Misguided Media

It's shocking, yet it's so predictable.  Carlos Delgado busts out of a slump, hits two impressive home runs to lead the Mets to a solid win over the rival Braves, and what are the headlines today?

• Newsday: Delgado (2 HRs) snubs curtain call in Mets win
• Post: NO CURTAIN FOR CARLOS
• Times: Delgado Homers Twice but Isn't Taking Any Bows

And while the Daily News and The Record didn't emphasize the phantom curtain call as much as the above papers, they did dedicate plenty of space to it.

The big news should be Delgado's home runs, and the fact that he may not be washed up just yet.  I'm not deluding myself, I know he can't get around on a good fastball anymore, but yesterday, he at least proved that he can contribute.

Delgado patiently answered questions about his decision to stay in the dugout following his second home run by saying, "The way I look at it, I hit a solo home run in the seventh inning.  I've got a great deal of respect for the game. I don't think that's the place for a curtain call. I've been playing for quite a few years and I think I came out for two curtain calls."

A politician's answer for sure.  But there is more to it than that.  It's bad enough that impatient fans boo their players in April.  It's bad enough that they make it harder for their team to play at home than on the road, but when a crowd boos, what you don't hear are the angry remarks made close to the field.  Some fans choose to be insulting, and they are not afraid to get personal.  Whether he admits it or not, that had to play a role in his decision.  In light of that, I don't blame Delgado one bit for not acknowledging the fickle Shea crowd after his second home run.  

Yes, Delgado can be arrogant.  He can be an elitist snob.  One thing he has never been is classless on and off the field.  Whether or not he took a curtain call had nothing to do with the game.  What should be emphasized is the glimmer of hope finally displayed by our first baseman.