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 ValentÃn 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.
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