I just wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself to the Mets Fever community of readers. My name is Rob, and I will be contributing regular content to the blog as of the new year. I appreciate the chance to display not only my opinion on the New York Mets, but also hope to interact with as many of you as possible.
Born and raised in New Jersey, I am a 27 year old displaced Mets fan now living in the DC Metro Area. Although I don't live in the tri-state area any longer, I have not skipped a beat with regards to my near obsessive passion for this team.
I plan to discuss a variety of things with you. Team-related current events, the future of the franchise and the passion of the fan base are just the cusp of what I hope to bring to the table. As I mentioned before, I hope to interact with as many of you as possible. So, please feel free to contact me via email at robert.john.patterson@gmail.com or you can follow me on twitter @RobPatterson83.
Be safe tonight and enjoy your holiday!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Appease Jobu with Harris...
I could see Alderson and company not understanding my request, why would we want a 32 y/o left handed hitter with a career BA of .239.
But this is more about feeding the great baseball Deity Jobu who has cursed us since Oct. of 2006 when he allowed a near impossible catch to be made, to answer the collective prays of the Shea faithful. We should have known in the bottom of that inning that our fate had been set when that same player couldn't produce in a fairy tale situation with the bases loaded.
Jobu has mocked us with the mirror image of Endy Chavez, since our demise after the catch at the hands of the Cardinals, Willy Harris has served as the baseball Gods instrument to remind us that we are cursed.
No single player since 2006 has stolen more victories, both defensively and offensively from the Mets grasp then Harris. His traveling curse has effected the Mets through two teams ( Atlanta/ Washington) in which he has scaled walls, dove across gaps, rattled pitchers on the base path and made that .239 BA count in the most meaningful of situations.
So as Mr. Alderson looks for that cost effective veteran 4th outfielder, someone needs to explain to him our history with Harris and the curse of Jobu, otherwise we,re doomed to him taking a minor league deal with the Phillies or Marlins.
By the way Harris has played all three outfield positions and is a natural 2B ( 200 MLB games) along with a sprinkling of 3B/SS.
But this is more about feeding the great baseball Deity Jobu who has cursed us since Oct. of 2006 when he allowed a near impossible catch to be made, to answer the collective prays of the Shea faithful. We should have known in the bottom of that inning that our fate had been set when that same player couldn't produce in a fairy tale situation with the bases loaded.
Jobu has mocked us with the mirror image of Endy Chavez, since our demise after the catch at the hands of the Cardinals, Willy Harris has served as the baseball Gods instrument to remind us that we are cursed.
No single player since 2006 has stolen more victories, both defensively and offensively from the Mets grasp then Harris. His traveling curse has effected the Mets through two teams ( Atlanta/ Washington) in which he has scaled walls, dove across gaps, rattled pitchers on the base path and made that .239 BA count in the most meaningful of situations.
So as Mr. Alderson looks for that cost effective veteran 4th outfielder, someone needs to explain to him our history with Harris and the curse of Jobu, otherwise we,re doomed to him taking a minor league deal with the Phillies or Marlins.
By the way Harris has played all three outfield positions and is a natural 2B ( 200 MLB games) along with a sprinkling of 3B/SS.
Tabata continues strong winter...
I posted about Marcos Tabata in this post, a little over two weeks ago. The 24 y/o right handed reliever who is not considered a prospect has never pitched higher then A ball is having a strong winter.
So far this winter he has appeared in 26 games ( 28.1 innings) with a 1.59 ERA and holding BAA to .159, he's recorded two saves and his numbers are pretty consistent to both righties/lefties. He's averaging almost a strike out an appearance 25 SO in 26 appearances but he has almost had as many walks 22 walks. So far this winter he has been very successful in getting lefties to ground out, GO/AO 4.50 compared to righties where his ratio is 0.84...
So far this winter he has appeared in 26 games ( 28.1 innings) with a 1.59 ERA and holding BAA to .159, he's recorded two saves and his numbers are pretty consistent to both righties/lefties. He's averaging almost a strike out an appearance 25 SO in 26 appearances but he has almost had as many walks 22 walks. So far this winter he has been very successful in getting lefties to ground out, GO/AO 4.50 compared to righties where his ratio is 0.84...
Are the Mets aggressively pursuing Qualls
Not sure if it was poor wording or what they have heard but Rotoworld in reporting the rumors about six teams interested in Chad Qualls stated that the Mets along with the A's were aggressively pursuing Qualls. If that's the case, it's the first I've heard of them being interested past just checking in and I expected them to bow out once numerous teams showed interest in him, due to the price...
The A's have been aggressive, as have the Mets. The other interested teams, however, are unknown. Qualls, 32, posted an ugly 7.32 ERA and 1.80 WHIP over 59 innings this past year for the Diamondbacks and Rays, but he seems likely to bounce back in a low-pressure middle relief role. source Rotoworld
Beimel has lots of interest...
Veteran lefty reliever Joe Beimel usually waits to the last minute to sign with a team, generally early on he has been low balled but as he waits he ends up finding a major league contract. Last off-season the Rockies showed limited interest until almost catchers/pitchers reported and then signed him to an 850k major league deal. The Mets have been one of the team interested in Beimel but they're not alone, according to the reliever himself there has been plenty of interest and he won't need to wait this off-season to sign...
"I've got quite a few teams interested right now, got a few offers. I'm willing to be patient like I have in the past but this year doesn't seem like I have to with all the interest." source MLB network radio twitter
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Is Qualls now too rich for Mets blood...
With the way the Mets are approaching this off-season, K-Rod's contract should be just as important as not committing to any multi-year deals this off-season, so they can gain payroll flexibility next off-season. If K-Rod finishes 55 games next season he will cost the team 17M, which is why I agree that it's important for the team to have a set-up man who could close.
Maybe that could be Bobby Parnell if he continues to progress during this season, as suggested earlier this week Brian Fuentes would make sense. During the winter meeting Tracy Ringolsby reported that the Mets were interested in Chad Qualls. I thought Qualls would be the perfect situation for the Mets, the guy lost his closing job in AZ and ended the year with a 7.32 ERA. My thought was the Mets could buy low, have him build his confidence back up and then close in the second half of the season.
Well that idea just went out the window with reports that multiple teams are interested in Qualls (source Joe Stiglich)...
Maybe that could be Bobby Parnell if he continues to progress during this season, as suggested earlier this week Brian Fuentes would make sense. During the winter meeting Tracy Ringolsby reported that the Mets were interested in Chad Qualls. I thought Qualls would be the perfect situation for the Mets, the guy lost his closing job in AZ and ended the year with a 7.32 ERA. My thought was the Mets could buy low, have him build his confidence back up and then close in the second half of the season.
Well that idea just went out the window with reports that multiple teams are interested in Qualls (source Joe Stiglich)...
2B will be a competition of "My Guys"...
For those wondering and those who weren't, I'm probably just venting a bit, apparently the section of NJ we live in was the center of the snow storm and have been without phone, Internet and cable since 8pm Sunday night. Over 60 hours without all three services has me rethinking putting all my eggs in one basket, but anyway watching the kids get cabin fever was quite amusing and that's where I've been since Sunday.
Apparently during my down time the Mets made a minor trade sending LHP Michael Antonini to the Dodgers for SS Ching-Lung Hu. First I'll say that this is a minor deal that really doesn't need that much scrutiny nor would it receive as much as it has, if the Mets were more involved in the off-season.
I'll be surprised if Antonini even becomes a major league LOOGY let alone make us wish the deal wasn't done, he was exposed to the rule V draft and wasn't selected. As far as depth I don't see anymore value in Antonini as a back-up lefty then Nieson or Carson.
As far as Hu, in my opinion these are the exact type of deals many of us were looking for the team to make over the past few years, that they didn't make. Low risk, high reward moves instead of relying on aging veterans on larger contracts, it's the Hu's over the Cora's/Easley's. I'll take a competition between Hu, Turner, Murphy and Emaus over signing Eckstein for 2M.
Ching-Lung Hu was a top Dodgers prospect (#4) as recent as 2009 ( source Minor League Ball) and Adam Rubin tweeted that former Dodgers employees stated Hu has great hands, good instincts and a better bat then expected. Of all the candidates for the middle infield Hu is the only one who could fill-in full time at SS if Reyes was to go down ( that's with Tejada being kept in AAA).
I will say this, without trying to fuel any speculation but whenever I see a team stockpiling at one position it makes me wonder about the teams comfortability at the position and/or whether there is a trade in the works. If the Mets were happy with Castillo/Turner/Hernandez/Tejada would they have brought in Emaus and if Emaus was enough would they have brought in Hu, but if it's not about who can play 2B then maybe it's about who could fill-in if someone got traded.
So there seems to be an awful lot of players for just two positions, starting second baseman and utility middle infielder. Sometimes these competitions come down to flexibility: Tejada and Murphy have options; Hernandez and Hu are out of options; Emaus is a rule V pick so he basically doesn't have options and Castillo is costing the team 6M.
I believe that Castillo will be gone, there's no way he's going to keep up with these younger guys and even though it will cost them 6M to cut him, it will be a show of good faith to the fan base. As the organization has said repeatedly Tejada will start the season in AAA and I think Hernandez is an expendable AAAA player.
I believe the competition for two spots will come down to four players, interestingly enough all four players have their champions within the organization.
Hu wasn't just a top prospect in the Dodgers organization, he was a top prospect when Paul Depodesta was the GM and Terry Collins was the field coordinator. The same could be said of Brad Emaus who was a first round pick of J.P. Ricciardi's and was the Jays #11 prospect in 2009 ( source Minor league Ball).
While the first two were top prospects the other two would be more valued for the their mentality more then their skill sets, neither is considered a great glove but there are multiple descriptions of them as scrappy players who play the game right. One of the quieter Asst. GMs but a former GM in his own right, Wayne Krivsky was Justin Turner's GM in Cincy, then played a hand in him going to Baltimore and finally to the Mets. The most obvious supporter of Dan Murphy would be Omar if he decides to stick around but after trumpeting Murphy for two seasons I'm sure Ricco and others who have remained would love to see him shine.
Early prediction Emaus and Hu are on the opening day roster with Murphy having a chance on the bench, Turner back to Buffalo with Tejada, Castillo cut and Hernandez on waivers.
Apparently during my down time the Mets made a minor trade sending LHP Michael Antonini to the Dodgers for SS Ching-Lung Hu. First I'll say that this is a minor deal that really doesn't need that much scrutiny nor would it receive as much as it has, if the Mets were more involved in the off-season.
I'll be surprised if Antonini even becomes a major league LOOGY let alone make us wish the deal wasn't done, he was exposed to the rule V draft and wasn't selected. As far as depth I don't see anymore value in Antonini as a back-up lefty then Nieson or Carson.
As far as Hu, in my opinion these are the exact type of deals many of us were looking for the team to make over the past few years, that they didn't make. Low risk, high reward moves instead of relying on aging veterans on larger contracts, it's the Hu's over the Cora's/Easley's. I'll take a competition between Hu, Turner, Murphy and Emaus over signing Eckstein for 2M.
Ching-Lung Hu was a top Dodgers prospect (#4) as recent as 2009 ( source Minor League Ball) and Adam Rubin tweeted that former Dodgers employees stated Hu has great hands, good instincts and a better bat then expected. Of all the candidates for the middle infield Hu is the only one who could fill-in full time at SS if Reyes was to go down ( that's with Tejada being kept in AAA).
I will say this, without trying to fuel any speculation but whenever I see a team stockpiling at one position it makes me wonder about the teams comfortability at the position and/or whether there is a trade in the works. If the Mets were happy with Castillo/Turner/Hernandez/Tejada would they have brought in Emaus and if Emaus was enough would they have brought in Hu, but if it's not about who can play 2B then maybe it's about who could fill-in if someone got traded.
So there seems to be an awful lot of players for just two positions, starting second baseman and utility middle infielder. Sometimes these competitions come down to flexibility: Tejada and Murphy have options; Hernandez and Hu are out of options; Emaus is a rule V pick so he basically doesn't have options and Castillo is costing the team 6M.
I believe that Castillo will be gone, there's no way he's going to keep up with these younger guys and even though it will cost them 6M to cut him, it will be a show of good faith to the fan base. As the organization has said repeatedly Tejada will start the season in AAA and I think Hernandez is an expendable AAAA player.
I believe the competition for two spots will come down to four players, interestingly enough all four players have their champions within the organization.
Hu wasn't just a top prospect in the Dodgers organization, he was a top prospect when Paul Depodesta was the GM and Terry Collins was the field coordinator. The same could be said of Brad Emaus who was a first round pick of J.P. Ricciardi's and was the Jays #11 prospect in 2009 ( source Minor league Ball).
While the first two were top prospects the other two would be more valued for the their mentality more then their skill sets, neither is considered a great glove but there are multiple descriptions of them as scrappy players who play the game right. One of the quieter Asst. GMs but a former GM in his own right, Wayne Krivsky was Justin Turner's GM in Cincy, then played a hand in him going to Baltimore and finally to the Mets. The most obvious supporter of Dan Murphy would be Omar if he decides to stick around but after trumpeting Murphy for two seasons I'm sure Ricco and others who have remained would love to see him shine.
Early prediction Emaus and Hu are on the opening day roster with Murphy having a chance on the bench, Turner back to Buffalo with Tejada, Castillo cut and Hernandez on waivers.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Francis looking for starts...
Reportedly left hander Jeff Francis has multiple teams interested in the once thin air pitcher who lead the playoff Rockies with a 17 win season. It's been speculated that the Rockies, Nationals, Rangers, Yankees and the Mets are interested in him.
The Rockies turned down a 7M option but have said they've left the door open to return, Francis is reported to be looking for a 4-5M base salary and if that's true, it might make him too rich for the Mets taste this off-season.
As I said in this post I have concerns about how much he has left after two years of shoulder injuries. In an interview with the Province Francis discussed his up and down return and that the most important thing in signing with his next team is getting starts...
The Rockies turned down a 7M option but have said they've left the door open to return, Francis is reported to be looking for a 4-5M base salary and if that's true, it might make him too rich for the Mets taste this off-season.
As I said in this post I have concerns about how much he has left after two years of shoulder injuries. In an interview with the Province Francis discussed his up and down return and that the most important thing in signing with his next team is getting starts...
"The most important thing for me is that I get an opportunity to go out and pitch, to prove I'm healthy, to get all my starts. That's pretty much what I need.
"A lot needs to go right for that to happen [winning 17 games], but I can be that guy who makes 33, 34 starts and gives his team quality innings." source The Province
What FA lefty could be a cross over and not just LOOGY...
After the report that the Mets were interested in Joe Beimel, I heard several fans express their disapproval on restricting yourself with a limited pitcher. For myself I feel that you can have specialists as long as you have dominant pitchers in the more critical roles and versatility around the specialists.
The Mets best pen in recent years featured two specialists, in the first half of the 2006 season. Duaner Sanchez (set-up man) and Billy Wagner (closer) were excellent in their respective roles and Heilman and Oliver provided versatility. That set-up allowed Chad Bradford and Pedro Feliciano to become very effective specialists.
I understand wanting every pitcher in the pen to have the versatility to cross over so that the manager isn't limited in the moves he can make but when your in a cost restrictive off-season that might not be practical. Pedro Feliciano posted a 3.30 ERA with a 1.53 WHIP, career Pedro held LHB to a .214 BA and RHB hit .283 (854 PA); last year LHB .211BA (123 AB) compared to RHB .336 (141 PA), SO/BB (L) 3.50 (R) 1.05.
In a post earlier this month I posted the available LOOGY's numbers; below is the top candidates ( for the rest refer back to the old post) below is their age, appearances, BA against fo LHB along with SO/BB against LHB and overall ERA/WHIP. I'm going to add below that their right handed numbers ( AB- BAA-SO/BB ) for those who want to see how would be the best bet as a left handed cross over pitcher.
Before looking at these guys just remember Pat Misch is a candidate for the long man role and he actually has better numbers against righties then lefties, if he made the team it would make the LOOGY position more practical.
Joe Beimel (34) 71appearances- LHB .221- BB/SO 2.14- ERA 3.40- WHIP 1.47
Ron Mahay (40) 41 appearances -LHB .219 - BB/SO 6.00- ERA 3.44-WHIP 1.20
Tim Byrdak (37) 64 appearances -LHB .213 -BB/SO 2.71- ERA 3.49 -WHIP 1.55
Will Ohman (32) 68 appearances -LHB .229 -BB/SO 2.19 -ERA 3.21 -WHIP 1.50
J.C. Romero (35) 60 appearances- LHB .217 -BB/SO 1.82 -ERA 3.68 -WHIP 1.60
Taylor Tankersley (28) 27 appearances- LHB .200- BB/SO 2.33- ERA 7.50- WHIP 1.58
Randy Choate (35) 85 appearances- LHB .202- BB/SO 4.05 -ERA 4.23 -WHIP 1.29
Bobby Seay (33) 2009- 67 appearances- LHB .261-BB/SO 2.56- ERA 4.25- WHIP 1.29
Each lefties number of plate appearances facing a righty, the BA they held them to and the SO/BB ratio.
Beimel - career PA against RHB 1531, BAA RHB .288, SO/BB RHB 0.88
2010- PA 86, RHB .329, SO/BB RHB 0.76
Mahay- career PA against RHB 1489, BAA RHB .260, SO/BB RHB 1.46
2010- PA 73, RHB .284, SO/BB RHB 2.17
Byrdak-career PA RHB 647, BAA RHB .288, SO/BB RHB 1.04
2010- PA 85, RHB .333, SO/BB RHB 0.77
Ohman- career PA RHB 628, BAA RHB .264, SO/BB RHB 1.51
2010- PA 87, RHB .288, SO/BB RHB 1.80
Tankersley-career PA RHB 303, BAA RHB .268, SO/BB RHB 1.31
2010- PA 22, RHB .333, SO/BB RHB 0.00
Choate-career PA RHB 508, BAA RHB .279, SO/BB RHB 0.74
2010- PA 49, RHB .410, SO/BB RHB 0.44
Seay- career PA RHB 474, BAA RHB .252, SO/BB RHB 2.02
2009- PA 82, RHB .239, SO/BB RHB 1.75
The Mets best pen in recent years featured two specialists, in the first half of the 2006 season. Duaner Sanchez (set-up man) and Billy Wagner (closer) were excellent in their respective roles and Heilman and Oliver provided versatility. That set-up allowed Chad Bradford and Pedro Feliciano to become very effective specialists.
I understand wanting every pitcher in the pen to have the versatility to cross over so that the manager isn't limited in the moves he can make but when your in a cost restrictive off-season that might not be practical. Pedro Feliciano posted a 3.30 ERA with a 1.53 WHIP, career Pedro held LHB to a .214 BA and RHB hit .283 (854 PA); last year LHB .211BA (123 AB) compared to RHB .336 (141 PA), SO/BB (L) 3.50 (R) 1.05.
In a post earlier this month I posted the available LOOGY's numbers; below is the top candidates ( for the rest refer back to the old post) below is their age, appearances, BA against fo LHB along with SO/BB against LHB and overall ERA/WHIP. I'm going to add below that their right handed numbers ( AB- BAA-SO/BB ) for those who want to see how would be the best bet as a left handed cross over pitcher.
Before looking at these guys just remember Pat Misch is a candidate for the long man role and he actually has better numbers against righties then lefties, if he made the team it would make the LOOGY position more practical.
Joe Beimel (34) 71appearances- LHB .221- BB/SO 2.14- ERA 3.40- WHIP 1.47
Ron Mahay (40) 41 appearances -LHB .219 - BB/SO 6.00- ERA 3.44-WHIP 1.20
Tim Byrdak (37) 64 appearances -LHB .213 -BB/SO 2.71- ERA 3.49 -WHIP 1.55
Will Ohman (32) 68 appearances -LHB .229 -BB/SO 2.19 -ERA 3.21 -WHIP 1.50
J.C. Romero (35) 60 appearances- LHB .217 -BB/SO 1.82 -ERA 3.68 -WHIP 1.60
Taylor Tankersley (28) 27 appearances- LHB .200- BB/SO 2.33- ERA 7.50- WHIP 1.58
Randy Choate (35) 85 appearances- LHB .202- BB/SO 4.05 -ERA 4.23 -WHIP 1.29
Bobby Seay (33) 2009- 67 appearances- LHB .261-BB/SO 2.56- ERA 4.25- WHIP 1.29
Each lefties number of plate appearances facing a righty, the BA they held them to and the SO/BB ratio.
Beimel - career PA against RHB 1531, BAA RHB .288, SO/BB RHB 0.88
2010- PA 86, RHB .329, SO/BB RHB 0.76
Mahay- career PA against RHB 1489, BAA RHB .260, SO/BB RHB 1.46
2010- PA 73, RHB .284, SO/BB RHB 2.17
Byrdak-career PA RHB 647, BAA RHB .288, SO/BB RHB 1.04
2010- PA 85, RHB .333, SO/BB RHB 0.77
Ohman- career PA RHB 628, BAA RHB .264, SO/BB RHB 1.51
2010- PA 87, RHB .288, SO/BB RHB 1.80
Tankersley-career PA RHB 303, BAA RHB .268, SO/BB RHB 1.31
2010- PA 22, RHB .333, SO/BB RHB 0.00
Choate-career PA RHB 508, BAA RHB .279, SO/BB RHB 0.74
2010- PA 49, RHB .410, SO/BB RHB 0.44
Seay- career PA RHB 474, BAA RHB .252, SO/BB RHB 2.02
2009- PA 82, RHB .239, SO/BB RHB 1.75
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Rockies not concerned with bringing back Beimel...
Earlier this week Mike Silva of NYBD reported that his league sources believed the Mets were most interested in Joe Beimel. The 34y/o lefty specialist appeared in 71 games, holding LHB to a .221 BA, BB/SO 2.14, ERA 3.40, WHIP 1.47.
Here's a look at the lefty market in this post, Beimel is one of a few veteran lefties who would help the youngsters with his experience and is successful at getting left handed hitters out.
When ever you target someone I always think the main concern is their previous team because it just seems like once a player is comfortable with a club it's just easier to stay, especially with the Mets not in the position to out bid anyone. In this case it doesn't appear the Rockies are too concerned with bringing back Beimel...
Here's a look at the lefty market in this post, Beimel is one of a few veteran lefties who would help the youngsters with his experience and is successful at getting left handed hitters out.
When ever you target someone I always think the main concern is their previous team because it just seems like once a player is comfortable with a club it's just easier to stay, especially with the Mets not in the position to out bid anyone. In this case it doesn't appear the Rockies are too concerned with bringing back Beimel...
They trust M. Reynolds, Morales w fingers crossed RT @TJEldredge_09: I still dont understand why we arent trying to resign beimel. Thoughts? source Troy Renck
Friday, December 24, 2010
Boof Bonser would be a better option then Carrasco in the rotation...
I said in this post that after recent off-seasons there was this fear in the back of my head that they would make excuses all off-season until we ended up with Boof Bonser as our fifth starter. While I have more faith in this new front office, then the past who would have stalled all off-season to say in the end "nothing made sense", there have been some warning signs.
Even on a tight budget there have been some very capable players who could have been signed at a reasonable price, that have already signed elsewhere in which the Mets showed very little interest in or are still free agents but the Mets appear reluctant to engage in serious negotiations. Which lends to the natural question of just how tight is the budget and could it be even less then has been speculated.
One thing that has bugged me since Sandy said it, when discussing 2012 free agency, it was brought to his attention just how much money was coming off the books and Sandy said something to the effect that just because that money is coming off doesn't mean we will spend that much. It was the only time since Sandy was hired that I thought he might not truly get the difference between small and large market mentalities.
Look; I think the 2011 Mets are closer then most to being competitve, with a line-up of Wright, Reyes, Bay, Beltran, Davis and Pagan if they could get the 2007 seventeen game winner form from Jeff Francis or the former Cy Young candidate form from Chris Young they would be right there for the wild card. But even if I'm being too optimistic about the Mets chances this season, with what contracts are coming off the books and their financial resources this should absolutely be the only off-season that the Mets have this type of mentality. You don't pay the prices you pay in New York for the team to act like the Oakland A's or Kansas City Royals, for one year to clean up a mess yes but moving forward it shouldn't happen.
When Andy Martino writes that D.J. Carrasco could be considered for the backend of the rotation and Mike Silva confirms that the idea is at least being considered by finding an incentive in his contract for starts, it doesn't bode well to ease Mets fans concerns or diminish speculation about the financial state of the team.
Just a quick look at Carrasco's splits compared to Bonser's shows just how desperate an idea it would be to put him in the rotation and that's a far cry from a vote of confidence for Bonser.
Carrasco is 34 y/o he's only made 23 starts (125 innings) in his entire career in which his ERA ballooned from 4.03 to 5.01 and the same could be said of his WHIP going from 1.37 to 1.60. As a reliever his SO/9 and SO/BB are respectively 6.5 and 1.83 but as a starter 4.0 and 0.97. He's made 221 relief appearances (315 innings) and only the 2005 Royals used him as anything more then a spot starter ( 2005- 20 games ).
The 29 y/o Bonser is a disappointing former first round pick ( Giants 2000) who while posting better numbers then Carrasco as a starter isn't saying much. In 60 starts ( 336 innings) he has an ERA of 4.92 and a WHIP of 1.41, SO/9 6.9 and SO/BB 2.42.
I like both signings but not as the fifth starter to begin the season, Bonser would be a nice call-up candidate from Buffalo in the event of an injury in the rotation and Carrasco will be a solid middle reliever who could serve as a long man/ spot starter. But you just can't convince me that "nothing makes sense" either through trade or free agency for the rotation when Boof Bonser has better numbers as a starter then D.J. Carrasco....
Even on a tight budget there have been some very capable players who could have been signed at a reasonable price, that have already signed elsewhere in which the Mets showed very little interest in or are still free agents but the Mets appear reluctant to engage in serious negotiations. Which lends to the natural question of just how tight is the budget and could it be even less then has been speculated.
One thing that has bugged me since Sandy said it, when discussing 2012 free agency, it was brought to his attention just how much money was coming off the books and Sandy said something to the effect that just because that money is coming off doesn't mean we will spend that much. It was the only time since Sandy was hired that I thought he might not truly get the difference between small and large market mentalities.
Look; I think the 2011 Mets are closer then most to being competitve, with a line-up of Wright, Reyes, Bay, Beltran, Davis and Pagan if they could get the 2007 seventeen game winner form from Jeff Francis or the former Cy Young candidate form from Chris Young they would be right there for the wild card. But even if I'm being too optimistic about the Mets chances this season, with what contracts are coming off the books and their financial resources this should absolutely be the only off-season that the Mets have this type of mentality. You don't pay the prices you pay in New York for the team to act like the Oakland A's or Kansas City Royals, for one year to clean up a mess yes but moving forward it shouldn't happen.
When Andy Martino writes that D.J. Carrasco could be considered for the backend of the rotation and Mike Silva confirms that the idea is at least being considered by finding an incentive in his contract for starts, it doesn't bode well to ease Mets fans concerns or diminish speculation about the financial state of the team.
Just a quick look at Carrasco's splits compared to Bonser's shows just how desperate an idea it would be to put him in the rotation and that's a far cry from a vote of confidence for Bonser.
Carrasco is 34 y/o he's only made 23 starts (125 innings) in his entire career in which his ERA ballooned from 4.03 to 5.01 and the same could be said of his WHIP going from 1.37 to 1.60. As a reliever his SO/9 and SO/BB are respectively 6.5 and 1.83 but as a starter 4.0 and 0.97. He's made 221 relief appearances (315 innings) and only the 2005 Royals used him as anything more then a spot starter ( 2005- 20 games ).
The 29 y/o Bonser is a disappointing former first round pick ( Giants 2000) who while posting better numbers then Carrasco as a starter isn't saying much. In 60 starts ( 336 innings) he has an ERA of 4.92 and a WHIP of 1.41, SO/9 6.9 and SO/BB 2.42.
I like both signings but not as the fifth starter to begin the season, Bonser would be a nice call-up candidate from Buffalo in the event of an injury in the rotation and Carrasco will be a solid middle reliever who could serve as a long man/ spot starter. But you just can't convince me that "nothing makes sense" either through trade or free agency for the rotation when Boof Bonser has better numbers as a starter then D.J. Carrasco....
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Bonderman has a connection to Depodesta/Ricciardi
Several times we've heard the organization say they may end up with a pitcher no one has discussed or linked to them. Jeff Francis has 4-5 teams interested in him, he's reportedly asking for a 4M one year deal, all while coming off a shoulder injury and posting a 5.00 ERA. Mets have been talking to Chris Young for a month and it's believed he's only looking for a 2M base salary, I'm starting to think Young is a back-up plan with the length they've been talking.
Jeremy Bonderman is still only 27y/o, the once promising young righty hasn't been mentioned at all this winter. After breaking into the majors as a 20 y/o in 2003 he made 28 or more starts in his first five seasons and posted double digits wins in everyone of those seasons except his rookie year.
In 2008 he only made 12 starts before losing the rest of the season to a blood clot in his pitching shoulder (source ESPN) an injury similar to what his then teammate Kenny Rodgers had, which took him approx. a year to come back from, returning in 2009 he made 8 appearances, one start to an ERA of 8.71.
Bonderman claims to be healthy and in 2010 made 29 starts with an 8-10 record and an ERA of 5.53. Last year his goal was to show he could stay healthy, which he did and this year he wants to improve his numbers. Overall in eight seasons he has an ERA of 4.89, WHIP 1.40 and a record of 67-77 in 193 starts.
There is a connection to the organization, Bonderman was drafted with the overall 26th pick as a junior in high school by the Oakland A's in 2001. While Alderson had already moved to the commissioner's office, both Ricciardi and Depodesta were assistant GMs in Oakland during that draft. He only stayed with the A's for one year being traded in a three team deal between the A's, Yankees and Tigers ( big names in the deal were Jeff Weaver and Ted Lilly), Ricciardi was already gone as the GM in Toronto but Depodesta had to be involved in the trade as he didn't leave Oakland until 2004. Ricciardi almost to a fault as the GM of the Blue jays had a habit of reacquiring players he drafted or played for the A's when he was there.
In 2002 as a 19y/o he pitched for Oakland's A+ team in Modesta, in which he made 25 starts with a 3.61 ERA and a 1.27 WHIP.
Jeremy Bonderman is still only 27y/o, the once promising young righty hasn't been mentioned at all this winter. After breaking into the majors as a 20 y/o in 2003 he made 28 or more starts in his first five seasons and posted double digits wins in everyone of those seasons except his rookie year.
In 2008 he only made 12 starts before losing the rest of the season to a blood clot in his pitching shoulder (source ESPN) an injury similar to what his then teammate Kenny Rodgers had, which took him approx. a year to come back from, returning in 2009 he made 8 appearances, one start to an ERA of 8.71.
Bonderman claims to be healthy and in 2010 made 29 starts with an 8-10 record and an ERA of 5.53. Last year his goal was to show he could stay healthy, which he did and this year he wants to improve his numbers. Overall in eight seasons he has an ERA of 4.89, WHIP 1.40 and a record of 67-77 in 193 starts.
There is a connection to the organization, Bonderman was drafted with the overall 26th pick as a junior in high school by the Oakland A's in 2001. While Alderson had already moved to the commissioner's office, both Ricciardi and Depodesta were assistant GMs in Oakland during that draft. He only stayed with the A's for one year being traded in a three team deal between the A's, Yankees and Tigers ( big names in the deal were Jeff Weaver and Ted Lilly), Ricciardi was already gone as the GM in Toronto but Depodesta had to be involved in the trade as he didn't leave Oakland until 2004. Ricciardi almost to a fault as the GM of the Blue jays had a habit of reacquiring players he drafted or played for the A's when he was there.
In 2002 as a 19y/o he pitched for Oakland's A+ team in Modesta, in which he made 25 starts with a 3.61 ERA and a 1.27 WHIP.
"You can't be picky when you're trying to prove everybody that you can still do it," he said. "I proved I'm healthy, but it's a matter of being more consistent. I have had games I've dominated and games like [Saturday]." source ESPN
Did Francis tire or was he toast...
I've been on record as saying I'd take a chance on either Chris Young or Jeff Francis, there have been reports that the Mets prefer Young to Francis. I'm not sure if that's based on talent or price alone, not only is Francis being pursued by multiple teams but he is also reportedly asking for more then Young.
I always thought Francis would be the better option, why; his numbers were produced in a very tough park ( Colorado) while Young's were in pitcher friendly Petco park. Young's success is based on deception from his height and a funky delivery, but if he losing even a little velocity that may allow hitters to catch up and I'm always concerned that hitters will figure out deceptiveness. Also Young has lost more time over the past three seasons then Francis, despite Francis losing an entire season. Finally I admit I always lean towards the lefties over the righties..
Jerry Crasnick of ESPN tweeted about Francis this morning in which he explained that the reason Francis ERA was 5.00 it was because he tired after coming back from injury. Initially that confirmed my convictions for Francis, however; I decided to take a look at his splits, expecting to see a late season decline.
Francis came back in May in which he made three starts with an ERA of 2.89, before looking further into Francis' this should stand as a warning about Young, many have boasted about Young's 0.90 ERA in his four starts in 2010. It's too small a sample pool to consider Young the superior candidate, maybe Young continues to thrive or begins to struggle like Francis after the initial success.
In June Francis made six starts in which he averaged 5.2 innings per start ( 35.1 innings) to an ERA of 5.60, his best month was July in which he made five starts and again averaged 5.1 innings per start ( 27 innings) to an ERA of 4.00. Then in August he made only two starts ( 11.2 innings) with a 5.40 ERA and in Sept. he made three starts with one relief appearance that totalled only 11.2 innings with an ERA of 8.40.
We still need to pick up a starting pitcher and unfortunately in the situation we're in, whoever it is will have some warts. I think the Mets need to walk a fine line between not missing out on one of the lower risk guys like Young/Francis while trying to get the best deal possible.
I always thought Francis would be the better option, why; his numbers were produced in a very tough park ( Colorado) while Young's were in pitcher friendly Petco park. Young's success is based on deception from his height and a funky delivery, but if he losing even a little velocity that may allow hitters to catch up and I'm always concerned that hitters will figure out deceptiveness. Also Young has lost more time over the past three seasons then Francis, despite Francis losing an entire season. Finally I admit I always lean towards the lefties over the righties..
Jerry Crasnick of ESPN tweeted about Francis this morning in which he explained that the reason Francis ERA was 5.00 it was because he tired after coming back from injury. Initially that confirmed my convictions for Francis, however; I decided to take a look at his splits, expecting to see a late season decline.
Francis came back in May in which he made three starts with an ERA of 2.89, before looking further into Francis' this should stand as a warning about Young, many have boasted about Young's 0.90 ERA in his four starts in 2010. It's too small a sample pool to consider Young the superior candidate, maybe Young continues to thrive or begins to struggle like Francis after the initial success.
In June Francis made six starts in which he averaged 5.2 innings per start ( 35.1 innings) to an ERA of 5.60, his best month was July in which he made five starts and again averaged 5.1 innings per start ( 27 innings) to an ERA of 4.00. Then in August he made only two starts ( 11.2 innings) with a 5.40 ERA and in Sept. he made three starts with one relief appearance that totalled only 11.2 innings with an ERA of 8.40.
We still need to pick up a starting pitcher and unfortunately in the situation we're in, whoever it is will have some warts. I think the Mets need to walk a fine line between not missing out on one of the lower risk guys like Young/Francis while trying to get the best deal possible.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Duda wont be on the bench ?
This is somewhat of a surprise to me, in my mind I already had Duda penciled in as a power bat off the bench. However, during Adam Rubin's chat today he said that Terry Collins has said Duda will not be on the bench.
I agree with slowing prospects so their skills can better develop but I'm not sure how much Duda will improve, I think he's always only going to be a bat.
Duda reminds me of Adam Dunn and while I'd love to have a bat like that, you always seem to run into trying to figure out where to put them, I wonder if his biggest value could be as a trade chip to an AL team looking for a young DH.
Still even if long term his greatest value is on the market, for this up coming season I'm surprised he's not being considered for the bench, he might be the only imposing bat for the bench.
I agree with slowing prospects so their skills can better develop but I'm not sure how much Duda will improve, I think he's always only going to be a bat.
Duda reminds me of Adam Dunn and while I'd love to have a bat like that, you always seem to run into trying to figure out where to put them, I wonder if his biggest value could be as a trade chip to an AL team looking for a young DH.
Still even if long term his greatest value is on the market, for this up coming season I'm surprised he's not being considered for the bench, he might be the only imposing bat for the bench.
If Bay, Pagan and Beltran are the starters and healthy, Duda is in Buffalo. Terry Collins is on the record saying Duda is not going to be a major league bench player. Bay's contract is not attractive in a trade. Remember, it was backloaded, with a low base salary in the year that already has passed. So the four years, $66 million is skewed toward the part that has yet to expire. source ESPN NY
No pitching for you !!!
Sigh, it's just the mood I'm in, I know; by tomorrow I'll probably be back to looking at who's left and who would fit but right now Andy Martino's tweet certainly put a damper on my Mets out look. First thing I said after reading it was; "well ain't that a great Merry Christmas present".
Funny thing is I just got a nice email reminding that the deadline for my ticket plan was tomorrow. Sorry Mets that ain't happening this year, I'm so gullible that if you had signed a couple players I probably would have caved.
Apparently the Mets haven't even made an offer to Chris Young and we shouldn't expect anything until January...
Funny thing is I just got a nice email reminding that the deadline for my ticket plan was tomorrow. Sorry Mets that ain't happening this year, I'm so gullible that if you had signed a couple players I probably would have caved.
Apparently the Mets haven't even made an offer to Chris Young and we shouldn't expect anything until January...
Adam Rubin summed up frustrating off-season perfectly...
Maybe my mistake is that I truly believe this team can be competitive, no I don't think they can keep up with the Phillies rotation but I don't think the wild card is out of the question.
I appreciate those with the patience to wait and see how this off-season works out and I'm amazed by those willing to throw this season away because they entrust the plan moving forward. I guess I want my cake and eat it as well, I don't see why we can't be competitive this year without jeopardizing the long term plan.
Now before anyone says your just being negative, I'll challenge that claim by asking if I think this team which many have already written off has a chance to be competitive how can I be negative.
Maybe I'm snake bitten after years of inactivity at the trade deadline and failure to fill holes in the off-season, I love this front off that was assembled and I think it's going to be the best in the league long term but I certainly don't understand the start their getting off to.
I've never expected any large moves unless they decided to make a trade but as far as free agency I expected them to do just as they said they would do and even agree with the concept, which was to hope the existing players rebound and then surround them with 5-6 well picked role players.
My frustration comes, not purely from the lack of inactivity but the perception that it's not about picking the right players and more about getting the right price, it seems like those holes will be filled with the leftovers that come at the cheapest price and not the right players to give them the best chance to compete.
Over the last week several players have signed who would definitely be good fits for this team at very reasonable prices but it appears the Mets are holding out for guys willing to take next to nothing.
I truly want to believe in this front office and I hope they end up surprising me, but right now I'm frustrated and today Adam Rubin of ESPN NY summed up how I'm feeling perfectly.
I appreciate those with the patience to wait and see how this off-season works out and I'm amazed by those willing to throw this season away because they entrust the plan moving forward. I guess I want my cake and eat it as well, I don't see why we can't be competitive this year without jeopardizing the long term plan.
Now before anyone says your just being negative, I'll challenge that claim by asking if I think this team which many have already written off has a chance to be competitive how can I be negative.
Maybe I'm snake bitten after years of inactivity at the trade deadline and failure to fill holes in the off-season, I love this front off that was assembled and I think it's going to be the best in the league long term but I certainly don't understand the start their getting off to.
I've never expected any large moves unless they decided to make a trade but as far as free agency I expected them to do just as they said they would do and even agree with the concept, which was to hope the existing players rebound and then surround them with 5-6 well picked role players.
My frustration comes, not purely from the lack of inactivity but the perception that it's not about picking the right players and more about getting the right price, it seems like those holes will be filled with the leftovers that come at the cheapest price and not the right players to give them the best chance to compete.
Over the last week several players have signed who would definitely be good fits for this team at very reasonable prices but it appears the Mets are holding out for guys willing to take next to nothing.
I truly want to believe in this front office and I hope they end up surprising me, but right now I'm frustrated and today Adam Rubin of ESPN NY summed up how I'm feeling perfectly.
I applaud the Mets for having discipline for a change. The one thing I dislike about this offseason is that the Mets have gone from wild spending to no spending. Clearly, you could spend marginally more and field a competitive pitching staff for 2011 without compromising future flexibility. Either the Wilpons have really clamped down on Alderson's ability to spend, or the new GM vastly underestimates how bad the pitcihng could be next season. I have to imagine it's the former, but I don't know for sure. source ESPN NY
Looking at the injuries of the three starters; Young, Garcia, Francis...
We've all read and most of the Mets blogosphere has covered the Mets interest, but waiting for the price to drop on Freddy Garcia, Chris Young and Jeff Francis ( source Daily News). Here's a deeper look at what they've done and where they are with their injuries...
Freddy Garcia RHP 35y/o, record 133-87, ERA 4.13, WHIP 1.29, SO/9 6.5, SO/BB 2.88, H/9 8.8, BB/9 2.8
Chris Young RHP 31y/o, record 48-34, ERA 3.80, WHIP 1.20, SO/9 7.8, SO/BB 2.28, H/9 8.8, BB/9 3.5
Jeff Francis LHP 29y/o, record 59-50, ERA 4.77, WHIP 1.42, SO/9 6.1, SO/BB 2.10, H/9 9.9, BB/9 2.9
In Garcia's case he had been considered a workhorse since 1999 through 2006 he made 33 or more starts in every season except 2000 when he made 20 starts. But from 2007-2009 he only made 23 starts in three seasons, Last year he came back to make 28 starts with a 12-6 record and a 4.46 ERA for the White Sox.
Young made 30 or more starts for three seasons ( 2005-2007) before he started breaking down, in 2008 he ended the season on the DL and only made 18 starts. In 2009 he ended up injured again only making 14 starts and that injured cost him most of 2010. Young came back in Sept. of 2010 in which he made 4 starts with a record of 2-0 and an ERA of 0.90.
Finally Frances also made at least 32 starts for three seasons straight (2006-2007), he started having arm issues in 2008 and only made 24 starts with a 4-10 record, 5.01 ERA. He missed all of 2009 and returned in 2010, making 19 starts with a 5.00 ERA.
All three pitchers lost parts of three years due to pitching shoulder/arm injuries and all three came back by the end of the 2010 season. Garcia is the furthest removed from his injury but on Sept. 1st, 2010 he came out of a game after 4 innings due to a stiff lower back ( source Chicago breaking news). Francis came back before Young but the success wasn't there last season, still Francis swears he's feeling good ( source ESPN). Young only made 4 starts in 2010 but was lights out, was he getting by on his deceptive delivery in a small sample pool or is he as healthy as he says ( source San Diego Union-Tribune).
Freddy Garcia RHP 35y/o, record 133-87, ERA 4.13, WHIP 1.29, SO/9 6.5, SO/BB 2.88, H/9 8.8, BB/9 2.8
Chris Young RHP 31y/o, record 48-34, ERA 3.80, WHIP 1.20, SO/9 7.8, SO/BB 2.28, H/9 8.8, BB/9 3.5
Jeff Francis LHP 29y/o, record 59-50, ERA 4.77, WHIP 1.42, SO/9 6.1, SO/BB 2.10, H/9 9.9, BB/9 2.9
In Garcia's case he had been considered a workhorse since 1999 through 2006 he made 33 or more starts in every season except 2000 when he made 20 starts. But from 2007-2009 he only made 23 starts in three seasons, Last year he came back to make 28 starts with a 12-6 record and a 4.46 ERA for the White Sox.
Young made 30 or more starts for three seasons ( 2005-2007) before he started breaking down, in 2008 he ended the season on the DL and only made 18 starts. In 2009 he ended up injured again only making 14 starts and that injured cost him most of 2010. Young came back in Sept. of 2010 in which he made 4 starts with a record of 2-0 and an ERA of 0.90.
Finally Frances also made at least 32 starts for three seasons straight (2006-2007), he started having arm issues in 2008 and only made 24 starts with a 4-10 record, 5.01 ERA. He missed all of 2009 and returned in 2010, making 19 starts with a 5.00 ERA.
All three pitchers lost parts of three years due to pitching shoulder/arm injuries and all three came back by the end of the 2010 season. Garcia is the furthest removed from his injury but on Sept. 1st, 2010 he came out of a game after 4 innings due to a stiff lower back ( source Chicago breaking news). Francis came back before Young but the success wasn't there last season, still Francis swears he's feeling good ( source ESPN). Young only made 4 starts in 2010 but was lights out, was he getting by on his deceptive delivery in a small sample pool or is he as healthy as he says ( source San Diego Union-Tribune).
The Angels and Mets seem like a fit to me...
It's been widely reported that the Red Sox worked very hard during the winter meetings on a trade for Carlos Beltran ( source Metsblog), the thought now is that Beltran was their back-up plan if they lost out on Carl Crawford. My thought at the time and still is, that if the Mets allowed the Sox to work that hard then they were really willing to move him.
If I wanted to move Beltran especially for pitching, the team I would call was the Anaheim Angels, there are several reasons why I would target the Angels as trade partners.
Prior to 2010 the Angels had finished in first place in five of the last six seasons, the only seasons they didn't finish first was a second place in 2006. Finishing in third place this past seasons was a culture shock to the Angels and the owner vowed at the end of the season to spend whatever it took to get them back to the playoffs. But after whiffing on Werth and Crawford the only lethal hitter left on the market is Adrian Beltre who is a Boras client and while there are reports that the Angels have made a significant offer (source Yahoo.com), I'm sure Boras is licking his chops at the idea of a team desperate for offense with no leverage.
The Angels currently have a rookie, Peter Bourjos listed as the starting center fielder, in 53 games last year he hit .204. Anaheim is currently rumored to be looking at Scott Podsednik (source Rotoworld) the 34 y/o hit .260 in the second half after being traded to the Dodgers but is a lifetime .297 hitter, however; if you need power Podsednik can't provide it.
There were rumors earlier this winter that the Angels were shopping Scott Kazmir who is owed 14M for 2010 then becomes a free agent, but if the Mets were looking towards shedding salary and the Angels were willing to take on most of Beltran's salary, the Angels top prospect list is full of pitchers ( source Minor league Ball).
So you have a team in need of an offensive player and center fielder, along with another team in need of pitching and looking to rid itself of the past admistrations contracts, to me it sounds like the Angels and Mets are a perfect match.
If I wanted to move Beltran especially for pitching, the team I would call was the Anaheim Angels, there are several reasons why I would target the Angels as trade partners.
Prior to 2010 the Angels had finished in first place in five of the last six seasons, the only seasons they didn't finish first was a second place in 2006. Finishing in third place this past seasons was a culture shock to the Angels and the owner vowed at the end of the season to spend whatever it took to get them back to the playoffs. But after whiffing on Werth and Crawford the only lethal hitter left on the market is Adrian Beltre who is a Boras client and while there are reports that the Angels have made a significant offer (source Yahoo.com), I'm sure Boras is licking his chops at the idea of a team desperate for offense with no leverage.
The Angels currently have a rookie, Peter Bourjos listed as the starting center fielder, in 53 games last year he hit .204. Anaheim is currently rumored to be looking at Scott Podsednik (source Rotoworld) the 34 y/o hit .260 in the second half after being traded to the Dodgers but is a lifetime .297 hitter, however; if you need power Podsednik can't provide it.
There were rumors earlier this winter that the Angels were shopping Scott Kazmir who is owed 14M for 2010 then becomes a free agent, but if the Mets were looking towards shedding salary and the Angels were willing to take on most of Beltran's salary, the Angels top prospect list is full of pitchers ( source Minor league Ball).
So you have a team in need of an offensive player and center fielder, along with another team in need of pitching and looking to rid itself of the past admistrations contracts, to me it sounds like the Angels and Mets are a perfect match.
The Angels never should have allowed themselves to be cornered like this. They should have been more resolute at the winter meetings, telling Boras, “We’re aggressively pursuing Crawford. Here is our offer on Beltre. Take it, or we’re gone.” source Fox sports
Monday, December 20, 2010
With several players signing what exactly are the Mets looking for...
These are the type of guys I don't understand why they're passing on, I've said all along that I understand the Alderson regime's stance on this off-season. I have no problem with giving one year deals and spending very little, so that next off-season they can really build this team the way they want.
It's true I wish they were more willing to spend more like 20M then 10M this off-season but that's because I really think this team could have a fighters chance at the wild card if everyone comes back and they pick up a few good players.
Now I don't want anyone to think this is some sort of overreaction, there are plenty of players left who could fill out this roster at a reasonable price but I can't deny that I'm growing concerned. Why, because there are several players who would have been excellent fits, that the Mets haven't even been linked to prior to their signing elsewhere.
Bill Hall could have played anywhere on the field except catcher and relief pitch in a 17 inning emergency. Hall signed a one year 3M deal. If you say 3M is just too much on a bench player for the Mets in their current situation, Hall would fill two holes backup SS/2B and 4th OF while filling out the rest of the bench with in-house candidates.
But forgetting about Hall, today two 4th OF candidates have signed one year deals for less then 1.5M. Both Rick Ankiel ( Nats 1.5M plus incentives) and Austin Kearns ( Indians 1.3M) can play all three OF positions and have had some success offensively.
Neither may have been the answer and in fact some of the players who are in-house options might have beaten out those players, but at the cost of bringing them to spring training and cutting them, would have been well worth it. Pridie, FMart, and Duda all have issues that make them less then locks to make the team.
When there's several players who seem to fit what they need and are within the Mets cost parameters ( one year/cheap) and the Mets aren't even known to have shown any interest, it begs to ask; what; if anything are the Mets looking for....
It's true I wish they were more willing to spend more like 20M then 10M this off-season but that's because I really think this team could have a fighters chance at the wild card if everyone comes back and they pick up a few good players.
Now I don't want anyone to think this is some sort of overreaction, there are plenty of players left who could fill out this roster at a reasonable price but I can't deny that I'm growing concerned. Why, because there are several players who would have been excellent fits, that the Mets haven't even been linked to prior to their signing elsewhere.
Bill Hall could have played anywhere on the field except catcher and relief pitch in a 17 inning emergency. Hall signed a one year 3M deal. If you say 3M is just too much on a bench player for the Mets in their current situation, Hall would fill two holes backup SS/2B and 4th OF while filling out the rest of the bench with in-house candidates.
But forgetting about Hall, today two 4th OF candidates have signed one year deals for less then 1.5M. Both Rick Ankiel ( Nats 1.5M plus incentives) and Austin Kearns ( Indians 1.3M) can play all three OF positions and have had some success offensively.
Neither may have been the answer and in fact some of the players who are in-house options might have beaten out those players, but at the cost of bringing them to spring training and cutting them, would have been well worth it. Pridie, FMart, and Duda all have issues that make them less then locks to make the team.
When there's several players who seem to fit what they need and are within the Mets cost parameters ( one year/cheap) and the Mets aren't even known to have shown any interest, it begs to ask; what; if anything are the Mets looking for....
A few great interviews; bloggers, Roberts, Pridie, Ricciardi
While there might not be much news out there right now there have been several great interviews conducted by my fellow bloggers.
It's not the most comfortable position for me (being the one typed about instead of being the typer) , but John Strubel did an excellent job on an inside look at why some of us bloggers do what we do. John interviewed Joe Janish, Chris McShane, Kerel Cooper and myself. Go here for John's piece.
Rusty over at Real Dirty Mets blog got a great interview with my favorite WFAN personality, Evan Roberts. Working out of a car 12 hours a day I listen to the WFAN a lot, I see it as entertainment not information and as long as I keep that perspective it makes the day go by quicker. There are some I enjoy more then others, but as long as I remember that some are there to tweak a certain fan group for ratings and aren't experts or the majority opinion I don't find myself getting frustrated listening. Roberts is one of the few I could see taking in a game with, having a beer and talking rational baseball.
Joe Janish my fellow interviewee for John has a very insightful piece on a Blue Jays blogger about J.P. Ricciardi. Based on the interview it sounds like in the future we'll have a few David Eckstein types and Lefties who throw sinker/two seam fast balls. Check out Joe's interview at Mets Today.
Finally at Amazin Ave Rob Castellano has an interview with 4th outfield candidate Jason Pridie. Prior to his injury last year I was one of the ones calling for Pridie to be brought up in place of GMJ. He still hasn't proven he can hit or maintain a solid OBP but has great speed and can play all three outfield positions, the Twins and Rays went back and forth over this guy for two years ( two good scouting org.). Not sure if he's anymore then a AAAA Jesus Feliciano type but Obie and Collins got a long look at him last year so they should know what he is. Rob did a great job on his interview as well....
It's not the most comfortable position for me (being the one typed about instead of being the typer) , but John Strubel did an excellent job on an inside look at why some of us bloggers do what we do. John interviewed Joe Janish, Chris McShane, Kerel Cooper and myself. Go here for John's piece.
Rusty over at Real Dirty Mets blog got a great interview with my favorite WFAN personality, Evan Roberts. Working out of a car 12 hours a day I listen to the WFAN a lot, I see it as entertainment not information and as long as I keep that perspective it makes the day go by quicker. There are some I enjoy more then others, but as long as I remember that some are there to tweak a certain fan group for ratings and aren't experts or the majority opinion I don't find myself getting frustrated listening. Roberts is one of the few I could see taking in a game with, having a beer and talking rational baseball.
Joe Janish my fellow interviewee for John has a very insightful piece on a Blue Jays blogger about J.P. Ricciardi. Based on the interview it sounds like in the future we'll have a few David Eckstein types and Lefties who throw sinker/two seam fast balls. Check out Joe's interview at Mets Today.
Finally at Amazin Ave Rob Castellano has an interview with 4th outfield candidate Jason Pridie. Prior to his injury last year I was one of the ones calling for Pridie to be brought up in place of GMJ. He still hasn't proven he can hit or maintain a solid OBP but has great speed and can play all three outfield positions, the Twins and Rays went back and forth over this guy for two years ( two good scouting org.). Not sure if he's anymore then a AAAA Jesus Feliciano type but Obie and Collins got a long look at him last year so they should know what he is. Rob did a great job on his interview as well....
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Are the Mets being too frugal...
I think most of us would agree with the plan to not sign players to multiple year deals and to get as much money off the books as possible for next off season, so that this club can truly be built by the new regime.
But that kinda leaves this seasons' team in no-mans land, it's not a true rebuilding phase or they would have sold those core players with value for prospects and they're not going for it by spending like the Red Sox did this winter.
Now I'm not saying their misleading at all, in fact I think this is the most up front the organization has been since Frank Cashen, but I think they're being too frugal which is leading to more fan frustration. I could live with this year being a "lets see what they have year" with a few minor tweaks, my frustration and what I think is other Mets fans frustration, at least the ones I have spoken to, is just how minor the tweaks are...
Many have said the Mets only have about 10M to spend and Sandy has said they were basically keeping the budget at about 130M. Keeping such a tight budget has resulted in a lot of inactivity because they're trying to get players as cheap as possible, which is leading to more fan frustration then was already there.
Without making multi-year deals if the Mets allowed themselves just 10M extra dollars to spend on this years free agent pool, I think it would significantly reduce the fan frustration level and give hope to this season, which would improve ticket sales. For a multi-billion dollar organization 10M should be a drop in the bucket, if Madoff is the answer to this then stop saying that it has had no impact on the Mets operations.
What makes me think that just 10M would make that much difference, the biggest reason is that the team could then sign two reclamation project starters in case one broke down. So here's what I think 20M instead of 10M would do for the roster, now I rounded my numbers leaving wiggle room but 150M I don't think is too much to ask a large market team with it's own network and corporate sponsorship to spend even in a down ticket sales year.
3M already spent on Paulino and Carrasco
2M LOOGY- Mahay, Biemel, Ohman,Tankersley
1M backup middle infielder Willy Aybar, Willie Bloomquist
3-4M Set-up Man- Chad Qualls, Jon Rauch, Manny Corpas
( someone who takes a Wheeler type deal)
2M 4th OF Reed Johnson, Fred Lewis, Rick Ankiel, Willy Harris
4M- Jeff Francis
4M- Chris Young
But that kinda leaves this seasons' team in no-mans land, it's not a true rebuilding phase or they would have sold those core players with value for prospects and they're not going for it by spending like the Red Sox did this winter.
Now I'm not saying their misleading at all, in fact I think this is the most up front the organization has been since Frank Cashen, but I think they're being too frugal which is leading to more fan frustration. I could live with this year being a "lets see what they have year" with a few minor tweaks, my frustration and what I think is other Mets fans frustration, at least the ones I have spoken to, is just how minor the tweaks are...
“It’s a little frustrating,” said Chris Imbriaco, 33, of Hamilton, N.J. “But if you’re going to give huge contracts, give them to the right people. It’s going to take them a good year or two to clean up Minaya’s mess.” source NY Times
Many have said the Mets only have about 10M to spend and Sandy has said they were basically keeping the budget at about 130M. Keeping such a tight budget has resulted in a lot of inactivity because they're trying to get players as cheap as possible, which is leading to more fan frustration then was already there.
Without making multi-year deals if the Mets allowed themselves just 10M extra dollars to spend on this years free agent pool, I think it would significantly reduce the fan frustration level and give hope to this season, which would improve ticket sales. For a multi-billion dollar organization 10M should be a drop in the bucket, if Madoff is the answer to this then stop saying that it has had no impact on the Mets operations.
What makes me think that just 10M would make that much difference, the biggest reason is that the team could then sign two reclamation project starters in case one broke down. So here's what I think 20M instead of 10M would do for the roster, now I rounded my numbers leaving wiggle room but 150M I don't think is too much to ask a large market team with it's own network and corporate sponsorship to spend even in a down ticket sales year.
3M already spent on Paulino and Carrasco
2M LOOGY- Mahay, Biemel, Ohman,Tankersley
1M backup middle infielder Willy Aybar, Willie Bloomquist
3-4M Set-up Man- Chad Qualls, Jon Rauch, Manny Corpas
( someone who takes a Wheeler type deal)
2M 4th OF Reed Johnson, Fred Lewis, Rick Ankiel, Willy Harris
4M- Jeff Francis
4M- Chris Young
Selling Francis on the Mets
We all heard this morning that there are at least four teams in on Jeff Francis and that he should be picking a team soon (source Denver Post).
Earlier this month I posted here that Tracy Ringolsby reported that the Mets were willing to give Francis a major league deal, However; it was then reported that the Mets liked Chris Young better then Francis. Some of that may have been due to asking prices, reportedly Young is looking for a lower base salary then Francis.
If I was choosing and both were within my budget, I would pick Francis over Young. Since 2008 Young has been injured all three seasons with nagging injuries that resulted in a serious one and in all only made 36 starts; Francis went down in 2008, lost all of 2009 and came back in 2010 still making more starts then Young with 43 starts. When you add his slightly better durability to the fact that he's a lefty and produced the numbers he did in Colorado I think Francis is the more appealing pitcher.
We might not be the highest bidder so how would I sell Jeff Francis on the Mets, first I'd say to him if he has health concerns then get the best offer he can and go hide in a smaller market. But if he's truly back to the form where he won 17 games with a 4.22 ERA with the Rockies then the Mets would be the perfect spot to rebuild his value.
The Mets have a pitcher friendly big ball park and are a large market team, even if the team is awful he would have the opportunity to shine and showcase himself for 2011 free agency, while still only 30y/o.
Earlier this month I posted here that Tracy Ringolsby reported that the Mets were willing to give Francis a major league deal, However; it was then reported that the Mets liked Chris Young better then Francis. Some of that may have been due to asking prices, reportedly Young is looking for a lower base salary then Francis.
If I was choosing and both were within my budget, I would pick Francis over Young. Since 2008 Young has been injured all three seasons with nagging injuries that resulted in a serious one and in all only made 36 starts; Francis went down in 2008, lost all of 2009 and came back in 2010 still making more starts then Young with 43 starts. When you add his slightly better durability to the fact that he's a lefty and produced the numbers he did in Colorado I think Francis is the more appealing pitcher.
We might not be the highest bidder so how would I sell Jeff Francis on the Mets, first I'd say to him if he has health concerns then get the best offer he can and go hide in a smaller market. But if he's truly back to the form where he won 17 games with a 4.22 ERA with the Rockies then the Mets would be the perfect spot to rebuild his value.
The Mets have a pitcher friendly big ball park and are a large market team, even if the team is awful he would have the opportunity to shine and showcase himself for 2011 free agency, while still only 30y/o.
Friday, December 17, 2010
To Trade or Sign a starter...
I know patience is a virtue and I have very little patience, often referred to as a bull in a china shop after drinking a few red bulls but I don't understand what's taking them so long to acquire a starting pitcher.
I'll further admit that while it's a new regime, I'm still use to how things have happened in the past. Over the past two off-seasons we went into the winter identifying that we needed starting pitching, at some point during the winter we were supposedly in the driver's seat and could let the market come to us. Waiting the market out in '08' resulted in us watching numerous starters signing elsewhere until we were left with Ollie at 3/36. In '09' we got the mantra that had become Omar's theme song "nothing made sense".
Now I've never expected us to be in on Lee or anyone else that could demand a multi-year deal for that matter. But if the reported prices for Chris Young ( 2M base +) and Jeff Frances ( 4M) are accurate, they would be what I expect the club to do and I say at those prices what the Heck are you waiting for.
Watching several of these starters who could be had on minor league or low commitment deals is frustrating to me, there's no one I've said man I wish we signed him it's more of a matter of inactivity and the mass numbers of players being signed/traded.
There are still plenty of players left and I am hopeful that this new regime will find at least one starter, but I don't think it makes me the most negative fan to have in the back of my head Boof Bosner could be our fifth starter after the last few off-seasons.
Today was the first true rumors to come out since Reed Johnson just after the winter meetings, Mike Puma of the NY Post had sources linking us to possible trades, two of the names he's heard were Matt Garza and Tom Gorzelanny.
As far as Garza I've posted about him in the past, my thought is that if Garza is a legitimate #2 then Mike Pelfrey is a #3 which makes the gap between the two too small to give up what it would cost to acquire him. If Pelfrey was only a #4 level pitcher ( 10 wins- league average or just higher ERA/WHIP) then you give up what it takes to get Garza.
Gorzelanny would be the type of pitcher I would target; decent starter, wouldn't cost much in salary and wouldn't cost too much in trade. I am a bit concerned as to why the Cubs are so aggressively shopping him but want to sign Webb, a guy we reportedly think is too risky. The 27 y/o lefty went 7-9 in 23 starts with a 4.09 ERA, WHIP 1.49, his biggest plus is he's a strikeout pitcher which this staff does not have; 119 SO in 136 innings, 7.9 SO/9.
Later in the day Adam Rubin's source said that a signing was still probably the route the team will take...
I'll further admit that while it's a new regime, I'm still use to how things have happened in the past. Over the past two off-seasons we went into the winter identifying that we needed starting pitching, at some point during the winter we were supposedly in the driver's seat and could let the market come to us. Waiting the market out in '08' resulted in us watching numerous starters signing elsewhere until we were left with Ollie at 3/36. In '09' we got the mantra that had become Omar's theme song "nothing made sense".
Now I've never expected us to be in on Lee or anyone else that could demand a multi-year deal for that matter. But if the reported prices for Chris Young ( 2M base +) and Jeff Frances ( 4M) are accurate, they would be what I expect the club to do and I say at those prices what the Heck are you waiting for.
Watching several of these starters who could be had on minor league or low commitment deals is frustrating to me, there's no one I've said man I wish we signed him it's more of a matter of inactivity and the mass numbers of players being signed/traded.
There are still plenty of players left and I am hopeful that this new regime will find at least one starter, but I don't think it makes me the most negative fan to have in the back of my head Boof Bosner could be our fifth starter after the last few off-seasons.
Today was the first true rumors to come out since Reed Johnson just after the winter meetings, Mike Puma of the NY Post had sources linking us to possible trades, two of the names he's heard were Matt Garza and Tom Gorzelanny.
As far as Garza I've posted about him in the past, my thought is that if Garza is a legitimate #2 then Mike Pelfrey is a #3 which makes the gap between the two too small to give up what it would cost to acquire him. If Pelfrey was only a #4 level pitcher ( 10 wins- league average or just higher ERA/WHIP) then you give up what it takes to get Garza.
Gorzelanny would be the type of pitcher I would target; decent starter, wouldn't cost much in salary and wouldn't cost too much in trade. I am a bit concerned as to why the Cubs are so aggressively shopping him but want to sign Webb, a guy we reportedly think is too risky. The 27 y/o lefty went 7-9 in 23 starts with a 4.09 ERA, WHIP 1.49, his biggest plus is he's a strikeout pitcher which this staff does not have; 119 SO in 136 innings, 7.9 SO/9.
Later in the day Adam Rubin's source said that a signing was still probably the route the team will take...
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Mets in holding pattern over Starting pitching...
In one of the most active free agent markets in recent history, aside from role players the Mets were expected to sit this one out. While it's only thought to be a reclamation project the one move the Mets were expected to make was a starting pitcher. I made this post on who's left on the market and quite frankly the pickings are slim.
Here's the thing, the Mets are choosing to wait the market out and get a pitcher at their price. With the amount of reclamation projects on the market the Mets should be fine taking this approach, however; they do run the risk of losing which ever pitcher they truly want of the group.
Here's the thing, the Mets are choosing to wait the market out and get a pitcher at their price. With the amount of reclamation projects on the market the Mets should be fine taking this approach, however; they do run the risk of losing which ever pitcher they truly want of the group.
Feliciano close to deal with Yankees
While I have concerns over his long term durability due to the over use the past few seasons which I believe was starting to show in the decline of his peripherals, I will miss him. This was a fore-gone-conclusion once he declined arbitration, Perpetual Pedro would not be returning, at least he wont be in the division...
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
LOOGY coming ?
I think in the NL east it's essential for teams to carry a LOOGY in the pen, they can say that a righty can get left handed hitters out but there are just too many good power hitting lefties to risk it. I completed this post on what lefties are available. Terry Collins believes that Sandy Alderson will get him a LOOGY...
John Strubel interviews Mets bloggers...
John Strubel interviewed a few of us Mets bloggers including myself, John did a very nice piece and here's a link to his story....
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Shrinking Starting pitching pool
The market for starting pitchers seems to be shrinking by the minute; I never expected to be involved in the Cliff Lee sweepstakes but I wont deny that it hurts that he ended up in Philly, also signing today was Rich Harden. Justin Mosley signed with the Padres. Carl Pavano, believe it or not is the next hot pitching free agent which takes him out of our price range even if you'd risk bringing him back to NY. Chien-Ming Wang has several suitors as well and Brendan Webb seems to be on the Cubs radar along with being too much of a risk for the Mets. Andy Pettitte will either be a Yankee or retire.
Other signed free agent starters include; Eric Bedard, Kevin Correia, Jorge De La Rosa, Jon Garland, Aaron Harang, Hiroki Kuroda, Vincente Padilla, Ryan Rowland-Smith, Javier Vazquez and Jake Westbook.
The best three none risk available pitchers left are Kevin Millwood, Brad Penny and Jeremy Bonderman, there was a report that Penny's agent checked in with the Mets but was asking too much. There are a few third tier pitchers like Donnie Veal, Bruce Chen and Rodrigo Lopez.
Then there is a group with prior success who also have a history of injuries, this is the group the Mets are believed to be looking into; Kris Benson, Dave Bush, Doug Davis, Justin Duchscherer, Jeff Francis, Freddy Garcia, Mike Hampton, John Maine, Ben Sheets, Jeff Suppan and Chris Young.
This could work in the Mets favor if the surplus of available pitchers out weighs the market for their services, allowing the price to come back to the Mets. However, it could also backfire if the pitchers the Mets would truly like to sign, end up signing elsewhere leaving the Mets stuck with the bottom of the pool...
Other signed free agent starters include; Eric Bedard, Kevin Correia, Jorge De La Rosa, Jon Garland, Aaron Harang, Hiroki Kuroda, Vincente Padilla, Ryan Rowland-Smith, Javier Vazquez and Jake Westbook.
The best three none risk available pitchers left are Kevin Millwood, Brad Penny and Jeremy Bonderman, there was a report that Penny's agent checked in with the Mets but was asking too much. There are a few third tier pitchers like Donnie Veal, Bruce Chen and Rodrigo Lopez.
Then there is a group with prior success who also have a history of injuries, this is the group the Mets are believed to be looking into; Kris Benson, Dave Bush, Doug Davis, Justin Duchscherer, Jeff Francis, Freddy Garcia, Mike Hampton, John Maine, Ben Sheets, Jeff Suppan and Chris Young.
This could work in the Mets favor if the surplus of available pitchers out weighs the market for their services, allowing the price to come back to the Mets. However, it could also backfire if the pitchers the Mets would truly like to sign, end up signing elsewhere leaving the Mets stuck with the bottom of the pool...
Are Young's splits concerning
Dan Martin of the NY Post reports that the Mets are still in discussions with free agent starter Chris Young, aside from some brief rumors about Jeff Frances it seems like Young is the only pitcher the Mets are pursuing. Of course, reality isn't always perception and even if Young is there only target many feel he will end up signing with the Mets.
I was reading over Yahoo's annual top free agent list by Tim Brown and came across the following comments about Young which made me wonder just how bad are his home/away splits.
Home- ERA 3.43, WHIP 1.16, SO/BB 2.68, SO/9 8.2, BB 126, BAA .220
Away- ERA 4.16, WHIP 1.26, SO/BB 1.86, SO/9 7.5, BB 169, BAA .221
I was reading over Yahoo's annual top free agent list by Tim Brown and came across the following comments about Young which made me wonder just how bad are his home/away splits.
If he ends up leaving San Diego, we’ll finally see if his success – and when healthy, he always succeeded – was a Petco Park mirage or legitimate in spite of mediocre raw stuff. Whatever the park, hitters hate facing him. source Yahoo sportsThe Mets do have the appeal for Young of Citi Field being as big as Petco, it does appear that away he pitches more careful which resulted in his walk numbers increasing...
Home- ERA 3.43, WHIP 1.16, SO/BB 2.68, SO/9 8.2, BB 126, BAA .220
Away- ERA 4.16, WHIP 1.26, SO/BB 1.86, SO/9 7.5, BB 169, BAA .221
Mets still looking for a Hispanic coach...
It wasn't too long ago ( 2001-2003ish) that the Mets were accused of not being sensitive enough to the Hispanic players. There are some who believe that the pendulum swung too far the other way during what they would call "the Los Mets" days ( not a characterization I agree with at all). It's unclear what role, if any race and ethnicity will play under this new regime but it appears that they would like diversity. The Mets coaching staff is complete, however; according to Andy Martino the Mets are looking at adding an additional coach who would travel with the team but not suit up, who is of Hispanic ethnicity...
Although interested in Wilson throughout the process, the Mets last week offered the first base job to Moises Alou, which would have given them a Hispanic coach. Alou declined, leaving the Mets without the ethnic mix they desired. It is still possible to hire an unofficial Hispanic coach, who would travel with the Mets, but not be in uniform during games. "We're going to continue to work on it," Collins said of the diversity issue. source Daily news
Monday, December 13, 2010
Ricky Brooks excited to play near home..
The other reliever the Mets selected in the minor league portion of the rule V draft was Ricky Brooks. The 25 y/o right handed reliever is another power arm, originally from North Tonawanda, New York, he spoke with the Niagara Gazette about playing in his home state.
Brooks was selected in the third round of the 2005 draft and spent his entire minor league career in the White Sox system. After several mediocre seasons as a starter in the lower levels of the minors he began to show improvement when he transitioned into a reliever in 2007. His best season was in 2009 in AA when he posted an ERA of 2.68 in 25 appearances, compiling 35 SO in 37 innings. Last year he took a step back, which is probably why he was available his ERA was 4.54 in 24 appearances but still 38 in 41 innings while only walking 10.
Brooks was selected in the third round of the 2005 draft and spent his entire minor league career in the White Sox system. After several mediocre seasons as a starter in the lower levels of the minors he began to show improvement when he transitioned into a reliever in 2007. His best season was in 2009 in AA when he posted an ERA of 2.68 in 25 appearances, compiling 35 SO in 37 innings. Last year he took a step back, which is probably why he was available his ERA was 4.54 in 24 appearances but still 38 in 41 innings while only walking 10.
“I’m super close to home, and with the potential to play for the Mets — that’s huge,” Brooks said. “This has gotten me really motivated for the upcoming spring training. For me and my family, it means so much.” source Niagara Gazette
Mayo on Ronny Morla
The Mets selected Ronny Morla during the minor league portion of the rule five draft, there are no rules to the minor league portion; they can move him between levels and are under no obligation to return him nor does he have to be placed on the 40 man roster.
Morla is a 22 y/o right hander who was in his first year with the Cubs and his first season as a reliever. In A ball Peoria he made 43 appearances, 13 game finishes and 3 saves with a 4.00 ERA / 1.22 WHIP and struck out 86 in 78 innings ( 20 walks).
The first four seasons of his professional career were spent in Oakland's minor league system as a starter. He was part of a trade in 2009 in which Jake Fox and Arron Miles went to Oakland for Morla and few minor leaguer Matt Spencer. At the time of the trade here is what Jonathan Mayo said about Morla...
Morla is a 22 y/o right hander who was in his first year with the Cubs and his first season as a reliever. In A ball Peoria he made 43 appearances, 13 game finishes and 3 saves with a 4.00 ERA / 1.22 WHIP and struck out 86 in 78 innings ( 20 walks).
The first four seasons of his professional career were spent in Oakland's minor league system as a starter. He was part of a trade in 2009 in which Jake Fox and Arron Miles went to Oakland for Morla and few minor leaguer Matt Spencer. At the time of the trade here is what Jonathan Mayo said about Morla...
Morla is a solid mid-range kind of prospect. His numbers in the Northwest League don't look all that exciting, but what probably interested the Cubs is that he was throwing 93-94 mph with his fastball and maintaining it in his starts. He complements the fastball with a good slider. It's the breaking ball that largely was the swing-and-miss pitch that allowed him to rack up over a strikeout per inning with Vancouver. At 21 years old, he's got a good pitcher's body and is projectable. If a team put him in the bullpen exclusively, he could increase the fastball into the mid-90s. source B3: Big, Bald and Beautiful MLB blogs
Jose Reyes- Reds rumor disputed
Well that was quick, John Fay the beat writer on the Reds for Cincinnati Enquirer asked Reds GM Walt Jocketty directly about the rumor...
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Jose Reyes and Reds rumor...
It doesn't take much to connect the dots, Jose Reyes' name has come up so much that even he acknowledged the rumors ( source Metsblog).
Now when you consider that the Reds need a shortstop, lead off hitter and left handed bats, it would make sense to connect the two teams.
But there's a jump between connecting the dots and speculating to having sources that link the two sides or that even your team has discussed the possibility.
A blog called Blog Red Machine posted today that "insiders" said the Reds have talked about what it would take to get Reyes, just to clarify while Blog Red Machine appears to be a legitimate site no other Reds site including the local beat writers have this rumor.
The Reds apparently are using Yonder Alonso a first base prospect as trade bait, which would mean they'd need a third team to work with the Mets. However, the Mets need pitching and the Reds may struggle to work out an extension with Johnny Cueto.
I'm not a break up the core fan but I would also listen to offers regarding anyone, I would also listen to Reyes offers more intently then David Wright. Pagan could hit lead off and you could either go with Tejada at short or sign a cheap veteran to fill the spot. Not only is the Mets best prospect a SS but it's harder to find middle of the order hitters. You would still need to bowl me over with an incredible offer to get me to seriously think about moving him...
Now when you consider that the Reds need a shortstop, lead off hitter and left handed bats, it would make sense to connect the two teams.
But there's a jump between connecting the dots and speculating to having sources that link the two sides or that even your team has discussed the possibility.
A blog called Blog Red Machine posted today that "insiders" said the Reds have talked about what it would take to get Reyes, just to clarify while Blog Red Machine appears to be a legitimate site no other Reds site including the local beat writers have this rumor.
The Reds apparently are using Yonder Alonso a first base prospect as trade bait, which would mean they'd need a third team to work with the Mets. However, the Mets need pitching and the Reds may struggle to work out an extension with Johnny Cueto.
I'm not a break up the core fan but I would also listen to offers regarding anyone, I would also listen to Reyes offers more intently then David Wright. Pagan could hit lead off and you could either go with Tejada at short or sign a cheap veteran to fill the spot. Not only is the Mets best prospect a SS but it's harder to find middle of the order hitters. You would still need to bowl me over with an incredible offer to get me to seriously think about moving him...
Several insiders have reported that the Reds have discussed what it would take to land Jose Reyes from the Mets. To this point, I am unsure how far the talks have progressed and whether the talks are still going on. source Blog Red Machine
Dave Hudgens on Clutch hitting..
There are numerous reports that Dave Hudgens is the front runner to become the Mets hitting coach, nothing will be official until Monday or Tuesday but there would have to be a lot of people wrong for Hudgens not to be on the coaching.
The former infielder became a minor league coach in the Oakland system and was twice the major league hitting coach ( 1999, 2003-2005) and then he moved on to become the Cleveland Field coordinator where he's been the past five seasons.
This could be the biggest acquisition of the off-season, now I don't mean Hudgens specifically I mean the hitting coaches position.
In 2009 the Mets were picked by SI to be the NL representative in the World Series, most of us were surprised by that selection not because we thought they were that bad more that it seemed too lofty, none of would have been surprised by a playoff appearances.
Two disappointing seasons later and many consider us the bums of the league, I still think that same core from 2009 is intact and has the potential to achieve much more then they're being given credit for. What has underachieved the last two years, setting aside the injuries it's consistently been the offense.
Every team has a weak position and the Mets are no different it's second base, otherwise there are no scubs on the field. Many teams would love to have Wright, Reyes, Bay, Pagan, Beltran and Davis, Thole are young developing players with promise.
What has happened is this team as a whole has struggled in clutch situations, Hudgens who has his own blog;
Swing Away Blog had this to say about clutch situations...
The former infielder became a minor league coach in the Oakland system and was twice the major league hitting coach ( 1999, 2003-2005) and then he moved on to become the Cleveland Field coordinator where he's been the past five seasons.
This could be the biggest acquisition of the off-season, now I don't mean Hudgens specifically I mean the hitting coaches position.
In 2009 the Mets were picked by SI to be the NL representative in the World Series, most of us were surprised by that selection not because we thought they were that bad more that it seemed too lofty, none of would have been surprised by a playoff appearances.
Two disappointing seasons later and many consider us the bums of the league, I still think that same core from 2009 is intact and has the potential to achieve much more then they're being given credit for. What has underachieved the last two years, setting aside the injuries it's consistently been the offense.
Every team has a weak position and the Mets are no different it's second base, otherwise there are no scubs on the field. Many teams would love to have Wright, Reyes, Bay, Pagan, Beltran and Davis, Thole are young developing players with promise.
What has happened is this team as a whole has struggled in clutch situations, Hudgens who has his own blog;
Swing Away Blog had this to say about clutch situations...
What is a pressure situation? In baseball a pressure situation can be any possible turning point in a game, or perhaps any time a player feels an urgency or a necessity to perform in the “right now” as if the game was on the line. Pressure situations rarely announce themselves. Pressure situations can be the bottom of the 9th in the final game of the World Series, or a clutch at bat in the first inning of a Little League game.
Nobody wants to choke in a pressure situation, but the greatest athletes an the greatest competitors have all choked at some point in their lives and/or careers. When athletes choke, people say they have no guts, no courage, and they view the “chokers” as not mentally tough. But, atletes who choke deserve a pat on the back because of their GREAT DESIRE. Desire creates pressure. No desire = no pressure; it is that simple.
Choking-up is trying too hard; it has nothing to do with guts. Athletes who are said to be chokers compete as hard as they can… to the point of self-destruction; they go “over the edge” to the point of losing their emotional control and self-discipline. Great desire and competitiveness are attributes that every elite athlete must have, but strong emotions can easily take control, which is when choking occurs.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Tabata strong in winter ball..
Marcos Tabata is a 24 y/o right handed relief pitcher from Venezuela who has been in the Mets system since 2006. Tabata has never been above A and his numbers are pretty pedestrian; career ERA 4.30 and WHIP 1.38.
I know it's only winter ball, in fact if it wasn't a slow weekend I wouldn't even have noticed this, but while major leaguer Oliver Perez and higher prospects like Robert Carson and Eric Nieson are struggling, Tabata is dealing.
In 19 appearances ( 20.1 innings) Tabata has an ERA of 0.44 and two saves, he's held hitters to a .121 BA while striking out 22 but has also walked 18. When he starts an inning he hasn't allowed a run and batters are hitting .097, with runners on it those numbers gone up slightly ( ERA 0.79/ BAA .143) but the BAs go back down when they're in scoring position ( ERA .096 / BAA .103) basically in 11.1 innings he's allowed one inherited run.
I'm told he has a live arm ( 91-94mph) with a solid curve ball but as evident by the walks there are control issues, at 24 y/o I'm not expecting much but so far in winter ball, nice job...
I know it's only winter ball, in fact if it wasn't a slow weekend I wouldn't even have noticed this, but while major leaguer Oliver Perez and higher prospects like Robert Carson and Eric Nieson are struggling, Tabata is dealing.
In 19 appearances ( 20.1 innings) Tabata has an ERA of 0.44 and two saves, he's held hitters to a .121 BA while striking out 22 but has also walked 18. When he starts an inning he hasn't allowed a run and batters are hitting .097, with runners on it those numbers gone up slightly ( ERA 0.79/ BAA .143) but the BAs go back down when they're in scoring position ( ERA .096 / BAA .103) basically in 11.1 innings he's allowed one inherited run.
I'm told he has a live arm ( 91-94mph) with a solid curve ball but as evident by the walks there are control issues, at 24 y/o I'm not expecting much but so far in winter ball, nice job...
O'Connor posting solid numbers in winter ball
Over 15 players filed for free agency from the Buffalo roster in early November, despite some of contributed to the major league club ( Feliciano, Hessman) and other contributing to a successful year in Buffalo ( Mike Cervenak, Jonathan Malo) the Mets have been slow to turn their attention towards Buffalo.
The one player they quickly resigned was Mike O'Connor, the 30 y/o left handed spent the entire season in Buffalo despite posting solid numbers and having prior major league experience. For the Bison's he appeared in 51 games ( 71 innings) posting a 2.67 ERA and recording six saves.
In winter ball he's made 18 relief appearances in which he's posted a 1.38 ERA and held batters to a BA of .212, 17 SO in 13 innings to only 4 walks. His spilts are against him but I believe that's only due to a small sample pool as he's only faced 4.2 innings of lefties and given up a run.
The one player they quickly resigned was Mike O'Connor, the 30 y/o left handed spent the entire season in Buffalo despite posting solid numbers and having prior major league experience. For the Bison's he appeared in 51 games ( 71 innings) posting a 2.67 ERA and recording six saves.
In winter ball he's made 18 relief appearances in which he's posted a 1.38 ERA and held batters to a BA of .212, 17 SO in 13 innings to only 4 walks. His spilts are against him but I believe that's only due to a small sample pool as he's only faced 4.2 innings of lefties and given up a run.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Ollie could be a LOOGY
The nice thing about being the new GM, is that you can make jokes like saying Jason Werth's contract makes some of ours look good.
Sandy Alderson has no ties to Oliver Perez's contract, he certainly isn't going to find a buyer, so he can either have the organization eat 12M or he can try to salvage something out of him.
I know there are many Mets fans who will be highly upset if he even makes it to spring training, let alone has a shot at making the roster.
But a reasonable approach would be, that if he's on the roster and completely ineffective then become completely upset but if they can find a useful spot for him, from a business point of view I'd expect for them to attempt to recoup some of their money.
Now I definitely had an issue last year with Ollie, Omar allowed ( Jeff said he would have cut him if Omar asked) Ollie to run a muck; letting an ineffective player refuse assignment and then to just sit him on the bench for three weeks at a time is ridiculous.
But once the season was over and a new GM is in place, it becomes an evaluation process in my opinion, the time to cut him was by Omar when he was walking through the clubhouse eating Popsicles.
Now I don't know what level to equate the Mexican League to but his numbers against lefties are very good, he might actually have a shot to be a LOOGY;
He's pitched 8.2 innings against lefty handed hitters ( both as a starter/reliever) in which he has an ERA of 1.04, holding batters to a BA of 1.72, 8 SO, 2 BB, 1 ER and 5 H. source here
Sandy Alderson has no ties to Oliver Perez's contract, he certainly isn't going to find a buyer, so he can either have the organization eat 12M or he can try to salvage something out of him.
I know there are many Mets fans who will be highly upset if he even makes it to spring training, let alone has a shot at making the roster.
But a reasonable approach would be, that if he's on the roster and completely ineffective then become completely upset but if they can find a useful spot for him, from a business point of view I'd expect for them to attempt to recoup some of their money.
Now I definitely had an issue last year with Ollie, Omar allowed ( Jeff said he would have cut him if Omar asked) Ollie to run a muck; letting an ineffective player refuse assignment and then to just sit him on the bench for three weeks at a time is ridiculous.
But once the season was over and a new GM is in place, it becomes an evaluation process in my opinion, the time to cut him was by Omar when he was walking through the clubhouse eating Popsicles.
Now I don't know what level to equate the Mexican League to but his numbers against lefties are very good, he might actually have a shot to be a LOOGY;
He's pitched 8.2 innings against lefty handed hitters ( both as a starter/reliever) in which he has an ERA of 1.04, holding batters to a BA of 1.72, 8 SO, 2 BB, 1 ER and 5 H. source here
Mets interested in Reed Johnson
In 2008 when the Blue Jays were on the verge designating Reed Johnson the Mets were interested in the versatile outfielder, as I documented in this post. The Mets stuck with Angel Pagan who that year only played in 31 games (shoulder) injury) and hit .271 while Reed went to the Cubs hitting .303 in 109 games ( 78 CF/ 26 RF / 6LF). Of course, Pagan went only to prove himself a regular starting outfield in all three spots and in 2008 it was an either/or proposal.
In two seasons (2009-2010) Pagan has played in 230 games in which he's hit .295 with a .345 OBP while Reed, five years older over that same time played in 167 games with a .255 BA and .320 OBP. If your picking between the two the Mets made the right choice but if you can have both then you have excellent defense and offense with good speed.
In two seasons (2009-2010) Pagan has played in 230 games in which he's hit .295 with a .345 OBP while Reed, five years older over that same time played in 167 games with a .255 BA and .320 OBP. If your picking between the two the Mets made the right choice but if you can have both then you have excellent defense and offense with good speed.
Who is the backup shortstop
If Ruben Tejeda is to spend the year developing his offense and gaining more seasoning in the field at AAA ( which I agree with) then the Mets have to consider who on the bench can back-up Jose Reyes.
Even if Reyes was an iron man every player needs a day off at least once a month, after the last two seasons he's much more reliable then he was from 2005-2008.
In-house here's what we have in regards to experience at the SS position; Russ Adams ( 189 games/ 347 MiLB), Luis Hernandez (80 games/ 771 MiLB), Justin Turner (1 game/ 53 MiLB games), Murphy and Emaus have never played an inning at short.
I guess you can use Turner or Emaus for a day off and hope for the best, then if you need a more regular solution you could call up Adams or Hernandez.
But it would be a more prudent to have a true veteran at the position on the roster, now I hate limiting the team flexibility but in the Mets quest to find a serviceable 2B they don't have a true middle infielder on the bench. To regain some of the bench flexibility the team would have to sign a backup SS who could play other positions, unfortunately anyone who fits that description is a weak bat.
So here are the candidates that meet the description;
Bill Hall- 31y/o - .250 BA - every position except catcher
Jerry Hairston Jr.- 34y/o- .254 BA - every position except catcher only 1gm at 1B
Aaron Miles-34y/o- .282 BA- 2B/SS/3B- seven games split between all three OF spots no 1B
Willy Bloomquist- 32y/o- .264 BA- All but catcher
Willy Aybar- 28y/o- .258 BA- 1B/3B/2B only 2gms SS/ no outfield
Nick Punto- 32 y/o- .247 BA- 2B/3B/SS/ 11 gms OF ( 9 gms. CF )
Bobby Crosby- 31y/o- .236 BA- SS/2B/1B/3B 1gm OF
Juan Castro- 38y/o- .238 BA- SS/3B/2B - 7gm. 1B- 3gm OF
Even if Reyes was an iron man every player needs a day off at least once a month, after the last two seasons he's much more reliable then he was from 2005-2008.
In-house here's what we have in regards to experience at the SS position; Russ Adams ( 189 games/ 347 MiLB), Luis Hernandez (80 games/ 771 MiLB), Justin Turner (1 game/ 53 MiLB games), Murphy and Emaus have never played an inning at short.
I guess you can use Turner or Emaus for a day off and hope for the best, then if you need a more regular solution you could call up Adams or Hernandez.
But it would be a more prudent to have a true veteran at the position on the roster, now I hate limiting the team flexibility but in the Mets quest to find a serviceable 2B they don't have a true middle infielder on the bench. To regain some of the bench flexibility the team would have to sign a backup SS who could play other positions, unfortunately anyone who fits that description is a weak bat.
So here are the candidates that meet the description;
Bill Hall- 31y/o - .250 BA - every position except catcher
Jerry Hairston Jr.- 34y/o- .254 BA - every position except catcher only 1gm at 1B
Aaron Miles-34y/o- .282 BA- 2B/SS/3B- seven games split between all three OF spots no 1B
Willy Bloomquist- 32y/o- .264 BA- All but catcher
Willy Aybar- 28y/o- .258 BA- 1B/3B/2B only 2gms SS/ no outfield
Nick Punto- 32 y/o- .247 BA- 2B/3B/SS/ 11 gms OF ( 9 gms. CF )
Bobby Crosby- 31y/o- .236 BA- SS/2B/1B/3B 1gm OF
Juan Castro- 38y/o- .238 BA- SS/3B/2B - 7gm. 1B- 3gm OF
A closer look at the LOOGY market
Especially in the national league east with so many power hitting lefties I think it's essential to carry a LOOGY in the bullpen, no matter how good a righty is against lefties I still think there are certain situation that it's a must match-up.
Our best in-house option for the role of left handed specialist is Pat Misch, no I doubt if Ollie will be any less a mess this year and the three lefties in the minors are either unimpressive or not ready ( Carson, Nieson, Antonini ), unless you want to roll the dice on O'Connor.
Pat Misch over his career has made 64 relief appearances with an ERA 2.67, left handed batters hit .289 and he had a 2.38 BB/SO ratio against lefties. I'm not that confident in turning those situations over to any of the in-house candidates so here's a closer look at the LOOGY market.
Scott Downs is the best lefty reliever but he's a type A player, the Mets wont touch him.
Pedro Feliciano will get a multi year deal taking him out of the Mets mix.
Scott Schoeneweis didn't do well in NY and I don't think they'll try it again.
Then there is the journeymen who seem to be with a new club every year, most of these guys despite their age are effective as LOOGY. Below is their age, appearances, 2010 LHB BA and BB/SO ratio and then overall 2010 ERA/WHIP. Mahay is coming off short season; for his age Rhodes numbers are sick; Hendrickson is awful; Beimel, Byrdak, Romero, Ohman all have solid numbers.
Joe Beimel (34) 71appearances- LHB .221- BB/SO 2.14- ERA 3.40- WHIP 1.47
Ron Mahay (40) 41 appearances -LHB .219 - BB/SO 6.00- ERA 3.44-WHIP 1.20
Arthur Rhodes (41) 69 appearances -LHB .214- BB/SO 26.00- ERA 2.29- WHIP 1.01
Tim Byrdak (37) 64 appearances -LHB .213 -BB/SO 2.71- ERA 3.49 -WHIP 1.55
Will Ohman (32) 68 appearances -LHB .229 -BB/SO 2.19 -ERA 3.21 -WHIP 1.50
J.C. Romero (35) 60 appearances- LHB .217 -BB/SO 1.82 -ERA 3.68 -WHIP 1.60
Mark Hendrickson (37) 52 appearances- LHB .313 -BB/SO 2.75 -ERA 5.26 -WHIP 1.55
There's only two younger guys in the group, Howell missed all of 2010 and I'm not sure when he's due back, Tankersley could be cheap but he's wild.
J.P. Howell (27) 2009-69 appearances- LHB .280- BB/SO 1.73- ERA 2.84 -WHIP 1.20
Taylor Tankersley (28) 27 appearances- LHB .200- BB/SO 2.33- ERA 7.50- WHIP 1.58
Then there is the group of lesser known pitchers.
Brian Burres (30) 20 appearances- LHB .308- BB/SO 1.63- ERA 4.99- WHIP 1.55
Randy Choate (35) 85 appearances- LHB .202- BB/SO 4.05 -ERA 4.23 -WHIP 1.29
Randy Flores (35) 58 appearances-LHB .295- BB/SO 1.25- ERA 3.91- WHIP 1.51
Bobby Seay (33) 2009- 67 appearances- LHB .261-BB/SO 2.56- ERA 4.25- WHIP 1.29
Randy Williams (35) 27appearances LHB .327- BB/SO 1.29- ERA 5.40- WHIP 2.32
Our best in-house option for the role of left handed specialist is Pat Misch, no I doubt if Ollie will be any less a mess this year and the three lefties in the minors are either unimpressive or not ready ( Carson, Nieson, Antonini ), unless you want to roll the dice on O'Connor.
Pat Misch over his career has made 64 relief appearances with an ERA 2.67, left handed batters hit .289 and he had a 2.38 BB/SO ratio against lefties. I'm not that confident in turning those situations over to any of the in-house candidates so here's a closer look at the LOOGY market.
Scott Downs is the best lefty reliever but he's a type A player, the Mets wont touch him.
Pedro Feliciano will get a multi year deal taking him out of the Mets mix.
Scott Schoeneweis didn't do well in NY and I don't think they'll try it again.
Then there is the journeymen who seem to be with a new club every year, most of these guys despite their age are effective as LOOGY. Below is their age, appearances, 2010 LHB BA and BB/SO ratio and then overall 2010 ERA/WHIP. Mahay is coming off short season; for his age Rhodes numbers are sick; Hendrickson is awful; Beimel, Byrdak, Romero, Ohman all have solid numbers.
Joe Beimel (34) 71appearances- LHB .221- BB/SO 2.14- ERA 3.40- WHIP 1.47
Ron Mahay (40) 41 appearances -LHB .219 - BB/SO 6.00- ERA 3.44-WHIP 1.20
Arthur Rhodes (41) 69 appearances -LHB .214- BB/SO 26.00- ERA 2.29- WHIP 1.01
Tim Byrdak (37) 64 appearances -LHB .213 -BB/SO 2.71- ERA 3.49 -WHIP 1.55
Will Ohman (32) 68 appearances -LHB .229 -BB/SO 2.19 -ERA 3.21 -WHIP 1.50
J.C. Romero (35) 60 appearances- LHB .217 -BB/SO 1.82 -ERA 3.68 -WHIP 1.60
Mark Hendrickson (37) 52 appearances- LHB .313 -BB/SO 2.75 -ERA 5.26 -WHIP 1.55
There's only two younger guys in the group, Howell missed all of 2010 and I'm not sure when he's due back, Tankersley could be cheap but he's wild.
J.P. Howell (27) 2009-69 appearances- LHB .280- BB/SO 1.73- ERA 2.84 -WHIP 1.20
Taylor Tankersley (28) 27 appearances- LHB .200- BB/SO 2.33- ERA 7.50- WHIP 1.58
Then there is the group of lesser known pitchers.
Brian Burres (30) 20 appearances- LHB .308- BB/SO 1.63- ERA 4.99- WHIP 1.55
Randy Choate (35) 85 appearances- LHB .202- BB/SO 4.05 -ERA 4.23 -WHIP 1.29
Randy Flores (35) 58 appearances-LHB .295- BB/SO 1.25- ERA 3.91- WHIP 1.51
Bobby Seay (33) 2009- 67 appearances- LHB .261-BB/SO 2.56- ERA 4.25- WHIP 1.29
Randy Williams (35) 27appearances LHB .327- BB/SO 1.29- ERA 5.40- WHIP 2.32
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Is jason Pridie enough as the 4th OF
Looking at the roster the positional players appear almost set;
Starters- Josh Thole, Ike Davis, Jose Reyes, David Wright, Jason Bay, Carlos Beltran, Angel Pagan.
2B- I think from Justin Turner, Daniel Murphy, Ruben Tejada, Brad Emaus, Luis Castillo and Luis Hernandez they'll be able to find a starter without signing a free agent.
Bench- Ronny Paulino, Nick Evans (1B/3B/OF/RH), Lucas Duda (1B/OF/LH), Runner up at 2B as the middle infielder and a defensive OF as the true 4th OF.
In regard to 2B I think the starter will be either Justin Turner or Brad Emaus with Luis Hernandez and Ruben Tejada ending up in AAA while Luis Castillo gets cut. I think that Murphy will become the utlity man on the bench. If they think they can keep Emaus all year based on ST, then Turner will be in AAA ( I believe he has options) and if not, Emaus will be sent back with Turner starting.
Earlier today I had a discussion with some Mets fans in regards to the fourth outfielder, my thought is that if there is a limited budget a starting pitcher and LOOGY are much more important then a 4th outfielder.
However, a very good point was made that with Beltran's health the 4th outfielder may play a larger role on this team then in any other year and maybe rotated in as much as a regular player. Now if we can get a player like Fred Lewis at a price that won't prohibit us from filling the other holes in the pitching staff then I'm all for it but if it's one or the other pitching wins.
I think there would be enough offense off the bench with Evans, Murphy and Duda that the 4th OF, especially in Citi field could be a defensive specialist. The Mets are carrying a defensive specialist on the roster who would have options and make league minimum, Jason Pridie.
Pridie was drafted by the Rays straight out of High school in 2002, that same year he was named by Baseball America to the rookie league All-Star team along with naming him the best hitter and tools in the org. In 2005 Baseball America again named him the best defensive outfielder in the Rays system and in that same year the Twins selected him in the rule V draft. The Twins returned him and then got him as a throw in as part of the Garza-Young trade.
There's a great scouting report (here, scroll down to #24) when the Twins grabbed him in 2006 and by 2008 he was in a full blown three way competition for the starting center field job with Carlos Gomez and Denard Span (source Twins Nation). Pridie lost that battle and only came up in 2009 when Span went on the DL with an ear infection, still as late as Feb. 2010 he was slated as the 4th outfielder until the Twins signed J. Jones ( source Twins.com)
Last year he only appeared in 40 games in Buffalo due to injuries in which he hit .280 with a .330 OBP and played CF in every game. Those offensive numbers are pretty consistent with his AAA stats, in four seasons his career average is .278 with a .316 OBP. His biggest problem is that he's a free swinger his SO are consistently double his walks life time throughout the minors his numbers are BB/SO 228/760 in 2,689P. At the time of the claim Joe DeMayo of NYBD did an email interview with a Twins blog and here's what was said...
Starters- Josh Thole, Ike Davis, Jose Reyes, David Wright, Jason Bay, Carlos Beltran, Angel Pagan.
2B- I think from Justin Turner, Daniel Murphy, Ruben Tejada, Brad Emaus, Luis Castillo and Luis Hernandez they'll be able to find a starter without signing a free agent.
Bench- Ronny Paulino, Nick Evans (1B/3B/OF/RH), Lucas Duda (1B/OF/LH), Runner up at 2B as the middle infielder and a defensive OF as the true 4th OF.
In regard to 2B I think the starter will be either Justin Turner or Brad Emaus with Luis Hernandez and Ruben Tejada ending up in AAA while Luis Castillo gets cut. I think that Murphy will become the utlity man on the bench. If they think they can keep Emaus all year based on ST, then Turner will be in AAA ( I believe he has options) and if not, Emaus will be sent back with Turner starting.
Earlier today I had a discussion with some Mets fans in regards to the fourth outfielder, my thought is that if there is a limited budget a starting pitcher and LOOGY are much more important then a 4th outfielder.
However, a very good point was made that with Beltran's health the 4th outfielder may play a larger role on this team then in any other year and maybe rotated in as much as a regular player. Now if we can get a player like Fred Lewis at a price that won't prohibit us from filling the other holes in the pitching staff then I'm all for it but if it's one or the other pitching wins.
I think there would be enough offense off the bench with Evans, Murphy and Duda that the 4th OF, especially in Citi field could be a defensive specialist. The Mets are carrying a defensive specialist on the roster who would have options and make league minimum, Jason Pridie.
Pridie was drafted by the Rays straight out of High school in 2002, that same year he was named by Baseball America to the rookie league All-Star team along with naming him the best hitter and tools in the org. In 2005 Baseball America again named him the best defensive outfielder in the Rays system and in that same year the Twins selected him in the rule V draft. The Twins returned him and then got him as a throw in as part of the Garza-Young trade.
There's a great scouting report (here, scroll down to #24) when the Twins grabbed him in 2006 and by 2008 he was in a full blown three way competition for the starting center field job with Carlos Gomez and Denard Span (source Twins Nation). Pridie lost that battle and only came up in 2009 when Span went on the DL with an ear infection, still as late as Feb. 2010 he was slated as the 4th outfielder until the Twins signed J. Jones ( source Twins.com)
Last year he only appeared in 40 games in Buffalo due to injuries in which he hit .280 with a .330 OBP and played CF in every game. Those offensive numbers are pretty consistent with his AAA stats, in four seasons his career average is .278 with a .316 OBP. His biggest problem is that he's a free swinger his SO are consistently double his walks life time throughout the minors his numbers are BB/SO 228/760 in 2,689P. At the time of the claim Joe DeMayo of NYBD did an email interview with a Twins blog and here's what was said...
“I think Pridie can be a solid 4th or 5th OF option because of his speed and defense. I am confused somewhat that the Twins let him go as they really don’t have anyone right now that could fill that role. Check out those 2007 numbers. he has ability, just swings at everything and strikes out a ton. At the same time, he is no longer that young, so he may be what he is. He does have another option year remaining, so they could send him to AAA for the year too.” source NYBDIf your telling me we can afford Fred Lewis, Chris Young and Ron Mahay then of course I'm all for it, but if it comes down to Mahay or Lewis I want a proven lefty in the pen. As I said before Pridie would be my defensive replacement late in close games or when Beltran needed a day off and Duda, Murphy, Evans would be my pinch hitters. Pridie isn't an ideal fit, I'm looking at this economically, if an outfielder with better plate discipline and solid defense in all three spots is available on the cheap, then of course you take him but with the price of OF these days I'm not sure we're finding one on an invite or little more.
Winter meetings a success for Mets..
If your expectation are lower and you except that this is a transition year then the winter meetings were very productive for the Mets.
None of the players they obtained are going to win them a World Series but what they do is fill holes that if everything breaks right gives them a chance to be a competitive team without effecting the long term goals.
Ronny Paulino is a decent catcher who will be a nice compliment to Josh Thole, while other mediocre catchers are getting two year deal the Mets were able to grab Paulino for 1yr. at 1.3M.
Then they improved the Pen by adding D.J. Carrasco, who got a two year deal but at a cost many relievers would get per year ( 2yrs-2.25M). When you add rule five pick-up, Beato to the mix the Mets have a solid pen from the right side with: K-Rod, Parnell, Iggy, Carrasco, Beato, Acosta and Alvarez.
They also added depth to the middle infield situation by re-signing Russ Adams, who was a candidate to be called up last year and grabbing Emaus in the rule V draft.
If you agree that you can never have enough pitching then Boof Bonser adds to the pitching depth, Bonser has had some degree of success in the rotation and pen. Hopefully, last season was a result of coming back from an injury and Bonser will be a call-up candidate at some point in the year.
Alderson hoped he would bring back 4-5 players from the winter meetings and when you include Dusty Ryan he brought back six players.
None of the players they obtained are going to win them a World Series but what they do is fill holes that if everything breaks right gives them a chance to be a competitive team without effecting the long term goals.
Ronny Paulino is a decent catcher who will be a nice compliment to Josh Thole, while other mediocre catchers are getting two year deal the Mets were able to grab Paulino for 1yr. at 1.3M.
Then they improved the Pen by adding D.J. Carrasco, who got a two year deal but at a cost many relievers would get per year ( 2yrs-2.25M). When you add rule five pick-up, Beato to the mix the Mets have a solid pen from the right side with: K-Rod, Parnell, Iggy, Carrasco, Beato, Acosta and Alvarez.
They also added depth to the middle infield situation by re-signing Russ Adams, who was a candidate to be called up last year and grabbing Emaus in the rule V draft.
If you agree that you can never have enough pitching then Boof Bonser adds to the pitching depth, Bonser has had some degree of success in the rotation and pen. Hopefully, last season was a result of coming back from an injury and Bonser will be a call-up candidate at some point in the year.
Alderson hoped he would bring back 4-5 players from the winter meetings and when you include Dusty Ryan he brought back six players.
Mets did well in the rule V draft..
The Mets picked two of the top candidates during the major league portion of the rule five draft. Both players should be very familiar to the front office; 2B Bradley Emaus was a member of Toronto's farm when J.P. Ricciardi was there and RP Pedro Beato was in Baltimore when Wayne Krivsky was there.
Jonathan Mayo listed both players on his list of players to watch and John Manuel had Pedro Beato listed.
It will be hard to keep one let alone both on the roster all year but this might be the year to do it, Beato saved 16 games after transitioning to a reliever but that was in AA and Emaus could be anything from a utility player to an everyday 2B.
Emaus does make for a very crowded second base and if they are committed to keeping him, then his will impact Turner or Murphy. I see Castillo getting cut in spring training and Tejada being sent down to work on his offense, that left Murphy as the utility man and Turner the starter. With Emaus in the mix one of the two will now end up in AAA with Tejada. Below is Sandy Alderson's quote on Emaus after the selection (source MLBcom)
Mets picked Beato, Brooklyn born in 2005 (pick and follow) but wouldn't give him a 1.1M signing bonus ( over slot) so he ended up in Baltimore. After being a mediocre starter he became a dominant reliever with some closing experience. The pen is so wide open depending on how he handles the pressure of the majors the kid has a shot of sticking around.
Jonathan Mayo listed both players on his list of players to watch and John Manuel had Pedro Beato listed.
It will be hard to keep one let alone both on the roster all year but this might be the year to do it, Beato saved 16 games after transitioning to a reliever but that was in AA and Emaus could be anything from a utility player to an everyday 2B.
Emaus does make for a very crowded second base and if they are committed to keeping him, then his will impact Turner or Murphy. I see Castillo getting cut in spring training and Tejada being sent down to work on his offense, that left Murphy as the utility man and Turner the starter. With Emaus in the mix one of the two will now end up in AAA with Tejada. Below is Sandy Alderson's quote on Emaus after the selection (source MLBcom)
"We're very high on his potential as an everyday player out of the Toronto organization," Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said. "We were very pleased he was there."
Mets picked Beato, Brooklyn born in 2005 (pick and follow) but wouldn't give him a 1.1M signing bonus ( over slot) so he ended up in Baltimore. After being a mediocre starter he became a dominant reliever with some closing experience. The pen is so wide open depending on how he handles the pressure of the majors the kid has a shot of sticking around.
In his first season as a reliever, Beato, also 24, went 4-0 with 16 saves and a 2.11 ERA for Baltimore's Double-A Bowie affiliate. The 6-foot-6, 230-pound right-hander struck out 50 batters and walked 19 in 59 2/3 innings, putting him in a position potentially to contribute to a shallow Mets bullpen. source MLBcom
Mets have talked with Freddy Garcia's reps.
I thought the Mets pulled he trigger too quick on Garcia in 2009, what would have been the harm of keeping him in AAA. Garcia lost three straight seasons where in all he appeared in 23 games, last year was his first healthy season since 2006, he made 28 starts with a record of 12-6 and an ERA of 4.64. Because he's an injury risk he wont cost much but could be a serviceable back end of the rotation starter...
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Mets looking at Okajima as a lefty
Just on SNY Hot Stove in the rumor segment it was reported that the Mets were interested in Hideki Okajima.
The 34y/o lefty hasn't been the same since his rookie year, when he was voted #6 ROY and an All Star with a 2.22 ERA in 66games. Each season his ERA has crept up over his four seasons in the majors and he has had injury issues. Still he has a lifetime 3.06 ERA an made at least 56 appearances per year, the lefty has held LHB to a .214 BA and .320 Slg.
The 34y/o lefty hasn't been the same since his rookie year, when he was voted #6 ROY and an All Star with a 2.22 ERA in 66games. Each season his ERA has crept up over his four seasons in the majors and he has had injury issues. Still he has a lifetime 3.06 ERA an made at least 56 appearances per year, the lefty has held LHB to a .214 BA and .320 Slg.
Young and Mets continue to have interest...
It seems like these two sides have been dancing for quite a long time, hopefully they will eventually tie the knot and get this thing done. I still think even as injured as he's been the last two years, Young would be a solid pick-up for what the Mets can afford...
Mets sign Boof Bonser to a MiLB
The Mets have signed Boof Bosner to a minor league deal I'm sure with an invite to spring training. The 29 y/o right handed pitcher who started his career as the #2 behind Johan Santana in Minnesota. In 2008 he started working out of the Minnesota pen but then lost all of 2009 to a shoulder injury. He returned in 2010 splitting time between Boston and Oakland, coming back from injury he made 14 relief appearances with an ERA of 6.12.
His best season was 2007 where he started 30 games going 8-12 with a 5.10 ERA.
His best season was 2007 where he started 30 games going 8-12 with a 5.10 ERA.
Mets need a LOOGY
I think the Mets bullpen is now pretty solid from the right side with Krod, Parnell, Iggy, D.J. and Acosta but I would prefer to have a situational LOOGY and I don't consider Ollie or Misch that guy. I say pick one of Ollie or Misch for mop-up duty and cut/trade/demote the other.
According to Adam Rubin the Mes met with the agency today that represents three free agent left handed relievers...
According to Adam Rubin the Mes met with the agency today that represents three free agent left handed relievers...
The Mets, who lack an established left-handed reliever with Hisanori Takahashi and Pedro Feliciano departing, met with the Beverly Hills Sports Council on Wednesday. Agent Dan Horwits indicated it was just an introductory meeting since the firm represents southpaws Will Ohman, Arthur Rhodes and Brian Fuentes. source ESPN NY
Handling Paulino
Look when you sign a guy for one year and less to 2M, your getting a guy with warts. Whether those warts are injuries, a bad year or reputation, there's more then likely something you know about and are willing to deal with.
In the case of Ronny Paulino it's his reputation, it's said that Paulino rests on his laurels and takes for granted his skills. The good thing is that he has a very good skill set but both in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia his lackadaisical attitude wore thin. In reading about him he sounds like a younger Ramon Castro.
Andy Martino was a beat writer in Philadelphia the spring Paulino was in camp and says that Charlie Manuel was not happy with him.
David Lennon says Terry Collins has been briefed on how to handle Paulino and the team doesn't seem overly concerned, for a year anyway.
In the case of Ronny Paulino it's his reputation, it's said that Paulino rests on his laurels and takes for granted his skills. The good thing is that he has a very good skill set but both in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia his lackadaisical attitude wore thin. In reading about him he sounds like a younger Ramon Castro.
Andy Martino was a beat writer in Philadelphia the spring Paulino was in camp and says that Charlie Manuel was not happy with him.
David Lennon says Terry Collins has been briefed on how to handle Paulino and the team doesn't seem overly concerned, for a year anyway.
Beltran to Red Sox rumors cont. to swirl
Rumors continue to swirl around the Mets and Red Sox in regards to Carlos Beltran, I would trade Beltran but only for a starting pitcher, which in doing so I would be leaving myself a huge whole in the line-up and right field.
Say the Mets truly only had 5M for this off-season, after signing Carrasco and Paulino there's about 3M left. Then they sign Young (2M+incentives), Tankersely as a LOOGY (1M) and Qualls as the set-up man (2M). They would already be 2M over budget which would have to come out of the salary saved from Beltran.
Then you fill 2B from within, my guess would be Castillo cut, Hernandez and Tejada in AAA, Turner becomes the starter and Murphy a super utility player.
Jason Pridie would be penciled in as the 4th OF a position he was slated for in Minny in 2010 before a roster crunch landed him on waivers, he fits the mold of a speedy, defensive replacement in all three OF spots.
So say the Mets picked up the deferred money of Beltran's contract (5M) and Boston doesn't require any more because their sending Dice K's 10M, that leaves the Mets 3M but they were budgetarily in the hole for 2M.
That would leave them with 1M to replace Beltran in RF and his bat in the line-up, the question becomes does a 1M RF with Young and Dice K in the rotation make this a better team.
As far as replacing Beltran with someone from the farm, lets not forget the organization said it was going to slow it's prospects down. Besides Duda is a DH especially considering RF in Citi, Kirk is a 4th OF when he's ready and FMart is too injury prone to rely on...
Say the Mets truly only had 5M for this off-season, after signing Carrasco and Paulino there's about 3M left. Then they sign Young (2M+incentives), Tankersely as a LOOGY (1M) and Qualls as the set-up man (2M). They would already be 2M over budget which would have to come out of the salary saved from Beltran.
Then you fill 2B from within, my guess would be Castillo cut, Hernandez and Tejada in AAA, Turner becomes the starter and Murphy a super utility player.
Jason Pridie would be penciled in as the 4th OF a position he was slated for in Minny in 2010 before a roster crunch landed him on waivers, he fits the mold of a speedy, defensive replacement in all three OF spots.
So say the Mets picked up the deferred money of Beltran's contract (5M) and Boston doesn't require any more because their sending Dice K's 10M, that leaves the Mets 3M but they were budgetarily in the hole for 2M.
That would leave them with 1M to replace Beltran in RF and his bat in the line-up, the question becomes does a 1M RF with Young and Dice K in the rotation make this a better team.
As far as replacing Beltran with someone from the farm, lets not forget the organization said it was going to slow it's prospects down. Besides Duda is a DH especially considering RF in Citi, Kirk is a 4th OF when he's ready and FMart is too injury prone to rely on...
Starting pitching update...
Here's a rundown of some of the starters rumors, some linked to the Mets while others I'd like to be...
Joel Sherman says the Mets have checked in with Freddy Garcia but it was before the winter meetings and he's seen as a back-up plan.
Joe DeMayo of St Lucie to Flushing has heard Brad Penny's agent checked in with the Mets but that's he's probably too expensive, Penny made 7M plus incentives last year.
According Jon Heyman of SI the Mets are favoring Chris Young over Jeff Frances.
Reportedly the Rays have made Matt Garza available and the Cubs have done the same with Tom Gorzellany.
Joel Sherman says the Mets have checked in with Freddy Garcia but it was before the winter meetings and he's seen as a back-up plan.
Joe DeMayo of St Lucie to Flushing has heard Brad Penny's agent checked in with the Mets but that's he's probably too expensive, Penny made 7M plus incentives last year.
According Jon Heyman of SI the Mets are favoring Chris Young over Jeff Frances.
Reportedly the Rays have made Matt Garza available and the Cubs have done the same with Tom Gorzellany.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Coaching staff updates..
Yesterday it was reported that the Mets want Moises Alou to join the staff as the 1B coach and were waiting for his decision. Today Adam Rubin reported Alou is no longer being considered, it's unclear whether he withdrew his name or the Mets level of interest wasn't what it was reported to be.
Rubin also reported that Larry Bowa will not be part of the staff, Bowa had said he expected the phone to ring if Collins got the job but there might have been some concerns about having too many type A personalities on one staff.
Collins did get one of his old friends in the way of Bullpen coach Jon Debus. Both were long time coaches/managers in the Dodgers organization and Collins hired him as the hitting coach in 2009 for his Orix team. Debus has expereince as a bullpen coach, catching instructor and hitting coach.
Matt at Metsblog reporting on Alderson's afternoon press conference states that the coaching staff could be completed without any further interviews.
The hitting coach is down to three candidates which have all been interviewed; Andy Van Slyke, Donnie Long, and Dave Hudgen.
Rubin also reported that Larry Bowa will not be part of the staff, Bowa had said he expected the phone to ring if Collins got the job but there might have been some concerns about having too many type A personalities on one staff.
Collins did get one of his old friends in the way of Bullpen coach Jon Debus. Both were long time coaches/managers in the Dodgers organization and Collins hired him as the hitting coach in 2009 for his Orix team. Debus has expereince as a bullpen coach, catching instructor and hitting coach.
Matt at Metsblog reporting on Alderson's afternoon press conference states that the coaching staff could be completed without any further interviews.
The hitting coach is down to three candidates which have all been interviewed; Andy Van Slyke, Donnie Long, and Dave Hudgen.
The Mets interviewed Dave Hudgens for the hitting coach position Tuesday afternoon at the Dolphin Hotel, closing out the field. The other two candidates are former Detroit Tigers first base coach Andy Van Slyke and former Pittsburgh Pirates hitting coach Don Long. source ESPN NY
Mets interested in Chad Qualls..
About three hours ago Tracy Ringolsby reported that the Mets were interested in Chad Qualls, I'm not sure if signing Carrasco takes them out of the relief market or if they could sign both.
The 31 y/o right hander would be a solid set-up for a bullpen that doesn't have a true set-up man, the last three years he has compiled 45 saves and until this past season his career ERA was around 3. Splitting time between Arizona and Tampa he had an awful season, losing the closers role and pitching to an ERA of 7.32.
The 31 y/o right hander would be a solid set-up for a bullpen that doesn't have a true set-up man, the last three years he has compiled 45 saves and until this past season his career ERA was around 3. Splitting time between Arizona and Tampa he had an awful season, losing the closers role and pitching to an ERA of 7.32.
Mets sign Paulino & Carrasco
The Mets signed D.J. Carrasco a workhorse right handed reliever to help eat innings, it took a two year deal to get it done but in all it's still only believed to be 2.5MM ( 1.25MM per year).
In Paulino the Mets got a back-up catcher and LHB off the bench while only costing 1.3MM for the year.
What a difference it is to see the organization with a plan that they surgically execute, identifying needs and the value they're willing to commit to filling the hole and then finding someone to meet their needs within the budget.
In Paulino the Mets got a back-up catcher and LHB off the bench while only costing 1.3MM for the year.
What a difference it is to see the organization with a plan that they surgically execute, identifying needs and the value they're willing to commit to filling the hole and then finding someone to meet their needs within the budget.
Cliff Lee update
So i guess the Stimulus package is helping after all. The lowly Nationals are apparently going to offer a deal to Cliff Lee. It seems that the Nationals are trying to make a statement. However the buzz surrounding him today is that some unnamed team has offered him a 7 yr 20-25 million per deal to Lee, yet not believed to be the Yankees. The yankees have offered him a 6 year deal and are not budging from it. Phillies, Yankees, Nationals, Rangers all have interest in the Cy Young winner
Carrasco could get done at the meetings...
It was reported earlier today that the Mets were interested in D.J. Carrasco. Steve Popper tweeted that Carrasco could get done during the winter meetings. He would be a servicable right handed reliever for the bullpen.
Paulino "closing" premature...
Another rumor another dismissal, it seems like the Mets lead the league in false rumors. As we watch the hot stove, most of the time when we hear a team is closing on a player there is an announcement in a few days, with the Mets it's been followed by a dispute of that report.
The latest rumor is Ronny Paulino, earlier today it was reported that the Mets were closing in on a deal for Paulino to be their back-up catcher. Now multiple reports indicate that the Mets are interested in Paulino but aren't close to a deal. Paulino is one of a group of catchers the Mets are interested in...
The latest rumor is Ronny Paulino, earlier today it was reported that the Mets were closing in on a deal for Paulino to be their back-up catcher. Now multiple reports indicate that the Mets are interested in Paulino but aren't close to a deal. Paulino is one of a group of catchers the Mets are interested in...
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