The New York Mets won't contend says Rob Neyer

During Rob Neyer's chat on ESPN today, I got a question in about his thoughts on the Mets and about when the next time Rob would be in Atlanta. Here's the back and forth:

Onan (Atlanta, GA)

"Hey Rob–big fan! I just picked up baseball legends and baseball blunders from Amazon–great price! When's the next time you will be in the Atlanta area so I can come out and get them signed? Also, can my Mets compete for a playoff spot this year?"

Rob Neyer 

"I'm hoping to be there in August for the SABR convention . Thanks for buying the books, and I'm sorry about your Mets (though things aren't completely hopeless, particularly if Reyes can play 150 games)."

(*Links added afterward)

So all of you statheads make sure you are in Atlanta this August for the SABR convention—where you could meet guys like the estimable Rob Neyer. Honestly, the work that guys like Neyer, Keith Law, Dave Cameron, and Tom Tango are doing is impressive. They are brilliant baseball guys with a talent for writing and love for the game.

That being said, Neyer's evaluation of the Mets 2010 season seems to be pretty much in line with views around the game. I continue to remain optimistic and am personally very excited for the start of camp next week, but it's hard to keep a positive attitude with all of the negativity!

All of that being said, I appreciate Rob answering my questions and hope the Mets prove him wrong in 2010.