In summary

Fredo posted a similar quote below, but I reproduce another one from Delgado here:

"I think we have to play harder, execute better and stay focused for 162 games," Delgado said.

That this quote is in fact true, and confirms suspicions that the Mets were often mailing it in, is infuriating to no end. The whole point of having veteran players and role models on the team, and a coach who learned under Torre, is precisely to avoid this type of situation. They are supposed to kick the ass of any rookies who have the attitude of entitlement and lackadaisical approach, keeping them honest that "the division is theirs to lose" is a loser attitude. You've got to go out there and fight for it every day.

The sad thing is that this attitude permeated all aspects of the team. The batting throughout the entire season. Fielding down the stretch. And pitchers would constantly seem disinterested in slamming the door on an inning once they had 2 outs. I don't know how many 2 out rallies against the Mets I had to watch this year, that started with no one on base. Or Maine and others would cruise through three then seem like completely different players who were physically but not mentally present come innings 4-6.

This ought to be a solid lesson for those who remain on the team, one that I hope is grounded into their heads every game and every inning next season.