UGOT2B-LIEVE

Video of Carlos Delgado arriving in PSL

2009-02-19T21:03:00.006-05:00

Thanx to Bart Hubbuch of NY Post for capturing Delgado's arrival on video.

Delgado0219 from Bart Hubbuch on Vimeo.

Shea Stadium final demolition - Shea Goodbye!

2009-02-19T01:51:00.000-05:00

Thanx to nymdan for shooting this youtube video of Shea Stadium's final phase of demolition.

After the dust and debris settled, Citi Field came into view, much in the way the mythical Phoenix would rise from the ashes.

In addition to the video, check out Paul J. Bereswill photos taken for the NY Times here. There are seven individual frames at various stages of the Shea Stadium Breezeway plunging to the ground.

Feel free to check out the More Shea Stadium Demolition Footage as well as Shea Stadium labels on this site for photos of Shea in different stages of demolition.

NY Mets ranked 3rd in MLB Power Rankings by AOL's Fanhouse

2009-02-19T01:02:00.004-05:00

This is actually the first rankings I've come across that has the Mets ahead of the Phillies. Based on their rankings, the Mets are the team to beat in the NL.

Here's what Will Brinson of Fanhouse had to say about the Mets 3rd place ranking:

3. Mets
The moves made by the Big Apple's metaphorical younger sibling were under-reported this offseason. That's understandable considering what the Yankees did, but when you look closely at what the Mets bring to the table in 2009, it's hard to argue with the job Omar Minaya did. David Wright, Jose Reyes and Johan Santana anchor this team again, but Francisco Rodriguez and J.J. Putz are the key bullpen additions. The back-end of the rotation and the lineup are big questions, though.

For complete rankings, click here.

Jose Reyes arrives in camp and sets the record straight regarding the Phillies

2009-02-18T16:29:00.006-05:00

Thanx to Bart Hubbuch for shooting this video of Jose Reyes arrival into camp. Reyes is already sporting his Under Armor, on the day his endorsement deal was reported here.

Topics discussed:

Moving down in the batting order
How he learned about potential move
Teamwork
Relationship with Luis Castillo
Taking on a leadership role

In addition, check out Jose Reyes unload on the Phillies in Bart's post here.

Here's just a sample of what Reyes had to say - They teased Victorino by putting the words "J. Reyes?" on a picture of Victorino's celebration in his locker.

"I heard that," Reyes said of the Victorino incident. "I don't know why they say that, because I'm not the only one pimpin' when I hit a home run. A lot of people do that. People from Philadelphia, too. They stand for a couple of seconds at home plate [after a homer] and nobody say nothing. So like I said, I don't know why they're so focused on us. We just worry about us."

Reyes0218 from Bart Hubbuch on Vimeo.

Fernando Martinez arrives in camp - "I can hit"

2009-02-18T10:33:00.005-05:00

Fernando Martinez arrived in Port St Lucie this morning looking to hit the diamond after being shut down by the Mets, just shy of two weeks ago. F-Mart will meet with team medical staff prior to returning to active duty.

Jessie Sanchez of MLB.com, filed this post about F-Mart's injury as well as his heroic game winning homer.

The Caribbean Series is over for Mets prospect Fernando Martinez.The right-handed-throwing outfielder is nursing a sore right elbow and will fly to New York on Thursday night for a checkup. He said he is taking anti-inflammatory medication.

"I felt my elbow tighten up the day before yesterday [after throwing]," Martinez said. "It was a little swollen. It's better. I feel I can play again. I don't think I need to fly to New York to get a check up but the Mets want me to."

On Tuesday, Martinez hit a two-run pinch-hit homer in the top of the seventh inning to push the Tigres de Licey past Puerto Rico's Leones de Ponce, 2-1. It was his only at-bat of the series. Last season the 20-year old combined to hit .292 in 90 games for the Mets' Gulf Coast League team and Double-A Binghamton. He was also slowed by a hamstring injury.

Flash back to video of F-Mart's Caribbean Series blast here.

Update from Mike Rose - Fernando Martinez just walked by with a big smile on his face saying "I can hit." The doctors must have just cleared him for that and he was headed out to the field with a bat.

Read Mike's post here.

Jose Reyes gets some love from Under Armor

2009-02-18T09:49:00.007-05:00

As reported by Andrea K. Walker of the Baltimore Sun.com - Baltimore-based sports apparel company Under Armour has signed New York Mets All-Star shortstop Jose Reyes to a multiyear partnership. Reyes will be featured in a new advertising campaign that begins today and introduces a new lightweight baseball cleat. Other baseball players Under Armour has signed include Alfonso Soriano, Ryan Zimmerman, Jeff Francoeur, Nick Markakis and Francisco Liriano.

Based on the names of Under Armor's signed baseball players, Reyes will be their biggest signing to date. Reyes not only gets Under Armor a foot in the door, he kicks the door wide open in the mega-market of NY. I wouldn't be surprised to see print ads prominently displayed in Citi Field.

Carlos Beltran comes out swinging on Cole Hamels

2009-02-17T17:30:00.009-05:00

Thanx to Bart Hubbuch of NY Post for capturing Beltran's arrival on video.

Here's an excerpt from Bart's article:

Beltran said of Hamels upon arriving in camp this morning. "The only thing that I know is that he will be watched every time he faces us and hopefully we kill him. And then he'll have to deal with the situation."

I may be going out on a limb here, I just don't think Carlos gives a flip about the Phillies. Somehow, the Phillies seem to get on the usually mile mannered, Beltran's nerves.

beltran0217 from Bart Hubbuch on Vimeo.

Courtesy of Bart Hubbuch on Vimeo.

Shea Stadium demolition view from Chopper 880

2009-02-17T16:40:00.006-05:00

These photographs were taken by Tom Kaminski in Chopper 880 on Tuesday, 17Feb09. As you can see, there is not much left of Ole Shea. I would think a day or maybe two at best, before all that remains are several piles of debris.

Check out Tom's latest photos of Shea from Chopper 880 here.

Don't forget to check out the More Shea Stadium Demolition Footage as well as Shea Stadium labels on this site for photos of Shea in different stages of demolition.

Shea Stadium Demolition - Last Neon Section Comes Tumbling Down 16Feb09

2009-02-17T06:13:00.000-05:00

A special thanx to the guyz at BaseBall-Fever.com for providing this excellent video of the latest Shea Stadium demolition work. By the looks of it, tomorrow may be the last day any part of the structure is left standing.

You will be treated to multiple views and angles of the last neon (pitcher) being demolished.

Citi Field most comprehensive construction slideshow - Updated 16Feb09

2009-02-17T03:15:00.005-05:00

A tip of the cap to islandxtreme26, for the most up-to-date, comprehensive Citi Field slideshow available...Bar none!

After clicking the arrow, click on next located along the bottom and you're now ready to enjoy this amazin slideshow, courtesy of islandxtreme26.

I'm ready for the season to start! Let's Go Mets!!!

Citi Field 2-16-09

K-Rod, what's up with your eyes, Dude?

2009-02-17T01:13:00.005-05:00

Dude, the red eyes are just a bit freaky!

K-Rod explained the red contacts act as a sun shield, therefore making his shades obsolete. K-rod states, "It's like you have sunglasses on," he said. "I don't like wearing glasses."

You can read Bart Hubbuch's article here.

To be honest with you, I don't care what you look like, just keep making the bat miss the ball and the Mets fandom will be happy.

Just one other thing, I nominate Thriller for K-Rod's entry music from the bull pen.

ESPN grading NY Mets a B+ for off season moves

2009-02-16T11:54:00.003-05:00

Joe Sheehan gives the Mets a B+ for their off season moves. I can agree with that assessment, however I take exception to his projected win total.

Joe, 88 wins...Really! I may be splitting hairs with you here, but I see the Mets as picking up 90+ wins. By your own admission, the Mets have really upgraded their bull pen by adding K-Rod and JJ Putz...That's gotta a be at least 4-5 additional wins, over last year's total of 89.

Heck, the fact Willie Randolph is gone makes me want to adjust that total upwards.

NY Mets launch Online Citi Field Ticket Registration for Opening Day

2009-02-16T10:42:00.004-05:00

Do you feel lucky...well do ya? If so, be sure to Register online, at Mets.com for your chance to pickup Citi Field opening day tickets.

Here are the details:

Registration begins Tuesday, February 17 at 10 a.m. at Mets.com. The registration for the online random drawing will run through Tuesday, February 24, 11:59 PM.
Opening day Monday, April 13 against the San Diego Padres at 7:10 p.m. at Citi Field.
There is a limit of one entry per person.
A limited number of fans will be selected in the online random drawing and will be notified via e-mail by Friday, February 27 with instructions regarding the online purchase of up to four (4) tickets.
Tickets start at $27 each and must be purchased with a major credit card. Per ticket and per order fees will apply.

To view complete press release, click here.

Don't forget, you gotta be in it to win it!

Shea Stadium Demolition - It's almost no more!

2009-02-15T17:54:00.003-05:00

Special thanx to http://myusicinmymind.com/ for posting this awesome video.

Check out additional photos here.

2009 MLB power rankings and NY Mets are 5th

2009-02-15T17:14:00.005-05:00

According to Aram Tolegian of Fox Sports.com, adding K-Rod and J.J. Putz gave the Mets one of the better offseasons in the game. Now that the bullpen is stabilized, the big question becomes the backend of the rotation and overall depth.

Check out the complete rankings here.

Second in the NL East behind the Phillies, I don't think so! Personally, I tend to agree with K-Rod's assessment, as reported in Newsday.

"This is a different year, a different ballclub now. We've just got to go out and compete. Like I said before, I don't want to make no controversy. But with this ballclub, the way I see it, with those guys, me and J.J. Putz and the other acquisitions in the bullpen, I think now I feel like we're the team to beat."

Read complete article here.

NY Mets Sign Livan Hernandez to Minor League Contract

2009-02-14T10:34:00.006-05:00

I can't make this up.

The NY Mets have signed Livan Hernandez to a $1 million minor-league deal with $1 in performance bonuses, according to a source familiar with the deal. Hernandez is expected at camp this weekend.

Read Christian Red's article here.

It is said, Competition is the whetstone of talent. The signing makes Hernandez the fourth pitcher vying for the fifth starter spot in the rotation. Hernandez will take his place alongside Garcia, Niese and Redding in a wide open competition to join the rotation.

Freddy Garcia expects to be in the 2009 NY Mets rotation

2009-02-14T00:46:00.005-05:00

Websters definition of bravado - a pretentious, swaggering display of courage.

Seems like Ole Freddy is filled with bravado, which is a good thing for a pitcher coming off of right shoulder reconstructive labrum surgery. Here's what Garcia said yesterday about heading North to Citi Field - "Yeah, yeah, 100 percent - of course I expect to be in the rotation." In fact, his expectation is to be in the rotation, or in his mind he'll be taking the ball every fifth day for another club.

The quote I most enjoyed, "If I make the ballclub, and everything goes right, we should win the division and why not go to the World Series?" Let's hope his mouth is writing checks his shoulder is able to cash.

Watch the video here.

Although Freddy Garcia was signed to a minor league contract, Garcia could earn between $8 million and $9 million with incentives in 2009 if he makes the club in Spring Training. That's a whole lot of incentive!

Career Stats:

118 Wins vs. 77 Loses; that's a healthy 41 games over .500.
.407 ERA; not bad considering his tenure in the American League
Starting pitcher in the championship clinching game four of the 2005 World Series. Garcia went a sparkling seven innings, allowing no earned runs.

Kevin Burkhardt takes a pie to the grill courtesy of JJ Putz

2009-02-13T11:58:00.004-05:00

JJ's somewhat of a prankster. Despite the fact that JJ warned Burkhardt all day he would get him, Kevin never saw it coming. JJ displayed some ninja skills and lets Burkhardt have it.

I must say Burkhardt's a good sport. If JJ really wants to impress me, he should try spraying Tim McCarver with champagne, as Deion Sanders did. What a priceless moment in sports that was.

Watch the video of the pieing here.

You can also watch Burkhardt's interview with JJ Putz and Sean Green, courtesy of SNY here.

NY Mets JJ Putz joins Boomer & Carton on WFAN

2009-02-13T11:07:00.004-05:00

JJ is wowing the Mets with his stuff. Under the watchful eyes of Dan Warthen, JJ Putz had an impressive 40 pitch session. Based on his selection to the WBC, JJ has gotten off to an early start this year...and it obviously shows.

BTW, ignore the number you see on the Jersey, he will be sporting 22. JJ has been number 20 for the Mariners, however he didn't feel right demanding highly regarded Mets hitting coach, Ho Jo give it up. Good on you, JJ.

Here's what Ben Shpigel had to say:

Another Mets pitcher, J.J. Putz, has been throwing for a few week, and he had his first session this morning with his new catcher, Brian Schneider. With the pitching coach Dan Warthen watching, Putz threw about 40 pitches, including a few that had some of the nastiest spin I’ve ever seen. The bullpen catcher Dave Racaniello was kneeling a few steps away from Schneider, and he said it was a splitter — “a really, really good one.”

In the interview JJ discusses the upcoming 2009 season and the whole A-Roid situation. I totally agree with his point that all of the other 103 names should be released, instead of 1 out of 104.

JJ seems like a stand-up guy, who will be a breath of fresh air in the club house.

Give a listen to JJ's interview with Boom and Carton, click here.

David Wright and Manager, Davey Johnson of Team USA Discuss 2009 World Baseball Classic

2009-02-13T02:26:00.013-05:00

From the MLB Hot Stove archives, Davey Johnson in studio discussing Team USA and the upcoming World Baseball Classic. In addition to Mgr. Davey Johnson, David Wright joins the conversation by phone.

Team USA will begin play on the 7th of March, at the Rogers Center, Toronto, Canada. The participating countries of Pool C are, USA, Canada, Italy and Venezuela.

In case you missed this episode of the Hot Stove, check out the video here.

2009 NY Mets and Xavier Nady a Winning Combination

2009-02-12T12:13:00.000-05:00

I’m torn between giving Murph a legit chance of claiming the LF spot and the need for a LFer with some pop. It’s time to do a little house keeping on Mets fans LF wish list.

Manny - Still on the market, however the Mets have made it abundantly clear that they are not a player for his services. IMHO, there are two factors that contributed to the Mets lack of interest.

Understandably, the Mets reluctance to contribute to MLB’s version of welfare, aka the luxury tax threshold has been huge. With Manny and Boras turning their collective noses up at anything less than a 4 yr contract in the neighborhood of $100M, it’s hard to see how they can fit him into their business plan.

Let us not underestimate the colossal impact of the Madoff Ponzi Scheme!

Adam Dunn - No longer an option, as he has signed with the Nats. Looks like the Mets will have the misfortune of facing him in 18 games this year.

Bobby Abreu - I’m going to Disneyland.

Raul Ibanez - Seeing how the Phillies acquired Raul’s services, we should be seeing quite a bit of him this season. The Phillies may have interpreted the market incorrectly, by handing the aging left fielder a 3 yr contract for $30M. It is well documented that Ibanez is defensively challenged.

Pat Burrell - Thankfully “Burrell the Met Killer” was shipped not only out of our division, he is now in the American League…Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy! However, Burrell will have his opportunity to torment Mets fans of all ages, when he arrives at Citi Field 19-21Jun. Let’s hope he’s not as cozy in Citi Field as he was in Shea.

If the Mets are looking to make a significant move, it must come by way of a trade. To that end, I’m thinking Xavier Nady would be the best fit.

What will the Mets have to offer??? Im not sure, however it would have to start with relief help. The Yankees have a real problem trying to find a RP who can get the ball to future HOF, Mariano Rivera.

First and foremost, we know the X-man can play in New York.
Nady is signed to a one-year, $6.65 million contract. That's not a huge commitment, and perhaps F-Mart emerges to claim LF in 2010. Another way to look at this is, assuming the Mets offer Nady arbitration at the end of the season, he may net the Mets a first round pick, as a Type A free agent
From Omar on down the message has been consistent, the Mets are seeking balance from the right side of the plate, preferably with some pop. Nady's number continue to improve and would be a welcome productive addition in the five, six or seven spot.
Nady's last year's stats; .305 BA/ 25 HRS/ 97 RBI/ .357 OBP/ .510 SP/ .867 OPS. Now, let's put those numbers up against Adam Dunn's; .236 BA/ 40 HRS/ 100RBI/ .386 OBP/ .513 SP/ .898 OPS. Not too shabby, and there is nearly $3.4M dollars in savings. An added bonus is the advantage Nady has over Dunn in the field.
By trading for Nady, Nick Swisher will no longer be available and the Braves are jonesing for him something awful.

Citi Field Video Interior View

2009-02-12T11:43:00.005-05:00

This video is brought to you by the good folks of Tapemastersinc.net & EastWestWorldwide.com, during their visit to Citi Field on the 11Feb09. Thanx guyz!

Be sure to have your volume turned up to listen to a couple of Mets classic songs. In addition, you can hear the jets overhead adding to the ambiance... Sometimes the more things change, the more they stay the same.

First video I've seen with Pepsi Porch in right field 100% completely installed.

The video closes with what remains of Shea Stadium in the distant background. Give it a look.

Carlos Beltran of the Mets your excellence has not gone unnoticed

2009-02-11T11:35:00.008-05:00

Earlier this week I asked the question, when will NY Mets fans appreciate Carlos Beltran? Beltran is one of a select few true five-tool players. The Mets have truly been blessed to have Beltran ply his craft in a cavernous center field at Shea Stadium. However, it's unfortunate that many Mets fans can't get past Beltran striking-out to end the 2006 NLCS.

To lend just a bit more credence, have a look at Beltran's accomplishments.

American League Rookie of the Year (Kansas City Royals, 1999)
American League Player of the Month (Kansas City Royals, April 2004)
Tied single postseason record for home runs (Astros-8)
Won NL Gold Glove (New York Mets, 2006-2008)
Won NL Silver Slugger (New York Mets, 2006-2007)
Mets single season record holder for runs scored (127) ahead of Edgardo Alfonzo and current teammate José Reyes.
Mets single season record holder for home runs (41) tied with Todd Hundley.
4-time All-Star (2004-2007)
1,000th Run scored (Aug. 12, 2008)
Highest stolen base percentage in MLB (Min of 250 attempts)

First there was Peter Gammons letting the Mets faithful know how good they have it and now Ted Berg.

Here's columnist for SNY, Ted Berg's take...Carlos Beltran is still really, really good at base ball.

Here's an excerpt from his article:

My favorite esoteric Beltran stat I've noticed this offseason, though, is one that merely supports something many Mets fans already knew. According to The Hardball Times, Beltran made 111 plays out of the center fielder's fielding zone in 2008, the most out-of-zone plays anyone has made since THT started keeping stats in 2004. Anyone watching Mets games could have told you that, though: Beltran, flanked for much of the season by infielders playing out of position, pretty clearly decided he'd be handling every fly he could get to, even if it was far beyond the normal realm of the center fielder. Put me down for thinking that's awesome. What a beautiful player.

Check out the rest of Ted's article here.

1986 Mets World Series Champs - Mookie Wilson and Bill Buckner, forever joined together in history

2009-02-11T10:01:00.005-05:00

We all remember where we were on the glorious day the Mets won the 86 World Series.

MLB Productions has put together a video of game six, yeah the ball that gets through Buckner's legs. A lot happened before Vin Scully uttered the words, that forever linked Mookie and Buckner..."So the winning run is at second base, with two outs, three and two to Mookie Wilson. A little roller up along first; behind the bag! It gets through Buckner! Here comes Knight, and the Mets win it!"

In this video the following questions get answered:

Why was Buckner still in the game?
Would Mookie have beaten Buckner to the bag?
How much of a successful career Buckner had?
How did it end between Buckner and the Sox?

NY Mets sign Jose Valentin To Minor League Deal

2009-02-10T22:21:00.003-05:00

Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports that the Mets have signed infielder Jose Valentin to a minor league contract.

Valentin will be invited to spring training and can earn $800K if he makes the squad. He should provide adequate backup to Luis Castillo this season and could get a good amount of at-bats if Castillo continues to struggle. Valentin was the Mets' starting second baseman in 2006, when he hit .271 and 18 home runs.

I don't know what Valentin has left in the tank, but he is a great clubhouse guy. Valentin has also been credited for mentoring Jose Reyes and bringing the best out of him. I suppose we could do worse for a bat off the bench.

More Shea Stadium Demolition Footage - Gate C

2009-02-10T22:15:00.004-05:00

By way of Joe McDonald of NYSD

Joe fills you in on progress, as well as completion date here.

How many games will the current version of the 09 Mets win?

2009-02-10T11:41:00.007-05:00

How many games will the current version of the 09 Mets win?

Selection		Votes
100 or more	1%	1
95-99	23%	17
90-94	36%	26
85-89	30%	22
84 or less	10%	7

73 votes total

The results are in and the people have spoken! The 90-94 crowd carries the day, with a 6 pt victory over a determined 85-89 constituency.

What I find most surprising, nearly 60% (59%) of all respondents believe the Mets will be victorious in 90-99 games. The same Mets Nation who continue to clamor for Manny, O-Dog or Adam Dunn...Myself included. In addition, Matt Cerrone of MetsBlog, has a Fan Confidence Rating hovering around 67%.

One die-hard projects a 100 or greater win total. One man's homer is another man's visionary!

Finally, it's clear we have a viewership of trolls, as the 10% for 84 or less would indicate. That's okay, I like to know what the competition is doing as well. Feel free to stop in.

Be sure to vote in this week poll, you'll have two choices and I encourage leaving family friendly comments behind.

But first, here are several comments on the "Win Total" poll:

From Mr Metzylplyk on February 9, 2009 at 11:21 am. IP Logged, 63.117.228.x Report Abuse

We're gonna take the NLE by STORM! Lets go Mets!

From Baron on February 5, 2009 at 8:58 pm. IP Logged, 97.89.17.x Report Abuse

If everything goes right we will win at least 90 games.

From A on February 5, 2009 at 6:46 pm. IP Logged, 67.80.123.x Report Abuse

90-94

Nikkkkaa

From D on February 5, 2009 at 2:52 pm. IP Logged, 208.215.178.x Report Abuse

I say 90 wins tops.

Carlos Delgado of the Toronto Blue Jays, 2003 AL MVP

2009-02-10T11:23:00.007-05:00

In the eyes of many, Delgado is now the 2003 AL MVP!

Make sure to vote in the Pollster's Korner, located in the upper left hand corner of this site.

By David Lennon of Newsday

... I'd be pretty angry right now.

Remember, it was Delgado who finished second to Alex Rodriguez in the 2003 AL MVP vote.

A-Rod was first with 242 points, including six first-place votes. Delgado was second with 213 points, including five first-place votes.

Of course, in the past 72 hours we've learned that A-Rod cheated in 2003, and he admitted Monday that he took banned substances -- without specifying the concoction.

Should A-Rod now be stripped of that MVP award? Should Delgado be awarded it by default?

This whole mess just gets messier and messier.

(Thanks to AP for the photo).

NY Mets have good showing on Fantasy Source's All NL East Fantasy Team

2009-02-10T10:38:00.007-05:00

By George Winkler of Fantasy Source

With spring training just around the corner, we at Fantasy Source are fired up for baseball. In addition to team previews and positional previews running on the site, the Fastball blog will take a closer look at each division. We start with the National League East, home to the world champion Philadelphia Phillies.

George gives a blurb on each of the following topics: New faces, New teams, same division, Leaving the NL East family altogether, Biggest question, Sleeper Watch, Prospecting gold, Headed for heartbreak.

Check out blurbs and article here.

All NL East Fantasy Team
C: Brian McCann, Braves
1B: Ryan Howard, Phillies
2B: Chase Utley, Phillies
3B: David Wright, Mets
SS: Hanley Ramirez, Marlins
OF: Carlos Beltran, Mets
OF: Shane Victorino, Phillies
OF: Jayson Werth, Phillies
SP: Johan Santana, Mets
RP: Francisco Rodriguez, Mets

NY Mets represented by three of Sporting News Top 50 baseball prospects

2009-02-10T10:13:00.003-05:00

It's good to see Daniel Murphy crack the top 10.

Sporting News Top 50 baseball prospects:

8. Daniel Murphy, 2B/OF, New York Mets. Murphy performed well in left field during a late-season call-up, but second base may be a better fit for the Mets' needs. After hitting .313 in his short big-league stint, Murphy was one of the stars of the Arizona Fall League, where he showed great plate discipline and an above average glove at second. Murphy doesn't have much power, but he has a great approach, superb pitch recognition and tremendous bat control.

40. Fernando Martinez, OF, New York Mets. Martinez is a top talent but his impact in 2009 is hard to gauge. Despite plus bat speed and great hands, he has been plagued by injuries and inconsistency. If Martinez can stay healthy, he could realize his potential and eventually win a big-league job.

43. Jonathon Niese, SP, New York Mets. The Mets' rotation could have at least one open slot and Niese is the best internal candidate for the job. While he's not overpowering, Niese has three effective pitches and is learning how to mix his offerings and set up hitters.

2009 Mets Win Division By Five Games According To PECOTA Standings

2009-02-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

CAUTION!!!

If the last two seasons have taught Met fans anything, it's that games are not played on paper. Don't forget last year's projection was even larger than five games and what did that get us Mets fans? Nada, Zip, Squadouche, Jack Squat, Zilch!!!

Check out the rest of 2009 PECOTA Standings here. For more in depth analysis, a subscription is required and is available on their site.

East W L RS RA AVG OBP SLG
Mets 93 69 834 712 .260 .340 .420
Braves 88 74 819 740 .270 .340 .420
Phillies 88 74 839 754 .260 .340 .430
Nats 78 84 786 805 .260 .340 .410
Marlins74 88 769 822 .250 .330 .420

Mets Early Arrivals Raring To Go!

2009-02-09T19:36:00.005-05:00

Here's a list of players arriving at Tradition Field ahead of Friday's official report date for pitchers and catchers: (Pitchers) Johan Santana, Duaner Sanchez, Oliver Perez, John Maine, Mike Pelfrey, Eddie Kunz and catcher, Brian Schneider. In addition, two position players made the early trip, Ryan Church and shocker....David Wright.

You can check out Bart Hubbuch's accompanying article here.

Johan Santana to skip World Baseball Classic at request of Mets

2009-02-09T18:53:00.010-05:00

According to Adam Rubin, Johan Santana plans to withdraw from the World Baseball Classic at the request of Mets officials and remain in camp during spring training, the Daily News has learned.

Santana, who worked on his conditioning at the team's complex in Port St. Lucie Monday, hasn't stepped on a mound this winter but "feels great," according to a Mets insider. He underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on Oct. 1 to repair a torn meniscus cartilage, four days after a heroic effort against the Marlins during the second-to-last game of the season.

Check out the rest of the article here.

Bravo!!! Holding Santana back may prove to be the best move the Mets make this off season.

Santana hasn't even thrown off a mound since his amazin game 161 performance, when he shut out the Marlins. What made this feat more remarkable, it came on the heels of a 125 pitch outing on short rest.

It's good to see the Mets brass make the right call.

When Will NY Mets Fans Appreciate Carlos Beltran?

2009-02-09T17:09:00.008-05:00

It's not often I agree so strongly with Peter Gammons, which is why I'm dedicating this post to share our common ground on two excellent points he makes in his article.

First - Beltran is a unique talent...A five tool player

Nowhere is it more evident than in center field. Most of the clubs that discussed the subject had Minnesota's Carlos Gomez rated the best defensive center fielder in the game last season, in most cases followed by the Mets' Carlos Beltran. Now, although Beltran's low-key personality sometimes frustrates fans, he is a tremendous five-dimensional player -- a top-three defender and great baserunner who's reliable and so much an offensive weapon that during the past three years he has averaged 34 homers and a .912 OPS.

Second - Economic uncertainty vis-a-vis baseballs need for cost certainty.

"The sports media has no concept how layered this recession is in terms of our industry," one official says. "We always hear about the need for cost certainty. Right now, more than half the teams are going to spring training with few economic certainties."
Which makes one laugh at those who criticize the Mets' Fred and Jeff Wilpon for not shelling out another $100 million for Ramirez. The Mets have the highest payroll in the National League. They have arguably the league's best pitcher in Johan Santana, three of its best players in David Wright, Jose Reyes and Beltran, and a reconstructed bullpen.

Sayonara - Beloved Mets All-Star, Edgardo Alfonzo on his way to Yomiuri Giants of the NPB

2009-02-09T10:21:00.010-05:00

I'm somewhat surprised Fonzi didn't end up with Bobby V's, Chiba Lotte Marines.

MIYAZAKI, Japan -- The Yomiuri Giants of

Japan

's Central League have signed former major league infielder Edgardo Alfonzo to a one-year contract worth $380,000.

The Giants signed the 35-year-old Venezuelan after giving him a tryout at their spring training camp.

"It's an honor to become a member of the Giants and I'll play my hardest to contribute to the team," Alfonzo said Monday.

Alfonzo has 1,532 hits and a .284 batting average over 12 seasons in the major leagues, mostly with the New York Mets with later spells with the San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Angels and Toronto Blue Jays.

His last season in the majors was 2006 when he had 11 hits and five RBI in 30 games with the Angels and Blue Jays.

Since leaving the majors, he had played in Mexico and in the independent Atlantic League.

Source: AP

Shea Stadium Demolition view from deep within the bowels

2009-02-09T08:48:00.003-05:00

Do not attempt to follow in the footsteps of these two knuckleheads!

This is an incredible video of Shea demolition shot from inside the stadium. I can't figure out why this demo site is not being secured.

Citi Field and Shea Stadium Photos

2009-02-07T19:54:00.007-05:00

A very special thanx to Stadium Page for their excellent photos of Citi Field construction and Shea Stadium demolition. These photos were taken Saturday, 07Feb09.

The work has begun on Pepsi Porch.

Click on link to view current photos as well as their extensive catalogue http://stadiumpage.com/

Citi Field Dimensions and its Taller Walls

2009-02-07T19:09:00.004-05:00

Click on graphic to left to enlarge photo for ease of viewing. The graphic lays out Citi Field dimensions from home plate, wall heights and who can be affected most by the deeper power alleys. This graphic also does a good job of a compare and contrast of Citi Field vs. Shea Stadium.

Click here to read Ben Shpigel's accompanying article.

A-Rod takes his place alongside Bonds, Sosa and McGwire in the Hall of Shame

2009-02-07T15:15:00.006-05:00

Feel free to insert your own caption!

Check out this opinion piece from Richard Justice of the Sporting News. He does a decent job of explaining why the numbers put up by A-Rod and Bonds, forever will be tainted. IMHO, Justice is more crucial of Bonds than A-Rod.

There's one thing I'm having trouble with...Why are we only learning of A-Rod, when he was one of 104 players who have been reported to have tested positive for PEDs in 2003? Believe me, I'm not defending A-Rod in any way. In fact, it's about time he gets his comeuppance. I just feel if one name is released, they all should be released and let the chips fall where they may. By doing so, the probability of linking all players from that era as cheats with a broad brush will be muted somewhat.

Below are a couple of excerpts. You can also read the entire article by clicking here.

Alex Rodriguez's good name is gone forever, and there is nothing he can say or do to get it back. Instead, he can go stand on the other side of the room with Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens and baseball's other alleged cheats.
At least that's a reasonable conclusion in the wake of Sports Illustrated's report that Rodriguez tested positive for two anabolic steroids in 2003.
Rodriguez's every accomplishment is tainted. Even if he used steroids just one time in his life, there will be doubt about every one of those 553 home runs. That 2003 American League Most Valuable Player Award is worth a bucket of warm spit.

Here's a sample of what Justice had this to say about Bonds.

Does Bonds deserve to stand on that stage on induction Sunday with Bob Gibson and Frank Robinson and Hank Aaron? Those three men played the game the right way. Their amazing accomplishments were achieved through hard work and God-given talent.

Aaron was baseball's home-run king for 33 years, until the summer of 2007, when Barry Bonds broke his record. Aaron's 75th birthday came the day after the government unsealed the evidence in the Bonds perjury case. Included in the evidence is a positive urine sample.

NY Met Jesus Feliciano's lead-off homerun propels Puerto Rico to victory

2009-02-07T02:41:00.011-05:00

NY Mets farm hand, Jesus Feliciano helps the Lions of Ponce snap 11-game losing streak dating back to the 1982 Caribbean Series.

Center fielder Jesus Feliciano led off the game with a solo home run off Tigres starter Julio Mateo, and the Leones tacked on a run in the third inning, when third baseman Gabriel Martinez scored on a single by shortstop Luis Figueroa to extend the lead.

To read complete article click here.

Source: Jesse Sanchez, MLB.com

Check out the video here

Citi Field Homerun Apple Arrives From Minnesota

2009-02-07T02:19:00.004-05:00

Thanx to the good folks of SNY for making this video available. This clip show the early stages on installation.

Don't know about you, but I'm jonesing to see the apple come out of the hat for the first time, after a Mets homerun. I'm thinking it'll be Beltran.

The new Apple is four times the size of the original Home Run Apple, at 19ft in diameter and weighs in at 6,000 pounds. This Apple shoots up in the air in three seconds flat.

Mets Involvement In Madoff's Ponzi Scheme Prompts Fears of Extensive Losses

2009-02-06T09:36:00.011-05:00

Several of Madoff's high-powered victims can be seen here.

As reported by Greg B. Smith, Daily News Staff Writer: Newly released documents make clear that New York Mets' money got caught in Ponzi schemer Bernard Madoff's web of deceit.

Mets Chief Operating Officer Jeff Wilpon had admitted that his family and business partners lost money to Madoff's $50 billion Ponzi scheme, but he's always insisted the team won't be hurt in any way.

"It's truly two different things," Wilpon said.

But documents reveal that 13 accounts with direct ties to the Mets show up on a list of Madoff client victims filed in Manhattan bankruptcy court.

The Mets' accounts include one called Mets II LLC; six accounts for Sterling Mets Limited Partnership, listed as "care of" Mets Vice President Leonard Labita, and six accounts for Sterling Doubleday, the company that used to own the Mets.

There's also an account for the Brooklyn Baseball Co. and one for Coney Island Baseball, business entities that own the Mets' Brooklyn minor-league baseball team.

The Mets have repeatedly tried to distance themselves from investments their parent company, Sterling Equities, placed with Madoff.

A big worry would be if Sterling had acted as a so-called "feeder fund," placing other people's investments with Madoff without telling them. Several such funds face multibillion-dollar lawsuits.

Thursday, Sterling said it was never a feeder fund for Madoff. Instead, the company said, "Sterling's partners, as well as various friends and family members of those partners, are among the scores of unfortunate victims of the Madoff fraud."

Records show many Wilpon family members and Sterling executives and their families placed money with Madoff.

Sterling won't disclose how much money it put with Madoff over the years. But records show Sterling Equities alone appears to have more than 180 accounts.

Fernando Martinez out of Caribbean Series with sore elbow

2009-02-05T18:58:00.003-05:00

MEXICALI, Mexico -- The Caribbean Series is over for Mets prospect Fernando Martinez.The right-handed-throwing outfielder is nursing a sore right elbow and will fly to New York on Thursday night for a checkup. He said he is taking anti-inflammatory medication.

NY Mets need impact player like Orlando Hudson

2009-02-05T13:34:00.005-05:00

Marty Noble of MLB.com, shares his thoughts on the O-Dog.

My sense of it is that Hudson is an ideal player for the Mets. Good glove, as you noted. A legit No. 2 hitter who would provide what Paul Lo Duca provided in 2006. Hudson is a terrific clubhouse guy; for all accounts, quite stand-up. Moreover, he wants to play for the Mets.

But Hudson's not going do pro bono work at second base. And the Mets have said they have no intention of adding more high-profile personnel. He would be an impact player for them, in my estimation; the kind of player who helps make a team greater than the sum of its parts. The Mets were that way in 2005 and '06 and not so much since then.

The Mets' $18 million obligation to Castillo is blocking second base the way Mike Scioscia used to block the plate. The club is counting on a renaissance season from Castillo.

Well said, Marty!

By now, you've probably guessed I'm the biggest shill for Orlando "O-Dog" Hudson, in Mets fandom. I promise you, I'm not on his payroll.

Here are a couple of excerpts from posts I've made regarding Hudson:

Castillo's infamous four year, $25M contract handed to him last off season is like an albatross hanging around the Mets collective necks. The O-Dog is there for the taking, however Omar will have to swallow his pride and somehow get the Wilpons blessing. A lot easier said than done.

While O-Dog's defense has slipped slightly, to think that Kelly Johnson is as good as Hudson is just INSANE and LAUGHABLE!!! If reports are true and the Braves are not interested in O-Dog, it's a tremendous relief for this Met fan.

Can you think of a more suitable representative than O-Dog? He fits the quintessential profile of what Team Wilpon is looking for and can flat out play ball. I believe he will thrive in the limelight of NY sports and take pressure off D-Wright, being the lone soldier answering questions at the end of a game. O-Dog is active in the charitable works arena, specifically with his passion to fight autism. Did I mention he wants to play for the Mets?

Mets & Phils Interested in Will Ohman

2009-02-05T12:49:00.008-05:00

According to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick, Mets GM Omar Minaya contacted Will Ohman's agent Page Odle for the first time this winter. Crasnick says the Mets hope to jump in and get a bargain on the lefty reliever.

Additionally, Crasnick counters the Ken Rosenthal report that the Phillies decided not to pursue Ohman. The Phillies are still talking to Odle about Ohman, but don't have much more than $1MM to spend unless they move a contract.

I'm in favor of picking up Ohman at bargain rate even if it means offering a 2-yr contract. The Mets must have two lefties in the bullpen, given Manuel's proclivity of using all hands on deck.

With Atlanta, Ohman enjoyed a successful season out of the Braves' bullpen, appearing in 83 games. He finished the season as one of the team's most successful relievers, with a record of 4-1 and an ERA of 3.68.

NY Met Fernando Martinez not in lineup day after hitting game winning 2-run BLAST

2009-02-05T11:01:00.008-05:00

After his pinch-hit homer Tuesday, Fernando Martinez was not in the Domincan Republic lineup Wednesday in the Carribbean Series. Instead, Timo Perez was in left where he went 0-4 and left 4 on base in the DR’s 12-9 loss to Mexico.

Source: Toby Hyde, Mets Minor League Blog

Must Viewing! Three Flights with Remote Control Airplane Over Shea Stadium as it's Dismantled

2009-02-05T01:35:00.001-05:00

This is an awesome video I found courtesy of Softee64, that runs 10 minutes. The aerial views of Flushing, Queens Landmarks include Shea Stadium, Citi Field, Arthur Ashe Stadium home of the US Open, Queens Zoo, Terrace on the Park and the World's Fair Globe.

Softee64 does a great job chronicling Shea Stadium's demolition, while using a remote control airplane all from a bird’s eye view.

Here are the flight dates:

October 19, 2008
November 24, 2008
February 2, 2009

Make sure to leave yourself 10 minutes to watch complete video.

Sandy Koufax Scammed by Madoff in Ponzi Scheme

2009-02-05T00:55:00.001-05:00

NEW YORK -- Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax, a high school baseball teammate and friend of Mets owner Fred Wilpon, was among the clients who lost money investing with Bernard Madoff, according to a court filing released Wednesday night.

More than two dozen accounts involving the Mets, their owners and companies affiliated with their owners were listed, many with addresses at Shea Stadium. Koufax was the only immediately recognizable big-name player on the list.

Koufax attended Lafayette High School along with Wilpon in the 1950s and the two remain close. Koufax usually shows up each year at the Mets' spring training complex in Port St. Lucie, Fla.

Sandy's career highlights and awards provided by Wikipedia:

Career highlights and awards
6x All-Star selection (1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966) 3x World Series champion (1959, 1963, 1965) 3x Cy Young Award winner (1963, 1965, 1966) 1963 NL MVP 2x World Series MVP (1963, 1965) 4x NL TSN Pitcher of the Year (1963, 1964, 1965, 1966) 2x Babe Ruth Award (1963, 1965) Pitched a perfect game on September 9, 1965 Los Angeles Dodgers #32 retired
Member of the National
Baseball Hall of Fame

To continue with this article, click here.

Source: AP

Mega NY Mets Fan, Kevin James talks Mets & Paul Blart Mall Cop with Mike Francesa

2009-02-04T23:12:00.004-05:00

Kevin James stops by YES network to discuss the Mets (around 4 minute mark) and Mall Cop with Fatcessa.

Fatcessa true to form, couldn't help himself and took a couple a shots at Shea and the Mets. At one point he wondered how long Citi Field would remain pristine.

Ambriorix Burgos In TROUBLE Again - This time a Pistol was the weapon of choice.

2009-02-04T19:47:00.005-05:00

NAGUA. - The Major League ballplayer Ambriorix Burgos, who’s been charged with the murder of two women, is again involved in an incident, this time a scene right out of the Wild West when the also professional, Felix - Gatico- Martinez accused him of trying to kill him.

Martinez accused Brugos of trying to murder him after they argued over a dominos game in a sidewalk bar.

He said that during the argument Burgos pulled out a pistol and tried to shoot him, but dodged him and fled quickly.

However, Martinez, of the Gigantes del Cibao (San Francisco), said he only managed to reach the town park when Burgos again tried to shoot him, and though bystanders took the gun away, “didn’t keep us from slugging it out at bare fists."

Burgos, a pitcher for the New York Mets, is free on bail after he was accused of murder by the families of Angelys Matos and Josefina Minaya, who were run down by Burgos’ SUV late last year.

SOURCE: diariolibre.com

Daniel Murphy is USA Today's 11th Name to Know

2009-02-04T14:55:00.004-05:00

The Mets are represented on the list by Daniel Murphy (11) , Johnathan Niese (38) and Nick Evans (81). WOW...No F-Mart!

By USA TODAY staff

USA TODAY Sports Weekly presents its 13th annual list of the 100 Names You Need to Know. These are the next wave of players heading into the major leagues who, in our view, could make the biggest impact during the 2009 season. These aren't necessarily baseball's 100 best prospects, because many top prospects are too far down in the minor leagues to contribute in the majors this season. Others are stuck behind established major leaguers.

Not all of the players on our list have rookie status, but our standard for inclusion is that a player must have had more innings or at-bats in the minor leagues in 2008 than he has had during all of his major league time.

11. Dan Murphy, OF-2B, Mets: Murphy's versatility is a big plus. Originally a third baseman, he was used by New York as a left fielder last season and filled in at first base. This offseason, he played second base in the Arizona Fall League, where he hit .397 with 18 RBI in 15 games. The Mets were not satisfied with second baseman Luis Castillo's 2008 performance, and this could create additional playing time should the team explore other left-field options. A left-handed hitter with emerging power, Murphy, 23, has hit .290 over three minor league seasons. He can run a bit. He had 14 steals to go with 13 homers at Class AA Binghamton (N.Y.) before his call-up to New York.

38. Jonathan Niese, LHP, Mets: Niese, a 22-year-old lefty, will try to earn a spot in the Mets' rotation this spring after a three-start audition during last year's pennant race. Featuring an outstanding curveball and a developing changeup to go with his low-90s fastball, Niese has gone 34-26 in four minor league seasons. He has worked to become more consistent with his velocity, and exposure to Johan Santana will likely improve already-strong mechanics on his changeup. "I'd be surprised if he's not in the rotation this year," assistant GM Tony Bernazard says. "He's got great mechanics and four pitches he can throw for strikes."

81. Nick Evans, OF/1B, Mets: Evans, 23, can play first base and the outfield. At 6-3, 210, he has consistently improved at the plate and demonstrated reasonable power. Evans has 44 homers in his last three minor league seasons. A right-handed hitter, he'll likely serve as a backup to first baseman Carlos Delgado and could end up battling Dan Murphy for playing time in left field.

Check out the complete list here.

Fantasy Baseball Second Base Rankings - Luis Castillo MIA

2009-02-04T12:33:00.005-05:00

By Tim Dierkes, ROTOAUTHORITY

Don't bother looking for Castillo, he didn't make the list. In truth, injuries have played a part of him not being listed, however if he were listed, Castillo would be bringing up the rear.

I suspect a healthy O-Dog would rank between 5th and 7th if he accumulated 600 ABs. Omar, can you hear me know?

Using 20 games for eligibility, here are our tentative rankings for second basemen. These are based on a standard 12 team 5x5 mixed league (categories: AVG, HR, RBI, R, SB). Draft round

is in parentheses.

Ian Kinsler - $22.12 (1)
Chase Utley - $20.16 (2)
Dustin Pedroia - $18.38 (3)
Brian Roberts - $16.31 (4)
Brandon Phillips - $14.92 (3)
Alexei Ramirez - $14.90 (5)
Dan Uggla - $12.53 (6)
Robinson Cano - $9.98 (7)
Rickie Weeks - $9.58 (20)
Kelly Johnson - $9.19 (19)
Howie Kendrick - $8.50 (11)
Mark DeRosa - $7.33 (16)
Placido Polanco - $6.84 (20)
Jose Lopez - $5.76 (14)
Felipe Lopez - $5.54 (27)
Mike Aviles - $5.50 (13)
Asdrubal Cabrera - $2.04 (28)
Aaron Hill - $1.70 (28)
Alexi Casilla - $1.00 (28)

A few on the fringes, some of whom could jump up with more ABs: Mark Ellis, Kaz Matsui, Akinori Iwamura, Freddy Sanchez, and Orlando Hudson. Mike Fontenot could be a $6-7 sleeper if he can find 550 ABs despite Aaron Miles' presence.

Ramon Castro Being Shopped

2009-02-04T10:55:00.005-05:00

Joel Sherman of NY Post, reports the Mets keep trying to find a place to deal Ramon Castro. They have two reasons: 1) Mainly they want to get rid of his $2.5 million 2009 contract, allowing them a little more available cash to address a righty bat or lefty reliever they crave. 2) They believe that for near minimum wage Robinson Cancel can be just as good a backup to Brian Schneider as Castro.

I heard the Brewers had some interest, but have mostly backed off of Castro now.

BTW, that Cancel can really move for a big guy. In addition he wears out left hand pitching, which can make for a successful platoon with Schneider.

Kevin Burkhardt Interview with Omar and Boras

2009-02-04T10:23:00.002-05:00

Burkhardt gets right to it with Omar

"Is there any interest at all (Manny) or has this ship sailed?" Omar makes it clear there is no dialogue at all.
Omar's goal is to fill the team with pitching

Boras talking points...This guy is sharp!

Manny is a player who pays for himself - via network, attendance
Manny takes sub 500 team in to playoffs in Dodgers case
Manny takes teams to the Series
Manny puts checks in the seats
Boras discuss teams business decisions

Watch Burkhardt's interview here

Fernando Martinez Bomb Is Difference Maker In Dominican Victory Over P.R. in Caribbean Series

2009-02-03T23:15:00.005-05:00

MEXICALI, Mexico -- Fernando Martinez hit a two-run homer and the Dominican Republic's Licey Tigers beat Puerto Rico's Ponce Lions 2-1 for their first win in the Caribbean Series on Tuesday.
Puerto Rico is 0-2 in the tournament.
The New York Mets prospect came into the game to pinch-hit for Salvador Paniagua in the seventh inning and hit it off Lions reliever Jose Vaquedano.

“I wasn’t looking to hit a home run,” Fernandez told MLB.com. “I wanted a line drive. But thank God the ball went out.”

Source: AP

Check out video of the blast here.

Torre says, "Beltran wanted to hide among the trees"

2009-02-03T22:07:00.007-05:00

Is it me, or does anybody else feel as if Torre is craving some east coast attention? Not only has he been ripping Yanks, he now has moved on to near Yanks as well.

To be clear, Joe Torre is one of the most over-rated managers in baseball. He had a fairly unimpressive managerial record with the Mets, Braves, and Cardinals before joining the Yankees.

Torre led the heavily funded, and no shortage in talent Yankees to four WS Championships (1996, 1998, 1999 and 2000), as a Mets fan the 2000 WS was too much to handle. Under his guidance the Yankees spent in excess of a billion dollars (more than the GNP of Monaco, Cayman Islands and St. Lucia to name a few) between 2001-2007, and was unable to bring home a championship.

Reviews of Torre's first year with the Dodgers were mixed. If not for Manny's arrival, the Dodgers would not have made the playoffs last year.

Here's Ben Shpigel of the NYT article. Carlos Beltran is about to enter his fifth season in New York — has it been that long already? — but he just as easily could have been doing so for the Yankees and not for the Mets. A quick rehash: Scott Boras, Beltrán’s agent, gave the Yankees one final shot at signing him and snatching him from the Mets’ grasp by proposing a six-year, $100 million contract — that’s for one year shorter and $19 million poorer than the Mets’ offer. The Yankees, having already added Carl Pavano and Randy Johnson, resisted.

With that in mind, Joe Torre touched on Beltrán’s reported desire to take that discount and play for the Yankees in the book he co-wrote with Sports Illustrated’s Tom Verducci, “The Yankee Years.” Torre said: “Beltran wanted to come to us, so he could hide among the trees. Nobody wants to be that guy to lead.”

Before being honored at the Thurman Munson Dinner on Tuesday evening, Beltrán responded to Torre’s comments. “First of all, I don’t know Joe Torre personally, so I don’t know what kind of person he is,” Beltrán said. “The second thing I have to say is that when I met with the Yankees when I was a free agent, he wasn’t there, so you know, he didn’t know that we talked, so I didn’t meet him. So if he did say what he said, then that’s his opinion. I don’t have to comment on that. I feel very happy where I am.”

Not surprisingly, Beltrán added, he does not plan to read the book.

Omar Squashes Any Hope of Manny Joining The Mets

2009-02-03T16:21:00.005-05:00

Well folks, it was a long shot at best and the inevitable is now setting in. During the Oliver Perez press conference, Omar dispelled all rumors, when he announced he will not be pursuing Manny, nor any other free agents of consequence.

Check out the play-by-play from Matt Ceronne of MetsBlog.com here.

Are the Mets Manny's "Mystery Team?"

2009-02-03T11:00:00.004-05:00

Here's what Frank Della Femina of NJ.com is reporting:

Manny Ramirez rejected a one-year, $25 million offer by the Los Angeles Dodgers Monday, according to this report on LATimes.com. Agent Scott Boras has hinted that his client is generating interest from other teams, including the Washington Nationals, San Francisco Giants and New York Mets.

While the Mets are rumored in the mix, they may not be willing to meet Ramirez's asking price:

The New York Mets, San Francisco Giants and Washington Nationals are among the teams known to be monitoring Ramirez's situation but don't appear inclined to pay him more than $20 million a season.

Citi Explores Breaking Mets Deal

2009-02-03T02:45:00.008-05:00

UPDATE...AP is now reporting Citigroup says its deal to pay $400 million for naming rights to the New York Mets' new baseball stadium is still on.

The bank's statement came in response to a Wall Street Journal report on Tuesday that Citigroup is exploring the possibility of backing out of the deal.

The report quoted unidentified people as saying that Citigroup has made no final decision on the matter.

The Mets say Citi has promised to honor the agreement between the team and the troubled financial institution.
Two members of Congress said last week that Citigroup should drop its 20-year marketing partnership with the Mets because of the $45 billion federal government bailout the bank received.
Citi Field is set to open in April.

Wall Street Journal -Citigroup Inc., eager to quell the controversy over how lenders are using government bailout money, is exploring the possibility of backing out of a nearly $400 million marketing deal with the New York Mets, say people familiar with the matter.

Officials at Citigroup have made no final decision about whether to try to void the 20-year agreement, which includes naming the Mets' new baseball stadium after the bank, say these people.

On the bright side, the Mets can do away with the lackluster inaugural patch.

Orlando Hudson - "Talking to the Mets"

2009-02-03T02:03:00.006-05:00

Tim Dierkes of MLB Trade Rumors, reports free agent second baseman Orlando Hudson appeared on the MLB Network today. Barry Larkin asked which teams he's talking to, and he named the Dodgers, Mets, Yankees, and Nationals. None of the teams have said anything to Hudson's agent about changing positions. Hudson says right now he sees himself as a second baseman.

Castillo's infamous four year, $25M contract handed to him last off season is like an albatross hanging around the Mets collective necks. The O-Dog is there for the taking, however Omar will have to swallow his pride and somehow get the Wilpons blessing. A lot easier said than done.

Is the Million Manny March 2 an Act of Futility?

2009-02-03T00:28:00.008-05:00

It has been widely reported today in a multitude of blogs and articles, the Mets are out of the running for Manny Ramirez. In fact, Joel Sherman of the NY Post, reports the signing of Oliver Perez does just about close the Mets shopping for the offseason. The only items they are still perusing are low-cost alternatives among righty reserve bats and lefty set-up men, the Post has learned.

For the optimist, the following events may offer a glimmer of hope, maybe; just maybe, the Mets may swoop in and scoop up Manny in the eleventh hour. As for me, I'm not to confident the Mets are willing to commit their resources and go the extra mile to bring home a World Series Championship.

Now it appears the LA Dodgers have made a second offer to Manny Ramirez. What is puzzling to some, including myself, are the terms of one year at $25M. I'm not sure the Dodgers want a disgruntled Ramirez dogging it, as his track record would suggest, when he is not enamored with the terms of his contract. I believe going from $45M to $25M guaranteed, regardless of years will leave a sour taste in Manny's mouth. After all, Manny is looking for a five year contract in the neighborhood of $100M plus.

According to a report on Monday on ESPN.com, a two-year, $45 million offer three months ago didn't get it done. So on Monday, the Los Angeles Dodgers made a new offer to Manny Ramirez -- for one year and $25 million, according to a major league source.

Dodgers GM Ned Colletti confirmed to ESPN.com that he met with Ramirez's agent, Scott Boras, on Monday and presented the new offer in person.

Colletti declined to confirm any details of the offer. But the offer was confirmed by another source with knowledge of the discussions. It's believed that Ramirez and Boras were given a 48-hour deadline to accept the offer.

The buzz Tony Paige created with his comments below.

As reported by the incomparable Matt Ceronne of MetsBlog.com,

The last day or so, several people have e-mailed me saying WFAN’s Tony Paige mentioned the Mets had interest in Manny Ramirez, while on a recent overnight broadcast for the New York sports radio station.

I did not hear his statements first hand. However, Paige told me in an e-mail, “All I said was, someone, who deals with Mets management (and he’s credible), told me the Mets were interested in Manny Ramirez and something may happen this week.”

Paige added, “I didn’t say they were going to sign him,’ simply stating that the two sides could end up speaking soon.

Ollie says, "Cha-Ching"

2009-02-02T17:54:00.007-05:00

The New York Post reports that the Mets and Oliver Perez have agreed to a three-year, $36 million contract.

A fine deal for the Mets. In last year's market, Perez would have been in line for a five-year contract, possibly one worth $70 million. It's quite possible he won't prove to be a $12 million-per-year pitcher, but on a three-year contract, he's well worth taking a chance on at this price.

Now for my take...$12M per yr for a career record of five games under 500. I tell you what, I'm bringing Boras with me to my year-end evaluation. I should be in line for a handsome little sum based on my production to the corporate bottom line.

Websters definition of over paid - To pay a person in excess. Ironic enough, Ollie's grill was plastered adjacent to the entry.

I'm hoping for a good season out of Ollie, say a minimum of 15 victories and a sub 4.00 ERA.

Looks like Sheets will no longer be an option for the Mets. IMHO, it's time to bring in a stick. Dollars to doughnuts, Manny is not gonna be roaming LF in Citi Field for them this season. In as much as I would love to see Adam Dunn brought in with an eye on moving him to first in 2010, Omar and Manuel have made it clear their preference is for a bat on the right side of the dish.

That leads me to the X-man, Nady. The Yanks are shopping him for a set up man, Omar let's punch up some digits and find out what it's gonna take. Perhaps a package with Brian Stokes as the centerpiece will allow the Mets to procure Nady's services.

Bobby V Recounts Infamous Mustache Game

2009-02-02T02:25:00.004-05:00

Former New York Mets manager Bobby Valentine recounts what prompted him to don a fake mustache and return to the dugout after being ejected from a game. Valentine, who currently manages in Japan, appeared at Western New England College as part of the Center for International Sport Business "For the Love of the Games" speaker series.

I have seen the future of baseball and his name is Bryce Harper!!!

2009-02-01T16:49:00.005-05:00

OMG...You've gotta be kidding me!!! You must watch this eight minute video of Harper at the bottom of this post to really believe it. It's worth watching if you want to see him in action at the International Power Showcase. In addition to the video, the article is a must read.

Here's what Rich Lederer of Baseball Analysts, had to say about Bryce Harper last August, he wrote an article entitled "Remember This Name," whereby he opened with the following paragraph:

Let me introduce you to the No. 1 pick in the 2011 amateur draft . . . Bryce Harper. I know, that particular draft won't take place for three more years. As such, how in the world could I make this type of a prediction now? Well, if you watched the 15-year-old, lefthanded-hitting catcher take batting practice, infield, and two plate appearances on Tuesday at the Area Code Games, as I did, then I have no doubt that you would be as enthusiastic about this phenom as I am.

Greg Rybarczyk, who maintains the indispensable site Hit Tracker Online, which logs and calculates the trajectory of every major league home run, covered Harper's exploits at the Home Run Derby contest:

Over the next 60 seconds, Harper unleashed an awe-inspiring series of hits to areas of Tropicana Field few major leaguers have reached:
• 460 feet to the top edge of the Jumbotron in right field; 119 mph off the bat
• 484 feet to the back wall of the stadium, 15 feet above the Jumbotron; 122 mph
• 485 feet to the back wall, just below the orange Bright House “target” sign; 123 mph
• 405 feet on a blistering line drive around the RF pole; 118 mph
• 502 feet to the back wall, in the vicinity of the first “A” in the Tropicana Field sign, 20 feet above the top of the Jumbotron; 124.5 mph
• 477 feet to right-center field, halfway up and a few feet to the left of the Jumbotron; 119 mph.

Harper cranked six home runs with a metal bat, averaging 469 feet with an exit velocity of 121 mph. Photographer Jeff Horton captured Harper's longest homer below (with Rybarcyzk providing location and distance for each of his dozen home runs).

Shea Treated to a Fond Farewell

2009-02-01T12:10:00.006-05:00

Special thanx to Long Island Met Fan's for this photostream. see the rest of pics taken today at Shea

The powerful combination of Baseball fever and Dave of NY Sports Dog, did a great job getting the word out of an informal farewell at Shea yesterday afternoon. The NY Times then linked to NY Sports Dog's blog and added fuel to this historic gathering.

The chill in the air at Shea was no match for the warm feelings in the hearts of nearly 200 New York Met fans. Channel 2 News was present reporting on the festivities. The NY Met fan's were in full throat belting out the familiar Met theme song, Meet the Mets. In addition, the Mets 1972 NL Rookie of the Year, three time All-Star and 1975 MLB All-Star game MVP, Jon Matlack was present an accounted for.

MLB Payroll 101

2009-01-31T08:21:00.004-05:00

Adam Rubin of Surfing the Mets, points out the MLB salary cap stands at $162 million this season, with virtually zero chance of the Mets exceeding the luxury-tax threshold. The total Mets payroll should be in the neighborhood of $143M, if his calculations are correct, and I see nothing that looks too far out of line. On second thought, Ollie at $14M is a bit excessive. I’m thinking, hoping and praying Ollie averages out to $11M per season. For arguments sake, let’s just knock down the Amazins payroll to say, $140M on the books for 2009. That's a lot of Benjamins!!!

Let me think about this for a second…that leaves roughly $22M in cap room. Is there a free agent out on the market just waiting to be plucked from the ranks of unemployment in that $20M-$22M range the Met Nation has been clamoring for; perhaps a guy that goes by the name Manny?

Here’s Adam’s logic? The Mets had four major contracts, totaling $31 million, coming off the books: from Pedro Martinez, Moises Alou, Orlando Hernandez and Perez. But, right away, raises for Johan Santana, David Wright and Jose Reyes ate away $5 million of that sum.

Add in the contracts for Francisco Rodriguez and J.J. Putz totaling $14 million in 2009, and you're roughly left with $12 million to sign Perez and be at last year's payroll.

Of course, it's not quite that simple. Aaron Heilman and Endy Chavez's contracts are off, while John Maine gets a $2 million raise and Tim Redding is on board with a major-league deal. Scott Schoeneweis will make $3.6 million as a Diamondback, but the Mets are paying a portion, which isn't reflected below. Then there's a variable like Freddy Garcia, who can earn anywhere from zero to $8 million. Mike Pelfrey's salary isn't simple to figure out, either, since his original signing bonus is contingent upon how much major-league duty he logs.

Regardless, the payroll computation for luxury-tax purposes is different than actual '09 expenditures. For luxury-tax purposes, the average value of a contract is used. So if a player has a two-year, $10 million deal, making $3 million and then $7 million, the club is still charged $5 million each year for the luxury-tax computation. Or, for instance, K-Rod makes $8.5 million this year. But because it's a three-year, $37 million deal, the luxury-tax number is the average value: $12.33 million

Head over to Surfing the Mets to see Adam’s estimate of 2009 Mets salaries in millions:

Union Boss Already Chirping...COLLUSION???

2009-01-31T07:17:00.006-05:00

Apparently Donald Fehr and his cronies are unaware of the ongoing global recession. I find it a little more than amusing, how the union heads believe baseball should be immune from current market conditions. Remember, this is the same crowd that believes the players should share in the rewards; however the converse should never apply when all is not well.

As reported by Ken Rosenthal, FOX SPORTS.com: Donald Fehr, head of the players' union, is not ready to conclude that owners are conspiring to hold down free-agent salaries.

But Fehr admitted Friday to "heightened" concern about the state of the market, citing the large number of free agents who remain unemployed.

Pitchers and catchers begin reporting to spring training in two weeks, yet nearly 90 free agents are still looking for jobs.

The union examines trends in every free-agent market, but will not decide whether to file a collusion grievance until the signing period is complete.

"Obviously, we've looked at it every year since the mid-1980s," Fehr told FOXSports.com. "That concern becomes heightened when you go late into the period of time when players should be signed and many fewer players have signed and spring training is nearer."

While club executives cite the faltering economy as the reason for the sluggish market, some agents say privately that the owners are working in concert to avoid competitive bidding for free agents.

Arbitrators ruled that owners violated the collective-bargaining agreement in such fashion in 1985, '86 and '87, leading to a settlement in which the owners paid the players $280 million in damages.

The union, before filing a grievance, would need to decide whether the agents are merely speaking out of frustration or whether facts support their claims.

The economy clearly is responsible for the plummeting values of many free agents. The union likely would take exception, however, if clubs deemed some of those free agents to have little or no value.

"No matter what the general climate is, we're certain clubs want to put the best possible teams on the field," Fehr said.

"There are certainly a significant number of quality players available that can help a lot of teams. I'm hoping the situation will rectify itself."

Manny Ramirez March comes to SNY Studios

2009-01-30T09:47:00.006-05:00

Man-ny! Man-ny! Man-ny! Will the chants of 40+ Met die-hard fans be enough to bring Manny to the Mets? Will the Wilpons acquiesce to the cries of a demoralized Met Nation, who have been made to endure the indignity of successive September historic collapses? The short answer, it couldn't hurt, but it's still highly unlikely.

I know this without fear of contradiction, Manny would have been the difference maker in each of the last two Septembers.

Let Manny be Manny in the house the tax payers built!!!

Check out this article by Matt Gange.

Is Orlando Hudson willing to sit out?

2009-01-30T09:33:00.004-05:00

Here's an interesting read by Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.com.

Middle infielders such as Orlando Hudson or Orlando Cabrera also could gain leverage if injuries leave certain clubs with holes, or if the Mets, Cardinals, White Sox and other clubs with infield questions finally decide to upgrade.

He continues, the further Hudson is removed from wrist surgery, the more attractive clubs might find him.

Here's something many folks are unaware of; Sheets, Hudson and Cabrera all are Type A free agents; as it stands, any team that signs them would forfeit a high draft pick. But, as first reported by ESPN's Buster Olney, draft-pick compensation vanishes after the June draft — all the more reason for certain Type As to hold firm.

John Maine Signed, Sealed and now it's time to Deliver!

2009-01-30T09:11:00.007-05:00

Johnny Maine has got a reason to smile.

By John Maine signing and avoiding arbitration, that leaves Pedro Feliciano as the Mets final holdout.

Feliciano made $1,040,000 last season; he's asking for $1,95,000; the Mets offered $1,350,000.

According to Joel Sherman, the Mets have reached agreement with John Maine on a $2.6 million contract, avoiding arbitration, the Post has learned.

Maine also can earn $25,000 by pitching 200 innings.

Maine is coming off of surgery to remove spurs from his right shoulder. But the Mets remain hopeful that he will slot back into the rotation in 2009.

Jerry Manuel on SNY.tv - Daily News Live

2009-01-29T01:46:00.003-05:00

Much is made about Jerry Manuel's comments about Manny Ramirez, and rightfully so. In case you missed it here are a couple of quotes from Manuel.

"I would have no problem with people who produce in the form and fashion that Manny Ramirez produces"
"I would love the opportunity to watch Manny hit every day"

It's clear Jerry Manuel is no fool. The Mets went 55-38 after Manuel took over for Willie Randolph. Randolph will earn $2.25 million not to manage in 2009. I guess you can say bringing Manny aboard will go a long way in getting Manuel a lucrative contract and an extension, as Randolph's pathetic contract comes off the books at the end of the 09 campaign.

Now, what I find most interesting is Manuel's lukewarm answer to a question regarding Castillo's ability to comeback after knee troubles and being the object of Met fans scorn. Manuel responded by saying, "couldn't say one way or another, what he's (Castillo) gonna do." He goes on to say, "we'll have to do something to put out the best team ." Now I ask you, why aren't the Mets making a move on the O-Dog, as baseball's version of a double coupon sale is going on this off season?

Aaron Heilman on his way to Wrigley

2009-01-28T20:12:00.006-05:00

Well, on the bright side Heilman didn't wear out his welcome this time.

PA SPORTSTICKER reports: Less than two months after acquiring Heilman from the New York Mets, the Mariners traded the righthander to the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday for infielder Ronny Cedeno and pitcher Garrett Olson.

Heilman struggled mightily as a reliever this past season, going 3-8 with a 5.21 ERA in 78 games while blowing five of eight save opportunities.

It appears as if Heilman will be given an opportunity to earn the 5th starters slot with the Cubbies. Throughout his career with the Mets, Heilman on many occasions vented his frustrations about the lack of good fortune to be in the starting rotation. Truth be told, he has pitched poorly as a starting pitcher, posting an ERA of 5.93 as a starter for 2003, 2004 and the beginning of 2005. Not exactly a record that he should defend.

Unfortuneatly, Heilman will always be remembered by Met fans as the guy who surrendered a tie breaking, two-run home run in the top of the ninth inning to Yadier Molina of the St. Louis Cardinals, putting St. Louis ahead 3-1. St. Louis would hold on to the lead to win the National League pennant, while Heilman suffered the loss for the Mets.

I believe Sheryl Crow said it best, "A change would do you good."

50 games in the sin-bin for Cyclones, Kyle Suire

2009-01-28T19:55:00.003-05:00

Adam Rubin of Surfing the Mets, is reporting Mets farmhand Kyle Suire, who most recently played for the Brooklyn Cyclones, has been suspended for 50 games, according to MLB. Suire tested positive for metabolites of the performance-enhancing drug Stanozolol, baseball officials indicated.

When will they learn?

Will there be a return engagement for Pedro?

2009-01-28T19:46:00.001-05:00

Mets general manager Omar Minaya says the club is interested in signing pitcher Pedro Martinez to a new contract.
The Mets' four-year, $53 million deal with Martinez expired after last season. During his days in New York, Martinez's performance suffered from a range of injuries.
But Minaya said Martinez and his agent have been told the Mets are still interested in bringing back the three-time Cy Young award winner.
The 37-year-old Martinez went 5-6 with a 5.61 ERA last season. He had a 32-23 record in his four years with the Mets.
Martinez said over the weekend he had not received offers from any Major League teams, but he said he was training hard for the 2009 season.

Garland and Diamondbacks Agree to 1 yr +option

2009-01-28T12:08:00.003-05:00

The Arizona Republic is reporting the signing of Garland to a one year contract with an option for 2010.

The specifics of the deal are not known, but Garland's guaranteed money is believed to be in the $6 million to $8 million range.

The deal is pending a physical.

Given that, his decision to decline arbitration from the Angels was viewed as a surprise in the industry. In arbitration, he only would have received a one-year contract, but it would have been worth more than the $12 million he made in 2008.

It's crunch time for the Mets front office. How long will they allow Boras and Perez to drag out negotiations in hopes a mystery time steps forward? If there is not a time certain date on the Mets last offer to Ollie, they're asking for trouble. Garland is the first domino to fall, how long before Randy Wolf decides he's had enough of waiting around in hopes that Ollie's negotiations fall through?

Now, I've been a humongous supporter of bringing in Ben Sheets to a one year incentive laden contract with a club option for a second year, assuming his physical checks out. However any leverage the Mets had will be quickly fading as each SP option comes off the board. In addition, I believe Ben Sheets needs to throw a bullpen session to elevate any linger doubts the Mets might have.

Omar, please take the initiative in negotiations with Boras and let him know in no uncertain terms, the last offer was a take it or leave it offer. Oh, and btw, you have till Thursday evening to give us an answer. Most people believe the Mets are bidding against themselves for Ollie's services. In fact, Matt Cerrone reported the General Manager of the Brewers, Doug Melvin has shown virtually no interest.

It's time to move on!

Mets report season ticket sales have been brisk

2009-01-28T00:36:00.005-05:00

Associated Press reports, the Mets have sold nearly 25,000 seats per game for Citi Field's Inaugural season. In fact, only one to two percent of people who placed deposits for season tickets at Citi Field failed to follow through with their purchase. Based on my back of the envelope calculation, just south of 60% of seats per game have been devoured. Cha-Ching! That ought to be enough to bring in Dunn, O-Dog and Sheets.

While the Mets have sold all 49 luxury suites that were available -- reserving two for individual-game sales -- Howard said some inventory remains among the 10,000 premium seats, which include club level. Single-game tickets for the 42,000-seat ballpark will not go on sale until early March.

Slideshow of Citi Field and Shea Stadium Demo

2009-01-27T23:53:00.004-05:00

Many thanx to islandxtreme26 of Baseball-Fever.com, for this updated slide show of both Citi Field construction and Shea Stadium demolition. Obviously islandxtreme26 knows somebody, as he was privileged to take a tour and make this available to all Met fans. To that end, we offer a collective thanx.

Citi Field is looking great! I love the uniform seat color vs. the obnoxious multi colored bright seats, what a huge improvement. The restaurant located in left field is a nice touch as well. The pod in straight away center field is waiting the arrival of the new and improved, 19' diameter Home Run Apple. About the only thing that I saw and was not thrilled with is the turf surrounding the Home Run Apple, perhaps landscaping would have fit in with the retro design of Citi Field.

Shea Stadium is being dismantled rapidly, and one can only hope the memory of the last two Septembers will vanish with the debris field. BTW, Yankee stadium will not be demolished till 2010.

Enjoy...Citi Field opening day is just 75 days away.

Citi Field Work and Shea Demo 1-27-09

Does Jose Reyes Have a Chance at 4,000 Hits?

2009-01-27T10:01:00.004-05:00

Head over to NY Sports Dog and check out Dave's thought provoking post.

I truly believe there's a small amount of Met fans that don't really fully appreciate what we have in Jose Reyes. There is little doubt when Reyes is clicking on all cylinders, which is the norm and not an exception, he is the most electrifying player in the game.

For a brief comparison of my own, I'll take a look at Jose Reyes vs. Derek "candy arm, no range, envious teammate who refuses to move for a superior SS and constantly ranks the most over-rated player in baseball by his peers" Jeter's hit total at the tender age of 26. To be fair, Jeter has been a hit machine, if nothing else.

Utilizing Dave's projection, I'll go with Reyes reaching the 1,000 hit plateau on his 26th birthday. Jeter had 887 career hits; only two Yankees had more hits before age 26 (mickey mantle, 1080, and joe dimaggio, 970). I thought you might recognized those two names from the past.

Imagine had Reyes stayed healthy when he was just a pup, no doubt 1,000 would be in his rear-view mirror!

Oliver Perez Met deal done by Saturday?

2009-01-26T22:39:00.005-05:00

Mack of Mack's Mets had this to say about OP's pending contract situation.

BTW, who is Mack and why does he matter? MLB Hub fills in the blanks on Mack's background; Mack brings years of experience as a beat writer especially with the minor leaguers, inside scoop and a unique perspective to his site.

Mack states, "sources tell me the deal will be done by Saturday night, Sunday the latest. 4 years + a 5th year team option. No amount of monies have been disclosed as of yet."

OMG...Four years with a fifth year team option is CRAZY! I'm hoping Mack's sources were off by a year or two.

Yanks, Mets feel the economic downturn

2009-01-26T21:15:00.004-05:00

Bob Klapisch wonders if "anyone is really safe in this doomsday climate?" Oh by the way, so are the Mets and Yankees.

Both teams are confident in 2009 attendance figures, due in part to the opening of their pristine baseball palaces, as well as their star-studded rosters. How long that novelty will last is anybodies guess. Suddenly, the Mets decisions to limit seating capacity at Citi Field is looking a bit better. Not that I believe it was intended as a consequence of the economic slow down. On the other hand, The Yankees recently hired a real estate brokerage to help move their luxury boxes and premium seats, a quarter of which are still available.

Here are a couple of excerpts from Klapisch's insightful article:

The Mets are facing similar challenges, as some plan holders are pulling back. One official believes the Mets’ could suffer a 10 percent drop in ’09, as a number of fans are trading in their full-season packages to more modest half- and quarter-season commitments.

“One thing we’re seeing is people are shopping price a little bit, they’re assessing their options,” said Dave Howard, the Mets’ executive VP of business operations. “But I’d be more concerned if we were still selling Shea Stadium.”

Indeed, Citi’s Citi Field’s “wow” factor, as Howard described it, has helped the Mets keep full-season tickets ticket sales ahead of last year’s pace. But they waited until December to make partial season ticket tickets available, and have yet to start selling single-game tickets, as have the Yankees. That could be the truest test of all of New York’s baseball economy.

Braves Worried About O-Dog's Defense?

2009-01-26T16:43:00.006-05:00

While O-Dog's defense has slipped slightly, to think that Kelly Johnson is as good as Hudson is just INSANE and LAUGHABLE!!! If reports are true and the Braves are not interested in O-Dog, it's a tremendous relief for this Met fan.
As reported by Mark Bowman, MLB.com: There was a time the Braves were talking about signing Gold Glove second baseman Orlando Hudson with the intention of moving Kelly Johnson back to left field. But because of concerns about Hudson's recent defensive decline, those discussions died more than a month ago.
Hudson, who won three consecutive Gold Gloves from 2005-07, posted a career-worst .982 fielding percentage this past season. More alarming is the fact that the 31-year-old veteran's range factor has annually decreased over the past four seasons. The career-worst 4.61 mark he posted this past season was trumped by Johnson's mark of 4.77.

Kirk Radomski talks to ESPN about Roger Clemens & HGH

2009-01-26T12:26:00.001-05:00

Is Ben Sheets This Year's Biggest Bargain?

2009-01-25T03:16:00.012-05:00

Buster Olney of ESPN Magazine, makes a forceful case for Ben Sheets being this year's biggest bargain. And I tend to agree with him.

Olney is quick to point out several contracts in the not so distant past, or as he puts it, "days of economic bliss", which might leave Sheets green with envy.

Carlos Silva a four-year, $48 million deal
Miguel Batista got $25 million over three years
Jeff Suppan signed a four-year, $42 million contract
Jarrod Washburn received a four-year, $37.5 million deal.

Wow! Suppan's contract must be a tough one for Sheets to swallow. Let's see, Sheets was the Ace of that staff, right? By most estimates, Sheets won't be getting an offer for half of Suppan's.

Here's what Olney had to say:

Over the past five seasons, the 30-year-old Sheets has an ERA of 3.24; his ERA has never been higher than 3.82 in any season, and was as low as 2.70 in 2004. His strikeout-walk ratio has never been worse than 2.87-1. Hitters have never had an OPS against him, in any season, higher than .705. When he has pitched, he's been significantly better than Silva, Batista and Suppan.

Think about that: In 2008, Sheets made 31 starts, threw 198 1/3 innings, posted an ERA of 3.09 while pitching in Milwaukee's bandbox, held opposing hitters to a .390 slugging percentage, started for the National League in the All-Star Game, struck out 158 while walking just 47 -- and in an industry that provided a $48 million deal for an innings-eater like Silva just 13 months ago, Sheets might be looking at a deal for less than half of that.

Omar, wake up and smell the Bostello Cafe!!!

Down Goes Shea, Down Goes Shea Demo Video

2009-01-25T02:59:00.003-05:00

Special thanx to Dave of NY Sports Dog for pointing out this awesome video.

It's amazing how when the dust settles, Citi Field comes into view...Pump up the volume!!!

Utley To Be Ready By Opening Day

2009-01-24T18:42:00.008-05:00

GRRRReat!!! What ever happened to Utley being out till the end of May?

The Associated Press reports, Chase Utley says his rehab from hip surgery is on schedule, and the Philadelphia Phillies second baseman expects to be ready by Opening Day.

Utley, who underwent right hip surgery Nov. 24, said Saturday he is just weeks away from starting to swing a bat.
"In two to three weeks -- that would be nice," Utley said. "If everything goes as planned, that's what we want to do. And right now, we're on schedule."

Say It Isn't So...O-Dog On Braves Radar

2009-01-24T18:02:00.003-05:00

Images of Reyes and O-Dog making up perhaps the best double-play combination in MLB, are quickly fading. It's bad enough the Mets are not actively trying to acquire the O-Dog, however to have to face him 18 times a season is just unacceptable.

According to Dave O'Brien of the AJC, Orlando Hudson is on the Braves radar. And frankly, he makes more sense than Brian Roberts, who would require a package of prospects to get via trade, and who’d be a free agent at the end of the year. Why not just sign Hudson, especially since the price for the free agent isn’t going to be as high as suspected because the market for him isn’t nearly what he’d hoped it’d be.

In case you missed my piece on Orlando Hudson earlier this month, I have attached it below.

Mr. Wilpon, I'm asking you to take advantage of MLB's double coupon days.

Step one... Bring the O-Dog to town, right quick, fast and in a hurry!!!

Ken Rosenthal, of FOX Sports, puts it this way. Hudson is a switch-hitter. His effervescent personality would be perfect for a Mets team that has collapsed in each of the past two Septembers. And the high-energy, slick-fielding double-play combination of Hudson and Jose Reyes would be a fan's delight.

Can you think of a more suitable representative than O-Dog? He fits the quintessential profile of what Team Wilpon is looking for and can flat out play ball. I believe he will thrive in the limelight of NY sports and take pressure off D-Wright, being the lone soldier answering questions at the end of a game. O-Dog is active in the charitable works arena, specifically with his passion to fight autism. Did I mention he wants to play for the Mets?

To learn more about the C.A.T.C.H Foundation (Curing Autism Through Change and Hope), please visit http://orlandohudson1.com/catch.html

Here's what he will bring to the ballpark every day:
08 Season - O-Dog .305 BA/ .367 OBP/ .450 SL/ .817 OPS

CASTILLO - .245 BA/ .355 OBP/ .305 SL/ .660 OPS

Oh, and just for craps and giggles, O-Dog's OPS 1.171 at Shea, eclipses the greatest all time career mark set by the Babe, 1.164. Believe me I'm not comparing him to the Babe!!! BTW, his second best OPS was Turner Field, 1.020. Yes, I'm aware of the sampling size.

SHEA- .400 BA/ .438 OBP/ .733 SL/ 1.171 OPS

NL Gold Glove winner 2006 and 2007

Maine Throwing Pain-Free & Ready To Go

2009-01-24T12:21:00.004-05:00

The Mets and their fans have to be excited about John Maine coming back healthy,with a fire burning down deep in his belly. Maine is throwing pain free, since returning from season-ending surgery in September to shave a large bone spur in his right shoulder socket. I can still remember watching him take the mound knowing he was in pain, yet refusing to give in. Maine is a BULL DOG!!!

Maine had a little bit of chirping aimed towards the Phillies in Kevin Kernan's article in the NY Post:

There is something else Maine wants you to know. He is not just that happy-go-lucky, crossword-solving right-hander that he has so often been portrayed as.

"I'm a little meaner than people think," Maine said. "And I'm not as naive as people think. As clichéd as it is, I can't stand losing. It drives me crazy. I hate losing more than I like winning. It really aggravates me when things don't go all that great."

Yes, it's been a tough two years for Maine. After two straight nightmare finishes and his Mets being labeled choke artists by Phillies ace Cole Hamels, Maine offered this: "They won the World Series and I say, "Congratulations.' Let them celebrate it, but just don't worry about what's going on in New York. We'll take care of it. And if I can remember; we beat them head-on last year, didn't we?"

John Maine says, "he's throwing five, six times a week" , promising he will show up for spring training early and ready to go. Ah, music to my ears.

Francesa's Take On Manny & The Mets

2009-01-24T01:07:00.004-05:00

Every once in a while even Fatcesa makes a couple of good points. He does a pretty decent job till about half way through when he starts chin-wagging about the Yankee Dynasty. News flash, the Yankees have spent over a billion dollar$ in the past five years, with squat to show for it. Sometimes I wish Mikey would just pull his lips over his head and swallow!

Here are some of his observations:

The Mets never go the extra Mile
The idea that Omar never asked the Wilpons about Manny is insulting
The Wilpons are not being fair to Omar

Mets Extend Offer To Ollie - Sheets New Medical Records

2009-01-23T20:01:00.003-05:00

John Heyman of SI.com, reports on two fronts Met fans are interested in.

First, the Mets are believed to have increased their original offer of 3 yrs and $30M to Oliver Perez. Not much is known about the details of the new offer, however I find it curious as to the timing. The word on the street this afternoon was the Mets are now willing to go to four years for Ollie's services.

Just say no!

However, Ben Sheets just became more marketable.

Secondly, Heyman reports on Ben Sheets. Teams interested in free agent right-hander Ben Sheets have a new medical report to examine, according to MLB executives, and it is this new information that may have sparked some renewed interest in the talented pitcher.

Sheets has made available to several baseball executives updated medical information. You can bet all teams vying for his services are doing their due diligence, while combing through his reports with their medical staffs.

Mets Willing To Go 4 Yrs With Ollie

2009-01-23T18:28:00.007-05:00

Andrew Marchand of ESPN Radio reports, the Mets may be willing to go four yrs for Oliver Perez.

Here are the Highlights as reported by Andrew Marchand:

A source tells 1050 ESPN New York that the Mets will eventually be willing to go to four years for Oliver Perez. Meanwhile, the Mets have growing interest in Ben Sheets. A source says that the Mets don't think Sheets' arm is perfect, but it is not terrible either.
The source says he didn't think the Perez negotiations will be completed too soon. A red flag on Sheets, according to the source, is that he started more than 30 games last season, but hadn't done that before since 2004.

To my way of thinking, Sheets for two yrs and and option for a third is a much more prudent utilization of their resources. Ben Sheets will slot in as 1A in the Mets rotation. Imagine Johan and Sheets at the top of the rotation...SCARY!!!

Alou In Talks With Phillies - I Can't Make This Up

2009-01-23T10:35:00.004-05:00

The Phillies are going hard after Alou, as they continue to wait and see if Nomar Garciparra wants to continue his playing career. Needing a righty bat with some pop off the bench is a weakness they're trying to address. Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. confirmed interest in the 42-year-old Alou but did not sound as if a deal was imminent.

Apparently, Alou is expecting more playing time than the Phillies are looking for in a reserve, situational hitter. Ruben Amaro states, "this is a limited playing role."

Do not be deceived, Alou can still rake! It's always been about staying in the line up with him. I just can't help to think, Alou would some how stay healthy enough to do damage to the Mets at some point in the season.

Garcia Chooses The Amazins

2009-01-22T22:14:00.004-05:00

According to Doug Miller of MLB.com, Freddy Garcia has agreed with the Mets on a minor league contract. Garcia could earn between $8 million and $9 million with incentives in 2009 if he makes the club in Spring Training, the report said.

From my earlier post:

I believe based on Garcia's past performance, he would make for an admirable insurance policy for the back end of the rotation. In short, bring on an incentive laden, minor league contract.

Now let's go out and sign Sheets or Ollie (Sheets is my preference), and move aggressively towards adding lightning to go with our mediocre lineup after the five spot. Can you say Adam Dunn? I know you can.

F-Mart Cracks Keith Law's Top 100 Prospects #16

2009-01-22T16:34:00.006-05:00

When Keith Law speaks, all of baseball listens!

Let not your heart be troubled, no if ands or buts about it, Fernando Martinez is an elite MLB prospect. The Mets are extremely fortunate to have F-Mart as part of their organization. Please keep in mind he's only 20 yrs old and still growing physically and in baseball awareness. Keith points out, F-Marts inability to stay on the field/healthy is his biggest issue.

There was a time when another young Met phenom shared the same fate, where the injury bug would constantly find him...His name is Jose Reyes. My have times changed.

Here's Keith Law's evaluation of F-Mart: To view the top 25 prospects click on link to the left.

Martinez's big issue is staying healthy; he has yet to reach 400 plate appearances or play in 100 games during any of his pro seasons, excluding winter ball. This is a shame, because Martinez has a special bat and the injuries plus some aggressive promotions have obscured it. Martinez offers huge power potential, putting on a display in BP, but it has only briefly started to emerge in games. He has very quick and strong wrists, letting the ball travel on him before exploding quickly and making solid, hard contact. In the field, he's looking more likely to end up in right field; the Mets have one of the game's best center fielders in the big leagues and don't need to groom Martinez for that position. His pitch recognition, while good for his age, hasn't progressed over the last two years, and the more he's pushed up the system the less likely it is that the skill will develop. Martinez has now played the equivalent of a full season in Double-A before his 20th birthday, and the Mets are faced with the difficult decision of whether to promote him to Triple-A because he has "graduated" from the lower level or return him to the Eastern League for the third consecutive year so he can work on his plate discipline and, maybe, catch his breath.

Is Garcia in a New York State of Mind?

2009-01-22T09:45:00.005-05:00

FOX Sports, Ken Rosenthal is reporting, the Mets and Yankees have emerged as the leading contenders for free-agent right-hander Freddy Garcia, according to a major-league source.

It's my hope that the report of a minor league contract is correct. In no way should Garcia be given a job in the starting rotation or major league roster, without first proving himself in spring training. According to Rosenthal, Garcia would prefer a major-league contract, which would guarantee him termination pay if he were released in March, but might need to accept a minor-league deal.

I would prefer to see Omar go out and get Sheets or Ollie, in that order. Then and only then, I believe based on Garcia's past performance, he would make for an admirable insurance policy for the back end of the rotation. In short, bring on an incentive laden, minor league contract.

Career Stats:

118 Wins vs. 77 Loses; that's a healthy 41 games over .500.
.407 ERA; not bad considering his tenure in the American League
Starting pitcher in the championship clinching game four of the 2005 World Series. Garcia went a sparkling seven innings, allowing no earned runs.

Imported Minnesotan Home Run Apple - All the Rage

2009-01-21T12:03:00.007-05:00

That's right, not Washington state...Minnesota. Thanks to the efforts of two MN companies. Courtesy of FOX 12 Mankato.

With the apple in bad shape, that tradition was in jeopardy...Eric Saretsky, Director of Mets Construction says, "Its frame was so rotted that it's now going to sit as like a memorial in our Hall of Fame."

I guess you can say it was rotten to the core...Forgive me, I cant help myself.

The new Apple is four times the size of the original Home Run Apple, at 19ft in diameter and weighs in at 6,000 pounds. This Apple shoots up in the air in three seconds flat.

Jose Reyes is Dominican's Leading Man

2009-01-20T17:34:00.003-05:00

Jose...Jose...Jose...Jose...Batting first...Playing SS, Jose Reyes! Reyes has beat out all bat and no glove Marlin, Hanley Ramirez at SS. Wow, Jose will be the straw that stirs the drink for A-Rod, Pujols and Ortiz. Now that I think about it, I'm not so sure about Ortiz. The Dominican Republic will be an offensive juggernaut, to be sure.

NY Mets In the World Baseball Classic

2009-01-20T08:35:00.004-05:00

Adam Rubin, of Surfing The Mets, compiles a list of Mets participating in the 2009 WBC. He points out that at least 10 of names mentioned will be on the opening day roster. Dang, that's 40%. Santana's participation is still contingent upon his left knee's health.

United States - RHP JJ Putz, C Brian Schneider, 3B David Wright
Australia - IF Stefan Welch
Canada - 3B Shawn Bowman
Dominican Republic - SS Jose Reyes
Panama - LHP Angel Antonio Cuan, IF Ruben Tejada
Puerto Rico - OF Carlos Beltran, IF Alex Cora, 1B Carlos Delgado, OF Jesus Feliciano, RHP Pedro Feliciano, RHP Nelson Figueroa
Venezuela - RHP Francisco Rodriguez, LHP Johan Santana

O-Dog, Sheets, and Dunn Equals WS Title

2009-01-19T19:12:00.003-05:00

Let me start off by saying, I don't think Omar has the payroll flexibility/juice to get this premium combo package signed, sealed and delivered. I pride myself on not pretending to know the financial situations of others, but in Team Wilpons case I'm willing to make the rare exception. The Madoff Ponzi Scheme has been all over the news, the blogoshpere and of course talk radio, it's time to acknowledge the 800 pound gorilla in the room.

According to Josh Alper, Wilpon's company, Sterling Equities, invested hundreds of millions of dollars with Madoff. I've heard loose estimates from $200M to $400M.

Alper, sums it up this way:

The mets have a new park and their own cable channel, which should provide enough revenue to keep the team running even as Wilpon rushes from criminal to criminal in attempts to increase his fortune. If things get tight enough, however, he may need to sell off a portion of the team and that could impact the way the Mets are run.

Team Wilpon, now is the time to give your loyal fans the championship they so richly deserve. Here's the beauty of it all. You can do so by spending a fraction of what your crosstown rivals, the Yankees spent this off-season. Who knows, you may even pop up on the back page of the local fish-wrap again.

In short, Mr. Wilpon, I'm asking you to take advantage of MLB's double coupon days.

Step one... Bring the O-Dog to town, right quick, fast and in a hurry!!!

Ken Rosenthal, of FOX Sports, puts it this way. Hudson is a switch-hitter. His effervescent personality would be perfect for a Mets team that has collapsed in each of the past two Septembers. And the high-energy, slick-fielding double-play combination of Hudson and Jose Reyes would be a fan's delight.

Can you think of a more suitable representative than O-Dog? He fits the quintessential profile of what Team Wilpon is looking for and can flat out play ball. I believe he will thrive in the limelight of NY sports and take pressure off D-Wright, being the lone soldier answering questions at the end of a game. O-Dog is active in the charitable works arena, specifically with his passion to fight autism. Did I mention he wants to play for the Mets?

To learn more about the C.A.T.C.H Foundation (Curing Autism Through Change and Hope), please visit http://orlandohudson1.com/catch.html

Here's what he will bring to the ballpark every day:

08 Season - O-Dog .305 BA/ .367 OBP/ .450 SL/ .817 OPS

CASTILLO - .245 BA/ .355 OBP/ .305 SL/ .660 OPS

Oh, and just for craps and giggles, O-Dog's OPS 1.171 at Shea, eclipses the greatest all time career mark set by the Babe, 1.164. Believe me I'm not comparing him to the Babe!!! BTW, his second best OPS was Turner Field, 1.020. Yes, I'm aware of the sampling size.

SHEA- .400 BA/ .438 OBP/ .733 SL/ 1.171 OPS

NL Gold Glove winner 2006 and 2007.

Step Two... Ben Sheets- Make Ollie a take it or leave it offer of 3 yrs/ $27-30M. If as I suspect, he does not accept, it's time to move on to Ben Sheets.

Much is made of Sheets' injury problems, however he did manage to pitch 198 innings in 31 games last season.
Highlights for 2008: Top Ten NL 3.09 ERA (5), Complete Games 5 (2), and WHIP 1.15 (7)
Three time All-Star
Double Digit victories in all but one of eight seasons

Step Three... Adam Dunn - Plz don't bring out the strikeouts. Dunn's OBP more than makes up for it.

Last year's stats; .236 BA/ .386 OBP/ .513 SP/ .898 OPS. To put his numbers in proper perspective, Dunn would be second to D-Wright in OBP, SLG and OPS, had he been with the Mets last year. D-Wright's stats were .302 BA/ .390 OBP/ .534 SL/ .924 OPS. Dave, plz continue to spoil us!!!
Highlights for 2008; First in NL with 122 walks, Second in NL with 40 tape measuring BOMBS and Top Ten in OBP and OPS.
Rumor has it the ball is carrying in Citi Field... Watch out Pepsi Porch! I believe LGA air traffic control may have to utilize alternate flight plans when Dunn is in town.
Dunn will patrol left this season, however next year Delgado comes off the books and he can slide over to first base.

Nelson Figueroa Loses No-Hitter In the 10TH

2009-01-19T12:15:00.003-05:00

GETTING FIGGY WITH IT!!!

So close, but yet so far away. There are those who call it the curse of Nolan Ryan. Something about being property of the Mets and not being able to get the elusive no-hitter; it makes little difference that he wasn't even wearing the blue and orange of the Mets.

Congratulations Figgy!!! In a playoff appearance for the Cardinales, of the Venezuelan Caribbean league, Figgy came up huge. Outstanding job of nine inning no hit ball. Figgy went nine plus innings in route to picking up the win, while allowing just one hit and one walk.

Mr. Met Part 2 - Old School Commercial

2009-01-18T23:38:00.001-05:00