BALTIMORE _ In explaining Monday's flurry of small moves, Mets general manager Brodie Van Wagenen said the organization wanted to make a statement to its fanbase: The Mets were not quitting on the 2020 season.
Yes, they had not played well. Yes, they were five games under .500 by the deadline. Yes, they are currently out of the postseason picture.
They still had September, though. Perhaps they could get hot late, just like last year.
That could happen, but time is running out after a 9-5 loss to the Baltimore Orioles to begin September. The Mets are now 15-21 with 24 games to play in this shortened season.
They have the benefit of the expanded playoffs, which will send eight teams from each league to the postseason, but this team might be sputtering after a fifth straight loss.
On Tuesday, the Mets' pitching did not give them a chance. It continues to seem like an aspect that might permanently hold back the team, which hasn't been consistency in any facets of the game this season.
All season, through their struggles, the Mets have recalled last year's second half, when they made an exciting run to put themselves in contention for a playoff spot. They fell short, but maybe this time would be different.
If so, they'll need to turn this around _ quickly.
