As the Mets begin the second half schedule tonight in San Francisco there are many questions that remain to be answered.

Here are  a few key questions that will shape the second half of the season and determine whether the Mets make the post season for the first time since 2006.

1. Will Carlos Beltran return to All-Star form following knee surgery?

2. Who will be the odd man out in the four man platoon outfield? And can this platoon succeed?

3. Will Omar Minaya actually make a significant move in season to obtain a desperately needed pitcher?

4. Will the strong pitching of RA Dickey and Hisanori Takahashi continue?

5. What will become of Oliver Perez and John Maine?

6. Can Jose Reyes remain healthy?

7. Can Mike Pelfrey regain his early Cy Young form?

8. Will the Mets road woes continue in the second half and can they remain as dominant at home?

9. Can the bullpen hold up after being overworked early on? Which players will take on defined roles as setup man and 7th inning pitcher?

10. Lastly, if the Mets are in it down the stretch will they be mentally tough enough to overcome the ghosts of September past and not collapse?????

These are some important questions, I’m really hoping Omar gets another starting pitcher. I still think if  we can get Oswalt by paying for more of his salary then the Mets become real contenders if we don’t get a starter I think it will be difficult to make the playoffs unless a lot of things break right. It’s going to be a great second half either way, Let’s Go Mets!!