As my fellow Mets fans arise this morning and head to work, they do so knowing the the St. Louis Cardinals have corralled two championships in just six years. They do so knowing that the Mets now haven't managed to sniff one in a full decade. Finally, they do so knowing the the future of the teams franchise player is in question.
At 12:01am Thursday morning Jose Reyes will be able to seek and accept offers from other teams. His camp has made it clear, and it makes perfect sense, that he wants to see whats out there. Reyes has been under team control for more than ten years. Many would contest that the five year, $33.75 million extension he signed in 2007 was a bargain at the time, considering his potential. Now, that his potential (or glimpses of it) have been realized, his next contract will undoubtedly be the most lucrative of his career.
The 2012 New York Mets will look vastly different, and much more depressing if Jose Reyes doesn't stick around this winter. With that said, there are no more blank checks in Flushing, NY. The Mets front office has to maintain a delicate balance between expressing to Jose that they want him back on a fair contract, and flat out negotiating against themselves. Its for that reason that the news this week that the Mets intend to lead with a modest four year deal doesn't surprise me. There really is no reason for the Mets to set the market price because Reyes is not going to sign prior to listening to other offers.
The next thirty days or more will bring with them numerous offers and countless rumors. Philadelphia, Boston, Milwaukee, San Francisco, Miami and maybe even the Yankees will be in the hunt. Whether or not a bidding war ensues or the market fizzles remains to be seen. No one thought Sandy Alderson would be able to fleece the Giants of their top prospect, Zack Wheeler, at the trade deadline in exchange for Carlos Beltran, but it happened. Until that market takes shape, the Mets needn't boost Reyes' free agent value.
Sandy Alderson and the rest of the team's front office will be forced to maintain a delicate balance moving forward. They must illustrate not only the desire to bring Jose back, but also a certain level of flexibility in order to improve upon their initial offer. Should contract negotiations get out of hand or Reyes appear to be intent on signing with the absolute highest bidder, I don't foresee major fan backlash. However, if the Mets appear out of it early or if the process becomes one that insults the average fan's intelligence, it will only exacerbate the problem.
Retaining Reyes at a semi-reasonable contract provides the Mets with both an all-star caliber shortstop and a credible lead off man for the foreseeable future. Failing to do so, despite putting forth their best effort will leave additional holes to fill. Failing to do so while pricing themselves out early and/or clearly handling the situation poorly will not only leave those same holes, but will also leave a sour taste in the mouths of fans that the team will need to see in the ballpark next season if it is to right itself moving forward. These are tricky times in Flushing. The team can certainly win by retaining their race horse, they could lose by coming up just short, or they could stand to lose more than their premiere lead off man should this turn into the public relations nightmare fans have become so unfortunately accustomed to.
When Ozzie Guillen became manager of the Marlins, he discussed Hanley Ramirez moving to shortstop. Ramirez is one of Reyes best friend's and it's believed that the Marlins may try to make a big splash with a new stadium. All of which fueled speculation that the Marlins maybe big bidders for Reyes.
However, Marlins president David Sampson spoke with MLB.com and put to rest any speculation that Hanley is moving...
On Thursday, Marlins president David Samson put to rest speculation that the team is weighing whether to move Ramirez to another position.
"There has been no conversations with that," Samson said. "I suppose if we sign a free-agent first baseman who would only sign with us if he could play shortstop, I guess that is the conversation we'd have with all of our players.
"But Hanley is our starting shortstop."
source MLB.com
The union published an official list of free agents, which included seven Mets from the 2011 roster. Of course, the biggest name on our list is Jose Reyes, the others were all minor role players on a mediocre team so I don't think any of them are significant loses.
Where do I stand on Jose Reyes, I'd like to see him return but not at any cost. At one point I thought five years was my cut off but I've started to lean towards a four year deal, which I don't believe will get it done and am starting to accept the fact that Reyes will be somewhere else next year.
Capuano would be the only other player I'd like to see them make an effort at returning but even that would have to be a one year deal, the others would be invite types for me...
Batista, Miguel NYM Capuano, Chris NYM Hairston, Scott NYM Harris, Willie NYM Isringhausen, Jason NYM Reyes, Jose NYM Young, Chris NYM
source Amazin Stories
Joe Nathan will become a free agent this off-season after the Twins declined to pick-up his 12.5 M option. The all-time Twins save leader and four time All-Star successfully returned from T.J. surgery this season in which he posted a 4.84 ERA and 14 saves in 48 appearances.
Between 2004-2009 Nathan averaged 68 appearances a season with 40 saves and a 2.16 ERA. In his return not only did his ERA balloon to 4.84 but at one point he relinquished the closers role and landed on the DL.
Nathan is a local product, he graduated Pine Bush H.S. and then went on to SUNY Stony Brook. He said he wants to sign somewhere to be the closer and that at 37 y/o wants to go to a team where he has the opportunity to win now. While the Mets need a closer they don't appear to be the win now type team, however; Nathan said he'd consider the Mets and that they were a team he followed when he was young...
"We're definitely not counting any teams out. But obviously, the Mets are going to be on my radar. It's a team I followed growing up around this area. That would be exciting.'' source Newsday
UP DATE: As I was completing this post the Mets made it official Goodwin is the new 1st Base coach.
Reports indicate that the Mets will announce a first base coach on Monday. Adam Rubin believes it could be Tom Goodwin could have been offered the job. The Mets needed a coach with expertise in outfield and base running coaching, both of which are Goodwin's areas.
Goodwin, 43, most recently has served for the past three sesaons as minor league outfield and baserunning coordinator for the Boston Red Sox -- the areas the first base coach with the Mets would be responsible for overseeing. source ESPN NY
I found it interesting that the Mets activated Taylor Buchholz from the 60 day disabled list. After losing almost the entire season to depression the team could have easily justified out-righting him and hoping to resign on a minor league deal or even moving on altogether.
The 29 y/o right hander will cost the team under 1M to keep and maybe showing him the support they have, will help him on his road to recovery. Not only is it decent move, morally but it may also turn out to be beneficial to the club. In 2009 Buchholz was a dominant set-up man for the Rockies posting a 2.17 ERA in 63 games ( 2010 mostly lost to injuries) and last year he posted a 3.12 ERA with 8 game finishes in 32 appearances.
I've linked this article before but I wanted to again, to remind us all of Taylor's struggles and the rapport he has with the Mets...
“The Mets have been amazing to me, and they even hid it for a while. I kept getting questions and I started lying to people what was happening to me. I felt bad about that. I didn’t want them to lie about my situation anymore; I needed to let everyone know. That felt good to get it off my chest. I felt like I was letting people down, and everyone has been so supportive, especially Alderson.” If there was someone who shined throughout this process, it was Alderson. Dave Pasti, who’s been Buchholz’ agent throughout his 12-year pro career, had shopped his client around to a number of teams.
“Sandy actually called me, and I had to let him know what was going on with Taylor when the Mets first thought about signing him,” Pasti said. “We wanted to be honest and put it out there that Taylor was feeling better. When the Mets put Taylor on the DL, Alderson was a real prince in this whole thing. I dealt with a lot of different GMs, but Sandy is a man full of integrity, and he really handled this thing the best way you could. He really treated Taylor great.”
Which hit Buchholz.
“I had to apologize to him,” Taylor said. “Alderson gave me a shot when a lot of teams passed up on me. He gave me the chance, and I kind of felt like I let him down. I remember meeting up in his office and having a five-, 10-minute conversation about it. I was upset and I apologized to him about it. I felt I like let him down, and the team down. He just wanted me to get better. I have so much respect for him.” source AbingtonPatch
After dropping four players from the 40 man roster the Mets once again have a full roster, as they have activated four players from the 60 day disabled list.
Johan Santana, Daniel Murphy, Ike Davis and Taylor Buchholz were activated from the disabled list. I expected three of them to be back but Buchholz is a bit of a surprise. After experiencing shoulder fatigue, Taylor struggled with depression and lost the rest of the year.
The fourth year pro is arbitration eligible and made 600K last season. When he's healthy he's a solid reliever and would be a low risk candidate for the pen. I wasn't sure if the Mets would bring him back after losing an entire year but it looks like his chances are good since they activated him.
The Mets will lose seven players to free agency once the World Series is over, which will free up roster spots for rule five candidates.
On the day the Mets annunced Iggy would be released they also outright three to AAA. Those three can now file for minor league free agency and it gives the Mets three more spots on the 40 man roster with the impending rule five draft approaching.
Outrighted were RHRP Dale Thayer, 1B Val Pascucci and minor league reliever Manny Alvarez. With those three removed the Mets are now at 41 players with three on the 60 day DL and seven waiting to claim free agency.
The Mets also assigned first baseman Val Pascucci, right-handed reliever Dale Thayer and reliever Manny Alvarez outright to Class AAA Buffalo. source NorthJersey.com
Whatever your stance is on Citi Field, it is clear that the Mets' new home has left a somewhat sour taste in the mouths of many Mets players. No one player has been more negatively impacted than David Wright. This is no secret. Wright, who is not a traditional power hitter, has seen more balls than we care to count come up short in the expansive 415' right-centerfield gap. He has also hit numerous balls of the towering wall in left field. Many of these shots would have been long gone in most ball parks, including Shea Stadium. So what impact will the new dimensions have on David Wright and his future in Flushing?
A quick look at his career statistics highlights the negative effects of Citi Field. Wright saw his home run output cut by two-thirds in 2009 (the first year at Citi). But this isn't just about home runs. That same year, Wright's RBI total dropped by more than 50...50! It was clear then, and has been pretty clear since that David Wright has changed his approached at the plate. Despite a brief increase in his power numbers in 2010, Wrights batting average has steadily declined since having to call Citi Field home.
Wright knows he isn't hitting for power. Lord knows the media asks him about it regularly... It would appear that his search to find an extra 20'-30' in his power stroke has had repercussions. First and foremost, he has seen his strike out totals rise, but it may even play a role in Wright's new found health concerns. David was once a contact hitter with a natural swing that regularly drove the ball out to right field. Now, it is clear that he is pressing, swinging harder and trying to pull the ball for more power.
With a lower wall in left field, and a 25' reduction in the right-centerfield gap, David Wright shouldn't have to look to crush the ball any longer. He can, hopefully, return to the days when he regularly drove the ball to all sides of the field. Whether or not this will see his power numbers increase and strike out numbers decrease, obviously remains to be seen, but its logical to think that these changes can nothing but positive for Wright.
As a result of his struggles, and now injury issues, Wright has fallen out of favor with a pretty decent portion of the fan base. Furthermore, the idea that the Mets may jettison Wright in order to afford Jose Reyes has seen even more fans turn on the former boy wonder. But let me ask you this? How many of you would be so ready to trade away your starting third baseman should he return to .290/30/120 next summer. These new dimensions play to his favor. They should aid Wright immediately, potentially return him to all-star status and ultimately extend his future with the New York Mets.
Josh Satin is a 26 y/o right handed hitting infielder who was called up for the first time after an impressive year in AAA. This season he hit .325 for the B-Mets and .317 in Buffalo, his primary position throughout his minor league career was 2B ( 250 gms) but he also played 1B ( 80 gms) and 3B ( 68 gms).
When he came up he appeared in 15 games in which he hit .200 while playing 1B and 3B. It appears Josh is attempting to make himself more versatile by learning the outfield...
Sandy Alderson said the bullpen would be a point of focus this off-season and the first player move made was to release reliever Ryota Igarashi.
Igarashi just completed a two year deal worth 3M but due to a clause in the deal he became a free agent at the end of the contract despite not having the service time.
Over the past two years he made 79 appearances with a 5.74 ERA and a 1.71 WHIP. For me he was frustrating because at times he showed flashes that he could be a dominant major league reliever but he never seemed to put it all together.
There were injuries, issues with confidence and tinkering with pitches which resulted in a struggling pitcher.
According to David Lennon of Newsday the Mets are making changes to Citi Field and those changes will be announced shortly. MLB doesn't like teams up-staging the World Series, so it's pretty safe to say it will either happen on an off day or after the Series is complete. Lennon tweeted that there was nothing new to the changes, that we had already heard they were considering...
When Bob Geren was selected as bench coach it was reported that Jack Voigt was one of the candidates for the first base coaching position. I'd like to weigh in that I think Voigt would be an excellent selection for the position.
Voigt was drafted as an outfielder by the Orioles where he came up through their system and appeared in 127 games over four seasons, hitting .272. Even back in his early years he was recognized as a student of the game...
Need to know who's pitching against the Orioles three weeks from Wednesday? Go ask Jack. He'll tell you.
Wondering which umpiring crew is coming to town for the next series? Go ask Jack. He'll tell you. Not only that, he's probably on a first-name basis with every umpire on the crew.
Need your thirst for trade rumors quenched? Go ask Jack. He'll tell you.
Stumped as to what Rafael Palmeiro is hitting in day games played after night games? Go ask Jack. The man knows his decimal points.
There isn't much you can tell outfielder Jack Voigt that he hasn't already found out on his own. source Baltimore Sun
After a brief and unsuccessful two year stint in Texas where he played in 38 MLB games with a .155 BA he would have his most successful season with the Brewers. In 1997 at the age of 31 y/o he appeared in 74 games while hitting .245 and got a reputation as a versatile player...
After a few more partial seasons in Baltimore and Texas, Voigt signed a one year, $150,000 deal with the Brewers for the 1997 season. He played in a career high 74 games that season, hitting .245/.331/.490. His real value, though, came from his versatility: Voigt played all three outfield positions as well as first and third base during his brief time in Milwaukee, becoming only the second Brewer ever to play all five spots in the same season: source Brew Crew Ball
His last season as a player came in 1998 in Oakland, Sandy had already stepped down as president the year before but Paul Depodesta and J.P. Ricciardi were there. So Voigt was a student of the game, who adapted himself to multiple positions and is familiar with the front office, all of which would make him a strong candidate for the 1B coaches' job but that's not what makes his candidacy so strong.
After his playing days Voigt would go on to become an accomplished coach, in all the areas where the Mets need help (bunting, outfield and baserunning). He's been a coach/manager since 2000 but here are a few of the assignments that stood out to me from his coaching resume;
2003 Outfield and base running coordinator Orioles
2004 Base running and Bunting coach Braves
2006 Advanced scout for Mets
2007-2010 Hitting Instructor for Bison's and B-Mets
2011 Outfield and base running coordinator Mets
I'm not trying to be the Bob Geren spokesman or defender, but as much as I was excited by the new front office, I was skeptical by several of their first year moves and for the most part those moves pleasantly surprised me.
I heard all the negatives; why get an AL guy if you want managerial expereince behind Terry, if Riggleman was Terry's guy why extend Terry and then force your guy on him, players complained about his use of bullpen arms and has poor communication skills.
I find myself digging further to try and figure out what Alderson and Co. had in mind with this hiring. It was said that Chip Hale leaving started the domino effect of changes to the staff because they needed someone to replace Hale's organized analytical pre-game research. Well it looks like Geren will be Hale's replacement in that department...
Geren is amazingly organized. He has a board in his office on which he has three weeks of games planned out, and what pitchers the A's are going to face. He is a real student of the game, and big believer in the statistical end of the game, some of which he gets from a book called "The Book." He knows, from reading, that over the course of the season, a No. 3 hitter is going to get 15 more plate appearances than the No. 4 hitter.
"If you have a strikeout guy, sometimes it's best to hit him second, not fifth," Geren said. "There are more productive outs at the fifth spot. And did you know that the No. 3 spot in the order comes to the plate with no runners on base more than any spot in the batting order?" Source MLB.com 4/3/09
While Larry Bowa's name was bantered about, I heard some express that they wanted someone more animated on the bench then Obie. Geren doesn't sound like the fire and brimstone type but he also doesn't sound subdued.
Ellis is the only player expected back in 2007 who has played for newcomer Bob Geren and predecessors Art Howe and Ken Macha.
"A complete 180 in personality," Ellis said. "Art was more quiet. Macha was more reserved. With Bob, you've got a very outspoken personality. He's got great enthusiasm for baseball and people in general."
Ellis added, "He could talk to a wall and probably make the wall laugh." source SF Gate 2006
The irony of Geren's situation was that the chief complaint about him when he was about to get fired was poor communication but four years earlier he was the good communicator taking over for the aloof Macha ( second article to say as much).
After a lengthy managerial search, the Athletics promoted Geren to skipper on Nov. 17. Geren, a former journeyman catcher, was hired primarily because of his communication skills with players. Many of the players endorsed Geren's promotion source KFFL
So I decided to look into these complaints about communication, his biggest accusers were Huston Street and Brian Fuentes. Both closers at the times of their public melt downs were struggling, Fuentes was close to being pulled as the closer and what's left out of Streets comments is that during the initial incident in 2008 he would later apoligize to the team for being selfish. It's funny, much of what I read reminded me of the Luis Ayala 2007 days, when relievers were complaining about roles and communication.
After being put in a fourth-straight tied-game situation, A’s closer Brian Fuentes lashed out at manager Bob Geren, calling his managerial approach “unorthodox.” Fuentes, who became the team’s closer after Andrew Bailey suffered an injury, has lost four straight decisions to fall to 1-7 on the season.source Swinging A's
In September 2008, Street had to be separated from Geren by shortstop Bobby Crosby after getting pulled from a game in Detroit. Calling himself "selfish," Street later held a meeting to apologize to his teammates. source Baseball Nation
I know in 2007 when our relievers were complaining about roles many of us wanted them to just shut up and get outs when asked, whenever they were asked. When two prominent closers blast him and then gets fired it seems to support their side of the arguement. The other day in the above linked post I found an article blaming injuries to the rotation for his demise and any article about his firing after discussing the closers' comments immediately discusses injuries.
Because he's the first manager to be shown the door this season, Geren is also the first to receive the usual chorus of "it wasn't really all his fault." And it's true. The A's opening day pitching rotation has logged too much DL time and fielding a competent offense has only been a rumor at the Coliseum. Can we really make Geren the lone scapegoat when the A's organization failed to cultivate any homegrown bats during Geren's entire tenure source Yahoo sports
Finally many of us wanted Rick Peterson to return as the pitching coach, well he was on WFAN this weekend with Steve Somers. During the interview he was asked about Geren whom he worked with in Oakland and I'm paraphasing here since there isn't a transcript available. Peterson basically said it was great signing and not only is he a solid baseball man but a great teacher for catchers.
After reports that Wally Backman might be joining Davey Johnson's staff in Washington were reputed, all was quiet on the Wally front.
The Mets were the only team to let Wally back in baseball but he seemed miffed last year when he wasn't promoted to the major league managers position after one season back in AA.
Now this season, there was a major shake-up in the major league staff and Wally once again wasn't promoted, although it's believed that he will be promoted within the organizations minors to Buffalo.
Was AAA Buffalo manager enough to keep Wally around, apparently so; I didn't hear it myself but according to tweets Wally said on the WFAN today that he will be back...
I believe the Mets moves in the weeks since the end of the season have shown their commitment to improving the pitching staff.
First they let Jon Debus go who was the bullpen coach and catching instructor. Now Mr. Debus maybe a fine coach/instructor but those were two areas where the team struggled.
The first thing the Mets did was replace Debus with a legitimate pitching coach and not just any pitching coach but one who has been working his way up the minors at the same pace as those who maybe on the staff this year. Ricky Bones started with the Mets in 2006 in St. Lucie, 2007-2008 B-Mets and 2009-2011 with the Bisons. Bones is the perfect fit for Bobby Parnell, Josh Stinson, Chris Schwinden, Jenrry Mejia and Manny Alvarez ( to name a few).
Bob Geren appears to be the second move showing that their serious about improving the pitching staff. Josh Thole regressed defensively, reports are that Ronny Paulino failed to follow the game plans and Mike Nickeas is as green as they get. I'm not sure how much actual impact a catcher has on a pitcher, but guys like Mike Pelfrey certainly got flustered when Thole would make a mistake. Having a former major league catcher on the bench to instruct a young catching core of Mike Nickeas and Josh Thole could make a world of difference.
Now there are always two sides to every story, in fact Geren got the job because Oakland players were fed up with Ken Macha. They say losing brings out the worst in players, what may have been called eccentric when there was hope turns into poor communication when your losing.
Athletics Nation is the equivalent of Metsblog for the A's, here's what they said about Geren at the time of his firing. You'll notice there is nothing about poor communication or miss-use of bullpen arms...
I personally believe that Geren isn't gone for any other reason other than the fact that the A's young pitching was dropping at a ridiculous rate. Dallas Braden, Brett Anderson, Tyson Ross and Brandon McCarthy all dropping off to injury issues. source Athletics Nation
So here's what they were saying about Geren when there was hope for the future, here's some comments from players in Sept. 2010 when his option was picked up. Quite a drastic change from what was being said when the season was disappointment...
"There's definitely a comfort level here," Andrew Bailey said. "I think we know what to expect, and I think Bob knows what he can expect from us. This year has been better than last year. As a team, we've obviously come together a little bit more and we're playing better baseball. It's something we're proud of and something we can build on for next year."
"He's changed a little bit," Mark Ellis said. "He lets guys run a little bit more and play their game a little bit more. He likes to be hands-on, he likes to have his hands on everything, but he's starting to let it go a little bit and let guys play a little bit more."
"Throughout the years, he's gotten so much better with the players," Gio Gonzalez said. "Once you get comfortable around your players and see them a lot, you start opening up. He knows how to interact and relax and keep it cool sometimes." source MLB.com
I was sort of surprised last night when I read at the bottom of a Mets.com article that the Mets had interviewed first base coaches. There has not been one mention of the position since they decided Moookie Wilson wouldn't be returning and honestly; I wouldn't think there would be, until the bench coaches position was filled. One of the bench coach candidates, could easily turn out to be the 1B coach and the article didn't say there was a list or interviews were being set up, it was that they were currently being interviewed. The fan base is starved for news, any little news; I'm surprised that not one name has even been mentioned in regard to the position if there already in the interview process...
The Mets are currently interviewing first-base-coach candidates, and hope to finalize their entire coaching staff by next week. source Mets.com
So what do the Mets need, when they let Mookie go they lost their outfield instructor and base running coach. Although it may have been attributed to injuries the Mets weren't very aggressive 1st to 3rd under Mookie and haven't been since Rickey ( who I thought was over aggressive). It was specifically said that the team was unhappy with in game outfield positioning at times which was directly attributed to Mookie. If Riggleman were brought on he is a former outfielder and could take over the outfield responsibilities from the bench.
The other area to address is the catchers' coach, Jon Debus a former catcher himself was in charge of this area. While it was said that they wanted a pitching coach in the pen, it's also been mentioned that the team was concerned about Josh Thole's regression and Ronny Paulino's unwillingness at times to stick with a game plan. Bob Geren would be the obvious candidate to help the catchers and in a perfect world it would make sense to have Geren at 1b and Riggleman on the bench. While I'm sure Geren wasn't a speedster, the former catcher should have a feel for the batteries timing and the opposing catcher's arm.
If Riggleman and Geren bombed their interviews and the Mets did bring in Larry Bowa, they would have an entire staff of middle infielders, unless that mystery interview 1B coach was a former catcher who was a base stealing threat and moved to the outfield later in his career.
While it doesn't take a former player at that position to coach those specific skills, with the Mets admitting to positional problems in the outfield and game calling issues behind the plate; it would make the most sense to get the most knowledgeable instructors possible to address those deficiencies, which would probably mean a former player at those specific positions.
As the Mets begin to pick up the pieces and move towards next season, the front office must take stock of where players stand both within the organization and elsewhere. Who will stay? Who will go? Who will they look to bring in off the free agent market? It is these observations and the decisions that will go a long way towards carving the 2012 roster.
The same assessment process took place last winter. As a result of those observations, the Mets chose to bring in the likes Chris Young, Chris Capuano and Jason Isringhausen amongst others. What was said about each? They had a lot of upside! Well, upside saw Chris Young's twice reconstructed arm last four appearances before giving way, saw Capuano post a mediocre record of 11-12 amidst periodic struggles and saw Izzy become a fixture out of the pen for much of the season before tiring later in the year.
The 2011 lineup had its fair share of players with upside as well. Daniel Murphy and Lucas Duda are two such players whose presence at the plate seemed to have fans and the organization turn a blind eye to their struggles elsewhere...but they have a lot of upside! Even Josh Thole has a set of supporters who seem to think he is only a small epiphany away from reaching his potential.
I don't mean to say that these guys aren't legitimate baseball players. The problem is, upside doesn't win ballgames. Upside, isn't consistent and it doesn't always make good decisions. Upside, by nature is a work in progress and you can't honestly expect big things from your team when its loaded with it. Bringing in older guys to act as stop gaps isn't as big a deal as having young players with obvious flaws who your hoping to build around. The Mets needn't look any further than Mike Pelfrey to see a failed attempt at the development of upside. Where are they left if other players come up short?
This offseason, the Mets front office needs to recognize that in order for the organization to move forward, it may be time to abandon some of the project players who possess that ever present upside. At the very least, a third of the lineup and more than half of the team's rotation can't be comprised of players whose ceiling is still a real unknown. Its time to stop force feeding the fan base potential and rebuild things the right way. Retain the right players and starting working on the development and/or acquisition of those who can help to piece together a winning team. Upside is great, but the Mets have too much of it and I'm yet to see a team bring home the hardware when that's their best feature.
Matt Pignataro of 7 Train to Shea just tweeted that Larry Bowa will be interviewed for the bench coach position. Not sure what to make of any of this there are so many people adamantly denying Bowa is in the mix but along with Matt his own network reported he was getting an interview. Is it another false lead, did Geren and Riggleman bomb or is the org. so divided on the two that they're willing to bring in a third candidate.
Reports earlier today stated that only the two were being interviewed at this time and that Geren was the front office choice while Riggleman was Collins...
In looking into Bob Geren there appear to be a lot of red flags, after his departure from Oakland several players both past and present lambasted him for his use of pitchers and communication skills. When ever anyone is fired their detractors come out of the woodwork, but it's unusual to see this much venom; Willie, Jerry and Arte never got blasted like this.
Of course, it is only the bench coach position and how much influence do they truly have over the club. I know they need a new catching coach ( Geren being a former catcher) but maybe if Geren comes aboard it should be as the 1B coach.
Tensions between now-former A's manager Bob Geren and his players have existed for years, sources told ESPN.com. The manager created a culture of fear where if a player made one mistake, a second chance could be fleeting. Former player Mike Sweeney was released in 2008 a day after he made an impassioned speech on the team bus, grabbing the microphone and telling teammates that baseball was meant to be fun and that they were "being held captive, and the inmates need to run the prison!" source ESPN
The A's trouble surfaced when Brian Fuentes blasted Geren following a tough loss at Anaheim. The veteran reliever accused Geren of handling him poorly and said he had "zero communication" with the manager. The next day, former A's closer Huston Street told the San Francisco Chronicle that Geren was the "least favorite person I have ever encountered in sports from age 6 to 27." source Sporting News
In the days following the end of the regular season, when those teams who weren't fortunate enough to reach the playoffs essentially remain stagnant, fans are left to propose a variety of fixes for their team. In recent days, there have been a variety of trades and free agent signings discussed. From Albert Pujols to Prince Fielder, most of these fixes have been as unrealistic as they come, however the same can't be said for the hypothetical Jason Bay for AJ Burnett trade.
There's no secret to the fact that Met fans are fed up with the Jason Bay experience. Similarly, Yankee fans are growing tired to AJ Burnett's uninspired trips to the hill in the Bronx. As such, it would make sense that both teams would be more than eager to move their bad contracts. However, problems to such a theory in this instance aren't hard to find.
On the surface, exchanging the contracts of Bay and Burnett makes pretty good sense, at least mathematically. Both are under contract through the 2013 season, with Bay due to make $33 million and Burnett due to make $32 million. Furthermore, it would appear obvious that Bay would benefit from a move to Yankee Stadium (a hitter friendly ball park) and Burnett a move to Citi Field (a pitcher friendly ball park).
The issue arises in the fact that pitchers will almost always trump position players. Burnett, despite his 2011 struggles, remains a premiere talent with the capabilities of being dominant. Bay on the other hand is in the process of what seems to be a steep decline. While his power numbers might see a boost in a move to Yankee Stadium, a boost in his batting average (which has declined the past three seasons) is no guarantee.
The other issue involves Jason Bay's potential vesting option for the 2014 season. With 500 plate appearances consecutively in both 2012 and 2013 or 600 plate appearances in 2013, Bay would be in line for a $17 million vesting option. Despite having no more than 444 plate appearances in any season since joining the Mets, this vesting option is a risk that must be considered...and would likely be a major deterrent for Brian Cashman and the New York Yankees.
Where this potential swap really falls apart is the fact that the Yankees are in the business of acquiring players when their value is high. Although they may need to bring in an outfielder, if they don't exercise their option on Nick Swisher, Jason Bay's value is nothing remotely close to high. Despite having deep pockets, it remains unlikely that Cashman would be interested in the risk that is Bay's 2014 option. Additionally, despite his troubles, if he can bounce back, AJ Burnett still possesses the potential to be a dominant starting pitcher. As a result, such a trade appears to be too far in the Mets favor and ultimately has little chance of happening.
There are plenty of bad contracts out there. Jason Bay isn't the only veteran signed for too much money, for too long a time period. If Sandy Alderson truly wants to move his contract, I wouldn't say its impossible...but I thoroughly doubt it will be to the New York Yankees.
Not that this is a reflection on anyone reporting, it seems like a very fluid situation but I'm starting to take these Larry Bowa reports with a grain of salt.
He was the first to be mentions but that seems to be a result of internal preliminary discussions and logical deduction since Bowa and Collins are long term friends. Then Bowa, if he wanted the job really stuck his foot in his mouth during a satellite radio interview and most reports had him all but eliminated. Then just yesterday there was a report that he would be interviewing and today that report is being adamantly denied...
Larry Bowa, whose name was initially raised by Mets insiders as a potential replacement for Ken Oberkfell as Terry Collins bench coach, is not currently a candidate, according to two people familiar with the team’s thinking. One source said that Bowa was “not on the list” at the moment. source Daily News
Yesterday reports surfaced that J.P. could be one of the candidates interviewed for the Orioles GM position and Ricciardi said he is always willing to listen. You also have to think the native New Englander who took a position with the Sox, before Alderson came calling will be interested in the newly vacant Boston job. Depending on how Ricciardi's job was perceived in Toronto by insiders, he either blew it like fans view him or has AL experience and was in a no win situation making him worthy of another chance. I know eventually J.P. or Depo will move on but I'd like to keep them a little longer during this rebuilding process...
Former Toronto Blue Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi, who currently oversees professional scouting for the Mets, is one of six candidates for the Baltimore Orioles' GM position, ESPN's Buster Olney reports. source ESPN NY
I was just about to complete a post about the diminished chances that Larry Bowa could land a spot on the Mets staff. When reports surfaced that Jim Riggleman and Bob Geren would receive interviews this week it was also reported that Bowa was becoming an unlikely candidate. This on the heels of his unfriendly interview with Chris "MadDog" Russo and I figured either his words shot him in the foot or the organization is still too worried about the coaching staff being too explosive.
but Bowa is now not likely to be in the mix, the source now added. source ESPN NY
However, Wayne McDonnell Jr. of MLB network Prime 9 is reporting that Bowa will get an interview...
Reports indicate that Jim Riggleman will interview for the bench coach position on Wednesday, I thought it would be fitting to take a closer look at him.
Riggleman is orginally from Fort Dix, New Jersey so I guess it would be safe to say he knows the area.
The Mets are looking for a bench coach with major league experience, Riggleman has been on the Nats staff since 2009 so he's familiar with the NL east and has been on major league staffs' since 1992.
In 1974 Collins and Riggleman were teammates on the Dodgers AA affliate in Waterbury and have reportedly been friends since.
Dan Warthen was the Padres roving pitching instructor along with the AAA pitching coach 1993-1995 during which time Riggleman was the Pads manager.
The new bullpen coach Ricky Bones was a pitcher in 1991 on the Pads AAA Las Vegas team that was managed by Riggleman.
Finally the last connection to the staff is new 3B coach Tim Tueful who finished his career as a player from 1991-1993 with Riggleman as his manager, which would mean Bones was among that group as a pitcher and Warthen a minor league instructor.
It would seem that Riggleman is a perfect fit, he has relationships with the entire staff making him less of a threat, major league managerial experience, knowledge of the NY area and the NL east.
Just a year ago Larry Bowa was practically campaigning for a position on the Mets coaching staff.
Collins was not as precise, though Bowa said he believes he would have a strong chance to serve in some capacity. He said Collins was being “tight-lipped” about the Mets job because Collins believed he had the Dodgers managing job after the 2005 season, but then GM Paul DePodesta was fired and Los Angeles decided to go with Grady Little. source NY Post
Now this season in an interview with Chris Russo it sounds like he wants teams to campaign for him and has expectations for what he will accept.
You know, I don’t like losing, and I go to a team like New York or somebody that’s not committed to winning, I mean, I gotta really delve into that and say, ‘Is it going to get better?’ If it gets better, I like seeing teams get better. But if it’s going to stay the same, you know, I don’t like stuff like that. I like to compete. I like to have a chance, every time you go on the field I like to have a chance to win. … Let me tell you this: if I did get back in uniform – if I did – it’s not going to be to coach third [base], it’s going to be as bench coach.” source Metsblog
I'm no Wilpon apologist but Bowa's comments rubbed me wrong, even if he's right to question the desire of ownership, as a guy looking to get back into baseball who is he to question our team. Sell me on why I need you, like you seemed to be doing last year, instead of basically telling the team to sell him on why he should be picking the Mets.
Look Bowa is a solid baseball man who I'd like to have on the Mets staff, he has gotten guys who were underachieving to make the most of their talents, Robinson Cano comes to mind. But his personalty has also worn out his welcome both as a player and as a manager/coach. I don't think the Mets should be kissing anybodies ring to get them to come here, especially since it's a Phillies ring ( 1980 as a player).
Maybe I'm being protective or misreading his comments but my first reaction to Bowa's comments wasn't "Oh boy he doesn't sound to enthusiastic about coming here" it was more like "who the F**k does he think he is, we don't need any coach that bad"...
What "We" can say and "they" ( outsiders) can say are to totally different parameters I don't want a coaching candidate who's questioning my teams integrity ( desire to win) even if I may question the Wilpon's desire, if you don't want to come here, to be part of the solution no matter how hard that task maybe then I want somebody who does...
It sounds like very preliminary contact between two old baseball friends, probably just to feel out his interest and see if they were on the same page. Andy McCullough of the Star Ledger is reporting that Terry Collins reached out to Jim Riggleman but nothing formal has been set-up.
Riggleman is known as a very good baseball guy, he has the baseball experience the Mets are looking for including the last three years in the NL east. They just need to find out what happened in Washington...
A year ago it almost seemed like a forgone conclusion that Larry Bowa would join the Mets staff, Mets fans were screaming for an authoritarian approach and not only was Bowa that but he was also a good friend of Terry Collins.
Whether it was because Alderson was concerned about burning the team out with two fiery personalities or Obie was seen as more valueable due to all of his AAA players joining the major league team, Bowa's phone never did ring.
I'd love to have Bowa on the staff not because of his fiery personality but more for how he seems to get the most from players he's assigned to take under his wing. The funny thing is, I don't see this team as in need of discipline the way the 08-09 teams did, the only time I've seen a player appear to slack off was Angel Pagan and his sometimes lazy routes to balls in the gap. But at the same time the organization might be more comfortable with Collins and giving him the staff he wants.
Here are some of the comments Bowa made last year when many thought he was the leading candidate for the bench coach's position.
During the conversation, Bowa recalled yesterday, Wright bemoaned that there was “no discipline here whatsoever,” nodding toward a relatively empty bench. That was symbolic of too many players being in the clubhouse rather than in the dugout supporting their teammates.
Bowa said Wright lamented that the coaches were afraid to assert authority over the players to better police such matters. In an e-mail response, Wright said he never questioned his team’s discipline, but that he was “frustrated” and said he probably did mention to Bowa that it was a “pet peeve” when guys are not on the bench. source New York Post
The Mets are looking for a bench coach with major league experience, the first two names to be speculated on were Larry Bowa and Jim Riggleman, if for no other reason then they are close to Terry Collins.
Adam Rubin reports that Bob Geren and John McLaren are also on the Mets internal list. There doesn't appear to be a connection to Geren, however; he was with Billy Beane for four years who is a disciple of Alderson maybe a good reference makes him a Sandy type of guy. McLaren coached against Collins in the 2006 World baseball Classic otherwise his best reference maybe Riggleman...
Former major league managers Jim Riggleman, John McLaren, Bob Geren and Larry Bowa appear on the New York Mets' internal list of candidates to become bench coach, organization sources told ESPNNewYork.com. source ESPN NY
According to reports Ken Oberkfell became a casualty of the coaching staff shake-up when Chip Hale decided to leave for Oakland. Hale was seen as the coach with the knowledge of the major league players who was also an immense preparer, while Obie knew the guys from the minors.
With Hale's departure it left the team needed someone with a major league background and the promotion of Teuful made Obie's knowledge of the minor leaguers' redundant.
So the Mets will be looking for someone with major league experience and a preparation guy, possibly with a fiery personality ( Hale's personality). So far the two names that have surfaced are Larry Bowa and Jim Riggleman.
Bowa was believed to be in strong consideration last year but I think there was a sense that he and Collins together again might be too much. Maybe now that they've seen a mellower Collins, Bowa might be less of a concern. Riggleman has a reputation to repair after quiting in Washington, would it be too much to ask to have Bowa on the bench and Riggleman at 1B.
Hale was a fiery presence, a contrast to Oberkfell's laid-back personality, so the Mets could look for a more energetic person to fill that role. Collins had Larry Bowa on his staff with the Angels in the 1990s, and Bowa, according to sources, is on the manager's list of candidates for the bench coach job. Collins also has a long history with Jim Riggleman, who will be considered for the bench coach job, according to a source. source NY Post
As the only former outfielder on the the staff Mookie Wilson's primary defensive responsibility was the outfield.
Apparently the Mets weren't happy with the way Mookie was positioning the outfield. Not sure if I even noticed the outfield out of position, it seemed like the infield was always out of position.
If the Mets were unhappy with the outfield defense then whether we like him or not they should move on from Mookie, since we have such a young inexperienced group of outfielders...
One Mets source said that the team had concerns about Wilson's work with the outfielders, including their in-game positioning. In particular, Lucas Duda seemed out of position several times while learning to play right field last season. source Daily News
With most of the baseball world focused on the plight of those teams fortunate enough to make the playoffs, Mets fans have undoubtedly zeroed in on the hopeful demise of the Yanks and Phils. Meanwhile, Sandy Alderson continues to go about the business in recreating the New York Mets organization. As if unable to go more than a few weeks without producing some headlines, the Sandy and the Mets put together back to back press conference worthy days this week.
First came the well received press release that the team will be lowering prices for most season ticket holders this year. Discounts ranging in excess of 30% are sure to turn some heads, but the second half of that release included the arrival of 'dynamic' pricing. As a result, fans looking to see the Mets will be able to accomplish their goal when lower profile teams, such as the Pirates and Astros comes to down. Unfortunately, those who want to see more important games, or if demand in general starts to rise, so too will ticket prices.
Personally, I find it hard to believe that the Mets would institute a pricing plan where they were stand to lose money. As disclosed earlier this week, 2011 attendance dropped 8% from 2010. Therefore, it would makes sense that the team would act in a way to get more fans to the ball park. However, don't forget that ticket sales is only one aspect of how the teams makes money. Food and vendor sales is sure to make up the difference in ticket prices if the Mets successfully fill more seats via this new plan. With the Wilpons' wallets in question and Sandy Alderson working to stretch the almighty dollar, don't think for one minute the team stands to lose money through their new pricing plan.
Wednesday brought with it another press conference to announce the dismissal of Chip Hale, Mookie Wilson and Jon Debus. I honestly don't see the role of a bench coach as anything more than a buffer between a manager and his players. I don't feel one way or the other about Hale, so I don't foresee much change coming as a result of his departure. Mookie's presence brought with it a bit of nostalgia, which is all many Mets' fans have left at this point. His function, outside of being the team's first base coach appeared to be pretty limited and as such, the Mets became the second team to send the former speedster packing. Finally the team released bullpen coach Jon Debus, who I'd never heard of before.
The thing is, anyone who is fortunate enough to make it to the major league level clearly knows how to play baseball. Some may require more polishing than others, but in reality the coaches are there to monitor, position and every now and then offer advise. Replacing these men with Tim Teufel, amongst others, will not add wins to the Mets season next year, and should really be an afterthought looking back next spring.
And so, the more things change, the more they stay the same. Sandy's work will ultimately be judged by whether or not he is able to retain Jose Reyes and through the acquisition of the other players he manages to bring in, as he reworks the major league roster. It will ultimately be the talent on the field, rather than the men coaching them that will bring wins to Flushing. When and if those wins start to increase, so too will the number of fans in the stands. Its a vicious cycle, but one we should know all too well at this point.
Sandy Alderson has a tough road ahead. While these little tweaks may be necessary when it comes to everyday business operations, they are not really news. Stay tuned for the free agent news, because it will be the Jose Reyes press conference that is really worth your attention. After that, pray for pitching...because until then these small changes, and maybe even the bigger ones to come, won't mean a thing.
The Mets announced that only two coaches will remain on Terry Collins staff for the 2012 season, pitching coach Dan Warthen and hitting instructor Dave Hudgens. I've become a huge fan of Hudgen's not only has he improved the major league hitters but there seems to be a system wide approach under him. The opposite can be said of Warthen and I'm not sure what the Mets see in him. I haven't seen a single pitcher excel under his tutelage nor does there seem to be a system being implemented for the organization.
The one coach I'm sorry to see go is Chip Hale, the Mets tried to retain him but unfortunately he decided to join his friend Bob Melvin's staff in Oakland ( what can you do). Eventually we would have lost Hale to a managerial job anyway.
Mookie Wilson, Jon Debus and Ken Oberkfell will not be returning to the major league staff. Both Wilson and Debus have been offered other positions within the organization, it's unclear whether they have accepted them. No word on Oberkfell's status but it seems like he either didn't accept an offer or is the odd man out.
Hale will be replaced at 3B by Tim Tueful who was considered a success as the AAA manager last season and Debus is being replaced by Ricky Bones as the bullpen coach.
There is speculation that one or both of the two spots left could be filled from outside the organization, my initial thought was maybe Wally Backman gets one of them but if that was the case I would have thought he would be announced with Tueful today.
Ian Stewart struggled with injuries and then never got off the ground offensively, Colorado then tried Kevin Kouzmanoff who was recently waived after an unsuccessful try out for the position.
Troy Renck of the Denver Post believes the Rockies will attempt to make a big splash this off-season by obtaining a big bat at 3B. Renck has heard the Rockies may be aggressive in attends to trade for David Wright.
I could see three scenarios in which Wright would be available:
1) They re-sign Reyes and want to create payroll flexibility.
2) They let Reyes go and decide to completely rebuild.
3) They get an offer they can't refuse.
Opposing executives expect the Rockies to be aggressive in their pursuit of the Mets' David Wright. The Mets have said he's not available, but that could change if they commit to re-sign free- agent shortstop Jose Reyes for big money. Wright, however, is not without his issues. Though just 28, he has dealt with a back injury that limited him to only 102 games last season. Wright is owed $15 million next year with a $16 million club option for 2013 that can be voided if the Mets trade him. Hitting anywhere but Citi Field would likely boost Wright's numbers. source Denver Post
Over the course of the 2011 season, the lack of major league ready talent in the Mets' farm system was brought to the forefront due to injuries. Unfortunately, that issues remains moving forward. As a result, Sandy Alderson will have to go the route of free agent signings if he intends to turn the 2012 Mets into contenders.
With that said, it is no question that money is an issue. There are no more blank checks like those granted to Omar Minaya, however I would argue that those free agents mentioned below should be avoided at all costs, regardless of whether or not money is an issue...
1) Albert Pujols - If King Albert isn't the best player of the current generation, he's a close second to Alex Rodriguez. Therein lies the problem. Pujols, who will be 32 years old when spring training starts next season is rumored to be seeking a ten year deal in the neighborhood of $200 million. It is that exact reason that the Mets won't be mentioned in regards to Pujols. While he may be worth a contract of $20 million for the next three...maybe five years, even Albert Pujols can't stop father time. Sandy Alderson shouldn't, and wouldn't saddle the Mets and their fans with the albatross that Pujols' contract would be as an aging 40 year old owed well in excess of seven figures.
2) Jonathan Papelbon - One of the most pressing needs facing the Mets' front office is finding a replacement for Francisco Rodriguez. Assuming that replacement isn't currently in the organization, Papelbon is likely the #1 choice with 219 saves in the last six years. Coming from the rabid market that is Boston, it would make sense that Papelbon would be able to handle the attention the comes along with closing in New York, however the outspoken closer who often seeks out media attention may be his own worse enemy. Compound that with the fact that Krod was traded away in the interest of avoiding his $17.5 million dollar option, it seems unlike that Papelbon and his $12 million dollar 2011 salary would have a place on the 2012 New York Mets.
3) Heath Bell - Due to the presence of Billy Wagner, the then 28 year old Bell was never given an opportunity to close for the Mets prior to being traded by Omar Minaya in November 2006. He has since gone on to collect 132 saves for the San Diego Padres and will be one of the most coveted closers on the open market this winter. It is age of the now 34 year old Bell that should prevent Sandy and company from allowing a Heath Bell homecoming. In his eighth major league season, Bell manage to save 43 games, but his strike out per nine innings rate dropped from 11.1 to 7.3. Still a solid percentage, but definite cause for alarm if Bell is looking for more than a one year deal. Although his save numbers haven't suffered to date, it would appear that Bell's ability to avoid contact is dwindling and his decline shouldn't be far behind.
Its easy to use the Mets impending decline in payroll as an excuse to avoid these high profile players, however I would contest that even if money weren't an issue, they should be avoided. The Mets needn't look any farther than Carlos Beltran to see how injuries can sour even a fairly positive long term contract. Furthermore, they needn't look any farther than Jason Bay to see how the high profile players aren't always the right fit. The Mets need to get younger and need to plan for a future that is probably still a good three years away. None of those listed above accomplish that goal and for that reason, Sandy Alderson and the rest of the Mets front office shouldn't dare bring them in.
Just thought it might be interesting to see what former Mets made the playoff rosters on their current teams. The Rays were the only club that didn't have an active former Met in this round of the playoffs. This doesn't include players on the 40man or others who contributed during the year...
DBacks-
J.J. Putz- Our former injured set-up man came back as Arizona's closer
posting 45 saves 2.17 ERA
Henry Blanco- He hit .215 in 55 games for us last season and .250 in
37 games this year.
Brewers-
Francisco Rodriguez- Since being traded setting up in 31 games he's
posted a 1.86 ERA
Carlos Gomez- Well at least he's healthy, compared to FMart who we kept in the Santana trade Cargo
is only hitting .225 in 231ABs, 94 games.
Phillies-
Brian Schneider- In his second season with Philly his BA dipped even further to .176
Wilson Valdez- Defensive replacement hit .249 in 99 games.
St. Louis-
Octavio Dotel- 3.28 ERA in 29 games with 2 saves since coming over from the Jays.
Yanks-
Luis Ayala- Failed as our closer and out of baseball since 2009, posted a 2.09 ERA in 52 games for Yanks.
Freddy Garcia- 12-8 with 3.62 ERA in 25 starts for Yanks, never pitched for us after not making the team
out of Spring training asked out of AAA.
Tigers-
Omir Santos- late call-up made it into 11 games where he hit .227, not sure if he made the roster but he's
showing up on it.
Rangers-
Mike Adams- Never pitched for the Mets was traded to us in 2006 for the late Geremi Gonzalez but was
claimed off waivers. Since being traded from the Pads 2.10 ERA in 27 games, 1 save.
Darrin Oliver- Hard to believe we never did find another long reliever while Oliver keeps chugging along this
year he has a 2.29 ERa in 62 games.
Endy Chavez- I thought Endy was a defensive replacement in 83 games he hit .301 this season.
"I would have played the whole game," Rollins said. "I'm like, 'Hey, I fought this hard to be in this position and I'm going to see it through to the end.' My personality, I'm going to ride it out. I worked this hard to be this good and put up these numbers, I would like to see it all the way to the end.
"I don't think it's lack of confidence with Jose Reyes, but that is the way he wanted to do it. For what reason, I don't know. It could have been outside influences. His agent may have told him, 'If you get up there, if you get a hit your first AB, you come out.' "
Before I react to this, allow me to state that Jimmy Rollins is my most hated player in all of baseball, with the exception of Roger Clemens. It irks me to no end that Rollins, who hasn't sniffed a .300 batting average since 2007 thinks he has any idea how he might handle the situation. Jimmy Rollins wouldn't have half the career he's had, had he not been playing the the band box that is Citizens Bank Ball Park.
Rollins goes on to talk about intangibles and comparing Reyes to others in free agency when he said:
"It makes for great comparisons," Rollins said. "[Reyes] had a great year, but with free agency you take a year and a career all into consideration. Then on top of that you take the things you don't see on the field -- the intangibles in the clubhouse, leading the team. Is this guy a winning player? How does he impact the team by himself when he's in the lineup and out of the lineup? They are all great things to compare.
"Baseball is not only about numbers. You get paid a lot with numbers, but you get people to fall in love with you and want you around and give you a little bit more money when you can do all the other things along with putting up good numbers."
Does Jimmy Rollins realize that NO ONE outside of Phillies Nations likes him? Intangibles...apparently Rollins thinks he's ESPN talking about Derek Jeter now! Do us all a favor Jimmy, concern yourself with the Cardinals and let the Mets and their fans enjoy their own controversial little moment without the input of someone we not only don't like, but don't even respect!
Angel Pagan had a bad season on many level, to his credit it was the second consecutive season he played in 120 or more games.
There was a time where Pagan appeared to be a starter but injuries prohibited him from staying on the field.
Now the 30 y/o switch hitter looks more like a fourth outfielder with a poor/inaccurate arm who is prone to mental errors.
The bigger dilemmma is how much Pagan will cost, last season he earned through arbitration 3.5M (asked for 4.2M) and this year even a modest raise puts him in the 4M range.
For a platoon partner or 4th outfielder who makes as many mistakes as Pagan did and at times appears to be the type who would rather pull up instead of dive I just don't see it as cost effective. If he were going to cost in the 1-2M range, then I could see bringing him back. Give him a chance to turn it around while you see what a guy like Kirk Nieuwenhuis or Matt Den Dekker can do on this level.
By most accounts those guys aren't ready but with a cheap Pagan in place you might be able to give them at least a taste of the majors. Instead I think the Mets may need to go out and get more production and less mistakes for the position like David DeJesus or Coco Crisp. Unless they decide to go completely defenisve then they might as well keep Jason Pridie.
"I think we have to look at our whole outfield situation and see where we are," Alderson said. "Whether that means different personnel or personnel playing different positions, there are offensive and defensive considerations. . . . Center field is a critical position for us defensively in this ballpark, with or without changes in the fences." source Daily News
Dan Warthen was the Padres roving pitching instructor along with the AAA pitching coach 1993-1995 during which time Riggleman was the Pads manager. 
