The Mets took a significant step in Julytoward a brighter future and managed to keep the fan base happy inthe process. There were few, if any, tears after general managerSandy Alderson traded Francisco Rodriguez and Carlos Beltran toMilwaukee and San Francisco, respectively. In what has to be considered a coup, Alderson gained significantpayroll flexibility for next season and a top pitching prospect inZack Wheeler.