Today, we saw another example of a game that got away. I am not as upset at the fact that the Mets lost as I am about how they lost. I am going to place the blame on the shoulders of one of the youngsters who is supposed to be the new leader and spokesman for this team, and that is their third basemen, David Wright.
After today’s dreadful performance, David has now struck out 27 times in just 21 games. That is one of the worst figures in the National League. The worst part? Many of these strikeouts are looking, and David doesn’t seem willing to go the other way like he used to.
It is pretty obvious that he is vulnerable up in the zone and away. The only way to solve these problems is to go back to basics. David needs to go back to meeting early with Howard Johnson before games and work on going with the pitch.
Sure, if he tries to pull the ball, he’ll hit his home runs, but he won’t be the excellent hitter we all know he is capable of being. I am trying to remember where this all started.
When David Wright participated in the home run derby, things changed. He got the loop in his swing, and it was never completely removed. If Howard Johnson wants to make a lasting impact, he should take advantage of the close relationship that he has with David Wright and work on his problems.
I want to see a David Wright who goes down swinging when he strikes out. I also want to see a more patient Wright, because when you swing at the first pitch, you can’t get the count in your favor. If you work the count to 2-0 or 3-1, then the pitcher has to throw a hittable pitch, and that would be when you attack.
So David, do yourself a favor. Take your bat off of your shoulders and swing it, because there can only be one result if it sits there. You will be walking to the dugout with another strikeout under your belt. And your old buddy Howard Johnson may soon be out of a job.
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