This Can't Be the Mets of 2007 in Red Pinstripes, Can It?

The Phillies were the beneficiaries of the collapse of the 2007 New York Mets. However, they know quite clearly what happened to the Mets as they were constantly in their rear view mirror during that eventful September back in '07.

Let see how eerily similar the situations are. Back on September 12 of 2007, the Mets had a record of 83-62 and were 7.0 games up on the second place Phillies. Then, the Phillies swept the Mets a few days later in a three game series. Fast forward to 2009. The Phillies held a 6.5 game lead on September 12 and then the second place Florida Marlins took the first place Phillies for two out of three in their home park. It is now September 26 and the Phillies lead is 5.5 games after losing the first two of three games to the NL Central Milwaukee Brewers who have already been eliminated from playoff contention. Back on September 26, 2007, the Mets lost to the then eliminated Washington Nationals for their third straight loss. Oh, by the way, the Phillies after tonight have lost three straight too!

Now for the pitching. As for their closers, you have seen the implosion of Brad Lidge. As of September 26, 2009, he has saved 31 games, very similar to Billy Wagner's 33 as of the same date. Billy Wagner did not record a save after September 12, 2007 for the Mets. In the month of September, 2007, Wagner pitched 10.0 innings, gave up 4 ER, 8 hits, and a HR. As for Lidge this September, he has pitched in 7.2 innings, 12 hits, 7 ER, and a HR. Eerily similar for the fallout of the two teams.

Back in '07, the Mets bullpen lost 5 games up to September 26, and this year, you got it, 5 losses for Lidge and company. The Mets won all but one start by Pedro, yes, Pedro Martinez in September 2007. So far, Pedro and the Phillies have one lost with him taking the hill in September.

But lets take a look at what might be the bright spot that ends the comparison: The 2007 Mets' offense vs. the 2009 Phillies offense. The 2007 Mets in September average per game: .234 avg, 1.5 HR, 4.1 RUNS, 2 BB, and 11 SO, with a .291 On Base Percentage. The 2009 Phillies: so far, .272 avg, 2.4 HR, 5.3 runs, 4.5 BB, and 9 SO, with an On Base Percentage of .381. I think it will be the Phillies offense that will kick it in high gear and who better to do that? Mr. Consistency Joe Blanton.