NY Mets 2013

[syam24]

Well, another season done. The Mets closed out 2013 on a winning note, utilizing the speed of Eric Young, and some sloppy play by the Brew Crew. A very nice job from Jon Niese in his finale, and some good bullpen work. It was another "typical" season for Mets fans with the usual ups and downs of a rebuilding team. I think we've turned the corner with some talented young players, especially in the pitching area. With some big salaries coming off the books, I look forward to some moves by the Mets to bolster the lineup a bit, and probably a bullpen arm or two, and possibly a seasoned starter. Glad to see Terry Collins get re-upped for two years, the Mets continued to play for this man, finishing at .500 over the last 100 games, and had a winning record on the road. He's been pretty consistent in his handling the team and along with Dan Wathen provide a steady hand in leadership. Looking forward to a fun Hot Stove League with lots of rumors and player moves. Thanks as always to Sonny for his steady hand on this thread, and the many contributions of Sausy and others to keep the Mets fans informed. Lets go Mets!!!

 

[Sausy]

Thanks, syam... have some errands to take care of this afternoon but will add my thoughts on the regular season tonight sometime. Appreciate the shout out and give props to sonny, you and all others who post in this thread! Hopefully next year we'll have a few new posters joining the mix as we anticipate a very interesting offseason!

 

[Sausy]

Good last few efforts from Harang, Torres and Niese as the 2013 season closes on our boys. Last game a nice comeback win punctuated by great relief after Jon Niese goes six innings... doesn't get past .500 ending the season with an 8-8 mark but lowered his ERA to around 3.70 and showing that his shoulder has fully recovered from the partial rotator cuff scare and in the offseason Niese will maintain his training regimen to keep the shoulder muscles strong and flexible. Most surprising stat was from Daniel Murphy, who while needing to work on consistency at the plate and defensively after being streaky in both still played just about every game, had lots of doubles, scored over 90 runs, a career high... hit 13 homers, driving in 78 with a solid .286 batting average. Murph also stole 23 bases with few caught attempts, while not fast improving his baserunning immensely playing smart and timely aggressive ball.

David Wright had a very good year, considering seven weeks were lost to the hamstring injury and he was beaned in the helmet and bruised his thumb in the beginning of the last series with the Brewers and STILL played in the final two games of the season, batting a strong .307 with 18 homers and 58 RBI.

Eric Young only hit .250 or so overall but whenever he got on base was a threat to generate runs with his speed and hustle. Led the NL with 46 steals in 2013 coming to the Mets in the middle of the season from Colorado and pretty much becoming a lineup fixture. While it's not clear if he's in the long term plans of the Mets he did a great job generating the offense at the leadoff spot the Mets just weren't getting.

We still don't know who'll be in right or center, either... rookie centerfielder Juan Lagares showed some great moments offensively and especially defensively( leading all Met outfielders in history as rookies with 15 outfield assists). He still though slumped towards the end. Matt den Dekker had a few moments too but was prone to the strikeout. Yet his teasing combo of speed/hustle/defense/power make him an intriguing experiment for next year. Lucas Duda moved from left to first in place of the injured Ike Davis, who himself had only busted out in his last few weeks in the lineup after a brutal two month start that eventually found him sent down to AAA Las Vegas. Duda had some moments with power but hitting .230 with 15 homers and a ton of strikeouts far from make him a shoo in to beat out Davis. The Mets will see over the winter how their roster shapes up, as after several big contracts come off the books the Mets under Sandy Alderson promise to be aggressive going after free agents( though not spending recklessly) and quality bats possibly available in trades as well. The Mets finished 10th in draft position going 74-88 to tie with several other clubs but after draft position was determined the Mets now in finishing in the top ten slots of the draft now will not have to fork up that draft pick in compensation for signing the highest tiered level free agents.

Shortstop is another big question mark, as Omar Quintanilla is a very good fill in but .230 with no power or speed doesn't fill the bil as an everyday player. The Mets in finally recalling the incumbent shortstop, Ruben Tejada from Las Vegas after a completely lackluster first couple of months (sent down in June with Ike Davis) indicated he would get the opportunity to win back the job in spring training if the Mets don't acquire a shortstop through free agency or trades .He once was thought as a core player along with Davis but an indifferent attitude both at the plate and more alarmingly in the field, where as at one time sure handed and true throwing was anything but the first couple of months this past season.

Travis d'Arnaud, the Mets highly regarded young catcher acquired from Toronto in the RA Dickey trade impressed his teammates, manager Terry Collins, coaches, and the Mets hierarchy with his strong defense and solid rapport with the different pitchers he had to work with. His hitting didn't really come around til late, but at times showed the patience and quick bat that may lead to above average offensive numbers on a regular basis(.275-.300 with 20-30 homer potential). He is backed up at the moment by Anthony Recker, who showed he could be a solid defensive catcher with great skills in dealing with the pitching staff and being a big strong Pennsylvania kid generate good power in limited at bats filling in one or twice a week and coming off the bench.

Closer Bobby Parnell was off to his best season ever and despite a couple of blown saves in the middle of the season generally dominated, looked much more aggressive and confident on the mound. Not just content to throw high 90's + but mix in several pitches to enhance his top of the charts fastball. He missed the last month though due to a disk problem in his neck that he would need surgery for after rest failed to lead to improvement. Impressive stints though by 41 year old veteran supreme La Troy Hawkins getting 12 saves and nearly always pitching well in the second half certainly deserves to return and young Vic Black had some great moments... acquired from Pittsburgh along with second baseman Dilson Herrera in the late August waiver deal having the Mets send outfielder Marlon Byrd and catcher John Buck to Pittsburgh give the Mets excellent depth at least in late inning situations.

Mets did re- up manager Terry Collins to a two year deal plus an option just after the end of the regular season. Collins, wh while not an incredible tactical manager has commanded respect ad communicates very well with his players and even when the Mets were playing horribly never quit on TC. While his first two managerial posts, with the Angels and the Astros, led to the passionate, super intense Collins getting into rows with key players and losing respect and getting fired.. TC swore he would be better and not be the high strung ogre that would give up on his guys and throw them under a bus when things weren't going well. He also after the Mets organization hired him spent a great deal of time working in the front end dealing directly with the minor league system. Terry Collins grew up, retaining the passion and dedication for the game but not letting his emotions control him and cause him to lose the guys... very glad to see him rewarded, and the Mets do seem to be intent on aggressively filling needs this offseason and getting themselves poised for contention. Sorry though it won't work out with Wally Backman getting the job... he just isn't for some reason someone Sandy Alderson really likes, just may be too strong willed and independent for the team approach oriented Alderson. Backman is a great motivator and hopefully will soon find a club that he can help mold into a contender... but Alderson has a conservative temperament and just isn't into dealing with someone who unlike Terry Collins managed to channel his rough edges to fit management's preferences. I love Wally Backman but for his own sake he needs to move on to bigger and better things with another club willing to get a heart and soul type manager who really goes the extra mile and yet has such a beloved cionnection to Mets fans from his hustle and grit in the great Met days of the mid to late 80's.

 

[Sausy]

Also wanted to add the great performances of rookies Matt Harvey and Zach Wheeler as highlights of the season. Matt unfortunately is in limbo after receiving a diagnosis of a partially torn elbow ligament which if fixed by surgery has a very good chance of returning fully healthy and even stronger but it would take a year to recover on average. He wants to do rest, exercise rehab and let the ligament heal by itself as others have experience, most notably Roy Halladay of the Phillies. The risk in that is that it seems okay tears again during the upcoming season which would have him have the surgery and possibly not return til mid 2015... losing an additional half year if not more. Best option is that rest and exercise take and we have Matt Harvey ready to go for the bulk of the 2014 season. Wheeler showed great improvement but was erratic in his control, especially just after call up and then again towards the end. A little more seasoning and command of his other pitches besides the fastball though and the great promise Zack shows can be realized and the Mets potentially could have a great one two punch with the earlier mentioned Jon Niese providing a strong third amigo in an impressive rotation... we have Dillon Gee being very good throughout the year, just tired a bit in his latest starts as he pitched nearly 200 innings, most ever for him. Jeremy Hefner was dominant too as the All Star break came but he struggled mightily in his next few starts before diagnosed with an elbow ligament tear requiring Tommy John surgery. After several awful outings Daisuke Matzakawa pitched very well, as did Aaron Harang and Carlos Torres generally too. Mets have so any additional arms in the farm.... closer to the majors are Jennry Mejia and Jeurys Familia if healthy, Rafael Montero and Noah Syndegaard. Potentially impressive arms of the future include Gabriel Ynoa and Steven Matz of the Savannah Gnats in the South Atlantic league who won their league championship. And also if healthy Michael Fulmer can be added to the mix, along with a few others who just need consistency and confidence.

 

[sonny10305]

First up I am very happy to see Collins will be back next year he absolutely deserves to manage the team again. I always thought considering all the shit thrown at him with trades and injuries he kept the team going and no one did a better job of developing the new players or communicated with his guys than Terry I can tell you first hand I don’t care which player you speak with they will have nothing but great things to say about Terry. The coaching staff will all be back and I am good with that for the most part I like what Warthen has done my only concern was with Hudgens but in speaking with the guys they all like the guy and wanted him back so that’s good enough for me. As one player put it if I’m not hittin it’s not cause Dave did not do his job it was my lack of ability to get it done. Now we will see what Collins can do with a fresh start with perhaps some new talent in the lineup. Alderson has a lot to consider for next year who to keep who to trade who to acquire and who plays in which position. He will have a lot more flexibility this year with money to spend beginning with some big salaries coming off the books and since The Mets finished in the bottom ten they can sign a free agent without losing a draft choice so no excuses this year they gotta go out there and spend some money. I would say The Mets should have a very active free agency this winter.

So what do we need to do? Well let’s start with pitching with the number one question which is of course Matt Harvey and whether he pitches or has surgery and misses 2014 all together, Matt has not yet to start his throwing program to rehab his pitching arm, we should have much more info on Matt's future in about a month when the big decision will be made. If you are thinking why isn’t he at least throwing yet keep in mind that he is not yet in a rehab mode right now it is a diagnostic program then he will begin rehab which will include a throwing program to show if he can in fact pitch with a torn ligament in his elbow. So just to stay positive let’s say he does pitch in 2014 keeping in mind what has been said and I totally agree with and that is if anyone can overcoming that obstacle it’s Harvey. We have some pretty good starting pitching staff, Zack Wheeler, Jonathon Niese and Dillon Gee. And in the wings we have another dynamite pitcher in Noah Syndergaard as well as Rafael Montero and Jacob deGrom with Jenrry Mejia has a good shot for the fifth-starter competitor in spring training. So I am very comfortable with our 2014 pitching. Oh and yeah I have heard the talk about a possible return of Johan Santana and to that I say no thanks we need to move on now I have no interest in seeing Johan pitch anymore. He was great no doubt but let’s put the emphasis on the word “was”. No, it’s time to move on. Jeremy Hefner will miss most, if not all, of 2014 after Tommy John surgery. As to the pen well we can always use help out there they had some really good games this year far better than last for sure. Bobby Parnell proved that he could indeed be our closer, but Tim Byrdak and Pedro Feliciano both of whom returned from shoulder injuries after missing a bunch of playing time may find that the Mets to move on from both of em. Not interested in David Aardsma he was somewhat Productive but he melted away if we used him too much, Scott Atchison, is getting a little too old in tooth at 37 and yet I was surprised to find out he does not have enough MLB service time to be eligible for free agency, so he is a definite non-tender candidate in December. Latroy Hawkins was productive stepping into the closer’s role for Bobby Parnell and ya had to love his fastball up to 95 mph. I really liked Vic Black who could also close but otherwise I want him handling the eighth inning next season. Then there is Josh Edgin and Scott Rice both left-handed and both are coming off surgeries, The Mets need to find a lefty from outside the organization they can trust, but Rice and Edgin could be useful. Jeurys Familia and Gonzalez Germen, both righties will prolly make a bullpen role in 2014. Carlos Torres, another righty has a good shot as the long reliever or spot starter. You can expect Greg Burke, Robert Carson and Sean Henn, provided they survive the winter on the 40-man roster should also end up in AAA. Lastly no more Frank Francisco please tell me that he is done no more please let him drift away into the sunset.

Now we come to catching I would be comfortable with Travis d’Arnaud remain our catcher in the hopes that he can say healthy, He did a really great job working with the pitchers and calling games I love the way he successfully stole strikes last year, his ability to frame the pitch so well that he was able to fool the umpire into thinking it was a strike he has a real talent for that and it’s a kick to watch him do that. As to his hitting I would like to see him shorten his swing and improve his at bats. Of course I want Recker back he has proven his value time and time again but Recker could find himself in AAA in 2014 if the Mets think they need to find a veteran catcher since d’Arnaud’s injury problems are a concern

Next up is first base and I don’t have to tell you guys my choice is Ike Davis he has a lot yet to give us and I want very much for him to return to that position next year there is a lot of untapped power in that kids bat and he has shown to be a more than adequate defensive player. The talk was that perhaps Lucas Duda would compete with Ike for that position and in fact was given a great opportunity to audition for that this past month but in my opinion he did not show us much, now I love The Dude but as I have said before he aint no Ike Davis and Lucas proved that recently in what I would call a failed attempt to change anyone’s mind about; that Lucas did not impress he basically blew that audition in my eyes. Lucas is also set to play inn winter ball. The Mets could decide to go out and get another first baseman but I just don’t want to see that happen; give Ike the job.

Next up is Shortstop, I will be very interested in seeing how Rubin Tejada shows up for spring training; last year you will remember did not go well he did not come in early and was not in good shape and he got off to a terrible start with Terry Collins so assuming his broken leg completely heals Tejada needs to show a whole new attitude and work ethic he better show up early in shape and ready to play but even if he does that may not be enough and the Mets will go out and find the right shortstop addition. As to Omar Quintanilla, he will remain a backup, not a full-time player. Flores is most likely headed for AAA as well as Tovar.

Of course third is a lock nothing to say there but what happens to Murphy at second is still a question. All indications point to Daniel returning to the second base spot in 2014 the organization and Collins in particular love his hard work dedication and what he contributed with his bat this year but Alderson has said all along that everyone but Wright is on the table and if the Mets get an offer they can’t refuse for Murph he could be traded.
All I can say about that is if they do trade Murph it better be worth it I mean really really worth it. BIG TIME!

As to the outfield I’m thinkin the team could use an upgrade at the corners maybe go out an get a marquee name with a big bat but we do have some good payers out there as well with Eric Young Jr. who also gives us speed in the lineup. Also Juan Lagares has done an outstanding job for us with an awesome 15 outfield assists and is very likely the full-time center fielder in 2014, even with some offensive difficulties. I love Matt Den Dekker but Collins just did not give him much playing time to show us what he could do out there I often thought in the last games where is Decker why isn’t he out there? It is clear that the Mets do not plan to platoon Lagares and den Dekker at least not to start the season so I am thinking Decker will start next year in AAA. I was encouraged to hear that the Mets asked Matt to play winter ball because he missed so much time this year. Besides Collins leaving him to waste away on the bench the last few weeks he missed the first part of the season after breaking his wrist in Spring Training. I happen to know that Den Dekker said he can only play Winter Ball for about a month, since he has a personal obligation in November which includes the marriage of his sister to whom he is very close. Matt needs to show what he can do I liked that he shortened his stroke and often, like Murphy, used the entire field at times. His biggest problem is the lefties and the strike outs so he is as they say a work-in-progress. Mike Baxter will be arbitration eligible as a Super 2. So his 40-man roster spot will be in trouble leaving Mike open to being re-signed to a minor league deal. One of the problems we noticed for Mike was after that shoulder injury after that great catch he made in the Santana no hitter may have hurt his swing he was just not the same after that. Then there is the mystery of why we have not seen Kirk Nieuwenhuis and why he was snubbed for a September call-up. Brown’s 40-man roster spot is also in question.

Gotta mention Justin Turner who needs to return as a backup infielder again next season.JT has given us so much with his pinch hitting and did a nice job filing in at third and short. Justin also has plans to play winter ball. I am sure we will see Josh Satin who I consider valuable righty bat for the bench with a backup role.

 

[Thad1527]

We will agree that any season the Braves win the NL East is a disappointment!

I really think the Mets have more hope for the 2014 season than the Phillies do. The up-and-coming talent roster favors the Mets so much. The Phils seem to be aging badly; the talk on today's Comcast SportsNet was if Roy Halladay has any value remaing as a pitcher. (It was universally felt he has GREAT value as a person.)

In the meantime, I'm rooting for the Pirates the rest of the playoffs. All the AL teams I like are out already (no, not the Yankees!). I always root for the Angels because Mike Scioscia is from my hometown (he was in my brother's high school graduating class).

 

[sonny10305]

In my last post I followed Syam and Saucy and their closing thoughts on the 2013 season with a few of my own and what I would like to see in 2014. I mentioned my hopes for the return of Justin Turner and now we have word that in fact JT will be given a new contract which is great to hear.

After a terrific end of the season party and a couple of dinners most of the Mets have scattered across the country headin home to unwind. Some will be taking trips, a couple are getting married and the rest are just going to relax, a couple of the boys are stayin a while here in NY before heading out. A great day with Justin Turner yesterday at the Tamarack Country Club for the Tim Teufel Celebrity Golf Tournament. Mike Baxter and Dillon Gee and DWright also played







Kevin Burkhart will be working the off season doing NFL for Fox doing a great job with play by play

 

[Sausy]

Got a few more things to add to sonny's comments which I will in my next post but gotta say great pics of the guys... from Murph's heartfelt thanking of the fans to the party pics with the boys and also that of the one and only KB!
Thanks as always, sonny!
And great to see Thad this past Saturday as he was one of those taking part in the New York area JUB meet, which went great though alas, too short. He loves the Mets almost as much as his home Phillies so that makes him more than okay in my book Seriously though a really good , fun, positive guy who loves the Mets as Much as a Philly area guy can do I am so happy for Pittsburgh winning the wild card game, and getting their first taste of the postseason in 21 years. The city and fans of Pittsburgh deserve it, with such a proud winning history before the lean years after the Bonds/ Bonilla era ended. I really hope they do well in the postseason!

 

[Ninja108]

Sad to see what happened to Matt Harvey but I think everyone could sadly see that coming. IMO,he will be back though and better then ever.
As for the Braves,it does appear they are on their way to losing in the post season again.

 

[Sausy]

I was waiting for sonny to comment on the sudden Harvey decision to choose the surgery but I do have to say he and those monitoring the progress of his elbow injury must have not been pleased with how things were looking for a quicker natural healing. The prospect for full recovery is very good, but even coming back in 2015 he might come back to full strength fairly quickly, or it might take much of the season before he really looks like the dominant pitcher he was before the injury... or the risk is still there he won't quite have the dominant stuff for over another year or so, or maybe never. It's still a risk but more than enough of a good one that we should see him back for 2015 and now there is a plan everyone is on board with should ease everyone's minds some on what to expect for Harvey. Hopefully Matt will thrill Mets fans for years to come following his recovery.

 

[Thad1527]

We love Matt Harvey! Wishing him all the best for recovery and hoping he doesn't rush back and do anything foolish.

 

[sonny10305]

Lucas Duda did not prove himself ready to be our first baseman in his “audition” while Ike was out. He played an adequate defensive first but failed miserably at the plate. And yet after saying what he need was winter ball to help improve his game and for reasons I won’t go into here other than to say they are not baseball related has now decided not to go. Bad move dude very disappointed in you.

 

[Sausy]

Agreed Thad... read yesterday and I'm sure sonny's already up on it that Scott Boras says Matt will have the Tommy John surgery in the next two weeks. Scott is fully supportive of Matt's approach on this, first seeing if he could avoid the surgery with rest and rehab. When the latest results and consultations with medical experts finally pointed to best saving his career by having the surgery, that's exactly what Matt decided was best. He wanted to carefully evaluate the situation and all the options, not just rush into surgery... it's his career and he approached things in the right way, getting all the details and info to proceed in the best way for him and his career. No doubt come spring training 2015 he'll be ready to get on with baseball and it will feel so good getting those competitive juices flowing again. He knows he is capable of greatness and with talent and steely will of his, no doubt he can accomplish more great things on the diamond as he had shown before the elbow injury.

Sonny, I am really disappointed in Lucas Duda too hearing this. I think the Mets will upgrade foremost in the outfield( hoping they do not get Shin Choo as a free agent though from Cleveland, good article I read online at ESPN on why the Mets shouldn't commit possibly $100 mil over six years to him which I concur completely) before determining their first base situation. I've read while they like Ike personally they are afraid of another ice cold start and as sonny posted Lucas has really failed to make the Mets options easier. It's great his defense was better than thought but they still have no idea of he can handle things at the plate finishing under .240 with 15 home runs. Should they go outside their organization entirely, and where there are more pressing overall concerns they don't want to spend too much on a regular first baseman. I guess things depend on what they do at other positions first if they feel they can get more offensively next year out of Ike or Lucas to risk committing to one of them, or trading one or both as part of other deals to improve elsewhere and getting someone possibly from outside the organization.

 

[Sausy]

My own little overview of the Mets season, hope sonny and syam and the guys agree but if not

Pitching wise, Matt Harvey just got the tommy John surgery... probably around a year before he can throw again but should be ready for 2015... may not be as good early on as he gains arm strength but who knows? NOBODY is as competitive or determined, and we know his talent. Jon Niese came back very well from the scare with the partial rotator cuff tear. He ended the season strong and will keep working to keep the shoulder strong and flexible... definitely a big part of our future. Zack Wheeler showed a ton of heart and determination as well as talent... had spurts of control problems but he has shown a very mature approach in knowing that his best contributions won't be his strikeouts or breaking the speed gun every time but making quality pitches and starts, and he already seems to get that. Will make more progress in gaining control of his pitches, and having that gift when needed of putting batters away will make him super dangerous to face. Dillon Gee pitched wonderfully returning from the blood clot scare for most of the season, just shy of 200 innings and really shows enough of a fastball to keep batters honest when he does what he best can do and mix a number of pitches with good control. Another plus for our future. Throw in Jennry Mejia's name in the mix too, seems to just need more time to get his shoulder stronger and more used to throwing a lot as he rounds back to form after his surgery. Really played himself back into a solid starter status after a few really nice outings for the Mets before he was shut down as a precaution.

Jeremy Hefner will if remaining with the Mets organization also because of his own Tommy John elbow surgery will probably miss next year... tough because he pitched so well up to the All Star break. Rafael Montero seems poised to join the club next year as well as Noah Syndegaard. You have arms like Mike Fulmer, Gabriel Ynoa, Steven Matz, and others rapidly coming up the system so making a trade for a top flight young impact prospect/player is still quite doable. It's very likely the Mets will look to a veteran arm to help the younger guys and add experience to the staff.

The bullpen was erratic but we have some young guys who do show a lot of promise, including Jack Leathersich who didn't even pitch with the big club this year but has a ton of talent, potential and competitiveness. Vin Black came from the Pittsburgh trade with John Buck and Marlon Byrd.... a little erratic but at times showed awesome potential. Until we know for sure about the health of closer Bobby Parnell, who was having such a great year before a disk bulge in his neck curtailed his season, absolutely should bring back La Troy Hawkins, who at 41 was still regularly throwing in the mid 90's and after a bad start came on and as interim closer did a fantastic job. Really a great role model for the younger relievers and still one of the best at his job, so give him a well deserved return!


Next up.. the outfield

 

[sonny10305]

Ya know I was thinking I should write some sort of end of the season thing but never got around to it. So here is our boy Saucy doin it so nicely, I really appreciate that Saucy.
Look forward to more I’m kinda busy now out of town but maybe when I get back home I will add a little something of my own but it looks like you have it covered.

 

[Sausy]

Thanks sonny, appreciate the support and will help keep holding the fort til you get back home and can go onto more detail. First was the pitching, today going with the outfield. Eric Young Jr. did a tremendous job in left field coming over from Colorado early last summer.... gave us a legitimate leadoff threat stealing 46 bases and causing all kinds of havoc at the top of our lineup we had been lacking since Jose Reyes left for the Marlins( and at least for now having been rerouted to the Blue Jays). Outstanding defense, always plays hard but still barely hit in the .250's, so is he really a great fourth/ platoon outfielder or a solid regular for a contending club? jury's still out on that but he does great team things to help a club win.

Juan Lagares definitely raised some heads coming up from Triple A relatively unheralded but already known as a very good defender with speed and some pop. Question with him was is he ever going to be a consistent enough hitter to garner a major role on a contending club, in many ways like Eric Young Jr though with considerably more potential driving the ball for power. What's great about him is he always hustles, always plays hard team oriented baseball. Played greatas advertised defensively with some incredible highlight catches and even impressive is his throwing. Very strong and accurate arm, surpassed the Met outfield rookie record with 15 assists, and he's such a treat to watch defensively just wait if he adds consistency on offense to his game! Certainly a young Me to look out for next season.

Matt den Dekker looks like another candidate for playing time next year. Appears for whatever reason the Mets have soured on Kirk Nieuwenhuis and it's pretty clear it's because of his inability to avoid striking out at an alarming pace. He's still got value for his hustle, speed, potential for some power and defense for another club but now it looks like Matt will get the serious looks from the organization Kirk got in early 2012. He does have the propensity for the strikeouts too though and really has to cut back on them or risk a similar fate to Kirk. Considered however to be a little better defensively(and Kirk was really good)and just the Mets may think he'll improve in his consistency enough to warrant a good look next season. A treat to watch defensively, good speed and even better instincts and a good arm.., in the mold of Young Jr, Lagares and Nieuwenhuis in that he's a grinder and hustler who plays the game right.

Lucas Duda had been in the Mets outfield due to Ike Davis( more on Ike later tonight along with the infield and catching) but was moved to first when Ike went down the last couple of months with the oblique muscle pull. Never really comfortable in the outfield, and far less so when in right compared to left field Lucas could just not replicate the smooth, promising rookie half season when he went .290 with ten homers and 50 RBI in half a season. Expected to really take off moved to his most comfortable position, first base, Lucas did manage to wind up with 15 homers but batting average was only I the .230's and he never seemed to go on an extended tear at the plate. Not in the consideration for outfield play with the Mets in the future... certainly not as of now.

Andrew Brown has shown something as a bench player getting occasional starts and pinch hitting. Average defensively, he has a nice stroke and can hit for power. Best outfielder we had was Marlon Byrd, trying to restore his career after being hit for his use of performance enhancing drugs, had a very steady year with the Mets hitting around .280 with over 20 homers and 70 RBI with the Mets in right field before being suddenly claimed late in August and then subsequently traded along with catcher John Buck to the Pirates for a well regarded second base prospect and hard throwing, high potential reliever Vin Black. Anyway, at 36 he may have wanted a two year commitment going into his free agency this winter,and despite his solid year with the Mets (and he finished up strong as well in Pittsburgh) the Mets did run the risk of spending too much on a question mark going beyond looking at a one year deal.

Jordany Valdespin... sheesh, the less said the better. Talented though he may be, already a toxic threat with immaturity and pettiness as well as a bombshell revelation he had been among those found by MLB to have used performance enhancing drugs(so did fellow Mets prospect Cesar Puello, both suspended 50 games.)that basically sealed the chances for a return to CitiField next year for Valdy looks aspositive as slim to none. Like former Mets phenom who bombed Lastings Milledge won't be missed by ANYONE.

Tough to see Mike Baxter go, recently claimed by the Dodgers so his Citi Field days for now appear done. Such a great story, born and raised in NYC, in the Queens area having showed a lot and gaining playing time in 2012 highlighted by making a tremendous catch that saved Johann Santana's June 4,2012 Mets first no hitter ever. It cost him though as he damaged his shoulder hitting the ground and never seemed to be fully recovered from it this year, at least his swing had been impacted negatively since then and never got his groove back. The best of luck to him and though he and his wife I believe live in Tennessee his family and his heart is in and will always be of New York City.

Sandy Alderson may decide to pursue a trade for a high ceiling young major league outfielder, or go the free agent route though most certainly not get caught in any bidding wars... they really like Jacoby Ellsbury but not likely for as much as his agent the notorious Scott Boras may deem him worth... seven years, over 100 mil. Good chance though the Mets go for one established bat, or promising young bat, that won't cost them too much short term as while the Mets do foresee a lot more payroll flexibility, even more 2015 forward than 2014's decent sized budget increase. They do want to do it right and avoid egregiously bad contracts that other higher market teams are regretting getting themselves into.... Albert Pujols for the Angels and Prince Fielder for the Tigers, anyone?

 

[Sausy]

Infield and catching in today's season perspective. First, catcher... Travis d' Arnaud arrived in August from Las Vegas and despite his strong offensive rep the foot injury that cost him a lot of time there, while healed definitely left him rusty and while we saw flashes, especially in his patience at the plate which was impressive his defense was strong for the most part and he called great games, and has a good arm. Everyone seemed most impressed by his work ethic and ability to communicate so well with his pitchers. He has a great opposite field power stroke (calls his opposite field home runs "oppa tacos", interesting knowing what the "tacos" part comes from) John Buck did a good job holding the fort until the trade along with Marlon Byrd for Dilmer Herrera and Vin Black though he was super streaky, so hot in April, then cold in May and much of June before making adjustments and getting hot and driving in runs again... offensively Travis should provide 25-30 homer power with the ability to hit at least .280-.300 so hopefully he can stay healthy in 2014 and show that all around potential expected of him.

Backing him up should be Anthony Recker, who did a terrific job this year. His average may not show it but our Pennsylvania boy provides some real power when he plays and we know he's strong... remember the play at the plate this year he defended it like a tank? Has good defensive skills and everyone really has been impressed by the way he works with his pitchers and sticks to the game plan. Great backup and great guy and no reason he shouldn't remain with the Mets in the same role for some time to come.


First base.... well there have been a number of prospects to play there in recent years, after left. Nick Evans was up and down and always showed a great work ethic and sometimes teased with solid stretches offensively, and could do the job defensively but ultimately because of various factors including nagging injuries and inconsistency in playing time and performance didn't pan out for the Mets. Now with Ike Davis it really looked like the Mets found a gold mine, with great defensive skills plus patience and a lot of left handed power. After a highlight reel of defensive work and a solid offensive performance his rookie year in 2010, started off tremendously hitting over .300 with seven home runs when in May, 2011 collided with David Wright and was lost for the season with an ankle injury and foot bone fracture.

Ike came back the following spring to learn he likely had contacted Valley Fever syndrome, occurring in the desert Southwest and in its most serious form can be debilitating for months. Though it never got nearly that bad the rust from returning after missing so much time from the previous season and effects from the Valley Fever syndrome highly contributed to Ike getting off to a horrid start, .160 with like 5 homers going into June. Ike really wanted for the club, which in the first half last year actually was playing over .500 baseball (until injuries and a horrendous overall team slump took the out of it) to be patient and let the team let him work things out on the major league level, and they did as he had the backing of manager Terry Collins and his teammates' support in this. Ike came out of it in a huge way, and though he did tinker quite a bit with his stance at the plate was on fire for the rest of the season, reaching 32 homers and 90 RBI. Ike swore this could never happen again... but the 2013 was about to throw a curveball Ike, nor anyone else for that matter, had EVER seen before or thought imaginable.

Healthy, fit and strong Ike was ready for 2013.. but the season didn't seem ready for him as he started off slow again and it spiraled downward into another nightmare start of hitting around .160 as the calendar flew from April to May to June. WTF????????????? Ike especially above everyone else this year was lost for an explanation and he was hearing so many theories and suggestions on what was wrong and how to fix it. Unfortunately for Ike this time patience from the club management wasn't infinite and the Mets record was bad from the start, so nothing to cushion the club and Ike while he tried to find his stroke. It was also playing into his defense as the usually smooth, slick sure handed Ike transformed into the sometimes unsteady and tentative Ike. After the club went through a particularly uninspiring series loss IKe along with Ruben Tejada would find themselves demoted to Las Vegas.... not such a bad place to be, but hell they weren't there for the gaming, entertainment or the desert views outside the city, including the infamous Area 51 which the Mets affiliate took their name from, the "51s". Ike worked with the 51's manager Wally Backman and his staff to get his swing back to something he could be comfortable with and after a few days they did. Ike hit with good power and got close to .300 and the Mets called him up again.... he like last year then started to get hot but as fate would give him the middle finger yet again Ike was lost to an oblique muscle pull for the rest of the season.

What now for Ike? He's beloved in the clubhouse with the players and coaches, seen along with official team captain David Wright as a team leader. His goofy, endearing, playful personality really is unforgettable to those that know him, see him every day... sonny certainly sees it and always has a great deal of respect and love as a friend for Ike and hopefully the Mets will still see Ike as a viable option for the future. It's totally understandable that he's arbitration eligible and the Mets may wonder if he's worth it but it's not like any salary increase will be monumental. Lucas Duda did not impress filling in while Ike was injured with the oblique muscle pull and it's likeliest the Mets would try to make any significant offensive upgrade foremost with a outfielder. Ike has to get to a set way of hitting that reduces movement so he can recognize and adjust to pitches... perhaps it's best he does get rid of the hitch that will inevitably slow down his responsiveness. Ultimately though I have no doubt he will make every effort over the winter and in spring training to rededicate himself to reviving his career and hopefully that will be with the Mets. He's so loved by his teammates... he so gives of himself in the community, especially with his charity in remembrance of his best childhood friend who died from cancer. Sonny thinks the world of him as a person and friend, plus besides his good character his outstanding defensive potential and not easy at all to replicate power to all fields, especially the other way and he draws walks too in bunches. Ike, we would love it if you struck out much less, and hopefully as you grow as a player your patience at the plate continues to mature and you do cut it down some. But if you strike out 130-150 times, certainly not out of bounds for a typical slugger but keep the walks up to 80 + a year, hit a lot of homers, drive in a lot of runs, manage at least a .260-.280 average... Mets fans will more than be happy with that. Good luck to you going into 2014 and hope you'll give Mets fans thrills for years to come and that Met fans support you and show you the love that sonny and all the guys around the team know you definitely deserve and would appreciate, Ike!

Second base.... Murph. What's to say... what's the next position to look at? Seriously, Daniel Murphy really has made great strides as a player and always been the kind of person that is just a great teammate and guy overall. At least that's what sonny tells me! Murph really has made a great transition to second base and showed some power this year, hitting .286 with 13 homers, 76 RBI , adding 38 doubles and scoring a career high over 90 runs. He added something this year even he never knew he had...speed on the bases! Had 23 stolen bases, and though occasionally he made mistakes on the bases he really showed a lot of improvement in determining when to run and always plays aggressively as he can. In previous years where you'd go, "Murph,wtf"????!!!!!! but this year Murph showed a lot of improvement in this aspect of the game, among others. He may not be the best at his position, but Murph has made himself into a damn good second baseman through talent, determination and always willingness to work.

Only problem really on both offense and defense is consistency... Murph goes through streaks where he's going gangbusters then is so quiet for a few days befiore revving up again on offense, and goes through something like that defensively too at times. However he's really becoming a leader, really stepped up after David Wright was out with his hamstring pull to show leadership as the Mets did finish the season strong compared to how they were playing earlier. Another guy with a great goofy sense of humor and endearingness sonny talks about a lot and I really hope Daniel will be part of the Mets turnaround over the next few years.

Shortstop looks likely to be an area the Mets will address through the outside... like Stephen Drew a lot, not a great hitter but can drive the ball with doubles and has home run power and is a good defensive shortstop... a bit limited range wise but for two r three years a great interim player to help bring better times to Citi Field. Ruben Tejada looked like a core young Met in 2011 and 2012 but inexplicably came in last year in less than ideal sahape and made so many mistakes offensively and defensively. Worst of all his attitude seemed very detrimentally affected, as he always seemed a very heady and mature player for his age with great fundamentals if not explosive physical skills. Yet until he was sent down to Las Vegas too many times gave out an indifferent vibe on the field and that's never acceptable. He was replaced by Omar Quintanilla, who at least defensively did the job and played with effort. Came back up very late, kind of as a warning he was on very shaky ground with the Mets... did okay but maybe the Mets especially unsure about Ike still at first want to add more dependable, proven track record players to fill in as the Mets develop and promote new young talent offensively and position wise to go along with their strong depth of young pitching.

David Wright, the Captain... who sonny finally got the nerve to say two words to this season Despite the oblique injury that cost him six weeks and marred a great season proved so worth the long term investment as our Captain has grown even more comfortable not only privately but especially publicly being the face of the Mets organization. No doubt he definitely wanted a commitment by ownership to invest in a competitive roster that could challenge for a World Series championship and he got it... he knows from the contending teams of his youth the Mets will spend the money and just wanted to know after the several years of fiscal uncertainty caused by the economy and the Madoff crap that the current regime was in position to make the Mets serious contenders again. Played so well from the start and is a true all around stud.... defense is as strong as ever, only flaw is he does occasionally have throwing problems but generally has improved on that. He runs the bases aggressively, and stole 17 I believe this year... while not incredibly speedy runs well and has even better instincts. ALWAYS plays hard... his opposite field power is outstanding as he finished around .306 with 18 homers, 57 RBI returning to the lineup for the last week of the season because he really wanted to play and end the season on a positive note now going into next spring training. As only the great , special players do upon his return on consecutive nights hit big homers for the Mets... even Terry Collins marveled that it wasn't supposed to be THAT easy! A pleasure that Mets have him playing for their team... just a great guy whose parents raised him right, a true southern gentleman who always as a boy growing up near Norfolk, Virginia loved the Mets and grew up to not only play for them but be potentially the greatest, most beloved Met ever. Just please stay healthy, David... we know you'll provide a treasure trove of memories to come for Mets fans!

Last, but not least can't forget Justin Turner who plays everywhere it seems.. well, not EVERYWHERE.... don't think he's caught yet here or pitched yet! Always plays fundamentally sound wherever he is in the field or in the lineup. Goes all out aggressive at all times, but will ALWAYS be infamous in Met lore for his wacky, goofy humor and pie-ings celebrating great Met victories. Wary is the Met after a game speaking to KB or whoever if out of the corner of their eye they can spot JT with a wicked twinkle in his eyes and a pie in his hands... and has employed accomplices like La Troy Hawkins this year! I' love to see JT return, such a great teammate and such fun, too!!!!!!!!!

And Josh Satin... always seemed like a quiet one but showed signs of being an intriguing hitter plus hangs around Ike, Murph and JT sohe's got to have a wild, wacky fun side too!


Hope that was in depth enough, guys.... I'm exhausted, lol!

 

[sonny10305]

I am leaving today on the final journey of my trip headed for Los Gatos in California after spending some quality time in Arizona with friends and attending the Arizona Fall League. For those of you unfamiliar with the AFL it is an important part of minor league baseball a place where you can catch up on some of our top prospects as they get ready for the new season in the bigs. Most of my time was spent with the Mets watching Jeurys Familia and Gabriel Ynoa, Sooo impressed with Ynoa who was outstanding form us in Brooklyn with the Cyclones last year and continued impressing us in Savannah, helping the Sand Gnats win the South Atlantic League championship he was the ace of the pitching staff. I also spent time with the Blue jays where I saw a very impressive pitcher by the name of Aaron Sanchez watch out for that kid he is gonna be special.

WOW! How about that awesome end of the season rap up by Saucy Just outstanding; I had been thinking I should write something to finish up the Mets 2013 thread but just never got around to it but then good ole boy Saucy came through and took care of it in a magnificent fashion. I hope you guys appreciate as much as I do all the effort and thought it took for him to write those posts. I showed them to a Met player who said “That dude knows his Mets” Indeed, Indeed he does.

All that is left for me now is to discuss the offseason with winter shopping season soon to begin. I will probably write about that in a new thread soon. So much to look forward to with free agents signing with new teams and trades made as teams look to better themselves for the 2014 season. I really love this time of year in baseball when teams are permitted to bid and sign other teams' free agents which begins officially on the sixth day after the World Series which brings us this year to Tuesday. Mets free agents this year include David Aardsma, Tim Byrdak, Pedro Feliciano, Frank Francisco, Aaron Harang, LaTroy Hawkins, Daisuke Matsuzaka, and Anthony Recker. We now have seven roster spots free, the Mets players that were on the DL will be activated, Ike Davis, Josh Edgin, Matt Harvey, Jeremy Hefner, Jenrry Mejia, Bobby Parnell and Scott Rice. Coming up is the GM/owners meetings on Nov. 11-13 and the winter meetings on Dec. 9-12.
So the big question is what will opening day 214 look like and the answer is David Wright at third and Jon Niese on the mound and that’s about all we know for sure although safe to say that Zack Wheeler, and Dillon Gee will both be on the opening day roster, the rest is all open and very much up in the air. Although Jeff Wilpon corrected his original statement about who was a good bet to return to include Murphy. The Mets will have a few bucks to spend in free agency this winter, with some big contracts like Johan Santana and Jason Bay coming off the books, but Sandy Alderson has said he will spend wisely and not just for the sake of signing a big-name, big-money player. I like that!
Still, the Mets may be bigger players than they were last year in the trade market this offseason. We have needs to be sure in the form of an outfielder, catcher, and shortstop and of course pitching those have to be the priorities, and they have some moveable players that could be used to fill the voids on the team's roster. As to trades well what we are hearing is there are at least five tradable players.
One of my interests is first base and what will happen there the future of Ike Davis is among the questions facing the Mets this offseason. The Mets have what has been described as a “glut” at first base and have already received calls from teams interested in trading for first basemen. We have been aware that we have both Duda and Davis to decide on and what will come into play here is other teams interest goes and what that brings back, so ya gotta pretty much sit back and see where all that goes. There has been silly talk about another option which would put Daniel Murphy at first and move Eric Young Jr. to second, I think that idea is unlikely(at least I hope it is) Even thou Wilpon mentioned Murphy as a good bet to return make no mistake he is very much still in the mix for possible trade. The situation with Murph could be com0plicated by the fact that he will be getting a huge raise in arbitration after a very solid season in 2013. But I have said all along if we were to trade Murph it had better be a situation where other teams would value him and we get back plenty for him like a part of a bigger package for an elite power bat and not, as has happened in the past, trade him for a couple of minor league prospects. So it’s pretty much an up in the air situation that Murph is our second baseman next year I of course want him in there but if you speak to Murph about it he would say he wants to remain a Met but he would be flattered if another team makes a big play for him.

The other interesting move to watch will be a front-line starter, with Matt Harvey out for next year after undergoing Tommy John surgery. The surgery as I am sure you have heard was a complete success there is no question now that Harvey’s decision to have the surgery was a very good one rather than exploring a strengthening and throwing program. Matt is going to move quickly thru his rehab it’s just what everyone expects, as a matter of fact and this may seem small and way too early to get excited about he has already had the bandages removed, his arm straightened and in a brace. I like to call it his “Bionic arm” as seen here when he attended a Rangers game the other night.



Of course Harvey is a blow to our hopes for a turnaround season next year not a knockout punch of course but a blow never the less. We fans are waiting for action, not words from Alderson and Wilpon who have promised that this winter with all that money off the books meaningful improvements will be made. We will be watching.

As things develop I will keep you guys informed; it’s only three more weeks till Mets Hot Stove returns to SNY and we always learn a lot there.

There are three Mets getting married this week, Recker on Sunday then later in the week Josh Satin and Kirk Nieuwenhuis will be getting married. Um, no not to each other but to their girlfriends

Hope you all had a safe and happy Halloween Justin Turner spent it with his girlfriend Kourtney.
Um Justin, eyes straight ahead big boy

 

[sonny10305]

Ike says “Like my off season look?”




Justin asks have you met my bro Chucky?”




Justin at Reckers wedding with Kortney "don't I clean up nice?"



Newlyweds Anthony and Kelly Recker say “aren’t we adorable?”

 

[Sausy]

Very nice pics, sonny!