Why I'm a Mets Fan: A Deep Dive into the 2023 Offseason
Samantha Cron and Ashley Wowski, sports reporters from Syracuse, host "Why Am I a Mets Fan," a podcast dedicated to engaging with the latest happenings in the world of baseball, particularly focused on the New York Mets. In a heartfelt opening, they express empathy for those affected by the devastating fires on the West Coast, acknowledging not only the tragedy but also the spirit of the community and the positive steps taken by players like Dodgers' Freddy Freeman to provide relief.
Recently, the conversation turned to the ongoing sweepstakes for highly touted Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki. Unfortunately for Mets fans, the news was not encouraging; the Mets have been informed that they will not be among the finalists vying for Sasaki's services. The finalists now are the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays. Samantha and Ashley ponder the likelihood of Sasaki choosing a team, especially leaning away from the Blue Jays, whom they liken to a “bridesmaid” that never quite makes it down the aisle.
They discuss the nuances of the bidding process, especially the allocation of bonus pool money, emphasizing how Sasaki will likely command the entirety of a team's bonus pool. With the Dodgers having a more formidable rotation and a proven track record, their optimism for securing Sasaki appears higher compared to other contenders.
The Dodgers’ Foreboding Presence
The hosts express rising anxiety concerning the Dodgers' repeated successes and seemingly endless ability to stack their roster. They draw parallels to the hindrances faced by the Mets when encountering a well-built team like the Dodgers, bringing up the metaphor of “always being the team stopped by the Chiefs” in baseball—an affinity towards the New York Bills and their struggles against formidable opponents.
Samantha and Ashley analyze the Dodgers' projected pitching rotation and the depth they possess if they secure both Sasaki and other star pitchers, implying their potential for dominance in the upcoming season. They cite a lineup that includes established stars like Shohei Ohtani and Blake Snell, noting the “ace-caliber” nature of all their starters, which would be terrifying for any team, including the Mets.
The duo then takes a hard look at the Mets’ own rotation. While they initially expressed concerns, they come across an analysis by user @LindorCanWalk which suggests a slightly more optimistic outlook for the Mets' rotation compared to the previous year. They argue that if certain players like Kodai Sanga, Sean Manaea, and David Peterson can replicate or exceed past performances, the Mets might not be as far behind as previously thought. Yet, they remain guarded, emphasizing that too many variables could lead to unpredictable outcomes.
Highlighting Sean Manaea’s recent signing with the Mets, the discussion shifts toward how athletes consider family dynamics when choosing a team. Manaea mentions the benefits and support structures available for the families of players, specifically due to the Mets’ organizational infrastructure, which has welcomed players and their families with open arms.
Ashley and Samantha underline the critical role that family and community considerations play in these high-stakes decisions, showcasing how positive environments contribute to a player’s happiness and effectiveness on the field.
The podcast also touches on the ongoing contract negotiations with star player Pete Alonzo. Reports suggest that he has offered the Mets a three-year deal with opt-outs but urges a sense of urgency for the organization to finalize the arrangement. They argue that retaining Alonzo is imperative for the Mets and should be treated as a top priority.
As the conversation flows, the hosts reminisce about the Mets’ broadcasting duo—Gary Cohen, Keith Hernandez, and Ron Darling—reflecting on their deep emotional connection with fans. Their contributions to Mets games have helped shape the voices and experiences of many generations, which leads into discussions about upcoming events, like David Wright's number retirement, an unparalleled milestone as he becomes the first Met whose number is retired without having played for another MLB team.
The episode wraps up with Ashley and Samantha acknowledging the ever-evolving landscape of baseball, emphasizing their excitement for what the offseason will bring. With trades, signings, and rumors circulating, they understand the inherent unpredictability of the sport but maintain a collective hope for the Mets' resurgence in the coming season.
Through engaging narratives and lively discussions, “Why Am I a Mets Fan” continues to encapsulate the passion of Mets supporters while critically analyzing the choices faced by their beloved team.
Part 1/9:
Why I'm a Mets Fan: A Deep Dive into the 2023 Offseason
Samantha Cron and Ashley Wowski, sports reporters from Syracuse, host "Why Am I a Mets Fan," a podcast dedicated to engaging with the latest happenings in the world of baseball, particularly focused on the New York Mets. In a heartfelt opening, they express empathy for those affected by the devastating fires on the West Coast, acknowledging not only the tragedy but also the spirit of the community and the positive steps taken by players like Dodgers' Freddy Freeman to provide relief.
The Sasaki Saga
Part 2/9:
Recently, the conversation turned to the ongoing sweepstakes for highly touted Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki. Unfortunately for Mets fans, the news was not encouraging; the Mets have been informed that they will not be among the finalists vying for Sasaki's services. The finalists now are the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays. Samantha and Ashley ponder the likelihood of Sasaki choosing a team, especially leaning away from the Blue Jays, whom they liken to a “bridesmaid” that never quite makes it down the aisle.
Part 3/9:
They discuss the nuances of the bidding process, especially the allocation of bonus pool money, emphasizing how Sasaki will likely command the entirety of a team's bonus pool. With the Dodgers having a more formidable rotation and a proven track record, their optimism for securing Sasaki appears higher compared to other contenders.
The Dodgers’ Foreboding Presence
The hosts express rising anxiety concerning the Dodgers' repeated successes and seemingly endless ability to stack their roster. They draw parallels to the hindrances faced by the Mets when encountering a well-built team like the Dodgers, bringing up the metaphor of “always being the team stopped by the Chiefs” in baseball—an affinity towards the New York Bills and their struggles against formidable opponents.
Part 4/9:
Samantha and Ashley analyze the Dodgers' projected pitching rotation and the depth they possess if they secure both Sasaki and other star pitchers, implying their potential for dominance in the upcoming season. They cite a lineup that includes established stars like Shohei Ohtani and Blake Snell, noting the “ace-caliber” nature of all their starters, which would be terrifying for any team, including the Mets.
Evaluating the Mets’ Prospects
Part 5/9:
The duo then takes a hard look at the Mets’ own rotation. While they initially expressed concerns, they come across an analysis by user @LindorCanWalk which suggests a slightly more optimistic outlook for the Mets' rotation compared to the previous year. They argue that if certain players like Kodai Sanga, Sean Manaea, and David Peterson can replicate or exceed past performances, the Mets might not be as far behind as previously thought. Yet, they remain guarded, emphasizing that too many variables could lead to unpredictable outcomes.
The Importance of Family in Player Decisions
Part 6/9:
Highlighting Sean Manaea’s recent signing with the Mets, the discussion shifts toward how athletes consider family dynamics when choosing a team. Manaea mentions the benefits and support structures available for the families of players, specifically due to the Mets’ organizational infrastructure, which has welcomed players and their families with open arms.
Ashley and Samantha underline the critical role that family and community considerations play in these high-stakes decisions, showcasing how positive environments contribute to a player’s happiness and effectiveness on the field.
Pete Alonzo’s Future
Part 7/9:
The podcast also touches on the ongoing contract negotiations with star player Pete Alonzo. Reports suggest that he has offered the Mets a three-year deal with opt-outs but urges a sense of urgency for the organization to finalize the arrangement. They argue that retaining Alonzo is imperative for the Mets and should be treated as a top priority.
Nostalgia and Reflection on Mets History
Part 8/9:
As the conversation flows, the hosts reminisce about the Mets’ broadcasting duo—Gary Cohen, Keith Hernandez, and Ron Darling—reflecting on their deep emotional connection with fans. Their contributions to Mets games have helped shape the voices and experiences of many generations, which leads into discussions about upcoming events, like David Wright's number retirement, an unparalleled milestone as he becomes the first Met whose number is retired without having played for another MLB team.
Closing Thoughts
Part 9/9:
The episode wraps up with Ashley and Samantha acknowledging the ever-evolving landscape of baseball, emphasizing their excitement for what the offseason will bring. With trades, signings, and rumors circulating, they understand the inherent unpredictability of the sport but maintain a collective hope for the Mets' resurgence in the coming season.
Through engaging narratives and lively discussions, “Why Am I a Mets Fan” continues to encapsulate the passion of Mets supporters while critically analyzing the choices faced by their beloved team.