From World Series runners-up to misfits lacking self-esteem because they didn't retain Mike Hampton or sign Alex Rodriguez in the offseason -- one of the many excuses manager Bobby Valentine has given. At least he didn't have to hold a team meeting because players were offended rookie Timo Perez was parading around the locker room in his underwear. Actually, that did happen. Never mind.
First-half MVP: Aside from Hampton, who's also become a home run hitter for the Rockies, Rick Reed is the only regular starter from last year's rotation that's making a consistent contribution for any team's staff. Not only does Reed lead the team in wins (7) and ERA (3.10), but he's the only starter to pitch a complete game -- and he's thrown three.
Biggest surprise: Desi Relaford has been a regular in the lineup because of injuries to Edgardo Alfonzo and the offensive struggles of Rey Ordonez. Not only is he among the team leaders in hitting (.295), but he's a threat on the bases (10 steals) and crafty at the plate. Even with a healthy Alfonzo in the lineup, Valentine can't afford to keep Relaford on the bench too long.
Biggest disappointment: Steve Trachsel (2-10) was supposed to come in and help the Mets overcome Hampton's departure. Boy were they wrong. Trachsel, who was sent to the minor leagues earlier this year, had lost five straight games at one point before winning on June 29. But the Mets should be encouraged because according to Trachsel, he actually hasn't been "pitching bad." Nah, the 6.72 ERA indicates that he's been a victim of bad luck.
Second-half goals: With the Phillies and Braves both looking strong, the Mets can pretty much forget about making a charge toward the postseason. If they're still below .500 in late July, expect Valentine to give more time to young players and potentially minor leaguers to evaluate his prospects for a recovery next season. Right now, their realistic goals may be to stay ahead of Montreal and catch the Marlins.
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Mets first-half comparison
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2000
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2001
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W-L
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48-38
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38-51
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HR leader
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Piazza, 24
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Piazza, 21
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BA leader
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Piazza, .348
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Piazza, .276
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ERA
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Leiter, 2.99
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Reed, 3.10
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Minor-leaguer to watch: Outfielder Alex Escobar has already been called up -- and sent back -- a couple of times. The Mets want him to spend more time in Triple-A Norfolk to develop, but have seen the display of power and defensive excellence that have them excited about his eventual long-term stay in New York. He leads the Tides with 10 home runs.
Grade:  -- It's hard to believe that a team with veteran leadership and star power has been so flat, for so long. They have not been over .500 since mid-April and haven't won more than four games at any point in the season.
(Scale: 1 to 4 baseballs; 1 = worst, 4 = best)
We told you what we thought of the Mets' first-half performance, now you can tell us what you think.
James C. Black is an associate editor at ESPN.com
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