Mets Owner Steve Cohen Issues Apology to Marlins: A Gesture of Sportsmanship or Public Relations?

Mets owner Steve Cohen apologizes to Marlins over postponed game

In a recent twist of events in the National League playoff race, the Miami Marlins found themselves at the center of controversy when their scheduled game against the New York Mets on Tuesday was postponed due to poor field conditions caused by inclement weather. This decision, made by the Mets‘ grounds crew and supported by both clubs and the commissioner’s office, left the Marlins frustrated and “furious” according to reports. Mets owner Steve Cohen has since taken to social media to apologize for the inconvenience.

The Marlins‘ pitching predicament

The Marlins‘ frustration stems from the fact that they are currently operating with only four starting pitchers due to injuries to Eury Pérez and 2022 Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara. Braxton Garrett, the Marlins‘ best healthy starter, was originally scheduled to start on Tuesday but was pushed back to Wednesday due to the postponement. This would either force Garrett to pitch on short rest or make Wednesday his final start of the season.

Given the Marlins‘ precarious pitching situation, it is understandable why a postponed game, especially when they believed the field was playable, would be frustrating for the team. The importance of these games cannot be overstated, as they now have the opportunity to determine their own destiny in the NL playoff race.

The controversy surrounding the infield conditions

According to Marlins officials, the poor playing surface at Citi Field was a result of the Mets‘ grounds crew’s failure to cover the infield on Saturday, the first day of four straight days of rain. Despite eventually placing the tarp on the field, water managed to seep underneath, creating an unplayable mess. The grounds crew did not have enough time to dry the infield before Tuesday’s game, leading to its postponement.

Given these circumstances, both clubs and the commissioner’s office concluded that player safety and the importance of the game necessitated the postponement. However, this decision left the Marlins feeling slighted and further fueled their desire to secure a playoff spot.

Steve Cohen’s apology

Mets owner Steve Cohen, likely understanding the frustration of the Marlins and the significance of these games, took to social media to express his apologies. Cohen stated that “every effort was made to get the field playable” and acknowledged the impact the postponement has had on the Marlins‘ pitching plans. This public apology serves as a gesture of goodwill and sportsmanship, emphasizing the need for accountability and understanding in the realm of professional sports.

The Marlins‘ playoff hopes

Despite the frustrations surrounding the postponed game, Tuesday turned out to be a successful day for the Marlins in terms of the NL wild-card race. The Chicago Cubs, who hold a half-game lead over the Marlins for the third NL wild card, blew a 6-0 lead in Atlanta, allowing the Marlins to inch closer to securing a playoff spot.

As the Marlins enter Wednesday’s doubleheader against the Mets, they find themselves in the proverbial driver’s seat. Even if the Cubs manage to win their remaining games against the Atlanta Braves, the Marlins have the tiebreaker advantage due to winning the season series. This means that a sweep on Wednesday would secure the Marlins as the third wild-card team, irrespective of the Cubs’ results.

The significance of the doubleheader

The doubleheader against the Mets will undoubtedly be a critical turning point in the NL wild-card race. The Marlins face a Mets team currently out of playoff contention, as well as a series against the Pittsburgh Pirates. While these teams may not be considered strong contenders, it is important to note that they are not in the “hapless” category like the Colorado Rockies, Oakland Athletics, or Kansas City Royals.

The outcome of the Marlins‘ games in the upcoming days will determine their path to the playoffs. Their ability to capitalize on these opportunities and maintain their momentum will be essential. While the frustration surrounding the postponed game is understandable, it is crucial for the Marlins to focus on their performance on the field and not allow external factors to derail their pursuit of postseason success.

The apology from Mets owner Steve Cohen serves as a reminder of the importance of sportsmanship and accountability in professional sports. It sets a positive example for other owners and teams, highlighting the need for communication and understanding when unforeseen circumstances arise. As the Marlins look to secure their playoff spot, they must remain focused, resilient, and determined, utilizing the frustration of the postponement as fuel for their pursuit of success.

Ultimately, the outcome of the Marlins‘ games will depend on their own performance rather than the actions of other teams or the weather conditions. It is imperative for them to seize the opportunity and demonstrate their talent on the field, solidifying their place in the NL playoffs.