Jay Bruce has the simplest explanation possible for the roller-coaster ride the Mets have taken since departing spring training in Port St. Lucie on March 25.
“It’s a baseball season,” Bruce said.
The excitement of a franchise-best 11-1 start has long faded, replaced by the worldly reality the Mets have flaws and suddenly are fighting for their survival, even in a division that may not have a clear-cut heavyweight.
They will arrive at Citizens Bank Park to face the Phillies on Friday having lost eight of nine games, and wondering when the offensive surge needed to sustain them will arrive.