Why?

Author: Clare Lafferty

As I sat and watched another meaningless September game, I got to thinking. Why am I still interested? Why do I still watch, even though  I know these games mean nothing? Why do I still care if Carlos Beltran makes it back in time to play a few games this year?

I have been a fan since 1968 and have sat through many bleak September games. But, I always watched every game I could even when the Mets were mathematically eliminated. Why?

I love the Mets. Yes, love of the Mets and of the game keeps me coming back. When you love something  or someone, you are there for them no matter what. You support them and try to be optimistic even when the boat is sinking. When someone puts your team down, you defend them to the end.

Loyalty to the Mets is also a reason I keep watching. For every bad play and lost season, there are great memories of 1969 and 86. I know that those years are long past, but they were times in my life that brought me great joy, pride and happiness. 

The 2009 season has brought us little to cheer about. But there are some bright signs ahead. Now that Johan Santana has had his surgery and is expected to be fine by the spring, we can look forward to great games in 2010. Luis Castillo has had a comeback player of the year-type year. David Wright always gives 110% and I love our new players, Jeff Francoeur and Cory Sullivan. And with Beltran coming back in 2010, our team will be ready to compete with any other.

And, our young players are fun to watch. I love Angel Pagan's hustle and play in the outfield. Daniel Murphy is getting more comfortable at first and I like the way Omir Santos plays catcher.

Overall, 2009 will be a seaon to forget. But, I will still  be watching until October 4th hoping to hear those words "put it in the books". No matter how bad a season is, I will always be a Mets fan.

Let's Go Mets in 2010!