BY MICHAEL GANCI
EDITOR

I am writing about this more because it entertains me than any other reason, and because Keith Hernadez was the initial inspiration for the Daily Stache’s title,  but here it goes. Marty Noble of MLB.com posted a story on Mets.com today about the potential curse that revolves around Keith Hernandez and the Mets’ terrible misfortunes down the stretch the last two years. This was one of the posts that he got in his mail bag.

For the past two seasons, we have witnessed the Mets implode in their final 17 games. Even the venerated 2006 team suffered from similar ignominy with its 7-10 record down the stretch. These shady performances led me to conclude that there is a curse on the New York Mets franchise: The Curse of Keith Hernandez.

While this may simply sound like a desperate plea for help, one must look at the facts. Mr. Hernandez’s uniform number with the Mets was 17, and for three seasons now, the Mets have lost their mojo after playing solid baseball for 145 games. This phenomenon has coincided with Mr. Hernandez’s promotion to full-time broadcasting duties. So I am simply wondering — do you believe there is a curse on the Mets?
– Kyu Chul S., Fort Lee, N.J.

Now, I think it would make more sense that baseball is cursed for not putting Keith into the Hall of Fame, but this notion is absolutely ridiculous. This reminds me of those times where my father and I would be driving to a game, and I would say, “Wow. Traffic is moving smoothly.” A few minutes later, we would see break lights up ahead. My father would give me the glare of death. He truly believed it was my fault.

The very thought of a curse is not smart. I remember Michael Kay talked about is on ESPN Radio last season. There was a game in which he discussed that a no-hitter was going on, and people were calling for his head because it was broken up shortly thereafter. Apparently, Michael Kay has the power of some sort of god.

The bottom line is this. There is no such thing as a curse. Babe Ruth did not haunt the Red Sox. There is no Billy Goat hanging out to torment the Cubs, and Keith Hernandez’s mustache is certainly not the reason why the Mets have faltered twice in the last two seasons. You can put that one in the bank.