Will the New York Mets Have a September To Remember?

You don't have to be a Mets fan to know about the Collapse of 2007. It was one of the most embarrassing finishes in any sport. However, to all the Mets fans who survived it, dreaded it, feared it, and were nauseated over it, now's our chance at redemption.

We waited all season, knowing that the Mets would be at or near the top of the division come September. The question in the back of our minds all season has been, "Will history repeat itself?" 

The answer, quite frankly, is no.

This is not the same team as last year. They–thankfully—have a new manager, some key new players, and a new attitude. Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger? Ya gotta believe!

The 2008 Mets have suffered through some major injuries this season, but they are nothing if not resilient. Moises Alou is hurt again (and again)? Here comes Fernando Tatis off the scrap heap. Ryan Church endures a second concussion? Daniel Murphy and Nick Evans get called up to form a youthful platoon and invigorate the offense.

Then there's Orlando Hernandez, who's career is most likely over. In steps Mike Pelfrey, who, under Dan Warthen is discovering the talent the Mets saw when they drafted him. 

Now John Maine looks to be lost for the season, but the Mets keep bouncing back. It's enough to make even the most diehard Mets fan cringe while waiting for the other cleat to drop.

And what about the bullpen?

Billy Wagner or no Billy Wagner, it definitely pushes the attendance at nailbiters anonymous meetings. On most days, the starting pitcher is not going past the seventh inning. That leaves at least six laborious outs with Jerry Manuel, who's trying to mix and match while prolonging the agony. 

They've blown more saves than any other team this season, but they just can't repeat the Collapse of 2007. Can they?

We will know the answer in less than four weeks. Until then, "fasten your seat belts," as Bob Murphy used to say before the ninth inning. This could be a very bumpy ride.