I couldn't care less if they won 86 games and actually did back into the playoffs. What I care about is them getting there and not laying a complete egg. Win a series or two in the playoffs. That's what matters.
Because more than one thing can be true despite the box this board tries to fit everything into. It is possible to consider this a good season and have "enjoyed the ride" and still be utterly disappointed that they haven't reached the ultimate goal.