You point out that the record is essentially the same as it has been the last few years, which is correct. You also point out that the team unloaded a lot of the talent (and salary), which is correct. But you seem to fail to address the fact that achieving the same record with less talent is impressive.
I'm not convinced that McD and Beane will succeed in turning us into a true contender, but I am encouraged by this year's results. The luck of getting into the playoffs is just an added bonus, that will only further help the transition (hopefully) into a contender as it ends the negativity of the last two decades and allows everybody to focus on the future.