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Last night, I was sent tons of e-mail from fans who feel the same way as Brendan Bilko of Priced Out of Citi, who argues that setting the bar at .500 is simply settling for mediocrity.

Their argument, in short, is that this is no way to lead a team.

Frankly, I believe Manuel is using right approach.

He is simply trying to create a sustainable, manageable environment.

I do not believe that just because Manuel said, '.500,' these professional, major-league players will not only want to win every other game. These men want to win every game they play.

To me, he is simply creating a reasonable atmosphere given the injuries, this way the team can over-achieve, believe in itself and build momentum.

I mean, what's he going to say? They should win every game? What if they don't, which, realistically, given the injuries, they're not likely to do. Then what? Then they're underachievers, and the media starts pestering his players with quotes from his mouth about losing and not living up to expectations; and from that a whole other atmosphere is created.

Manuel is wise to create a fight-for-your-life, survival mentality, and use that to his advantage. I like that the Mets have taken on an under-dog vibe, which is a style I am far more familiar with.

The risk, however, is that when Delgado, Reyes, etc., and rest of the cavalry return, if the team does not go on that magical winning streak he expects, then what does he say?