This is Getting Scary

Johan Santana is out indefinitely. This breaking news just in from Dave Lennon of Newsday regarding Johan Santana:

As for the worst-case scenario, Santana throws on Sunday, still feels the elbow and the Mets finally decide to send him back to New York for tests. Santana said minutes ago that the elbow still is tight -- he's been told it's the triceps tendon behind the elbow -- and he is considering the possibility that Opening Day might now be questionable for him.

"We have 162 games," Santana said. "What we have to accomplish takes 162 games. Everything starts April 6, if it's going to be me or somebody else. It's tough to say right now."

I've been shaking off the pushed back starts, but now there is cause for concern. The ace just got out of an almost hour long meeting with the GM and manager regarding a plan of action, and is indicating that he may not start opening day. Yikes.

According to a few sports journals I've been reading this morning since finding the spot of the injury, the triceps tendon can become inflamed by overdoing weights or falling abruptly on your hands. When the tendon becomes ruptured it needs to be surgically reinserted to the elbow. From that point the elbow needs to remain immobilized for 3-4 weeks. Only then can rehab resume.

If this is a distinct possibility, I think it's in the best interest of the organization to get him to New York for some MRI's now. Injuries such as this are better treated when caught and acted upon swiftly.

Update: 10:50am
Found a great article regarding the surgical procedure and more for a ruptured triceps tendon on a USC blog Conquest Chronicles, a SB Nation site. You can read it here.

Image by Daily News photographer Howard Simmons

A Letter to E. James Beale of The Philadelphia City Paper

Dear Mr. E. James Beale,

I came across your Incomplete List of Reasons the Mets are Douchebags today via Ballhype.com. I must say it is the first piece of Met-bashing literature that has left me vexed, and believe me, I have read my fair share. On behalf of Mets fans, I am here to provide an annotated response to your explanation why we "provoke the Phillies’ ire" as you so put it. It would only be fair for an actual fan of the "lowly two-time consecutive NL East runners-up" to provide your readership with rebuttal to your conjecture:

"Last year, Mets star third baseman David Wright — public face of the MLB '07: The Show video game, Vitamin Water sports drinks and Fathead posters — made several public statements about how he'd be cutting back on 'endorsement deals and promotional activities,' to focus on the game. Two weeks later, he made his second visit to the Late Show with David Letterman. To this day, athletepromotions.com informs me I can book Wright for 'Corporate Appearances, Endorsements, Speaking & Autograph Signings.'"
Now you can’t lead off with something like this as it has nothing to do with Mets douchebaggery. Being in the largest sports market in the country, athletes from New York are privy to many more sponsorship opportunities than those say, in the fourth largest are. Who is to say Wright did not cut back on endorsement deals and promotional activities? As for athletepromotions.com – they have informed me that MLB '08: The Show cover boy Ryan Howard is able to be booked for corporate appearances, endorsements, speaking & autograph signings as well…that is after he’s done chowing down on some Subway with Jared Fogle at a Dick’s Sporting Goods.

"This year, the Mets are moving into a new, state-of-the-art stadium. Back in 2006, they sold the naming rights for the park to Citigroup — which, as you know, recently received a large federal bailout and had to lay off 50,000 people. Despite public pressure to abandon the deal, the $400 million agreement is being honored — and the American taxpayer is the not-so-proud backer of 'Citi Field.' I want my money back."
When the deal was made in 2006, Citigroup stock was hovering around 49 points per share as opposed to the 2 points it’s standing at now. I’m not sure if you have ever signed a contract before, but here’s the gist of what happens when you do: whatever arranged terms one agrees to with their signature, they are obligated to uphold said accordance for the duration of the contract lest there be a clause stating otherwise. I’m sure the Wilpon’s were as thrilled about the bad press they received from this, as Alex Rodriguez was about a certain Selena Roberts report.

"Last year, Mets then-manager Willie Randolph, one of Major League Baseball's true good guys, was flown out to the West Coast with his team only to be fired upon arrival, at 3:30 a.m. EST. The reason he wasn't told back home? The organization wanted to avoid making the next day's headlines, a goal they decided was more important than decency; before the trip, the manager had reportedly asked not to be let go in the midst of a road trip. Classy."
What is your basis for saying the reason he wasn’t told back home was to avoid headlines? Are you friends with Freddy and Jeff? Did they let you in on something they didn’t tell us? I’m sure you’re well aware of the instantaneous nature of the internet. No matter where or when something happens, it’s going up online as soon as someone can type it out. Once that happens, it is fodder for pundits to rip apart on 24 hour networks. Was it bad timing? Sure, that I’ll give you. I am however certain that "Willie Watch" was making headlines weeks and months before the firing. Avoiding one more late edition front page was not the reason he wasn’t fired in New York.

"Look, Mets fans, I understand that when you're visiting an opposing ballpark, you want to show up with your hometown colors. There's something admirable about trying to offset a sea of red with dots of blue and orange. (While we're here: Blue and orange? You're supposed to be a Major League Baseball franchise, not fucking Sea World.) It's even OK to cheer on your team at an opponent's park. But it's entirely another thing to sing your nonsensical "Jose, Jose, Jose, Jose" chant every time there's a routine grounder to short. Thanks, buddy, we get it, you're a douche bag. We got it three innings ago. It's like these morons all met on a message board for assholes with new haircuts, typing aggressively at each other, overusing the words "dude" and misspelling the word "bro," until they got bored and decided to head to Philly for the night."
It seems as though you may suffer from slight red-green colorblindness, along with being historically inaccurate. The New York Metropolitans organization formed in 1962, two years prior to the opening of the first SeaWorld in San Diego. Our colors are blue and orange, and those of Sea World are blue and yellow.

As far as Mets fans infiltrating CBP goes, I have heard more E-A-G-L-E-S chants during Sunday games at Shea than I can count over the years. At least Met fans cheer for a team that is actually on the field when at a visiting park.

"It takes a special kind of stupid to embrace the Mets. The team came later than the Yankees and historically have been far worse. The only possible reasons for Mets fandom are: 1) You're a full-out hater who hates your hometown team because you're a jerk; 2) You love misery and decided to opt-in at the first chance; or 3) Your grandfather rooted for the Dodgers/Giants. The Dodgers and Giants, huh? It's a real shame those franchises folded. Mets fans are confused, and not confused in the fun way, either."
Name calling? False facts? How immature. I really feel no need to dignify points one and two with refutation. As for part three, neither of those organizations folded. They moved to California with the promise of new ballparks from government officials – something Robert Moses wouldn’t give them in New York.

"All Mets fans break out their Yankees caps in October."
I see you’re also a Braves fan.

"Mets prospects enjoy an absurd amount of hype. Remember Paul Wilson? Alex Escobar? Rey Ordoñez? Bill Pulpisher? Ed Yarnall? Lastings Milledge? You wouldn't if they played anywhere but New York, which treats every one of its new prospects like the second coming of Howard Johnson."
Yes the Mets are known to hype up their prospects. They are also known to rush them through the farm system and trade them for aging talent. That goes for most big market teams. Hyping prospects has also been known to increase their value – which you can then package for better pieces (Phillies fans – see Josh Outman).

"The current team won't shut its mouth about how its offseason additions were far superior to the Phils'. I mean, seriously? The Phillies added a trophy. That trumps a guy named "J.J." any day."
I’m yet to read the quote where a player on the current team said outright our off season additions were superior to those of the Phillies. Please feel free to send me a link. As for the addition to your trophy case, the current team has not stopped congratulating you when questioned about it by the media. Seriously.

"The Mets' last championship team was basically an advertisement for wasted talent. As a sports fan I feel deprived that Darryl Strawberry and Doc Gooden — two sure-fire Hall of Famers whose careers were derailed by excess — never got their day in the sun. Would they have flamed out as quickly playing for the Royals? Maybe, but they didn't have a chance on the Mets."
The ’86 Mets have gone down as one of the greatest championship teams in all of sports (much like the ’85 Bears of the NFL and the Celtics teams of the ‘60s). As a sports fan you should be thankful that the team existed in the first place. On behalf of the Mets fans everywhere, you’re welcome.

"That stupid dilapidated apple. Why couldn't it die like the rest of Shea?"
Unfortunately for you, once again “The Magic Is Back!” Every ballpark has its kitsch factor and that just happens to be ours. You have you’re Liberty Bell, we have our Apple.

"Mets announcer Keith Hernandez's nonstop personal anecdotes from his playing days. We get it — once upon a time you were Keith Hernandez. Now you're just an old misogynist trying to remain relevant at the expense of actually calling the game."
The SNY broadcasting team has won Emmys. As for Keith’s portion of a broadcast, he would be the color commentator. It is his job to be anecdotal. If you would like to listen to the play-by-play, you’re paying attention to the wrong guy in the booth. See Gary Cohen.

"Mr. Met, New York's big-headed mascot, looks like a gum ball on steroids. The fact that there are Mets fans who refer to that cross-eyed goon as "beloved" does not speak well for their instincts or intelligence."
If a "Phanatic" speaks highly of instincts and intelligence, I pray to God I’m considered imbecilic on this earth.

So as you can see Mr. Beale, your diatribe and witticisms regarding why "the Mets are douche bags," are benighted and juvenile. Next time you venture out to rant, please leave it to the message board threads where fodder like this is eaten for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You need not give Mets fans any more reason to hate you in return.

Sincerely,

Brendan Bilko
Pricedoutoftheciti.com

The Outfield Assist: Mets 9, Orioles 3

The Mets (sans core) defeated the Baltimore Orioles (sans Roberts, Markakis, Huff, and Wieters) yesterday by a score of 9 to 3. There are a few big things to take from this first win of the Grapefruit League season. First would be that Luis Castillo had four RBI's on two hits from the leadoff spot, including an opposite field double. This seemingly can be attributed to both Castillo's off-season work ethic and Jerry Manuel's 80-pitch hitting drill. Manuel on Castillo per The Daily News:

"That was exactly what Louie needed," Manuel said. "He needed to drive in some runs. We were talking about getting him off to a good start. That was very appropriate for us right there. That was big for us. I was happy for him. He's worked hard, and good things are going to happen to him."

Daniel Murphy and Ryan Church also both had two hits, Church's both opposite field doubles. He is also giving Manuel's drill credit for being able to go that way:

"It doesn't matter what the pitch is, what count, we always know there's grass over there - there's hits over there," Church said about the opposite field. "A lot of it has to go back to that drill we were doing. I know I feel it."

The big story here though is Daniel Murphy's outfield assist, something on the boxscore that will go largely unnoticed. We all know that the kid takes his hitting seriously, but it's been his defense that has been of concern. Runs gained in the batters box can often be lost in the field. His assist proves that he's been working on his defense as well this spring, even though everytime we all read about him he seems to be in the batting cage.

There is still plenty of spring left as the team tries to build on the first games positives. The Mets will take on the Marlins at the Tradition Field opener at 1:10 today. Oliver Perez takes the hill for his only Grapefruit League start as he heads out Monday to play for Mexico at the WBC. The game will air live on SNY and will be re-aired at 7:00.

AP Photo

Interview on "We're The Team to Beat"

Our friends over at We're The Team to Beat interviewed me for their blog this week. You check the interview out here. The site is great as it's written by a Mets fan and a Phillies fan, so you get both perspectives. They update frequently with links from around the blogosphere, and of course there is the can't miss trash talk. Be sure to give them a look. A special thanks to Matt and Mike for thinking of us.

Here is an excerpt:

How do you think the Mets-Phillies rivalry compares to other rivalries around the league? Is it on the same level as Yankees-Red Sox or Cubs-Cardinals?
The folks in Bristol ruined the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry by satiating the country with coverage of it. The Cardinals-Cubs rivalry is just as storied as that of the Yanks and Sox, and their respective fan bases are often mentioned as among the best in the history of sports. Unfortunately, I think it suffers from the exact opposite problem in terms of how it is publicized. The Mets-Phillies rivalry is fresh, full of trash talk, and is taking place in two of the top five sports markets in the country without being over-hyped on network television. It is definitely the best in baseball right now.

Read the rest of the interview here!

Happy First Game of Spring Training Day

It seems as though pitchers, catchers, and David reported just yesterday doesn't it? The Mets bullpen along with Luis Castillo, Daniel Murphy, Ryan Church, and those fighting for the last roster spots will head to Fort Lauderdale Stadium today to square off against the Baltimore Orioles in the first game of the Grapefruit League season. JJ Putz will not be in attendance as he is with his wife for the birth of their third child. Here is a look of your rotation and lineup for today's game courtesy of Adam Rubin:

Sean Green, Pedro Feliciano, Duaner Sanchez, Elmer Dessens, Valerio de los Santos, Matt DeSalvo, Darren O'Day and Brian Stokes

1 - Castillo, 2b
2 - Murphy, lf
3 - Pagan, cf
4 - Church, rf
5 - Castro, c
6 - Cora, ss
7 - Evans, 1b
8 - Valentin, 3b
9 - F. Martinez, dh

Today's game will not be televised, however tomorrow's Tradition Field opener against the Marlins will be, with Oliver Perez scheduled to start. We will bring you game recaps, reaction, and opinion nightly.

Church's Sticken

Boy was this Ryan Church thing over hyped or what? I mean it even knocked the Alex Rodriguez story off the back pages of The Daily News. On Sunday, news broke that Jerry Manuel was going to make Daniel Murphy the everyday left fielder, while turning right field into a platoon of Fernando Tatis and Ryan Church. Jerry never said outright that he was going to turn right field into a platoon. Per The New York Times on Sunday:

“I don’t want him to get into a strictly platoon situation,” Manuel said of Murphy. “I think he’s a little better player than that. Also, with Church being a left-handed hitter, I kind of see Murphy being a better hitter right now at this time. It all depends on how well they’re doing. If they’re not getting hits, they’re not going to play.”

I personally took Manuel's words as a confidence booster to Murphy while simultaneously challenging Church to step it up a bit (hence the mere blurb yesterday). This isn't the first time the skipper has sent a message through the media this spring training. My hunch was correct, as everything was clarified by Ryan after yesterday's split squad game. Per The New York Times:

As the Mets stretched Monday morning, Manager Jerry Manuel sidled over to Ryan Church wearing a wide smile. “He said, ‘You’re getting ready to be the right fielder for the New York Mets,’ ” Church said. “I said, ‘I knew that.’ ”

All Jerry meant to say was that Murphy is showing him that he doesn't need to be in a platoon situation. This means that Tatis will not only sub in left field, but also in right field and the corner infield positions. He'll be used to spell the regulars and as the right handed bat off the bench, instead of as a strict platoon partner. Nothing to worry about in Port St. Lively folks. Lets not turn it into Port St. Languid.

Split Squads

After a weekend of light drills (and subsequently light news), the Mets will play split squad games today and tomorrow before taking on the Orioles in the first Grapefruit League game of 2009. Per Adam Rubin, here are your split squad rotations:

Monday Team A: Jon Niese, Nelson Figueroa, Kyle Snyder, Connor Robertson, & Heriberto Ruelas. Team B: Dillon Gee, Brandon Knight, Bobby Parnell, Carlos Muniz, Eddie Kunz, & Jon Switzer.

Tuesday Team A: John Maine, Mike Antonini, Rocky Cherry, & Tom Martin. Team B: Oliver Perez, Freddy Garcia, Casey Fossum, J.J. Putz, Adam Bostick.

I don't think Mets fans can thank Alex Rodriguez, the Yankee organization, and the beat writers enough right now. The New York sports pages are loaded with negativity from Tampa because of all the PED fodder. There is really only and a blurb here and an article there about drills from Mets camp. I think it has taken a boat load of pressure off of these guys.

As a result, every last sliver of coverage I've followed has nothing but positive energy emanating from Port St. Lucie. The team is focused and appears to be 100% behind Jerry Manuel's message of team unity. Luis Castillo is one of many taking extra BP and getting strong encouragement from both players and coaches. Daniel Murphy is everything we hoped he would be (so far) and is on the fast track to having LF all to himself. JJ Putz is forcing coaches to consider ear plugs due to the pop his fastball makes when hitting the catchers glove. Jose Reyes is special, and will hit from any spot in the order he is asked to.

I guess what I'm trying to say is, from everything I've heard through the grapevine, the attitude in camp is far different from that of 2008. We as fans should throw any cynicism we may have as a result of the last two seasons out the window and get real excited about the good things that are going to happen with this team. It's going to be a great season, and I have no desire to knock on wood after saying so. Bring it on.

Photo by Matt Cerrone of Metsblog.com

Mets Need Big Season from Little Carlos

Back in Aguadilla he may be known as Little Carlos, but in New York he's the big thumper of the New York Mets. The organization is going to need a productive year in line with his 2006 & latter 2008 numbers in order to keep the lineup potent in '09.

In the post Willie era, Carlos Delgado smacked 29 HR's and drove in 83 in 406 PA, while hitting .291. We all know Delgado's first and second half splits were in stark contrast to one another, but the hitter insists the departure of Randolph had nothing to do with the surge. Current skipper Jerry Manuel believes the disparity in the numbers was due to the sluggers health more than anything.

When Jerry first came on, he said one of his priorities was to give his core players more rest so they could be at their freshest. If this was a priority, someone missed the memo. Delgado himself played in 159 games last season and I wouldn't exactly call 3 days ample rest. Carlos shook off such a notion of depleted health. When asked yesterday about Jerry's theory, he told reporters “I wish there was something wrong physically.”

Such is the nature of Delgado. We never know exactly what it is going on inside his head or his massive frame. Whatever it is that's making him click or causing a slump will go into a little notebook for his eyes only. Let's all hope he has only positive things to write about in '09.

How Many More Days?

Do you know how I know I can't wait till the start of the season? Check out this image by Jeff Roberson of Newsday. Do you know who that is? That's 2008 Mets pariah Luis Castillo at the team's spring training complex today. This photo, the one of the Sultan of Slap, is how I know I can't wait any longer. Months ago this would make me sulk, and now it's making my blood pump the only way New York Metropolitans baseball can.

And you know what? Luis has me fired up by his actions as well. He showed up to camp today weighing 17 pounds lighter than he did last year. Word has it that he traveled a total of 2 hours daily over the off-season to work out at the Mets training facility in the Dominican Republic. Castillo is on a mission to prove that last season was a fluke, and he's the gamer he signed on to be for this team.

"I'm a new man right now." Castillo told reporters. He and Jose Reyes worked out all day. His middle infield partner noticed a difference himself. Per Marty Noble:

"You could see the difference on the field," Jose Reyes said. "We ran at the same time. He was like a little boy."

Maybe I'm just "drinking the Luis Castillo Kool-ade" as Adam Schein would say, but if Jose is drinking than so am I. Speaking of Reyes, he is already taking noticeable steps to becoming the leader Jerry Manuel wants him to be by palling around with the formerly downtrodden Castillo. It's these actions that speak louder than words.

Yet when words were needed today when asked about his spot in the lineup, he provided. Reyes said he has no problems hitting anywhere, and that he's here to help the team win first and foremost. I've said it before and I'll say it again, we're going to see big things from Professor Reyes in '09. Someone get me another glass of that Kool-ade. I need something to keep me busy till this season starts.

Test Post via Blackberry

My iPod just ran out of battery power. Might as well test this e-mail post option while I'm bored on the bike at the gym. Hell I'm even going to throw in a photo. It's from my last ever game at Shea, which seems appropriate now that the 'ol girl is officially gone as of this afternoon. Let's see how this turns out.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Jose Reyes The Leader

Jose, Jose, Jose, Jose. Jose. Jose. It is speculated that he will finally arrive in Port St. Lucie tonight fresh off witnessing the birth of his third child. Aside from the standard "we are the team to beat" jabs, camp banter has been revolving around the catalyst of our offense - one Jose Reyes. The discourse is well deserved. Mets skipper Jerry Manuel has been casually dropping the player's name in the press since before spring training, and he has recently mused about dropping him spots in the lineup. These comments can all be chalked up as challenges from the manager to his player. Challenges the player can and will accept, unless he wants to get cut in the most literal of meanings.

Why shouldn't the man who is the spark plug of the offense, the coordinator of handshakes, the professor of Spanish, and the ESPN dance instructor, shift the infield everyday? Jose is much more mature than the media lets him on to be, and Jerry knows that better than any of us. The man (not kid - he's entering his 5th major league season and will be 26 this year) oozes with confidence, and that surely isn't just for show. Last year we watched Jose learn to be a healthy combination of his fun loving self and his professional self. The maturation process will continue this year with these new challenges.

Is Jerry realistically going to shift Reyes in the lineup come the regular season? Maybe. Analysts and fans alike have been trying to figure it out for days now, with the general consensus being that he will stay where he's aways been. Regardless, I think the man is ready, willing, and able to take on anything thrown at him this season.

Manual Manuel

David Lennon of Newsday blogged about a new drill Jerry Manuel has players going through this spring training:

Brian Schneider just completed an exhausting BP session of seven minutes straight with no break. Just him and the machine feeding Schneider pitch after pitch. Its an unusual drill - usually players take no more than 6 or 7 swings before switching up with someone else.

Obviously Hojo and Snoop have something up their sleeves with this new exercise. Mets beat writer Marty Noble went into detail about it today. Apparently the batter steps in and is told to swing at every pitch coming his way for the next 6 minutes - 80 pitches total, as a conditioning drill. The exhaustive sessions force the hitter to use their hands and not make that perfect swing once fatigue sets in. The hope is that this will improve hand-eye coordination when situationally hitting (as in those cases it is simply contact that's essential...like when Daniel Murphy was on third).

Reyes in the Three Hole

Jerry Manuel had his introductory address with the media earlier today. He had a number of things he went over including the Mets signing of Livan Hernandez and announcing there will be no captain on this years team. Most notable to me was the possibility of Jose Reyes batting third in the lineup. Per Adam Rubin of The Daily News:

Luis Castillo may bat leadoff for the Mets. Potentially, Carlos Beltran could bat second and Jose Reyes third. It may make more sense to bat Carlos Delgado fourth and David Wright fifth in that scenario, since otherwise the Mets would be stacking a ton of lefties at the bottom of the order.

I sure hope this is all because of the WBC as Jose won't be in camp, or just to get Luis going from time to time. However if this is a legitimate idea - I am quite skeptical. There is nothing better than a first inning "Reyes Run." It puts the team on the board first, and within 5 minutes of game-time the Mets are already in the opposition's head. Jose is by far and large the biggest nuisance on the basepaths for an opposing pitcher, and an enormous asset to this offense. To take that away from the leadoff spot just seems devastating to me.

Question Mark #3 - C

One day left till pitchers and catchers report! We're taking a look at the team's main question marks heading into the 2009 season. Last but not least, the catcher position.

Look in the mirror. Now ask yourself, could you really go through 2009 without the sheer wit of a Brian Schneider Toyota of Manhattan commercial? I think not.

Schneider had a rough go of it in the off-season as rumors circulated that one of the teams top priorities was to upgrade at the catcher position. Articles were being written about how he, and not the bullpen, was the sole force behind the Mets collapse down the stretch. It was all speculation, and rumors are now going around that the Mets are trying to unload the bigger offensive weapon of our two options behind the dish.

Regardless of the validity of those musings about Castro, Brian Schneider will be our #1 catcher this season. Offensively last season, Schneider was pretty much in line with his career numbers, despite a drop in XBH (19 in 08 v.s. 28 in '07). His numbers were actually quite comparable to LoDuca's in 2007, with fewer RBI's (which can be attributed to hitting spot in the order) and a slightly lower average. We actually got exactly what we expected offensively from Schneider. So what's the problem?

Oh the defense. Right. Mets fans were sold on Schneider because of his history of superb defense and game calling. He was injured in Spring training, and seemed to have a rough go of it behind the plate to start the year. Despite how it may have looked, he only committed 5 errors last season, one less from the year before, and his range factor was almost a half a point higher than the league average. His CS percentage increased from the prior years as well to 33%. He was ranked 6th defensively amongst all major league catchers. Guess what? We got what sold us in the first place.

It's nearly impossible to assemble a team that hits .300 down the line. I think fans were a little hard on Schneider for his production as it was all in line with his career norms. Perhaps a second year in New York will do Brian some good, as it does most players adjusting to the difficult market. He'll have the same rotation to work with as he did in 2008, which will bode well for his game calling. Hopefully with a healthy spring training his bat may wake up a little bit too.

Question Mark #2 - 2B

With two days left till pitchers and catchers report, we'll take a look at the team's main question marks heading into the 2009 season.

Don't pretend like you're not worried about the "Sultan of Slap." In the 2007 - 2008 off-season Luis Castillo had surgery on both his knees, and somehow managed to acquire a 4 year deal worth $6 million a year from Minaya in the process. Since then he has come into camp miserably out of shape, lost range in the field, and lost 60 points on his BA. He hasn't even come close to earning a pennies worth of that ridiculous contract he signed, and was the scapegoat of the 2008 Mets offensive woes. 3 years to go.

This off-season, most expected Luis to be salary dumped for a bag of Bugles, however in this tough economic climate, teams aren't even willing to shell out $6 million for Adam Dunn, let alone a piece of Bazooka for Castillo. So whether we like it or not, Slappy is our second baseman just as Rex Grossman was their quarterback.

I read a great fan post on Amazin' Avenue yesterday that got me feeling alright about Luis. It started by pointing out that Castillo has hit .290+ in 9 out of his 10 major league seasons. Across that same span, he's averaged about a .375 OBP. Offensively, his slap hitting style and high OBP are what makes him the perfect #2 hitter. In the field, he's actually won 3 gold gloves and could make all the maneuvers on a non-routine double play that make a great second baseman. Luis Castillo is a good player with a hefty contract to live up to.

As stated before the man had surgery on both of his knees in the 2007 - 2008 off-season. He clearly didn't rehab right and lost lateral range in the field because of it. He was benched a good portion of the season, and was never able to get consistent at the plate either. This year he has promised to change all of that, and Omar has been forced into giving him a second chance. With some rest, hopefully Luis can return to his 2007 and prior form. If not, the sexiest man in baseball just signed a minor league deal worth $800,000 if he makes the team. You can bet he'll be looking over Luis's shoulder.

Side note - José Valentín was one of my favorite players from the 2006 Mets. He was such a positive clubhouse influence, and seemingly came through in the clutch whenever it was needed. With that said, I know he's 40, but I really hope the best for him.

Question Mark #1 - LF

With three days left till pitchers and catchers report, we'll take a look at the team's main question marks heading into the 2009 season.

Quite possibly everyone's favorite position to argue over (sans bullpen) this off-season was that of left field. Going into 2009, the Mets will implement a platoon consisting of the left-handed hitting Daniel Murphy and the right-handed Fernando Tatis. Last year the Mets LF carousel saw time from multiple players, but the majority of the time was manned by these two. In 457 PA (with Tatis getting the lions share), the two had 13 HRs, 64 RBI's, and combined to hit over .300. Both players caught the hearts of many last year. Collapse 2.0 however had fans clamouring for Manny Ramirez at seasons end.

My how New York fans are quick to forget. Don't you remember how excited you were every time Murphy stepped to the plate last year? As Matt Cerrone has said time and time again - "this kid means business." I think the "Irish Hammer" does too (read that nickname on a thread last year - I deserve no credit).

Despite his average to below average fielding, the kid has some serious discipline at the dish. He's all grit and attitude up there, knowing how to shorten up on a two strike count and poke it where it's needed. That is what this team needs folks - situational hitting - something Jerry Manuel spoke about focusing on this off-season. Plus he's a homegrown, and although it can be tough to watch at times, there is nothing better than watching the good become great before your eyes.

As of now, Bill James has our Tatis-Murphy combination (with a much expected drop in Tatis's production) projecting around a .285 average with 24 HR's, 107 runs scored, and 110 RBI's. I know it isn't Manny production, but it is production I am more than happy to have. Bring on the Irish Hammer and his shuffle stepping partner.

Weekend Roundup

Amidst all the "ste-Rod" controversy, it appears as though everyone decided to ditch their Sunday section articles on the Mets. Both Adam Rubin of The Daily News and Bart Hubbuch of The Post point out the similarities of the 2008 and 2009 teams. They set out key questions that will need to be answered in order to overcome 2008's collapse.

Over at The New York Times, Ben Shipgel analyzes the dimensions of Citi Field in comparison to those of Shea. There is a great graphic that shows those on the team last year that should have increased difficulty this season when hitting it into the power alleys. Most notable on the list would be David Wright and Carlos Delgado. I'm not so concerned with Carlos as when he puts it out, he does it with authority. David's shots to left-center might run into trouble this season as the wall is 15 feet high compared to Shea's old 8-foot wall.

World Baseball Classic '09

The equipment trucks are on their way to the Sunshine and Copper states. Yes pitchers and catchers report in 5 days, and less than 2 weeks after that, we'll have the start of Grapefruit League games. As exciting as the coming of Spring Training is, I am particularly excited for the World Baseball Classic this year. So excited in fact, that I'll be packing up the car and heading up to Toronto to catch the first game at the Rogers Centre. That's right, for 3 days in March we're excited to bring you a road trip account of WBC '09.

I know there has long been debate over the Classic. The timing of it and the possibility of injury to key players being the main source of tension between clubs and the WBC. The first time around, the tournament was quite a success and the vast majority of the major league players suffered no serious injury. Fans from all over the world loved it, as it showcased their home grown talent playing both with and against the superstars of MLB.

I expect a much better showing this year for the US. We have Davey at the helm and have dramatically improved at the 3rd base position. If you live in the tri-state area, I strongly encourage taking the trip out there to support your Mets playing in the tournament. It's only an 8 - 9 hour drive to Toronto, and there are still plenty of great seats left for a decent price.

Million Manny March Part Deux

The second "Million Manny March" went down tonight, and I believe it's fair to say the "Manny-acs" have lost hope. At 7:00pm during SNY's live Mets Hot Stove broadcast, a crowd half the size as the previous weeks, gathered outside the studio's windows to show their yearning for the 36 year old slugger. Between Omar Minaya's decree that the team was done acquiring major pieces this off season and the inclement weather, the cause had lost it's steam.

The group of about 15 came signs and wigs in tow only to receive flack from security. I think realization has set in to all that signing Manny Ramirez just isn't going to happen. Kudos to all that showed up enthused despite the cold weather. Click here for a slideshow of images from the event.

Valentine and Vance

Jason over at Faith and Fear showed his off and I feel inclined to do the same. The pair arrived a couple of weeks ago, and I couldn't be happier (well, once my "seat feet" arrive and I can move them in front of my television for games - I assume I'll be at the peak of happiness). As they are seat numbers 2 and 3, I felt it appropriate to name them accordingly - Valentine and Vance.

Naming one after Bobby V is a no brainer, but why not go for a more memorable Met to wear #3 like Buddy Harrelson? Unfortunately I was merely a twinkle in my father's eye when Buddy played. I did however spend my teen years watching the Bobby Valentine era team.

Vance Wilson was one of the most likable characters from those days. The man behind the man (Piazza) was a perennial backup throughout his career that caught and played 1st base - something a fellow backup 1st baseman and catcher growing up can identify with. Vance, this one's for you.

8 days till pitchers and catchers report...

What's in a Name?

Recent rumors suggest that Citigroup, the now-crippled once-mighty financial behemoth, is considering pulling out of its sponsorship deal with the Mets. In addition, as reported on this blog and elsewhere, two high-profile House members have written to our newly appointed treasury secretary, imploring him to put the kybosh on the $400 million folly.

Setting aside the issue of whether Timmy "What the Hell Are Payroll Taxes?" Geithner actually has the legal power to tell a non-State owned company what to do (hint: he doesn't; bailouts and backstops notwithstanding, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 had less teeth than an octogenarian and the United States government is not -- yet -- the majority shareholder of the "House That Weill Built [on Sand]"), the deal's getting nixed would be a blessing for all stakeholders.

The "Citi" moniker/trademark may soon be a relic of the past, as Citigroup CEO Vikram Pandit continues to shed co-called "non-core legacy assets," returning the company to its pre-1998 status, when it was known simply and unabbreviatedly as Citicorp. "Citi Field" would thus quickly be reduced to an anachronism, a monument to the latest spate of corporate avarice and mismanagement. Needless to say, the Mets have enough bad mojo as a franchise, and their long-suffering fans certainly deserve better than having a huge Faustian symbol for a ballpark. Likewise, acutely cash-strapped Citigroup would save $400 million, which it, oh I don't know, could lend out?!

Maybe we'll never quite return to the quaint and innocent era when stadiums were actually named after teams or great personages. Maybe the Enron Fields and the MCI/WorldCom Centers of the world are destined to continue to blot the legacy of the teams that called them home. However, maybe, just maybe, corporations will eventually realize that splashing their name across a sports venue is not only a bad investment, but it could potentially also prove to be an embarrassment for its host city and the folks that live there.

So, here's hoping that sanity and prudence prevails, and that the Mets will take the field at newly re-named Seaver Stadium on April 13.

Quoth The Omar

At today's press conference to announce the signing of Oliver Perez, Kevin Burkhardt of SNY interviewed Omar Minaya. When asked about the possibility of Manny Ramirez signing with the team, Omar said:

"We've filled all our priorities. Where we are right now, I'm set to go with this team. There is no dialogue. I don't see Manny being on the team...the bottom line is we're going with this team right now as it is."

If that doesn't spell it out, I'm not sure what will. Bring on Spring Training. 

Citigroup Considers Backing Out

This morning The Wall Street Journal reported that Citigroup is considering backing out of their marketing and naming rights agreement with the New York Mets. However in a later report on CNBC this morning, the organization has stated that Citigroup has contacted them, and assured that they will adhere to the original agreement contrary to reports.

You can read this blog's first post here regarding Citigroup's deal with the Mets. Since then, the company's stock has fallen to 3.58 a share (C). They have sworn that no TARP funds would go towards their agreement with the organization. Despite the promise, politicians with clout, including U.S. House Representatives Dennis Kucinich and Ted Poe, have written to Treasury Secretary Geithner asking him to step in to get the deal with the team dissolved.

That's not all the financial buzz going on in Queens. In a post to Metsblog this morning, Matt Cerrone cites a tipster claiming there is "scuttlebutt around town" claiming the Wilpons may be forced to sell a minority share of the team due to their hit in the Madoff scandal. 

Oliver Perez Agrees to Terms with Mets

Update 6:12pm:

Looks like everyone spoke a little too soon this morning. So it didn't happen over the weekend, however by early afternoon today, Oliver Perez had agreed to a 3 year $36 million contract with the New York Mets. According to Joel Sherman of The Post, a lengthier deal was floated around at a lower annual value, but Perez decided to go with the shorter contract as it will allow him to enter back into free agency at the age of 30.

Now if we go by Adam Rubin's payroll computation, and factor in Oliver's annual average salary, the Mets have a 2009 payroll of approximately $133 million. That is $10 million lower than last years total, leading some to believe the team may add one more piece. Guess who everyone is asking for? That's right, and "The Manny-acs" will be out in full force again this Thursday outside of SNY's studios during a live broadcast of their Mets Hot Stove program (and just like last time, Priced Out of the Citi will be there to cover the event).

Personally I think that $10 million is much better spent on an incentive laden contract for Ben Sheets. We all know Manny Ramirez is one of the greatest right-handed hitters of all time, and a serious upgrade to any ballclub. However based on calculations by highly touted sabermatricians, the offense projects to be more than fine this upcoming season without him. A rotation of Santana, Sheets, Perez, Pelfrey, and Maine would be one of the best in the NL, and with tons of depth should someone go down. With that kind of rotation, the offensive upgrade doesn't become a necessity. I think most fans would feel very confident going into Spring Training with our club.

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How about that weekend deadline?