The Winds of Change With MMO's Jacob Resnick on Another Metsian Podcast

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

Minor League Contraction 

Coming to a Town Near You!

A METSIAN PODCAST
with SAM, RICH, and MIKE

Jacob Resnick 

of MetsmerizedOnline 

and MetsMinors.net

115 minutes

Focus on MiLB Contraction

The Bench Coach Files: Jacob Resnick!

Generation Lost: Winning Back Younger Fans

Mets Off-Season Proceeding Slowly Unlike the Braves.

Gary Gentry ~ Nino Espinosa ~ Edwin Diaz ~ Bobby Parnell

Fans Call the Show ~ Kelvin Torve ~ Crickets

and so much more.

Amazin' Date 10/14/1969: Tommie Agee and Gary Gentry Star in Game Three Victory Over Birds

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR.MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

1969

WORLD SERIES

GAME THREE

Baltimore Orioles    0

New York Mets        5

FINAL

SHEA STADIUM

METS WIN FIRST EVER WORLD SERIES GAME AT SHEA STADIUM; TAKE 2-1 LEAD OVER BIRDS.

TOMMY AGEE TAKES FOOD FROM THE BIRDS

• GAME THREE: Tuesday. October 14, 1969 - BR

Six months after crushing perhaps the most majestic home run of his career, Tommie Agee puts forth arguably the greatest performance of his career in game three of the World Series at Shea Stadium.  The Mets lead-off batter puts New York on the board straightaway when he deposits Jim Palmer's fourth offering of the game far beyond the center field wall for a prompt 1-0 New York lead.  His domination of game three continues not at the plate, but in the field.  With two outs and runners on the corners in the fourth, Agee races far to his right making a running backhand stab of Elrod Hendrick's deep fly to left/center field.  Then with two outs and the bases loaded in the seventh, Tommie Agee this time runs far to his left punching the palm of his glove twice before making a remarkable diving catch of Paul Blair's liner hit towards the right/center field gap.

Mets starter Gary Gentry helps his own cause in the second inning with a two-out double scoring Jerry Grote and Bud Harrelson giving the Mets a 3-0 lead.  Jerry Grote's run scoring double in the sixth, and Ed Kranepool's home run in the eighth give the Mets a 5-0 final margin of victory.

Gary Gentry limits the Birds to just three hits through 6.2 scoreless innings pitched, with five walks and four strikeouts.  Nolan Ryan fans three while yielding just one hit through 2.1 scoreless innings in relief of Gentry.  In taking a 2-1 series lead, Mets pitchers have limited the Orioles to just one run on six hits over their last two games.

Game Four Starters: Mike Cuellar (23-11; 2.38) vs. Tom Seaver (25-7; 2.21)

Amazin' Date 10/6/1969: Mets Sweep Braves To Capture National League Pennant

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY

NATIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

GAME THREE

Braves   4

Mets       7

FINAL

METS WIN NATIONAL LEAGUE PENNANT

Sweep Three Games From Atlanta Braves;

Punch Ticket to World Series

With fans reveling on the playing field, underneath the stands at Shea Stadium Mr. Charles Shipman Payson during an euphoric post-game locker room celebration expresses his greatest tragedy is that his wife Joan was unable to attend and witness what her team had just accomplished.  While the Mets matriarch is indeed feeling under the weather, her National League club is toast of the town and will represent New York in this season's Fall Classic.

FIRST EVER PLAYOFF GAME AT SHEA STADIUM

In speaking with Ralph Kiner manager Gil Hodges acknowledges the irony of his team being predicated on strong pitching yet handily out-slugging the heavy hitting Atlanta Braves.  And for good reason as the Mets strike for 37 hits, and out score Atlanta by a 27-15 margin through three games.

THREE HOME RUNS POWER METS TO CLINCHING VICTORY

• GAME THREE: Monday, October 6, 1969 - BR

The Mets merely pick up where they leave off on Sunday.  But not before Hank Aaron short circuits an electrified crowd at Shea Stadium in the first inning when he connects on his third home run of the series giving the Atlanta Braves a prompt 2-0 lead.  Soon after center fielder Tony Gonzalez leads off the third with a single to right, and Hank Aaron doubles to left.  With two runners in scoring position manager Gil Hodges risks nothing.  He pulls rookie starter Gary Gentry in favor of flame thrower Nolan Ryan.  The strategy works.  When action resumes Rico Carty strikes out swinging.  After first baseman Orlando Cepeda is issued an intentional pass Ryan catches Clete Boyer looking at strike three for out number two.  Bob Didier then flies harmlessly to left ending the threat.  Tommie Agee punctuates his manager's maneuvering in the bottom half of the frame with a home run off Braves starter Pat Jarvis.  Ken Boswell likewise belts a two run home run in the fifth, again off Jarvis.  However Orlando Cepeda's go ahead two run home run off Ryan in the top of the fifth quickly changes the complexion of the game.  But Atlanta's lead is short lived as Wayne Garrett's two run blast and Ken Boswell's RBI hit in the bottom half of the frame gives the Mets a 6-4 lead.  An inning later Tommie Agee's run batted in makes it a 7-4 game and final margin of victory.  Gary Gentry pitches into the third allowing two earned runs on five hits and one walk with a strikeout.  Nolan Ryan comes up huge for the Mets yielding two runs on just three hits and two walks with seven strikeouts through seven innings pitched for the victory.

New York will face the Baltimore Orioles whom defeat the Minnesota Twins in the America League championship series.  Game one is scheduled for Saturday, October 11, at Baltimore's Memorial Stadium.

Amazin' Date 10/2/1969: Mets End Regular Season With Split at Wrigley Field

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

End Regular Season
New York Mets @ Chicago Cubs
Wrigley Field

METS WIN 100th GAME OF SEASON

• GAME #161: Wednesday, October 1, 1969 -BR

The Mets rub salt into the wounds of 10,000 some odd Cubs fans in attendance Wednesday afternoon at Wrigley Field.  After Tommie Agee gives the Mets a 5-3 lead in the top of the ninth, Chicago scores two runs off Nolan Ryan in the bottom portion of the inning sending the game into extra innings.  Bud Harrelson doubles leading off the 12th inning, and comes around to score on Art Shamsky's one out hit to right.  In relief of Ron Taylor, Bob Johnson retires the Cubs in the bottom of the frame to secure the New York Mets National League leading 100th victory of the season.  Starter Jerry Koosman takes a no decision.  He yields three runs on six hits and one walk with a pair of strikeouts through five innings.  He ends the season with a 17-9 record and 2.28 ERA.  Ron Taylor earns his ninth victory against four losses with a 2.72 ERA.  Cleon Jones is 1 for 5 and falls to .339 in the batting race with a game left to play.  Bud Harrelson is 2 for 6 with two runs batted in.


NEXT STOP: ATLANTA

• GAME #162: Thursday, October 2, 1969 - BR

Chicago defeats the Mets on the final day of the regular season to gain a consolation series split with the post-season bound New York Mets.  Making his 35th and final start, Gary Gentry yields just one run on two hits and no walks with four strikeouts through five innings pitched.  He exits on the winning side of a 3-1 game but not before surrendering a home run to third baseman Ron Santo.  Chicago goes on to score four more times against Don Cardwell whom allows five hits including Ernie Banks 23rd home run of the season.  Cardwell finishes the season with an 8-10 record and a 3.01 ERA.  Cleon Jones goes 2 for 5 and drives in his 75th run of the season but his club record .340 average falls short of clinching the National League batting title.  The Mets will open the first ever National League Championship Series on Saturday at Atlanta.  The series shifts to Shea Stadium after game two.

• FINAL RECORD: 100-62 (.617)
• N.L. EAST: First Place; 8 Games Up
• NEXT GAME: Saturday, October 4, 1969 @ Atlanta Braves

Amazin' Date 9/28/1969: Mets Spin Third Straight Shutout Against Phillies

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #160: Sunday, September 28, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ Philadelphia Phillies
Connie Mack Stadium

Mets pitchers complete a trifecta of sorts registering their third straight shutout over the Philadelphia Phillies en route to a series sweep at Connie Mack Stadium.

Making the start in center field Jim Gosger drives in a run with a double and starter Gary Gentry drives in a another as part of a two run second inning.  Gentry, Nolan Ryan, and Ron Taylor, take care of the rest.  Rookie Gary Gentry finishes the regular season with a winning 13-12 record and 3.45 ERA.  He allows the Phillies just three hits and no walks with five strikeouts through five innings pitched.  Ryan allows just one hit and fans three through three innings in relief of Gentry.  Ron Taylor closes out the game with a scoreless ninth for his 13th save of the season.

In an effort to get his left fielder more at-bats, manager Hodges bats Cleon Jones lead-off to no avail as Jones goes 0 for 3 at the plate.  In fact, Phillies starter Jerry Johnson and reliever Lowell Palmer limit the Mets to just three hits all game.  Wayne Garrett accounts for two.  Otherwise with just two games left, Jones (.340) remains in close contention with Pete Rose and Roberto Clemente for this season's batting title.

The Mets return home for Monday's annual Mayor's Trophy game versus the New York Yankees, the proceeds of which are dedicated to New York City sandlot baseball.  After which the Mets close out the regular season with two games against the Cubs at Wrigley Field.

With Sunday's victory over the San Diego Padres, the Atlanta Braves clinch the N.L. West title.  The first ever National League championship series commences on Saturday, October 4, at Atlanta Stadium.

Amazin' Date 9/24/1969: New York Mets Clinch N.L. East Pennant

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #157: Wednesday, September 24, 1969 - BR
St. Louis Cardinals @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium

NEW YORK METS 
CLINCH NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST PENNANT

GARY GENTRY HURLS SHUTOUT AGAINST ST. LOUIS CARDINALS

JUBILANT FANS UPROOT PLAYING FIELD IN SHEA STADIUM CELEBRATION

"Goodbye, Leo, we hate to see you go!"

... the anthem of New York's summer.

Despite Chicago's afternoon victory over Montreal at Wrigley Field, the Cubs no longer are a matter of concern to the Amazin' Mets whom defeat the St. Louis Cardinals Wednesday evening to clinch the first ever National League East pennant before a raucous crowd at Shea Stadium.

Donn Clendenon gets the party started straightaway in the first inning with a long three run home run to right/center off Cardinals starter Steve Carlton.  After Ron Swoboda follows with a base on balls, Ed Charles connects on New York's second home run of the inning knocking Steve Carlton outta the box.  

Pandemonium ...

With one out in the fifth Donn Clendenon goes the other way for his second home run of the night giving the Mets a 6-0 lead and ultimate margin of victory.

Bedlam ...

Rookie Gary Gentry winds up with the great fortune of hurling the Mets division clincher.  Making his 33rd start of the season, Gentry allows the St. Louis Cardinals just four scattered hits and two walks with five strikeouts in a brilliant complete game shutout performance.  With one out and runners on first and second in the top of the ninth, Gil Hodges sticks with his man.  Gentry rewards his manager by inducing Joe Torre into a game ending 6-4-3 double play.

"... ground ball to short, this could be it.  There's one; there's two; the game is over.  At 9:07 on Sept. 24th the Mets have won the Eastern Division of the National League ... Look at that scene!"  -  Lindsey Nelson

Fans instantly pour on to the field in wild elation as New York's triumphant heroes scatter towards the safety of their locker room.

"I knew I got it all.  I didn't think there was any ball park in the world that would hold that one.  I knew it was gone."  -  Donn Clendenon on his first inning home run.   

The game marks New York's fifth straight win, and their 20th of the month against just seven losses.

• METS RECORD: 96-61 (.611)
• Clinch National League East Division Title
• Six Game Lead Over Chicago Cubs

YouTube: Game Highlights; Clubhouse Celebration

Amazin' Date 9/20/1969: Pittsburgh's Bob Moose Tosses No-Hitter at Shea Stadium

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #152: Saturday, September 20, 1969 - BR
Pittsburgh Pirates @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium

Pittsburgh hands New York their third straight loss at Shea Stadium.  Yet the Chicago Cubs seem disinterested in taking advantage as they fall to the Cardinals at Wrigley.  It marks the Cubs 14th loss over their last 18 games.  Despite Pittsburgh Pirates starter Bob Moose's stellar near perfect no-hitter Saturday afternoon at Shea the Mets lose no ground in the standings and one step closer to clinching the division flag.

Mets starter Gary Gentry yields three earned runs on four hits and three walks with two strikeouts through six innings.  However, he suffers a meltdown in the fourth, yielding a hit and two walks, hitting a batter, and unleashing two run scoring wild pitches.  Gentry sees his record fall to 11-12 for the season with a 3.67 ERA.  Tug McGraw also gives up a run on two hits and one walk with three strikeouts through three innings pitched.  He too unleashes a wild pitch in the top of the ninth permitting Bob Moose to score Pittsburgh's fourth run of the game.

Bob Moose, Pittsburgh's young 27-year old right-hander, improves to 12-3 with a 2.99 ERA.  He faces three batters over the minimum while allowing no runs, no hits, and just three walks with six strikeouts.  The Pirates commit no errors.

• Mets Record: 91-61
• N.L. East: 1st Place; 4 Games Up

Amazin' Date 9/15/1969: Ron Swoboda Two Home Runs Power Mets Over Cardinals

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #147: Monday, September 15, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium

METS EXTEND LEAD OVER CUBS: JUST 15 GAMES REMAIN IN SEASON

In St. Louis for one game only, Gary Gentry and Tug Mcgraw join to outlast Cardinals left-hander Steve Carlton.

Vida Pinson drives in the first run of the game in the third.  But Ron Swoboda answers with a two run home run in the fourth.  However runs batted in from Curt Flood and Joe Torre give the Cardinals a 3-2 edge after five.  Gentry's duel with Carlton ends after six.  He exits on the losing side after surrendering three earned runs on seven hits and one walk with three strikeouts.  Tug McGraw enters the game in relief of Gentry.  With Donn Clendenon on base in the top of the eighth Ron Swoboda connects on his second home run of the game off Steve Carlton giving the Mets a 4-3 final margin of victory.  Tug McGraw allows one hit over three scoreless innings with three strikeouts to pick up his eighth victory of the season against three losses with a 2.36 ERA.

The Expos roll over the Cubs at Jarry Park, and so the Mets gain another game in the standings.  Chicago has now lost 11 of their last 12 games.

• Mets Record: 89-58
• N.L. East: 1st Place; 4.5 Games Up

Amazin' Date 9/11/1969: First Place Mets Win Seventh in a Row

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #142: Thursday, September 11, 1969 - BR
Montreal Expos @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium

New York completes a three game sweep of Montreal.  Thursday afternoon's 4-0 whitewashing of the Expos at Shea Stadium is the Mets seventh straight win and ninth of September against just three losses.  Meanwhile the Chicago Cubs lose to the Phillies at Connie Mack Stadium and fall two games back of the first place Mets.

Gary Gentry puts his last few appearances behind him by tossing a gem, surrendering no runs on six hits and just two walks with nine strikeouts in a complete game shut out performance.  He evens his record at 11-11 with a 3.62 ERA.  The Mets score three times against Montreal starter Jerry Robertson, and once more off reliever Claude Raymond.  Tommie Agee scores on a passed ball in the third.  Ken Boswell's double in the fifth plates Cleon Jones.  And in the sixth Cleon scores all the way from first base on Art Shamsky's line single to right.  Rod Gaspar caps the scoring in the eighth with a single and run batted in.

• Mets Record: 85-57
• N.L. East: 1st; Up 2 Games

Amazin' Date 9/5/1969: Mets Trounce Phillies; First Place Cubs Arrive Monday

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #137: Sunday, September 7, 1969 - BR
Philadelphia Phillies @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium

The Pittsburgh Pirates complete a sweep of the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley.  Coupled with Sunday's commanding victory over the Phillies, the Mets clinch a 3-1 series win over Philadelphia and close to within 2.5 games of first place Chicago who arrive at Shea Stadium on Monday.

Trailing the Phillies 2-3 after five, Ken Boswell scores the tying run on Bud Harrelson's sixth inning grounder to short.  Art Shamsky then drives in the go ahead run and Ken Boswell triples home Shamsky giving the Mets a 5-3 lead after seven.  In the eighth Tommie Agee and Rod Gaspar each drive in two runs apiece en route to a 9-3 final score.  The Mets inflict near all their damage against starter Bill Champion, who yields eight earned runs on nine hits and six walks with eight strikeouts.  Tommie Agee and Art Shamsky each hit first inning home runs.  Making his 29th start of the season, Gary Gentry allows three earned runs on eight hits and one walk with six strikeouts through six innings pitched, but does not figure in the decision.  Nolan Ryan tosses three scoreless innings of two-hit ball in relief of Gentry to earn is fifth victory of the season.

It's the Mets 80th victory of the season, and their 12th victory in their last 17 games.  The Chicago Cubs are 7-9 over the same stretch and presently in the midst of a four game losing streak.  Since Aug. 22, the Mets have gained 3.5 games in the standings.  Jerry Koosman is scheduled to pitch game one against the Cubs on Monday.

• Mets Record: 80-57
• N.L. East: 2nd; 2.5 GB

Amazin' Date 9/2/1969: Donn Clendenon Powers Mets to Victory Over Dodgers

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #132: Tuesday, September 2, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ Los Angeles Dodgers
Dodger Stadium

New York bounces back with a 5-4 victory in game two at Los Angeles to even their series with the Dodgers at one.  Gary Gentry pitches a strong game until tiring in the ninth.  He allows three late runs on eight hits and three walks with four strikeouts through 8.1 innings pitched.  Ron Taylor relieves Gentry with great difficulty until Gil Hodges summons Tug McGraw whom settles things down to earn his tenth save of the season.  Gentry earns his tenth win.  The Mets muster four earned runs on six hits and three walks against Dodgers starter Don Sutton.  Donn Clendenon is 3 for 4 with a home run off Sutton in the first, and another off Sutton in the fourth.  Ron Swoboda is 1 for 3 with a double and two runs batted in.

But the true difference maker is Ken Boswell's RBI single in the top of the eighth off reliever Joe Moeller.  Since returning to the line-up on Aug. 23 Boswell has hit safely in eight of nine games during which time he is batting .542 (13 for 24) to date.

Wednesday's rubber game at Dodger stadium concludes New York's ten game road trip.  Tuesday's win was their sixth of the trip against three loses.  However, Chicago defeats the Reds at Crosley Field and so the Mets gain no ground on the first place Cubs.  Upon their return home, the Mets first will host a four game series against the Phillies, then finally go head to head against the Leo Durocher's Chicago Cubs at Shea Stadium.

• Mets Record: 77-55
• N.L. East: 2nd; 5 GB

Amazin' Date 8/29/1969: Juan Marichal Blanks Mets at Candlestick

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

GAME #130: Friday, August 29, 1969
New York Mets @ San Francisco Giants
Candlestick Park

Juan Marichal is indeed the Dominican Dandy.  The Giants starter pitches a gem in Friday's opening game of a weekend series at Candlestick Park.  He limits the Mets to just four hits and one walk with seven strikeouts in a complete game shutout performance.  Marichal improves to 16-9 with a 2.28 ERA.  Bobby Pheil accounts for two of the Mets four hits off Marichal.

Willie McCovey drives in San Francisco's first run of the game and Bobby Bonds jolts a three run home run off Mets starter Gary Gentry all in the first inning.  The Giants pick up another unearned run off Jack DiLauro in the sixth for a 5-0 margin of victory.

Gary Gentry allows four earned runs on five hits and two walks with three strikeouts through five innings.  It's his third straight road loss in August during which he has yielded 16 earned runs through 34.2 innings for a 4.21 ERA.

Yesterday's off day coupled with Chicago's victory over the Atlanta Braves drops the Mets four games behind the Cubs.

• Mets Record: 73-57
• N.L. East: 2nd; 4 GB

Amazin' Date 8/24/1969: Mets Complete Sweep Over Dodgers at Shea

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #123: Sunday, August 24, 1969 - BR
Los Angeles Dodgers @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium

What, you ask, could possibly top Jerry Grote's two out game-winning double in the ninth inning yesterday afternoon at Shea?  The amazin' Mets answer that question by completing a three game sweep of the reviled Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday.

Making his 26th start of the season Gary Gentry opposes Dodgers hurler Don Sutton.  First baseman Wes Parker homers in the third, and center fielder Willie Davis puts the finishing touches on Gentry's afternoon with a two out run scoring hit in the fifth.  The Mets rookie exits on the losing side of a 4-2 game.  Jack DiLauro enters in relief of Gentry and douses the fire.  Tommie Agee's RBI double off Sutton in the fifth makes it 4-3 in favor of the Dodgers.  When Sutton yields consecutive singles to Cleon Jones and Art Shamsky leading off the seventh Walter Alston summons Jim Brewer from the pen.  Ken Boswell's bunt single loads the bases.  Ron Swoboda then clears the bases with a double to left/center, and Jerry Grote's follow-up hit scores Swoboda giving the Mets a 7-4 lead and ultimate margin of victory.  Cal Koonce closes out the game with three scoreless innings of two-hit ball with two strikeouts in notching his sixth win of the season.

The Mets close out their ten game home stand with an outstanding 9-1 record, which includes sweeps of the Padres and the aforementioned Dodgers.  Their lone loss comes against the Giants in extra-innings on Thursday.  Otherwise the Mets are now winners of 16 of their last 24 games and since falling ten games back just two short weeks ago have clawed their way back to within 5.5 games of the Cubs.  Chicago (79-48) is 5-5 in over their last ten games.

• Mets Record: 71-52 (.577)
• N.L. East: 2nd; 5.5 GB

Amazin' Date 8/19/1969: Tommie Agee Spoils Juan Marichal Gem in 14th Inning

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #118: Tuesday, August 19, 1969 - BR
San Francisco Giants @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium

New York City fans old and new pack Shea Stadium once again for game one of a mid-week series against the San Francisco Giants.  They do not leave disappointed, although they may have arrived home a little late.  That's because the Mets and Giants battle into the 14th inning Tuesday evening before a victor is decided.  Both Gary Gentry and Giants starter Juan Marichal work over time.  Gary Gentry allows no runs on just four hits with four walks and five strikeouts through ten innings pitched.  He does not factor in the decision.  However, his mound opponent does.  Juan Marichal whitewashes the Mets through the game's first 13 innings of play.  With one out in the bottom half of the 14th Marichal yields only his sixth hit, but it's a game ending home run off the bat of Tommie Agee.  Tug McGraw completes the shutout in relief of Gentry with four innings of one-hit ball to earn his sixth victory of the season.  Cleon Jones lifts his average back upwards of .350 with three hits in five at-bats, accounting for half of the Mets six hits.  Since getting swept at Houston the Mets are winners of five in a row.  This game ties for their second longest of the season.

The first place Chicago Cubs blank the Atlanta Braves and improve to 12-4 in August.

• Mets Record: 68-51
• N.L. East: 2nd; 8 GB

Amazin' Date 8/13/1969: Houston Completes Third Straight Sweep of Mets

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #113: Wednesday, August 13, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ Houston Astros
Astrodome

Thank goodness that's over with!  The Mets had no chance, or so it appeared.

Houston jumps out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning and never looks back.  In fact, starter Gary Gentry never makes it to the second inning.  The Astros not only sweep these last three games from the Mets, it's their third straight series sweep of the Mets this season.  Said another way, the Mets have now lost nine in a row against Houston and close out the season series against their expansion brothers with a 2-10 record.  For what it's worth the Astros now trail the first place Cincinnati Reds by 2.5 games in the N.L. West division standings.  Not so for the Mets whose lopsided 8-2 loss drops them out of second place for the first time since June 2 when they were straddling .500 with a 23-23 record.  The loss also widens New York's N.L. East deficit to a season high ten games behind the first place Cubs.  St. Louis slips into second place nine games out.

The Mets get a run on Bobby Pheil's two out hit in the second.  Their second and final run comes off the bat of Tommie Agee who connects against Astros starter Larry Dierker on his 20th home run of the season in the fifth.  Otherwise Dierker goes the distance yielding just two runs on five hits and two walks with seven strikeouts en route to his 14th victory of the season with a 2.57 ERA.  Gary Gentry takes the loss for his one inning of work.  Cal Koonce and Jack DiLauro join in allowing another five runs on five hits and two walks with two strikeouts through five innings.  At least Don Cardwell closes out the game with two scoreless innings.

Now for the long trip back home after a disheartening 4-7 road trip.

Less than fifty games remain in the Mets season.

• Mets Record: 62-51
• N.L. East: 3rd; 10 GB

Amazin' Date 8/8/1969: Mets Split Twi-Night Double-Header at Atlanta

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

August 8, 1969 - Double Header

New York Mets @ Atlanta Braves 

Atlanta Stadium

GAME ONE - BR #107
Jerry Koosman Silences Braves; Lowers ERA Below Two.

Jerry Koosman toes the rubber in game one of Friday's twi-night double-header at Atlanta and is opposed by crafty veteran Milt Pappas.  J.C. Martin drives in the first run of the game with a hit to left scoring Wayne Garrett from second base.  The game remains a one run affair through the eighth.  But with Pappas out of the game by the ninth, the Mets rally for three runs against Atlanta's bullpen.  Cleon Jones and Donn Clendenon drive in runs, while J.C. Martin drives home Wayne Garrett for a second with a single to right.  With two outs in the bottom of the ninth Braves catcher Bob Tillman connects on his eleventh home run of the season ruining Jerry Koosman's shutout bid.  Otherwise Koosman goes the distance allowing the one lone run on seven hits and three walks with five strikeouts.  He improves to 9-7 for the season with a stellar 1.98 ERA.  Three Atlanta relievers join in surrendering three earned runs on four hits and a walk with no strikeouts in the ninth.  Yet, Milt Pappas takes the loss.  The Braves starter allows just one earned run on six hits and no walks with five strikeouts through eight innings.

GAME TWO -BR #108
Atlanta's Ron Reed Pitches Ten Inning Whitewash to Salvage Night Cap.

In game two Gary Gentry faces off against Ron Reed.  Neither yields a run through nine innings of play.  Gentry faces 32 batters allowing just four hits and two walks with a pair of strikeouts.  Braves manager Lum Harris sends his starter Ron Reed out for the tenth.  Reed responds with yet another scoreless inning pitched.  In the bottom half of the frame, Atlanta loads the bases against Ron Taylor pitching in relief of Gentry.  With one out Felipe Alou lines a single through the middle plating Clete Boyer with the game winning run.

The Mets are 5-5 in their last ten, but gain back a half-game on the Cubs.

• Mets Record: 60-48
• N.L. East: 2nd; 8.5 GB

Amazin' Date 8/3/1969: Mets Sweep Braves at Shea

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #102: Sunday, August 3, 1969 - BR
Atlanta Braves @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium

The Mets defeat Atlanta in amazing fashion Sunday afternoon, completing a three game sweep of the N.L. West leading Braves.

Despite yielding a home run to catcher Bill Tillman leading-off the third, starter Gary Gentry pitches quite effectively through the game's first five innings.  In the sixth however, Atlanta catches up with Gentry.  Three straight singles to open the inning and a throwing error committed by Ron Swoboda playing left field leads to a second run.  Clean-up hitter Tony Gonzalez then strokes a single to right scoring Felipe Alou and Felix Millan.  Manager Gil Hodges gives Gentry the quick hook in favor of Don Cardwell.  Third baseman Bob Aspromonte greets him with a sac-fly to center scoring Hank Aaron from third for a 5-0 Braves lead.

The Mets finally break through against Braves starter Milt Papas in the bottom of the sixth.  Tommie Agee strokes a lead-off double to left, and with one out scores on Wayne Garrett's hit to center.  That's when Braves manager Lum Harris yanks his pitcher in favor of reliever Cecil Upshaw.  Art Shamsky and Rod Gaspar greet Harris with consecutive singles.  Felix Millan errs on Jerry Grote's grounder to second allowing Garrett to score from third.  With the bases jammed Manager Hodges dispatches Cleon Jones to pinch-hit for Cardwell, who does not disappoint.  Jones singles to right scoring both Shamsky and Gaspar.  Manager Harris then summons Paul Doyle from the bullpen whom yields a sac-fly to Buddy Harrelson allowing Grote to score from third, knotting the game at five.

They remain tied at five through the ninth and into extra innings they go at Shea Stadium.  Ron Taylor had assumed pitching duties in the ninth and posts three scoreless innings allowing two hits and striking out three.  With Claude Raymond in to pitch the bottom of the eleventh for Atlanta, Jerry Grote greets him with a lead-off home run to win the game.

Ron Taylor earns his sixth win versus two losses with a 2.88 ERA.

The Mets close out their ten game home stand with a 5-5 record.  They now travel to Cincinnati, Atlanta, and Houston.

• Mets Record: 58-44 (.568)
• N.L. East: 2nd; 6.5 GB

Amazin' Date 7/30/1969: Houston Astros Dominate Twin Bill at Shea Stadium

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Games #97 & #98
Houston Astros @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium

Clean up on Roosevelt Avenue, please.  Houston makes a complete mess of the Mets in both games of Wednesday's doubleheader at Shea Stadium, outscoring their fellow expansion brothers by an overall 27-8 margin.

GAME ONE: July 30, 1969 - BR

Houston's 16-3 victory marks the most runs allowed in one game by the Mets this season.  The Astros initially hold a modest 5-3 lead through the eighth.  But in the ninth Cal Koonce and Ron Taylor prove completely ineffective and the game goes awry.  Houston strikes for eleven runs, sending 15 batters to the plate, and getting home runs from Denis Menke and the toy cannon Jim Wynn.  Jerry Koosman admittedly struggles, yielding five runs, three earned, with five walks and two strikeouts.  He is credited with the loss and sees his record drop to 8-6 with a still fine 2.08 ERA.  Ed Kranepool drives in his 40th run of the season with a two out single in the fourth.

GAME TWO: July 30, 1969 - BR

The Astros explode for another ten runs in the third inning en route to an 11-5 final in game two.  Mets starter Gary Gentry is knocked out of the box after just 2.2 innings pitched, but not before surrendering eight earned runs on five hits and three walks with four strikeouts.  Houston then roughs up Nolan Ryan for another three earned runs on four hits and two walks, with seven strikeouts.  Astros starter Larry Dierker pitches to the scoreboard, allowing five runs, four earned, on 12 hits and one walk with nine strikeouts for his 13th victory of the season.  Ed Kranepool is 3 for 4 with a double, home run, and four more RBI on the day.

The Mets fall to 2-6 against the Astros this season.  They are now just 2-4 on this home stand.

• Mets Record: 55-43 (.561)
• N.L. East: 2nd; 5.5 GB

Amazin' Date 7/24/1969: Reds Upend Mets in 12th Inning

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Game #93: Thursday, July 24, 1969 - BR
Cincinnati Reds @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium

The season's second half is officially underway with the Cincinnati Reds in town to play a four game weekend series at Shea Stadium.  Thursday's opener turned into a game of horse of sorts.  Starters Gary Gentry and Jim Merritt traded zeroes for the first five innings.  Then with one out in the sixth, big hitting center fielder Bobby Tolan connects off Gentry for his 18th home run of the season.  With one out in the bottom half of the frame, Donn Clendenon reciprocates with a home run off Merritt.  The Reds strike back two innings later.  Lee May's sac-fly to center scores Pete Rose from third for a 2-1 Reds lead.  However Cleon Jones answers back with a home run leading-off the bottom half of the eighth.  With two outs in the top of the ninth Reds manager Dave Bristol lets his starting pitcher bat.  Merritt rewards his manager's benevolence with a solo home run off Gentry giving himself a 3-2 lead.  But when Al Weis singles leading-off the bottom half of the frame Bristol calls in Wayne Granger from the bullpen.  Tommie Agee greets the Reds reliever with a come-backer but Granger's errant throw allows Weis to advance to third.  Art Shamsky follows with a ground ball to second but Weis is cut down at home; Agee advances to third.  Next in, Wayne Garrett's sac-fly to right scores Agee knotting the game at three.

Both Gentry and Merritt walk off with no decisions.  Gentry yields three runs, two earned, on seven hits and one walk with eight strikeouts.  Merritt allows three earned runs on nine hits and one walk with five strikeouts.

Into the twelfth they go.  With Tug McGraw pitching in relief of Gentry slugger Tony Perez connects on his 23rd home run of the season.  The Mets this time have no answer against Pedro Ramos pitching the tenth in relief of Granger.  The Reds prevail by a 4-3 margin over the Mets.

• Mets Record: 53-40
• N.L. East: 2nd; 6 GB

Amazin' Date 7/20/1969: Bobby Pheil Bunt Saves the Day

From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

AMAZIN'

THE MIRACLE METS

50th ANNIVERSARY

Sunday, July 20, 1969
New York Mets @ Montreal Expos
Parc Jarry

GAME ONE #91

The Mets strike first with a pair of runs in the second, but in the fourth the Expos strike back with three.  And therein lies your final score in game one of Sunday's twin bill at Parc Jarry.  Both starting pitchers go the distance.  J.C. Martin draws a one-out walk against Montreal's Gary Waslewski, whom then yields a double to Al Weis.  With two outs Tommie Agee's hit to left delivers home both runners for a 2-0 lead that would last through the third.  Meanwhile Waslewski would surrender no more.  Montreal puts him on the winning side of the ledger in the fourth as left fielder Mack Jones, first baseman Bob Bailey, and shortstop Bobby Wine all connect for solo home runs off Mets starter Gary Gentry.  Otherwise Gentry yields just two other hits and four walks with four strikeouts in a losing eight inning effort.  His record now stands at 9-8 with a 3.36 ERA.  Gary Waslewski allows two runs on five hits and eight walks with six strikeouts over nine full innings for only his second victory of the season.  The Mets go 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position.

GAME TWO #92

With one out in the top of the ninth and the game knotted at two, Jerry Grote is pinch hit for by Cleon Jones whom draws a bases loaded walk to put the Mets ahead.  But Coco Laboy's home run off Ron Taylor in the bottom half of the frame sends the game into extra innings.  With two outs in the top of the tenth inning, Ron Swoboda doubles to left field off Expos relief ace Roy Face and advances all the way to third on an error by center fielder Adolfo Phillips.  Pinch hitting for pitcher Ron Taylor, Bobby Pheil then lays a bunt down the third base line scoring Swoboda with the go-ahead run.  Jack DiLauro earns the victory with a scoreless frame in relief of Taylor.  Starter Don Cardwell pitches very well, again, but walks off to another no-decision after yielding two runs, one earned, on six hits and three walks with five strikeouts through 7.1 innings.  Swoboda is 3 for 4 with a walk, double, RBI, and two runs scored.  Cleon Jones and Wayne Garrett also drive in a run apiece en route to New York's 4-3 victory.  With a split of Sunday's double-header the Mets likewise salvage a four-game split at Montreal.

• Mets Record: 53-39
• N.L. East: 2nd; 5 GB