I have seen Oliver Perez pitch as a Met. I have seen "Big Game Ollie P" pitch as a Met. According to John Heyman tonight on MLB Network's Hot Stove program, I may be afflicted with watching Oliver as a Met again in 2009 (hat tip to Matt at Metsblog). Omar Minaya has extended an offer in the 3 year, $30 million range to the erratic lefty.The fan base's thoughts on Perez tend to be split - those who think the wild one has some of the best pure "stuff" in baseball, and those who think he lacks the mental dexterity to harness said skill.
Personally I like the kid and view him as a sort of little engine that could (that is until he walks six, hits a batter and turns into the little engine that can't). He is 27 too - a time when most young bucks develop and start to hit their stride. His sweeping slider, when on, is absolutely filthy and one of the best out pitches in the game.
If Warthen could work a whole off season with him and concentrate on limiting the walks, I think this could be a great signing. Whoever inks him will get a recession special (a Boras special at least), making him a trade option should their pitching coach fail to get Ollie on the right track. Though the currently discussed price will certainly not stick - something in the 4 year $45 million range seems possible, and with upside at that price.
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