Second Base Coach — Mets Analysis by Sean Smith, August 3, 2015

August 3 2015 — The New York Mets arrived in Miami early Monday morning tied for a share of first place thanks to their weekend series sweep against the Washington Nationals. New York has a six game road trip to the state of Florida beginning Monday against the Marlines, who are currently in fourth place in the NL East. Thanks to an impressive offensive showing, as well as a solid pitching performance, the Mets won by a score of 12-1. This offensive onslaught extended their winning streak to four games. With the Washington Nationals losing the victory gives the Metropolitans sole possession of first place.

The Mets offense got off to an early start thanks to rookie Michael Conforto’s three-run home run in the top of the second inning.This was Conforto’s first career home run. Once the Met bats started rolling there was no looking back. Every Met, including Colon, reached base on the night totaling 12 runs on 15 hits. Recent acquisition Yoenis Cespedes added three doubles and four runs batted in on the evening.

Bartolo Colon pitched an efficient eight innings of work. He allowed one run on seven hits, striking out five batters while walking none. The 42-year-old righty gave the Mets exactly what they needed. Colon gave eight stress free innings of work, giving manager Terry Collins a chance to rest his recently heavily worked bullpen. This was certainly a bounce back start for the recently struggling Colon, who earned his first victory since June 12 against the Braves.

This Mets team presents themselves as a legitimate playoff contender. Thanks to midseason moves the Mets are no longer a team with dominant pitching and mediocre hitting. It is clear after a weekend sweep, and a decisive victory in Miami the Mets are here to stay. The sky is the limit for this young ball club.