New York Mets: A Lackluster Performance Sans Willie Randolph

The New York Mets came out for their second game of the series versus the Angels without their manager, Willie Randolph, who was fired Monday.

Interim manager Jerry Manuel did not have a great opening night, suffering a 6-1 loss, despite having the Mets ace and past CY Young award-winning pitcher Johan Santana at the mound.

The game started out poorly with Jose Reyes injuring himself while running out a single to first base. Reyes called in the trainer and was visibly upset that the decision was made to remove him from the game.

The Mets scored their one and only run in the first inning shortly after Reyes was taken out.

John Lackey pitched eight impressive innings, managing to keep a low pitch count and maintained good command over his pitches.

He was taken out in the eighth to a standing ovation after walking a batter and giving up a single with two outs.

Scot Shields finished the 1.3 innings with no additional runs.

The Mets lacked hustle on the field and fell victim to several errors, resulting in extra bases and runs.

In many instances the players didn’t seem to care, and one fan remarked that they thought they were throwing the game.

It seemed obvious that the change in leadership has thrown the New York team in a negative whirl and perhaps tomorrow they will come together to steal the series away from the Angels.

John Garland of the Angels (6-4) will face Oliver Perez (5-4).