Most baseball pundits hype the Red Sox and Yankees as the premiere rivalry in Major League Baseball. The two teams kicking off a series today at Citizens Bank Ballpark might have something to say about that. When the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets square off, it will be first chapter in what promises to be a season-long drama.
Both teams have stumbled out of the gates this season with the Phillies only recently finding their groove—winning 7 out of their last 10. On other side of the token, the Mets sit at 9-12 and losers of 3 out of their last 7. Their starting pitching has been downright dismal after Johan Santana and their lineup has just as many question marks in the early going. Not to mention, the bullpen has not been able to live up to the lofty expectations that come with the mega-contracts handed out to J.J. Putz and Francisco Rodriguez.
The Phillies on the other hand are looking for more consistency out of their starting rotation. Although, the fact that Cole Hamels did not win a single game in April indicates improvement might be around the corner if he can outrun the black cloud that has been hovering over him the past few weeks.
Without a doubt, this series will be made out to be more than it really is in this early portion of the season. It is not the measuring stick by which to judge the remainder of the season nor will it provide any lasting glimpses into the stability of these rosters. But make no mistake, despite talk to the contrary from the players—games between the Mets and Phillies mean a little more.
The players have not been shy at firing verbal jabs through the media in years past and have built up a strong distaste for each other. This year, the Phillies have an extra piece of hardware to bring to the table. Tonight is just the introduction into a compelling narrative.
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