What to do with Tim Redding...

The Mets signed Tim Redding to a one-year 2.25 MM contract and knowing how they operate, they will simply not eat the deal, no matter how ineffective Redding is...

Jerry Manuel will either keep him as the fifth starter or put him in the bullpen as the long-man/mop-up duty.

After his first start against a very tough club, in the Los Angeles Dodgers, Redding has been absolutely awful. I gave him a pass against Boston, they were hungry to avoid the sweep and have a formidable offense, but yesterday, against the Marlins, he was throwing batting practice to a team that's reeling.

Manuel said he will get another start to prove he belongs in the rotation and that will come against an easy opponent, in the Pirates.

More important then Manuel's challenge, is that Redding doesn't sound like a guy who belongs in the majors, I was surprised to hear such candid comments from a veteran. If the Mets decide to pull Redding from the rotation, their options are limited, it would probably come down to Ken Takahashi or Nelson Figueroa...

Said Redding: "I'm not commanding the fastball and getting ahead of hitters. Right now, I'm going through a mechanical flaw. You can't be trying to battle through that during the game. It's getting to the point now where to be aggressive I almost have to throw the ball down the middle first pitch, trying to get ahead. When you feel that way as a pitcher, or feel that's the only way you can execute, you're in for a long day." source Daily News

I do not trust J.J. Putz...

I wasn't very familiar with J.J. Putz before this year, except for what I read about him after the trade.

The reviews from Seattle were mixed; some talked about his devastating splitter, while others warned of disappointment due to decreased velocity.

I had hoped for a 1-2, knockout punch at the end of games, that could maintain a lead no matter how small and while K-Rod has lived up to his end of the bargain, Putz has not.

It's early in the season and J.J. will have plenty of opportunities to change my opinion, but as of now, I simply don't trust him.

Putz's struggles are all too reminiscent of our former set-up man Aaron Heilman, both will pitch stunningly clean eighth innings, leaving you with the feeling that they've gotten over the hump, only to turn around and look completely lost in their next outing.

As I've said before; with Bobby Parnell looking so strong, if Putz's struggles can be blamed on not closing and he has value, I would consider moving him at the deadline in the right deal...

Putz's walk to Gload was the eighth he's allowed in his last six outings, and he's struck out only four in that span. When Putz was the Mariners' closer in 2006 and 2007, he walked 13 batters in each season. He's issued 18 walks this season, to go with a 3.81 ERA in 281/3 innings. source Newsday

Angel Pagan Day-to-day - groin injury...

Add Angel Pagen to the list of walking wounded, which is affectionately being called day-to-day by the Mets organization.

When Pagan pulled up lame will attempting to run down a ball in the gap, I thought the worst, a torn hammy.

Pagan is calling the injury groin discomfort, he received an MRI after the game but no official word has been given and he's listed as day-to-day...

Coming into spring training Pagan was seen as a bench player/extra outfielder but elbow surgery had many wondering if he'd make it out of AAA this year, but thanks to injuries he's been seeing regular time.

Since returning on May 16th, he has played in every game except one, in 14 games he's hitting .303 with a .405 Slg. pct. and .429 OBP.

If Pagan went on the DL the Mets would be calling up from a group of veterans; Javier Valentin, Wily Mo Pena and Emil Brown...

Beltran's replacement in center left today's game in the top of the fourth inning with right groin discomfort. He underwent a postgame MRI exam but is listed as day-to-day. source NY Post

Beltran returns to the day-to-day list

Carlos Beltran was only available to DH, last week in Boston, before he took a few days off with a bone bruise that required a cortisone shot.

Beltran left today's game in the fifth and has once again returned to the day-to-day list, at least this time, Beltran is only out with a stomach virus.

Carlos Beltran pulled himself from Saturday's game after stranding two runners in scoring position in the fifth inning with what the team labeled a stomach virus. source Daily News

Oliver Perez shut down...

The reviews weren't great of Oliver Perez's first outing in AAA, but that may have been due to his ailing knee.

Perez has been shut down and will return to the Port St. Lucie training facility, due to tendinitis in his right knee.

For those who thought the knee was a cover for his wildness, at least this validates the injury. According to the Mets, it does not appear to be serious and surgery hasn't even been discussed...

"The knee has not fully recovered," Minaya said. "So we're going to pull him back from his minor-league rehab, send him back to Florida and let the knee recuperate more before we get him out there and pitch again." source Newsday

WITH CASTRO GONE, THE SPOTLIGHT IS ON SANTOS

It came as no major shock that the Mets dealt catcher Ramon Castro to the White Sox for righthander Lance Broadway after last night’s win over the Marlins. Throughout the afternoon, rumors saturated the New York airwaves that the Mets had deemed Castro expendable, thanks to the solid play of Omir Santos in the absence of Opening Day starter Brian Schneider.

So with Schneider returning from the DL, a move had to be made. The Mets were not about to carry three catchers, especially with the lineup missing Carlos Delgado, Jose Reyes, and Ryan Church. Manager Jerry Manuel made no secret of his fondness of Santos, and consequently, Castro found himself the odd man out.

In many ways, dealing Castro was a sensible move. Santos (28) is considerably younger than Castro (33), has shown more pop in his bat than Castro this season, and is due a mere fraction of Castro’s $2.5 million salary. What is unclear at the moment is just how much of Castro’s salary the Mets will be on the hook for.

Assuming the White Sox will pay Castro the majority of what he is owed, his departure could be a precursor to a future trade, perhaps for a right-handed bat, or a starting pitcher if Oliver Perez is unable to get himself right in the minors. You might be wondering if a couple million dollars really means that much to the big-market, big-payroll Mets. But the Mets’ inactivity at the end of the offseason’s free agent frenzy should not go unnoticed. The market crashed so hard that players like Bobby Abreu and Orlando Hudson (who publicly proclaimed his desire to play for the Mets), were forced to accept one-year deals in the $3-5 million range. It was peculiar that the Mets seemed unwilling to even engage in any sort of serious dialogue at that point. It’s hard to blame the Mets for not making another big splash after signing Frankie Rodriguez and trading for J.J. Putz – but they never even put their swim trunks on. And if owner Fred Wilpon swears until he’s blue in the face that the incredible sum of money they lost in the Bernie Madoff scandal had no effect on baseball operations, it’s still not something I’m prepared to believe, at least not entirely.

The trade comes with one significant caveat – Santos has a much smaller body of work than Castro against big league pitching. In four years plus as a part-time catcher for the Mets, Castro consistently showed good power. Santos spent the entirety of his first seven pro seasons in the minor leagues, and in that time, never proved to be much of a hitter. It’s certainly possible that Santos has finally arrived, and Mets fans are witnessing the grand culmination of almost a decade of development, but he is far from a sure thing. By dealing Castro, the Mets showed considerable faith in a player with only 86 major league at-bats to his name.

But New York is a what-have-you-done-for-me-lately kind of town. The Mets woke up this morning in first place, a half game in front of rival Philadelphia. If they expect to remain there through this rash of injuries they’ve suffered, Santos will need to continue to play a part. He sure looked up to the task last night, driving in both Met runs with a solo homerun and the game-winning single in the 11th... Ramon who?

Mets trying to move Castro

Brian Schneider is prepared to return from the disabled list, and it appears the Mets are attempting to trade Ramon Castro to make room.

Castro has been clearly beat out for the back-up catcher's position by Omir Santos ( offensive comparison). More important then the offensive numbers, is that Santos has Jerry Manuel in his corner.

I'm sure the organization, as a whole, isn't thrilled with Castro who was reluctant to take the starters job and ends up yearly on the disabled list.

Most teams would just eat Castro's contract, but despite playing in one of the largest baseball markets in the world, the Mets don't operate that way and are looking to move Castro's 2.5 MM contract.

The Mets front office is working the phones Friday evening trying to deal backup catcher Ramon Castro before Saturday afternoon's game against the Marlins at Citi Field. With starting catcher Brian Schneider back in the clubhouse and ready to be activated from the disabled list before the game, and Omir Santos having played his way into the favor of manager Jerry Manuel, the Mets are believed to have engaged the Mariners about the 33-year-old Castro. source Daily News

Mets acquire OF Emil Brown...

Adam Rubin of the Daily News is reporting that the Mets have acquired outfielder Emil Brown.

Brown was playing in AAA for the Padres and will be assigned to Buffalo, it's unclear what the Padres received in return.

The 34 year old, right-handed outfield is a lifetime .258 hitter with a .398 Slg. pct., and can play all three outfield positions.

In a minor-league transaction, the Mets have acquired outfielder Emil Brown from the Padres. Brown, 34, played 41 games with Portland in the Pacific Coast League and hit .260 with four homers and 22 RBI. He will be assigned to Triple-A Buffalo source Daily News

Mets linked to Bobby Crosby ?

Bobby Crosby is a 29 year old, right handed short stop who is in the last year of a five year deal and is owed 5.25MM, for the season.

After his 2004 Rookie of the year season, he has been a disappointment.

Crosby has been plagued by injuries, never developed offensively and each of the last three seasons, his errors allowed have increased ( 12,14,17 in less then 100 games).

He's a lifetime .239 hitter with a .377 Slg. Pct. and a .308 OBP.

In spring training the A's signed Nomar Garciapara and Orlando Cabrera, which prompted Crosby to request a trade, a request he has not rescinded.

Prior to this year, Crosby had never played a single inning in the majors at any other position, except short stop, but Oakland is using him as a utility infielder. He's played 23 games at third, 18 games at first and a few games each, at SS, 2B and the outfield, while hitting .225...

According to Contra Costa Times (Walnut Creek, Calif.) the Mets have been linked to Crosby.

Crosby's name has popped up in trade rumors recently, most notably with the New York Mets, who placed Jose Reyes on the disabled list Wednesday but also acquired minor league shortstop Wilson Valdez from Cleveland. source Mlive.com

Could Javier Valentin be the next Tatis

Fernando Tatis was out of baseball from 2003-2005 and when he did return in 2006, he played most of the year with the Orioles AAA affiliate.

He spent the entire 2007 season with the Mets AAA Affiliate, in 131 games, all at third base, he hit .275.

The next year, it appeared the Mets had plans to use him on the bench of the major league club, before getting called up, Tatis showed his versatility by playing LF, SS, 3B and 2B.

When he finally returned to the majors, Tatis made the most of his opportunity by hitting .297 while playing LF,RF, 1B and 3B.

Javier Valentin was the Cincinnati Reds catcher from 2004-2008, prior to that he spent a year with the Rays and before that, four years with the Twins. Overall, Valentin has a .251 lifetime BA, while logging 432 major league games behind the plate.

After not being re-signed by the Reds, Valentin accepted a minor league deal with the Nats, but didn't make their roster out of spring training.

While his career was on a low note, similar to Tatis, the veteran catcher joined the Mets AAA affiliate.

Tatis was kept at his primary position ( 3B ) while he got back in baseball shape, before needing to prove his versatility.

Valentin wasn't that far removed from baseball and hasn't caught a single game since joining the Bisons. He's hitting .333 with a .595 Slg. pct. while playing 9 games at 1B and today, he played 3B for the first time...

INF Argenis Reyes extended his hitting streak to nine games in the bottom of the eighth with a double down the left field line...OF Cory Sullivan and INF Javier Valentin each extended their hitting streaks to six games. source MiLB

Delgado hopes to return this season

In his first public appearance since hip surgery, Carlos Delgado stated that the surgery went well and he hopes to return this season.

Delgado didn't sound as sure of his return as the organization has, and only time will tell, whether that's a stance they truly believe or a position they've taken, to keep the price down of a replacement.

I'm not comfortable relying on a 40 year old Gary Sheffield and the return of a 37 year old Carlos Delgado for the clean-up position and think it's essential that they obtain a power bat, before the deadline...

“When I’m healthy, I’m going to come back,” the first baseman added. “But nobody really knows [when]… I think it’s going to happen sometime this year.” source NJ.com

Add Sheffield to the Day-to-day list...

Jerry Manuel in explaining how Sheffield was thrown out at the plate, before he was safe on review of the home run, may have revealed yet another nagging injury.

Manuel denied that Sheffield wasn't hustling and volunteered that the veteran slugger may be concealing a hamstring injury.

Whether, the injury was a cover for his most productive player or there is an actual ailment, only time will tell but one thing is certain the last thing this team needs is another player who is listed as day-to-day...

"His hamstring may be a little tender, I could tell by the way he was running," Manuel said. "He probably won't tell me that." source NJ.com

Castro to blame for walks...

With Brian Schneider on the cusp of returning, there is a heated competition for the back-up catchers position.

Many believe that Ramon Castro is sharing space with Ryan Chruch in Jerry Manuel's doghouse, whether Manuel actually has a doghouse or not, Castro isn't helping his cause...

Castro is hitting .253 compared to Omir Santos who is hitting .268, for most of the season Castro was hitting around .230 while Santos was in the .270's.

If Castro can't out hit Santos, then all he has to hang his hat on, is his defense and game calling abilities. Apparently Manuel wasn't happy with how Castro caught his ace pitcher and blamed him for Johan's, Ollie like 4th inning.

But he also walked six, his most since issuing a career-high seven on July 22, 2002 with Minnesota vs. the Angels. Santana disputed the strike zone, but Manuel said Ramon Castro was set up slightly off the plate and Santana deservedly wasn’t getting the calls from plate umpire Sam Holbrook source Daily News

Talking the farm with Mack about trades...

Most people aren't discussing, if the Mets will make a trade, but more about what they will trade for; will it be a starting pitcher, back-up short stop/utility player, first baseman or corner outfielder...

Then you start to hear the names of farm hands people are willing to give up, for the players they want. ( I mentioned Nick Johnson for Niese and Kunz).

Now, I fully admit that I'm not well versed on the Mets farm, I've always been strictly a fan of the big league team and only know the top prospects, that get the most attention.

Since there's so much trade buzz I decided to ask, Mack of Mack Mets to give a little insight into the farm. I respect Mack's opinion on the farm and found his answers, very interesting...

Is there a player, who no matter what the deal is, would be absolutely off limits in your eyes ? If so why ?

right now, I think there are only 4...

1. Fernando Martinez - the Mets would never get away with letting this kid go now... he's a Met... period.

2. SP Brad Holt - AA-Binghamton - everyone thinks they stole this kid last year... ceiling is SP1/2 stuff...

3. SS Wilmer Flores - A-Savannah - only 17... don't think you can legally trade a 17-year old, can you? Even if you can, this kid looks like a keeper


4. C Josh Thole - AA-Binghamton - as long as Omar is the GM, he vows to never leave this kid unprotected in the Rule V and have another Jesus Florez situation on his hand.

Other then the blockbuster deal most players in a trade are going to be a rental player, for a rental player who would be untouchable ?

yes... some of the high ceiling youngers... RP Roy Merritt.... SP Jeurys Familia... SP Jenry Mejia... the Mets have big expectations here..

the rest, IMO, including guys like even Daniel Murphy, are fair game.

the Mets system is thin at the higher levels, and loaded with talented kiddies... they also have a long history of using "prospects" to fill roster needs... (i.e. Castillo and Delgado)...that's how the Mets operate and I believe it's the correct way to... look at it this way... there are 9 minor league Mets teams with a minimum of 25 players each... that's 225 minor leauge players plus at at least 50 more in rehab or extended... and the Mets try to fill how many slots a year on their 25-man? 3? 4?

There's no reason not to deal a multiple amount of players that have no chance of ever making to Queens, to a small market team that can't operate with a huge salary... they dump a big salary and get 3-4 minimum pay kiddies... win-win

Is there a player in the minors who has trade value but you wouldn't expect to live up to the hype ?

Right now, a few are proving out to be having problems at their new upper level... Jon Niese is struggling in Buffalo and Mike Antonini is ditto in Binghamton. Others, like SP Dillon Gee and SP Dylan Owen might have reached their peak, though they could still have a decent future as an SP4/5 for a small
market team (i.e. Brian Bannister).

I did not like the Mets first two picks last year and I would gladly deal off either 1B Ike Davis or SS Reese Havens, while they still have hype on their side

One who has good trade value would be SP Tobi Stoner, who I feel will bust out...

Is there a player you expect to move, that needs to be moved from our system to develop, whether it's a log jam at the position or a situational issue ?

Yes. SS Ruben Tejada... playing at AA-Binghamton... huge ceiling but where's he going with Jose Reyes ahead of him and Wilmer Florez biting on his ass?

Is there a diamond in the rough player that were going to feel burnt on later, if there included in a trade ?

Hard to say...

Look at the Santana deal... every minor league Mets fan went bananas when the Mets traded away "4 sure fire future stars"... it looks like none will be...

and, no one bitched when the Mets traded Matt Lindstrom and Henry Owens to the Marlins...

my two rough diamonds who I'd like to see stay around are not well known... SP Matt Durkin/B-Mets (who is on the DL right now), who I think would be a killer relief pitcher.... and RP Emary Frederick/St.Lucie, who will succeed at the next
level.

Who do you expect to be dealt by July 31 ?

It will take a 3-Met person package to get someone like Nick Johnson, and even more for someone like a quality SP (Peavey)

Everybody in baseball knows the Mets are thin in "A" rated minor leaguers...

In my heart, I expect no deal at all, because the Mets simply have to play with the cards they have been dealt for 2 more years, until the kiddies pan out.

Injury up-date: Beltran, Cora & Santos

Last weekend during inter league play, Carlos Beltran was only available to DH, an MRI revealed a bone bruise and Beltran was told to rest for three days. It's been reported that Beltran's knee/leg responded positively to the cortisone shot and the All-star center fielder is on track to return this weekend.

"The first thing I did was trying to go upstairs and downstairs," he said. "Going upstairs and downstairs I was putting a lot of pressure on it before and feeling the pinch. Now I don't feel anything, so I feel good about it." source Newsday

Alex Cora has decided against thumb surgery, which would have sidelined him for 6-8 weeks, and instead, devised a splint, that he believes, will allow him to throw as a part time player. Cora will play a few rehab games, this weekend, before returning to the team.

Alex Cora expects to have a three-game rehab assignment with Triple-A Buffalo this weekend, before being activated early next week, he tells the Daily News. Cora hopes to play a game apiece at second base, DH and shortstop. source Daily News

Finally, on a much smaller note, Omir Santos was a late scratch to the line-up. Santos fouled a ball off his shin yesterday and he was given the night off due to it bruising...

Jerry Manuel said Omir Santos was in the original starting lineup, but was pulled because of a bruised shin, which he suffered Tuesday source Daily News

Nats scouting Buffalo...

As rumors continue to swirl around the Mets interest in Nick Johnson, it's now being reported that the Nationals are scouting the Mets AAA affiliate.

I think Johnson would be a solid pick-up, but he's a rental player and isn't worth a top flight reliever, like Parnell.

The other players being scouted in AAA, would be fair value for Johnson. I could see it taking a Niese/Kunz package for him and I think that would be a fair deal...

The New York Mets retain keen interest in Washington Nationals first baseman Nick Johnson(notes), to the point where the Nationals have scouts watching the Mets’ Triple-A team in Buffalo, N.Y., and Double-A team in Binghamton, N.Y., evaluating pitchers Jon Niese, Mike Antonini and Eddie Kunz(notes) among others. source Yahoo sports

Mets acquire Wilson Valdez

The Mets have acquired Wilson Valdez from the Indians for cash considerations.

The 31 year old, journeyman, middle infielder was playing for the Indians, triple-A affiliate.

Valdez is considered an all-glove, no bat type of player, but will at least solidify the defense at the short stop position.

Most of his major league games have been at short stop but he has also played second base, third base and the outfield.

In 256 major league games, he has an over all batting average of .211 between the White Sox, Padres, Mariners and Dodgers.

In 2007 Valdez filled-in a second base while Ramon Martinez was the starting short stop, for the Dodgers.

the Mets sent cash to the Indians for journeyman minor league shortstop Wilson Valdez. Based on the 31 year-old's hitting for the Columbus Clippers this year, I'd say he's the all-glove stopgap the Mets have been seeking. source MLBTR

Fernando Martinez is our right fielder...

With the Mets placing Ryan Church on the disable list, they have called-up their top prospect Fernando Martinez.

Martinez will start tonight's game in right field and it's believed that as long as he's on the roster he will start.

The 20 year old, left handed hitter is batting .291 with a .552 Slg. Pct. and a .337 OBP in AAA.

While we need to try and limit our expectations, most Mets fans are extremely excited about the phenom being called-up ( Strawberry-ish excitement).

For those interested he will wear #67...

CORRECTION: #67 was his spring training number which was orginally listed, but it is now being reported that he wear #26.

Church and Reyes to the DL...

The Mets have finally done, what has been expected for almost a week, Jose Reyes and Ryan Church will be placed on the 15-day disable list.

Reyes hasn't played since May 21, due to tendinitis in his knee and Church hasn't played since May 23, with hamstring and hip injuries.

While both players are key members of the club, the team has been finding ways to win and at least, now; Jerry Manuel will have a full bench to work with...

Does Jorge Cantu make sense...

When Jorge Cantu was a 23 year old, second baseman with the Tampa Bay Rays and was hitting 28 home runs in the 2005 season ( 119 RBI's), it was reported that Omar Minaya was enamored with the young player.

But just two years later when Minaya could have claimed him off waivers or sign him, at minimal cost, the Mets decided to pass.

After struggling for two years, Cantu has regained his 2005 form, last year he hit 29 home runs ( 95 RBI's) and this season he already has 8 home runs ( 35 RBI's). Overall, he has a lifetime BA of .275 with a .462 Slg. pct.

The 27 year old, right handed hitter, came up as a second baseman but since joining the Marlins has split his time evenly between third base and first base ( one game at short).

It's been reported that, Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria isn't happy with his struggling team and wants "substantive change" ( source MLBTR)...

Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports took a look at the Mets needs and considered the possibility of the Mets picking up Cantu...

The Marlins' Jorge Cantu, who is not a free agent until after '10, is another trade possibility at first, but the Mets probably would prefer a left-handed hitter such as Johnson if they replace the left-handed Delgado. Their OPS against lefties is the best in the NL, but they rank only ninth against righties. source Fox Sports

Two struggling short stops available...

In an article by Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, he takes a look at the early season short stop market.

The Red Sox's are concerned about Lugo and Green filling in for Lowrie, until the All-Star break.

If the Red Sox are worried, they should try using Martinez ( with a bad back) and Tatis ( who admits the position is difficult for him) until Reyes is available.

In the article, Cafardo speculates that Bobby Crosby and Khalil Greene could be available, both are struggling at the plate, but are solid defenders.

Would either player fill the Mets needs ?

The Cardinals are shopping Khalil Greene, and have inquired with the Sox about their interest. Greene is hitting .210 with two homers and 14 RBIs and has committed six errors. Bobby Crosby is hovering around .200 in Oakland. Are either the answer? The Sox appear to have enough offense that obtaining a defensive specialist could tide them over. source Boston Globe

Indians may need to shed salary...

If there's one player who truly fits the Mets needs, it's Mark DeRosa.

His versatility would allow him to play multiple positions, filling the teams current needs, without creating a log jam on the roster when everyone returns.

DeRosa, is that rare type of player who could be a starter at several positions and is an asset off the bench.

He's a solid hitter, with playoff experience and a native of NJ, so he understands the area.

The biggest problem; the Indians are aware of the Mets needs and are probably ready to ask for a Kings ransom. But the Indians might be more inclined this year, to play lets-make-a-deal, then they would in other years...

Other teams report the Indians are very willing to talk about Mark DeRosa for the right pitcher, which makes the Giants a better match than the Brewers or Mets source Jayson Stark

If Shapiro is going to help the Tribe, he's going to have to trade salaries because his payroll can't go higher. That makes Mark DeRosa attractive. He can play several positions, is playoff-tested and is a free agent at the end of the season. source The
Plain Dealer

Church could land on the DL...

Ryan Church has missed the last two games and could end up on the DL, with hip and hamstring injuries. According to Jerry Manuel, Church's condition has not improved and he will be examined, tomorrow, when the team returns to NY...

Manuel said before today's series finale here with the Red Sox that Church is scheduled to have his sore right hamstring examined Monday morning in New York. Church, who missed his second consecutive start, also is bothered by a sore right hip.

Manuel said the DL is a possibility for Church. source NY Post

We don't have a short stop

The Mets truly don't have a short stop...

Jose Reyes proclaimed that he would not be in the line-up on Monday and there's no telling when the All-Star short stop will return.

His back-up Alex Cora is already on the disabled list, after tearing a tendon in his throwing thumb.

Ramon Martinez rushed back from hernia surgery, Assistant GM John Ricco said, normally Martinez would still be rehabbing in single A, from such an injury. After recording four errors, in four games; Martinez came back last night, with an incredible performance, but left today's game in the 8th with back pain.

The Mets' shortstops continue to fall. Jose Reyes did not try to run Sunday as Jerry Manuel expected, and the shortstop told the Daily News there's "no chance" he'll play Monday. Meanwhile, Manuel removed Ramon Martinez in the eighth inning with back discomfort, which nearly prevented him from starting. source Daily News

That leaves the Mets with Fernando Tatis, who has now played a few innings at the end of two games and has openly admitted, that he's uncomfortable at the position and lacks the range necessary.

Just prior to the run on short stops, Jose Coronado was demoted to double-A, due to his struggles at the plate.

It appears that Jonathan Malo, maybe on his way to NY ( pure speculation ), Malo has played short stop since Martinez was promoted, however; the last two games, recently promoted Mark Kiger has been playing short...

The Buffalo Bisons, Triple-A affiliate of the New York Mets, today announced that INF Mark Kiger has been promoted to the team from the Binghamton Mets (AA). source MiLB

Is Castro the odd man out...

Brian Schneider is due to come off the disable list sometime next week, forcing the Mets to decide who will be the back-up catcher; Ramon Castro or Omir Santos...

One hit does not make a career, but the morning after, one of the most dramatic 9th innings that I can remember in the last ten years of Mets history, it's hard to fathom Santos being sent down.

Last night, Wright and Castillo were the only players, in their original positions from opening day, the Mets simply can't afford to limit themselves by carrying three catchers.

But Santos has done more then hit one homerun, he's hitting .270 ( 63 AB), shown decent speed and reportedly the pitchers like throwing to him.

Ramon Castro in nine more at bats ( 71 AB) is hitting a mere .239, has a much lower slugging percentage ( .366 Vs. .422), is a double play machine and is always a threat to get injured.

Even if the Mets cut ties with Castro ( trade or he didn't accept assignment ) and Santos flopped or there was an injury, the Mets now have Javier Valentin in AAA who is hitting .333, which includes a homerun and a double last night ( .704 Slg. Pct.).

Image of the night- Santosss Claus

Source Newsday

K-Rod collapses...

The injury list continues to mount...

Already on the DL; Delgado, Cora and Perez...

Day-to-day; Beltran, Reyes, Church and Putz...

Tonight, Putz returned from his stiff neck and closed the game instead of Francisco Rodriguez.

My initial reaction was that Putz was being showcased for a trade, would there be a better way to increase his value, then a one run, save in Fenway. They could then blame all his struggles on setting-up and possibly find a nice bat from a team in need of a closer. After all, most of us are very comfortable with Bobby Parnell setting up and Omar has shown a propensity to trade mid-season from the major league roster (Nady) instead of the farm.

But Putz wasn't on display tonight, K-Rod was unavailable due to back spasms. In fact, they became so bad, at one point he collapsed and EMT's were brought in...

The Mets gave K-Rod muscle relaxers, but he collapsed shortly after trying to leave the clubhouse on his power. Rodriguez started weeping from the pain after being helped into a golf cart, and a stretcher and EMTs were called to the scene. source NY Post

It's time to give Easley a call...

Damion Easley was a solid contributor to the Mets for two seasons, the team was wise to pass on the 39 year old, for a younger version of the same player in Alex Cora.

But with both Cora and Reyes out, leaving the job to Ramon Martinez and Fernado Tatis, even at his advance baseball age, Easley would be an up-grade.

Over two seasons, Easley played 189 games in which the right hander batted .275 with 70 RBI's and 16 HR's.

During his time with the Mets, Easley was primarily a second baseman ( 103 gms.), but last year he played 8 games at short and did not record an error. He also played the corner outfield, third base and first base.

Easley is currently a free agent and would be a quick fix/stop gap type of signing, and once Reyes is healthy, he is a professional veteran that's a welcome addition around the clubhouse.

Javier Valentin playing a lot at first....

The Mets signed Javier Valentin to a minor league deal on May 15th, the 33 year old, right handed, catcher is a veteran of 10 major league seasons, with a lifetime BA of .251....

He has played 432 of his 459 major league games at catcher, the only other fielding position he's played more then 4 games ( third base), is first base and that was only 23 games.

When the Mets signed Valentin, I expected him to be catching insurance, with Schneider on the DL and Castro expected to make his annual pilgrimage, there as well.

The Mets may have had other ideas for Valentin, since joining Buffalo he has not played one game behind the plate. Valentin has been the DH in a couple games, while playing the bulk of his time at first base.

In four games at first base, he has not recorded an error, while being involved in three double plays, one assist and 27 put outs.

In seven games, 22 at bats he's hitting .316 with a home run and four RBI's.

Jonathan Malo, next in line to fill-in at SS ?

Ramon Martinez did a decent job filling in at second base at the end of last season, when the beleaguered Luis Castillo could no longer be counted upon, but he has been absolutely awful, in all aspects of the game at short stop.

Martinez has made several routine plays into errors, he can barely throw the ball to first base and Wright has ranged, well into short on several balls, in his attempt to cover up for the fill-in short stop.

With Reyes day-to-day due to tendinitis (source NY Post) in his knee, if Martinez continues to look this bad in the field, ( that's over looking his 0-12 at the plate) the Mets may need to try someone else at the position.

Many have speculated that Argenis Reyes could be called upon, the 26 year old, infielder, played in 27 games last season at second base, when Castillo was on the disabled list. After getting off to a hot start, he ended up hitting only .218 and was replaced by Martinez on the depth chart. Aside from his struggles at the plate, he showed only average range at the easier position of second base...

A. Reyes hasn't taken over at short stop in Buffalo, instead; Manuel favorite Jonathan Malo has played ever game at short, since the Martinez's promotion. Malo gained Manuel's praise with his glove during spring training and if the Mets decide to go in another direction for Jose Reyes' fill-in, they may decide to go with all glove Malo ( he's hitting .219 in Buffalo)...

Is Ryan Church getting the Cliff Floyd treatment...

I like Ryan Church, and think he has the potential to be a staple on this team, for years to come. It's hard to find outfielders with great range, an incredible arm, decent speed and a solid bat. Church is also relatively inexpensive, he's still arbitration eligible for the next three years, before he can land a big free agent contract.

I've also been one of those who believes, Jerry Manuel has unfairly singled him out and has been ruining his season. Whether it was a personality conflict or a so called "doghouse" for errant play, Manuel seems to have been on his case since spring training.

Church's treatment from Manuel seemed unusual, since he seemed to be the type of gritty, tough player the team was lacking and after missing most of last season, I thought he could become a clubhouse leader. After all, he was one of the only players to speak out, in the last week of the season about the lackadaisical locker room.

Initially I thought Manuel was attempting to motivate Church but the more and more he made moves that seemed detrimental to Church, I began to believe that Manuel simply had no faith in the outfielder.

When Church was hitting over .300, he was benched and once he started to struggled, Jerry buried him at the bottom of the line-up, along with constantly pinch hitting for him in critical situations. Church thrived last year in the two hole, if they really wanted to get him going that's where they'd hit him.

But maybe, I got the whole situation wrong, this just might be the Cliff Floyd situation all over again. When Willie and Jerry took over in 2005, Cliff Floyd was coming off the worst offensive year of his career, in which he played over 100 games.

The new management specifically targeted Floyd, they felt he could be a leader of the team but that he needed to be pushed hard, for that to happen. Manuel was instrumental in the tactic, rem. the 2006 NLCS, Floyd thought Jerry had influenced Willie into letting him bat instead of Glavine bunting.

I'm not sure, that there isn't a rift between the two and maybe it happened as the tactic back fired or this is just Jerry's way of developing Church into the behind the scenes leader that Floyd had become in 2006.

De Rosa keeps making more sense...

It's plain and simple; the Mets need to make a trade, there's no way for them to remain competitive with Carlos Delgado, Alex Cora and Jose Reyes out of the line-up.

With no one out for the season, I understand the team needs to find a player who will fit-in and not be an expensive bench player if and when everybody returns.

The perfect answer is Mark De Rosa, the super utility player is good enough to start at any position, except center field and catcher.

Here's a break down positionally of De Rosa's 12 seasons, in which he's played 890 games ( 10 gms. at DH)...

302 gms. at 2B

239 gms. at 3B

152 gms. at RF

139 gms. at SS

42 gms. at LF

17 gms. at 1B

The 34 y/o right handed hitter has a lifetime BA of .278 with a .422 slg. pct.. This year he is hitting .255 with a Slg. pct. .427 in 38 games.

An added benefit is that De Rosa is a New Jersey native, so he'd be familiar with the NY sports scene.

De Rosa is in his walk year in which he's owed 5.5 MM for the rest of the year, the Indians sent two low level prospects to the Cubs for De Rosa in the off-season...

DeRosa makes $5.5 million in the final year of his contract and Jamey Carroll is making $2 million. Putz is making $5 million this year with a $1 million buyout on an $8.6 million 2010 option. Both DeRosa and Putz are underperforming from expectations. Still, I wonder if there is the cornerstone for a deal here for two struggling teams to try and help each other. Carroll and DeRosa are two of the majors' more versatile players. Neither has played shortstop regularly in a while, but both would have to be better options than Martinez. Plus their versatility would help a team with those depth issues. source NY Post

Reyes could land on DL...

After missing four straight games, Jose Reyes returned for only one full game. In his second game back, he had to leave in the third inning after re-aggravating his calf, trying to leg out a ground ball.

Reyes will now head back to NY to be examined by team doctors and there are concerns that he may end up on the disabled list.

With Alex Cora already on the disable list, if Jose goes on the disable list the team may need to make finding a short stop a priority. Ramon Martinez doesn't have the arm for the position and Tatis lacks the range. Jose Coronado and A. Reyes both have the glove but not the bat...

"I don't know about disabled list," Reyes said. "We have to see the doctor first. We have to see if they feel I need to go on the disabled list or rest a couple more days and see how I feel." source NJ.com

Is the door now open for Fernando Martinez...

In March of 2008, SI.com reported that the Mets brass felt Fernando Martinez could be ready for the majors by 2009.

The 20 year old, left handed outfielder has been slowed from such a rapid assent by injuries, but is still considered the top prospect in the organization and a five tool prospect.

In his first full season at AAA, F-Mart is hitting .287 in 143 at bats, with a .552 Slg. Pct. and a .340 OBP. He has seven home runs, 13 doubles and 23 RBIs. Two of his homeruns, came the other day off Clay Buchholz who has a 1.60 ERA and is expected in the Boston rotation at some point this season.

When Angel Pagan was recalled, many Mets fans were clamouring for Fernando Martinez to be promoted. David Lennon of Newsday clarified the organizations position...

Bernazard also explained why Angel Pagan was called up to replace Delgado and not Fernando Martinez. The Mets are waiting to promote Martinez until they can be assured of giving him regular playing time. "If we call up a 20-year-old kid," Bernazard said, "he should be able to play every day." source Newsday

With Jerry Manuel's declaration that Church and Sheffield are his starting corner outfielders, and Murphy is in a make-it-or-break-it situation at first base, it appears the door may have opened for F-Mart.

Now that the Murphy in left field experiment is over, I can't see forty year old Gary Sheffield being a starter for an entire season and I'll be surprised if Murphy is ready to start at first base.

I can see Murphy being sent to AAA to develop as a first baseman and the Mets trading for a first baseman. With a starting first baseman, they could then return Sheffield to the bench and promote Martinez for the left field job...

Nelson Figueroa returns to Buffalo

For the second time in this short season, the Mets recalled Nelson Figueroa to the majors and within a few days reassigned him to Buffalo (AAA).

The first time it happen, I thought it was quite an insult, Figgy gave the Mets a quality start and before he could even enjoy his success, he had been told, he wouldn't be staying with the team. On April nineteenth, he started against the Brewers and allowed three runs on five hits and two walks, over six innings.

After making it through waivers, Figgy opted for free agency but wasn't picked up by another team and eventually resigned a minor league deal with the Mets.

The Mets recalled him a second time, to use him as a long man out of the pen, but he never made it into a game before being reassigned to make room for Tim Redding.

The Buffalo News is reporting that Figgy made it through waivers and has accepted assignment.

I'm sure we haven't seen the last of Figgy in a Mets uniform and I think he can be a serviceable spot starter/long man, so I'm glad he's sticking around...

The New York Mets designated pitcher Nelson Figueroa for assignment for the second time this season and he has again cleared waivers. This time, however, Figueroa is not going to spend a couple days scanning the market and has agreed to report back to the Bisons. source Buffalo News

Great opener for Angel Pagan, but costly error...

Angel Pagan returned to the team and had quite an eventful game, in his first start off the disabled list.

At the plate, Pagan went 4-6 with a run, a double and what should have been a game winning triple.

Of course; Pagan caused the error, that created the situation in which the game was lost.

On an easy fly ball into the gap, Pagan failed to give way to Carlos Beltran, resulting in the ball dropping in, as the two outfielders attempted to avoid a collision.

The center fielder always has the right of way and once called off, a corner outfielder's only responsibility is to back-up the center fielder...

“Well, Carlos is the center fielder and he was calling for the ball. Angel, as talented and as quick as he is, he can be underneath a ball and really not know it, because you’re so used to covering that ground, but you’ve got to give way to the center fielder.”source Metsblog

Carlos Delgado out 10 weeks...

The Mets have announced, that Carlos Delgado under went successful hip surgery and will be out 10 weeks.

Barring a set back, Delgado could return around August 1st but what will the Mets do in the meantime.

Fernando Tatis has been an automatic out with runners in scoring position, Jeremy Reed looks very rusty at first and Dan Murphy hasn't even played the position, yet.

I don't think there's anyway around making a trade, hopefully they can find a player that will fit nicely when Delgado returns and won't cost them a ton in prospects.

Carlos Delgado had arthroscopic surgery Tuesday morning to repair the torn labrum and bone spur in his right hip. The Mets said they expect Delgado to return in approximately 10 weeks. source NY Times

Cora could be out awhile...

Missed in last night's debacle ( you know the game we handed to the Dodgers in the 11th), was an up date on Alex Cora's condition.

Cora is contenplating surgery on the tear in his thumb, if he decides to have surgery he could miss two months of the season.

The decision will be made on Friday, when the team heads east and Cora can see team doctors.

A downbeat Cora, meanwhile, told me he is considering surgery to repair the torn ligament in his right thumb -- a procedure that would sideline him at least two months. A determination on surgery will be made Friday in New York. source NY Post

Alex Cora DL'ed, Ramon Martinez called up..

Alex Cora was in the starting line-up at short stop, and just when we began to worry, about why Jose Reyes was out for the fifth day in a row, news came out that Cora was scratched and placed on the disabled list.

It was revealed that Cora has a torn ligament in his right thumb.
As expected Ramon Martinez was recalled and made it to the park, about fifteen minutes before the game started. I hope he slept on the plane, because Martinez's is the starting short stop.

The Mets placed utility infielder Alex Cora on the disabled list before Monday's game with a torn ligament in his right thumb. source NJ.com

Delgado to have surgery...

Based on the team's posturing, most of us knew this was going to happen, the Mets made it official, today, when they announced that Carlos Delgado will undergo hip surgery.

It's believed the procedure will sideline Delgado, between 6-8 weeks, which barring a set back would bring him back around the All-Star break.

If the Mets do decide to bring someone in, they will need to find a player who could start at first for the season, but could also get along with Delgado, so that a platoon situation would work...

Carlos Delgado will have surgery Tuesday to repair a torn labrum in his right hip and remove a bone spur. The Mets made the announcement moments ago, but a team spokesman said the timetable for Delgado’s return is uncertain until after the arthroscopic procedure, which will be performed by Dr. Struan Coleman at the Hospital for Special Surgery. source Newsday

Ramon Martinez ready and waiting...

Jose Reyes has missed the last four games due to a calf injury.

Alex Cora filled in for Reyes and left, last night's game, in the third inning with a sprained thumb.

Fernando Tatis filled in for the rest of the night, but hasn't played short stop regularly since 1998, and doesn't appear to have the range for the position.

The Mets back-up plan is Ramon Martinez, the 36 year old, right handed, infielder is only seven games back from hernia surgery. Martinez is hitting .290 in Buffalo since coming off the disabled list.

Last year, Martinez was called up, in September and played seven games at second base, in which he hit .250.

Martinez is a ten year veteran who can play any infield position and is a lifetime BA of .264 hitter. He lost most of 2006-2007 to wrist injuries which is how he landed in the minor leagues.

Ramon Martinez apparently is in a "holding pattern," ready to be activated if the Mets need a shortstop, the Daily News has learned. Jose Reyes has missed four straight starts with right calf stiffness, while Alex Cora sprained a thumb Sunday in San Francisco. source Daily News

Nelson Figueroa DFA'ed to make room for Tim Redding

For the second time this year, the Mets have designated Nelson Figueroa for assignment to AAA Buffalo.

Figueroa will have to make it through waivers and then accept assignment, if the Mets are to keep the veteran pitcher. Last time, Figgy opted for free agency but after not receiving much interest he re-signed with the Mets.

This time, while he was with the team he never made it into a game, I still think Figgy will end up serving a purpose, to this team and hope he makes it back to Buffalo.

Tim Redding will make his Mets debut, what a challenge, coming off the DL, to face the best team in the National League...

The Mets designated Nelson Figueroa for assignment -- again -- to make room for Tim Redding, who starts tonight at Dodger Stadium. source Newsday

We'd have competition for Nick Johnson

Over the last two days, since news that Carlos Delgado may need surgery, Mets blogs have been exploring several players who could replace Delgado.

One of the most popular names has been Nick Johnson. The Nationals are in last place, with several redundant positional players and an extremely weak pitching staff.

Johnson is in his walk year, and it would make sense for the Nats to get what they can for him.

From the Mets point of view, he's handled NY well ( Yanks), is a solid defender, has been successful at platooning ( in case Delgado returns) and has a high on base percentage.

But if the Mets think they can get him on the cheap, they may want to re-think that, it seems the Red Sox are looking for alternatives to Big Popi and have had scouts watching Johnson....

According to other teams' scouts, the Sox have been watching Washington first baseman Nick Johnson, who has battled some injuries himself but has become one of the Nationals' top hitters. He is Boston's kind of hitter - a guy with a very good on-base percentage - and he's in the final year of a three-year deal, earning $5.5 million. But the Nationals would want pitching prospects in a trade, and the Sox guard those like gold. source Boston Globe

BALK THIS WAY: METS FAIL TO SCORE, FAIL TO SWEEP GIANTS

by Aaron Schuldiner

In light of the rough finishes to the last two seasons in Flushing, it has become easy, if not fashionable, for Met fans to push the panic button after every loss. But when you’ve won eleven of your last thirteen games, you’re entitled to an off night against a good starting pitcher, right?

Entitled or not, that was the case Sunday, as the Giants edged the Mets 2-0 behind six shutout innings from Matt Cain. Cain walked five, but allowed only three hits, and got two huge double plays to kill the only two rallies the Mets could muster. In the second inning, Jeremy Reed, playing for the injured Carlos Delgado, bounced into a bases-loaded double play before Mets starter Mike Pelfrey grounded out to end the inning. Then in the eighth, Jeremy Affeldt got Angel Pagan to hit into an inning-ending double play, again with the bases loaded. The Mets went quietly in the ninth, as Giant closer Brian Wilson looked dominant after taking losses on Thursday and Friday.

Cain did not have his best command, but every time the Mets tried to put something together, he buckled down and put out the fire. That was in contrast to Pelfrey, who pitched well overall, but sabotaged himself with three balks. Both runners that scored for the Giants advanced from first base to second on balks, the second run coming in on an RBI single by none other than Cain.

It has always been my stance that Pelfrey has front-of-the-rotation talent, but mentally, it sometimes appears he’s not there yet. After the second balk he was visibly shaken. After the call was made, Pelfrey almost fell down while kicking the back of the pitcher’s mound in frustration, stirring up memories of his embarrassing tumble off the mound in the Citi Field opener. After the game, Pelfrey joked that maybe he just likes making a fool out of himself when he’s on national television. The Mets can only hope that the issue can be worked out of Pelfrey’s mechanics quickly, and doesn’t develop into some kind of Mackey Sasser-esque mental tic. Since Pelfrey didn’t balk once in his 290-plus innings prior to 2009, I would assume that it’s something he and pitching coach Dan Warthen can get figured out.

Sure, there’s no such thing as a good loss, and with this team there are no moral victories. The fan base is insatiably hungry for wins, and both Manager Jerry Manuel and G.M. Omar Minaya could find themselves on the unemployment line if the Mets don’t play their way into October. There have already been a few bad losses this year, the kind that you lose sleep over. Both of Johan Santana’s losses in which he didn’t allow a single earned run and the twelve-inning loss to Atlanta come to mind.

So, considering the Mets took three out of four at AT&T Park, where the Giants had the second best home record in the league before this series, it’s hard to be too disappointed. And considering those three wins featured the Mets setting a franchise record with seven steals in a game, plus an impressive comeback win over reigning Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum (In my mind, the signature win of the season to date), it’s hard not to be encouraged. Throw in the facts that the Mets essentially played the entire series without Reyes and Delgado, have won eleven of their last fourteen, and currently occupy first place in the N.L. East, and I suspect that last night’s loss might be quickly forgotten by the masses with a win tonight in L.A..

But for Pelfrey, it might take a balk-free start in Boston next weekend. A second performance like last night’s won’t be nearly as easy for him to laugh off.


THE GOOD
Despite allowing seven walks, Cain, Affeldt, Wilson, and Bob Howry never let the Mets get on the board, stranding nine runners in the process. Cain moved to 4-1 on the year and lowered his ERA to a stingy 2.65.


THE BAD
Granted it was a makeshift lineup, and it was unfortunate that the Mets’ three bases loaded at-bats were taken by Pagan, Reed, and Pelfrey. But when you leave the bases loaded twice against a good staff, there’s always a good chance you won’t get another opportunity, as was the case last night.


THE UGLY
It shouldn’t be lost among Pelfrey’s mental lapses that he did pitch pretty well last night, but no starter had balked three times in a game since 1994, when ex-Met Al Leiter completed the trifecta for Toronto.


THANKS FOR THE ADVICE. MAYBE YOU SHOULD BE A G.M.
Considering the way Steve Phillips was fired from his job as Mets General Manager in 2003 and subsequently run out of town, there was something funny about hearing Phillips on last night’s ESPN broadcast try to convince a national audience that the Mets should trade Carlos Beltran at the season’s end. Thankfully, Joe Morgan called Phillips out, explaining that Beltran’s skill set at his position is virtually irreplaceable. As one fan said to me on a local baseball message board, it’s scary when Joe Morgan becomes the voice of reason.


ROAD WARRIORS
After taking three of four in San Francisco, the Mets will head south to take on the Dodgers who, at 14-3, own the best home record in baseball. Tim Redding is slated to make his first start for the Mets against the Dodgers’ Randy Wolf. Gametime is 10:10 EST.

What to do with Delgado out..

I think the Mets need to make a trade for a positional player, even if they believe Delgado will return in August.

The Mets are just asking too much of too many role players and while it's working short term, in the long run I believe they'll end up struggling. The more the team relies on players who are in the twilight of their careers or should only be expected to be part time players, the greater the chances, that the law of diminished returns will kick in.

Even if Delgado returns, it isn't going to be anytime soon. I simply can't see Gary Sheffield and Fernando Tatis filling the void left by Delgado for an extended period of time. Both players are solid bench/role players who are filling in admirably but for an extended period of time, I think were asking for them to get injured or begin to struggle.

The Mets need to find a player who can help them while Delgado is gone and fit into the roster if he returns. I would be looking for a player who is a short term, inexpensive and versatile option. The NY Post listed three players that fit the profile perfectly; Nick Johnson, Audrey Huff and Mark DeRosa. All three are on last place teams, in their walk years and have either platooned or played multiple positions successfully in their careers.

My pick of the three would be DeRosa for the same reasons the Post gives, to see the rest of the alternatives check out the article...

Mark DeRosa, Indians. Cleveland officials are not ready to pull the plug on their disappointing season. But when you talk to them, they say they still like their nucleus and are more apt to trade their looming free agents, such as DeRosa, who is making $5.5 million in his walk year. The great thing about DeRosa is how versatile he is, so if Delgado were to come back late in the year, DeRosa could move around while being the righty platoon partner for Delgado. source NY Post

Delgado may return despite surgery...

Between Jerry Manuel's less then positive out look on Carlos Delgado's condition and the prospect of surgery, most of us Mets fans, have come to accept the idea that Delgado might not be retuning this year.

Delgado is an older player, which will make him slower to recover and with the amount of tork he places on his hips, it will be hard for him to rush back, besides the fact that were already into the second month of the season.

But the Mets believe that even if Delgado needs surgery he may return by August...

If Carlos Delgado needs hip surgery, the Mets think he can be back by Aug. 1, so right now their plan is to give Gary Sheffield a full-time shot in left field, move Daniel Murphy to first base, and use both of them with Fernando Tatis and Ryan Church in a LF-RF-1B rotation. source ESPN

Cora leaves game with thumb injury..

Just when we began to understand why Omar Minaya found it so important to sign Alex Cora he had to leave tonight's game with a thumb injury.

Cora started the last three night's, while Jose Reyes rested his sore calf and while he doesn't have the range or speed of Reyes, he makes up for it with solid fundamentals and leadership.

With Cora out and Reyes unavailable the Mets were forced to use Fernando Tatis...

I'm sure if the Mets are even slightly concerned about Cora they will be bringing up Ramon Martinez, it was believed that Martinez was almost brought up when Delgado went on the DL but the Mets chose to recall Angel Pagan.

Pagan provided outfield depth, so they could round robin Murphy, Reed and Tatis at first base.

Pagan has options and Martinez can play all four infield positions, he's leading Buffalo in hitting with a .290 BA.

As if the Mets didn't have enough injury concerns, backup infielder Alex Cora left tonight's game in the third inning due to an injured right thumb. source NY Post

Perez pitches rehab game...

Oliver Perez began the long road back to the major league roster, just in case anyone thought the knee injury was bogus, Perez took a week off, from all baseball activities.

After signing a big contract ( 3 years - 36MM ) which many people felt ( including myself ) was a mistake, Perez has been absolutely awful and had it not been for the injury, the Mets may have been forced to ask him to accept a demotion.

Most players you would wonder if they were pressing after signing a big contract, but with Ollie it might be the opposite he may have rested on his laurels and then couldn't get it together.

In five starts Perez was 1-2 with an ERA of 9.97, in which he allowed 24 runs on 28 hits and 21 walks, while only striking out 20.

The organization was happy with what they saw from Perez in his first rehab outing, he struck out seven and did not allow a run but walked four... Perez was placed on the disabled list on May 7 because of patellar tendinitis in his right knee. But the assignment probably had as much to do with his head after a 9.97 ERA in five starts. Tony Bernazard, the Mets' vice president of player development, said that Perez is making adjustments that should help him rediscover his old delivery.

"He looked very good," Bernazard said. source Newsday

Wags coming back

Billy Wagner had TJ surgery at the end of the 2008 season, relievers generally take about a year to return from the operation and it appears that Wagner is slightly ahead of schedule.

If the Mets decide to keep all three closers ( Rodriguez, Putz and Wagner), what a dominant bullpen they will have down the stretch.

Of course, with the loss of Carlos Delgado one of the closers might be included in a package for a bat. Would the Mets piece together the 8th inning, from the time of a trade, until Wagner returned in August, if a team demanded Putz in a deal for an offensive player.

If the Mets do decide use all three closers for the rest of the season, both Putz and Wagner have club options for 2010. The Mets will have to decide whether they are going to pick-up either players option ( essentially making them a very expensive set-man) and if so, which one it will be...

Also on the promising side, the Daily News has learned that Billy Wagner is already hitting 90 mph on a mound in Port St. Lucie. He returned to the Mets' complex in recent days after a one-month moratorium on throwing off a mound. An August return now seems entirely realistic. source Daily News

Delgado officially on the DL

The Mets made it official today, by placing Carlos Delgado on the disabled list.

Jerry Manuel doesn't expect Delgado to return anytime soon and didn't sound optimistic about his return this season.

The Mets aren't attempting to dispel the surgery rumors or that he could miss anywhere from six weeks to the rest of the season, and now he's scheduled to see a specialist about the hip in the next few days.

“I am, that’s just the way I see it,” Manuel said. “He tried a number of things to get ready, to get some comfort, but could never find it. I don’t anticipate this being a 15-day thing in my opinion. I could be wrong. Hopefully I am wrong.”

“Right now we’re looking at it as a 15-day situation,” Bernazard said. “Once he goes to the doctor we’ll know a lot more.” source NJ.com

If Delgado's done - go after Helton....

It now appears to be a matter of how long Carlos Delgado will be on the disable list, instead of whether he will go on the DL.

In fact, Jerry Manuel hinted that they may make an announcement as early as Saturday, instead of waiting til Sunday.

Although no official decision is expected until Saturday, the Mets are preparing for life without Carlos Delgado, who seems headed for an indefinite stay on the disabled list because of his aching hip. source Newsday

There is speculation that Delgado may need season ending surgery and the Mets will be looking for a first baseman or to move Murphy 1B and bring in a left fielder.

Matt Cerrone of Metsblog has a great post on the Delgado situation, including several of the names the Mets could look to trade for...

The one name that hasn't been mentioned, and would top my list is Todd Helton.

The 35 y/o, left handed, first baseman is a perennial All Star, Silver Slugger and has three gold gloves to his credit. His lifetime .329 BA is third best and .429 OBP is the best, amongst active players.

Helton was the club house leader and made some critical game winning hits, during the story book 2007 run in which the Rockies appeared in their first World Series in club history ( including sweeping the Phillies).

Helton has a huge contract that many teams would be unable to afford and with Colorado being a small market team, rumors have swirled every off-season.

Ken Rosenthal (source MLBTR) thought, last August that he would be on the block, but after the worst season of his career, he was unmovable. As he battled injuries, for the first time in his career he played under 144 gms ( 11 seasons), only appearing in 83 games and hit under .302 (.264)...

The Dodgers have already built a 9 game lead and Colorado is six games under 500, in this economy, Colorado may look to move his contract.

He appears healthy as he's hitting .351 and played in 31 of the first 34 games.

According to Cots contract , Helton is owed 16.6MM for this year and next, 19MM for 2011 and in 2012 he has a club option for 23MM ( 4.6 buyout).

Redding set to make his Mets debut...

Whether this is a sign of the Mets desperation for a fifth starter ( thats's right Livan Hernandez is currently our 4th starter) or Tim Redding is 100% healthy, that will be determined on Monday night against the team with the best record in the NL.

Tim Redding will be activated from the disabled list and make his Mets debut, in a start, on Monday night, against the Dodgers.

Redding was signed this off-season to compete for the fifth starters spot and his 2.25MM contact guaranteed him, at least the long man role in the bullpen.

He had off-season toe surgery, which left him out of shape entering spring training and when he tried to rush things, he ended up aggravating his throwing shoulder.

After spending the better part of a month in Port St. Luice, working on conditioning and rehabing the shoulder, he made two starts in Buffalo. Both starts were non -decisions, his ERA was 2.77 in 13 innings of work.

Tim Redding will come off the DL for the first time all season this weekend in time to make a start Monday night in Los Angeles against the Dodgers. source NY Post