Frank Viola, a celebrated Major League Baseball pitcher, had a notable stint with the New York Mets from 1989 to 1991. Known for his left-handed pitching and his nickname "Sweet Music," Viola's time with the Mets was marked by both challenges and achievements. This article delves into his journey with the Mets, highlighting key moments and his impact on the team during those years.
Arrival at the Mets
In July 1989, Frank Viola was traded to the New York Mets from the Minnesota
Twins, a team with which he had achieved significant success, including a World Series MVP title in 1987. The trade was a significant move for the Mets, who acquired Viola in exchange for four pitchers and a player to be named later. At the time of the trade, Viola was experiencing a challenging season, with an 8-12 record. However, he managed to finish the year with a 5-5 record for the Mets, bringing his season total to 13-17.
The trade was a strategic decision for the Mets, as they hoped Viola's experience and skill would bolster their pitching lineup. Despite his initial struggles, Viola's presence was seen as a valuable addition to the team, and he quickly became a key player in the Mets' rotation.
A Stellar 1990 Season
The 1990 season was a standout year for Frank Viola with the New York Mets. He achieved a remarkable milestone by winning 20 games, marking the second time in his career he reached this achievement. His performance earned him a third-place finish in the Cy Young Award voting, trailing only behind Pittsburgh's Doug Drabek and Los Angeles' Ramón Martínez.
Viola's success in 1990 was a testament to his resilience and skill as a pitcher. His ability to bounce back from a challenging previous season and deliver such a strong performance was a highlight of his time with the Mets. Additionally, his efforts earned him a spot on the National League's All-Star Team, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier pitcher.
Challenges in 1991
The 1991 season presented new challenges for Frank Viola and the New York Mets. Despite a strong start, with Viola posting an 11-5 record in the first half of the season, the Mets struggled in the latter part of the year. As the team faltered, so did Viola's performance, as he went 2-10 in his final 12 decisions.
Viola's last win with the Mets came in his penultimate start on September 29, 1991, against the Philadelphia Phillies at Shea Stadium. Following the season, the Mets chose not to re-sign Viola, making him a free agent. His departure marked the end of a significant chapter in his career, as he moved on to new opportunities in Major League Baseball.
