Fan expectations have been bolstered by a strong Spring Training performance.
But with high expectations comes a short leash, and this leash is likely attached to Mets fifth-year manager Terry Collins. If the team gets off to a rough start, Collins could be replaced before the start of summer.
For years fans have been split on their opinion of the Mets skipper. Some view Collins as an expert motivator, able to get the most out of Mets teams that had little talent. Others see him as a woeful in game manager who tinkers too much with both the lineup and bullpen. Five years into his Mets tenure, the jury’s still out, but 2015 looks to be a make-or-break year for Terry Collins.
Most would agree that if the Mets miss the playoffs by a considerable amount of games, Collins will be looking for a job in 2016. But what would have to happen for the Mets manager to be canned by the end of May?
Of the Mets first 31 games, 26 are against NL East opponents, seven against the Nationals, seven against the Marlins, six against the Braves and six against the Phillies. These 26 games, about 16 percent of the total season, may decide Collins’ future with the club.
Overall, the 2014 Mets played .500 baseball within the division (38-38), but a 4-15 record against the Nationals was the biggest takeaway. The Mets seven early 2015 games against the Nats should be of paramount importance to Terry Collins. Making a statement against a World Series favorite, like the Nationals, would do a lot to silence Collins’ detractors.
If after 31 games the Mets have only 9-13 wins a managerial change is to be expected, and rightfully so. A poor start would bring the Mets hype-train to a screeching halt, something that management can’t afford and won’t stand for.
Conversely, if the team can pull off 18-21 wins in this timeframe more fans will buy into the idea that the Amazins are ready to compete. With a strong performance in these 31 games, the Mets faithful may finally have a summer to look forward to.
