This really puts it into perspective

Here are some shocking numbers posted over on the Geek. I had a feeling this trend was generally true but didn't realize the actual splits were so severe (assuming their numbers are correct, I didn't check).

With Castillo batting second: the Mets are 2-8 (including a 7 game losing streak)
With Pagan batting second: the Mets are 3-1
With Church batting second: the Mets are 5-0

I realize it's hard to place enormous confidence in Church and Pagan's numbers because it is such a small sample set, and they likely will decline over time. But with this team's offense struggling so mightily, I think sometimes Willie can be too stubborn for his own good. Castillo has no business being in #2 slot until he is batting at least .280. We simply don't have the luxury of "on the job training/rehab" for Delgado, Beltran and Castillo. This division is going to be way too tight down the stretch for us to afford throwing games away.