Rookie of the Year award and helped the Giants secure their first pennant in 14 years. In 1954, Mays won the National League MVP and led the Giants to a World Series victory, making one of the most famous plays in baseball history with his over-the-shoulder catch in Game 1. He would go on to win another MVP in 1965 and lead the Giants to the 1962 World Series. Mays retired in 1973 after returning to the Mets. Mays was a quintessential five-tool player, excelling in hitting, fielding, base-running, and power. He was a 24-time All-Star, a 12-time Gold Glove winner, and led the league in home runs and stolen bases multiple times. By the time of his retirement, Mays ranked among the all-time leaders in home runs (660), RBIs, and runs scored. Defensively, he set records for most putouts as an outfielder and most games played as a center fielder. After his playing career, Mays continued to work with the Giants and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015. His life and career remain an enduring part of baseball history. More In 1958, Willie Mays's manager, Bill Rigney, aimed to preserve Mays for the regular season, hoping he would break Babe Ruth's home run record. Mays batted .347 that year, just behind Richie Ashburn's .350. Despite being booed at times by San Francisco fans, possibly due to high expectations or comparisons to Joe DiMaggio, Mays excelled, winning Player of the Month twice. In 1959, a leg injury in spring training and a later finger break did not prevent Mays from performing well, leading the league in stolen bases and batting .313. Candlestick Park's tricky winds affected his home run power in 1960, but he adjusted, hitting .319 with 103 RBIs. In 1961, he hit four home runs in a single game despite food poisoning and finished with 40 home runs. Booing subsided as Mays's performance helped the Giants to their best season in San Francisco in 1962, though they lost the World Series to the Yankees. In 1963, Mays became the highest-paid player with a $105,000 contract, hit his 400th home run, and batted .314. Despite challenges, including booing and injuries, Mays’s talent and dedication helped cement his legacy as one of baseball's greatest players. More Willie Mays, a legendary baseball player, adopted a distinctive batting stance influenced by his idol, Joe DiMaggio, standing with spread legs and a high-held bat, which he believed added power to his swing. He meticulously avoided unnecessary movements at the plate and adjusted his hitting style based on the park he was playing in. Known for his defensive prowess, Mays earned 12 Gold Gloves and set a record with 7,095 outfield putouts. His signature "basket catch" was a flashy yet effective technique, contributing to his reputation as one of the best outfielders ever. Mays’s dynamic playing style, partly rooted in his Negro League experience, included daring base running and deliberate dramatic catches to entertain fans. Mays was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, receiving 94.68% of the vote, and was subsequently recognized as one of the greatest players of all time. He ranks highly in various statistical categories, including third in home runs with 660 at his retirement, and his 24 All-Star appearances are among the highest ever. Despite occasional health issues attributed to his all-out style of play and speculation about amphetamine use during his career, his impact on the game was profound. Mays's legacy extends beyond the field; he has been honored with multiple recognitions, including the renaming of the World Series MVP Award in his name and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He made numerous media appearances and was celebrated in popular culture. After retiring as a player, Mays had a varied post-baseball career, including roles with the Mets and a stint at a casino, before returning to baseball in a different capacity. He was remembered fondly by peers and fans alike for his exceptional talent and contributions to the sport. Mays passed away on June 18, 2024, at the age of 93. His death was marked by tributes from prominent figures and fans, including a public memorial ceremony that celebrated his life and career. Who was Jim McAndrew? James Clement McAndrew (January 11, 1944 – March 14, 2024) was a professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball for the New York Mets and the San Diego Padres between 1968 and 1974. Born in Lost Nation, Iowa, McAndrew grew up on a large farm and pursued baseball and basketball at the University of Iowa before being drafted by the Mets in 1965. Despite showing promise, he struggled to secure a long-term spot in the Mets' starting rotation, although he contributed to their 1969 World Series victory, albeit without playing in the series. McAndrew did not pitch in the 1973 World Series either, as the Mets relied on other pitchers. In 1974, he was traded to the Padres, where he went 1-4 before being released, ending his major league career. Over his career, he appeared in 161 games, with a record of 37–53 and a 3.65 ERA. After retiring from baseball, McAndrew worked at General Dynamics and in the coal industry before retiring to Fountain Hills, Arizona. He was survived by his wife, Lyn, and their four children, including his son Jamie McAndrew, who also became a major league pitcher.