No Way Says Jose: Reyes Exits in First After Bunt Single

I just read that the New York Mets superstar shortstop Jose Reyes voluntarily left today's game after bunting for a single in the bottom of the first at Citi Field. 

Perhaps Reyes and the Mets know better, but it has been widely speculated that today may very well be Reyes' last day in a Metropolitan uniform. 

It was a home game.  Played in front of 28,816 fans who paid to see the Amazin's play baseball, on this the last day of the 2011 regular season.  In a game that for all intents and purposes was meaningless to the two teams involved.

Sure it gives both teams an opportunity to evaluate future talent and build for next year, but let's face it, neither team was playing for a postseason spot. 

In fact, the biggest storyline headed into this game was without a doubt Jose Reyes and his run at the National League batting crown. 

The Mets have never employed a National League batting champion—at least not when they actually took the crown. 

Reyes could be their first.  Obviously, most in attendance were anticipating and hoping for a 4-4 day.  To witness history.  To see Reyes put Braun in the rear view mirror and not allow him the opportunity to overtake his number one position. 

Of course, Reyes could have gone 1-5 today and left the door wide open for Braun. 

Instead, Reyes bunted for a single and was promptly removed from the game by manager Terry Collins. 

Before Collins stokes your ire, understand this, it is being widely reported that Reyes asked Collins to take him out of the game if he singled in his first at bat.  The manager was just granting his player's desire. 

I understand that Reyes wants a batting title.  He's had a terrific season.  One that makes him worthy of the payday that he's sure to receive this offseason, be it from the Mets or someone else. 

But for Reyes to exit the game after one at bat, leaving the possibility for Braun with a 3-4 day to win the batting title is weak.

Reyes is playing the percentages.  It is unlikely that Braun will go 3-4 tonight.  However, it is not impossible. 

As a life long Met fan and more importantly a baseball fan, I am disgusted by the fact that Reyes took the cowardly way out.  If you want to win a batting crown, hit the ball.  Don't pull yourself out of the game to protect yourself and your own interests. 

The fans of New York would've appreciated what he has done and what he has meant to this franchise just as much if he finished second in the batting race. 

Perhaps—knowing the route he chose—they would have respected and appreciated him more.