milb.com "Mets system solid from top to bottom"

Well seems appropriate I did a Mets minors outlook a couple of days ago, and now MILB.com comes out with an organizational overview. They talk about The Mets international studs:

Since Minaya was named GM in fall 2004, the Mets have signed some high-ceiling international talent, the most notable being uber-outfield prospect Fernando Martinez. The teenage phenom is closer than you might think to New York. He's one step behind fellow Dominican Carlos Gomez (signed in 2002, pre-Omar), allowing Mets fans to dream about an all-Latino outfield of Martinez, Gomez and Beltran.

The next wave is a few steps behind, with Venezuelan hurler Deolis Guerra on a similar fast track. But if you really want to see what this renewed commitment to international scouting is yielding, head to Savannah, the Mets' new South Atlantic League affiliate, where several teenagers are primed for their United States debuts.

Then some college pitchers:

Couple these developments with some advanced college pitchers (Mike Pelfrey, Philip Humber, Kevin Mulvey) rising quickly through the ranks and you've got an organization flush with some serious talent.

Climbing The Ladder (Important names)
AAA

Carlos Gomez, OF
Before the 2006 season, the Mets decided to challenge Gomez, then 20, by jumping from low-A ball to Triple-A. They had the feeling the heady youngster would be able to handle it, and they were right. After a rough start and an injury, Gomez recovered to hit .281 for the year with 41 steals. As he continues to grow and mature, he should develop some more power to make him more of a five-tool threat. He's got the arm to play right field, which is a good thing since Carlos Beltran is signed through 2011 to play center in Queens.

Philip Humber, RHP
Humber made an improbable journey from Tommy John surgery in July 2005 all the way to the big leagues last year. In 76 1/3 Minor League innings in 2006, Humber had a 2.83 ERA, 79 strikeouts and a .199 batting average against, returning to form quicker than most. A sore shoulder forced him from getting more innings in the Arizona Fall League last fall, but he's ready to go. Some thought he might get a crack at the No. 5 spot in the rotation (recently won by Mike Pelfrey), but with just over 150 professional innings under his belt, the 24-year-old will head to New Orleans as the staff ace.

AA

Fernando Martinez, OF
It may be a surprise to hear that the 18-year-old Martinez will be heading to Binghamton to start the season. But that was the Mets' plan all along, beginning with the decision to send him to Arizona as the youngest player in AFL history. Martinez hit .253 with a pair of homers there, more than holding his own considering his age. That helped the Mets realize Martinez -- similar to Gomez the year before -- could handle the jump to Double-A. Martinez had just 192 at-bats in low-A ball because of some injuries, but hit .333 during that span and showed plate discipline well beyond his years. That should serve him well with the jump to Double-A, where he'll continue to play center field. The Mets, though, can easily dream of an outfield with Beltran in the middle, flanked by Martinez and Gomez.

A

Deolis Guerra, RHP
Guerra is kind of the pitching version of Fernando Martinez in terms of youth and how excited the organization is about him. He'll turn just 18 this April and will likely be the youngest player in the FSL. At age 17, Guerra had a 2.20 ERA in 17 South Atlantic League starts. Opponents hit just .208 against him, earning Guerra a late promotion to St. Lucie and a playoff start.

(They left off Mike Carp which is not fair)

A-

Francisco Pena, C
The Mets made a big splash when they signed Pena, son of former big leaguer Tony, to a $750,000 deal last summer. Not surprisingly, he's got outstanding defensive skills, particularly his arm strength and quick release. His overall offensive game has a ways to go, but he does have a good approach and can hit to all fields. Pena is a bright kid who already speaks English fluently, so even though he hasn't played at any kind of pro level yet, the Mets felt he could handle the rigors of a full-season league behind the plate at 17.

John Stinson, RHP
The Mets may have gotten one of the better late draft picks in 2006 when they nabbed Stinson in the 37th round. He made an immediate impression by posting a 1.79 ERA over 40 1/3 innings, finishing the season as an 18-year-old in the South Atlantic League. He was an extreme ground-ball pitcher in the Gulf Coast League, and finished the summer with a 1.83 GO/AO ratio thanks to a fastball with some heavy sink. The Shreveport, La., native will head back to the SAL in 2007, this time with Savannah. At 6-foot-4, 195 pounds, he's got the projectable body that scouts love and a three-pitch mix that should enable him to be a decent starter down the road.

2006 draft recap

It was obvious the Mets were targeting pitching in this draft. Eight of their first 10 picks were pitchers and six of the first seven make their living on the mound. Third-rounder Joe Smith, a college reliever, made it to Double-A last summer and finished with 40 strikeouts, a .190 batting average against and a 2.48 ERA over 32 2/3 innings. A strong spring will land him in the big-league bullpen to start this season. ... RHP Tobi Stoner (16) was outstanding in Brooklyn, going 6-2 with 2.15 ERA over 83 2/3 frames. The league hit just .219 against him. ... RHP John Holdzkom (4) has one of the best fastballs in the class, but doesn't always command it well. He fanned a batter an inning, but walked almost as many and finished with a 7.71 ERA.

Predictions

Organizational Player of the Year -- Carlos Gomez
It's a little too much to ask Martinez to jump to Double-A and be the organization's top hitter. Gomez isn't exactly a fall-back plan and should put up some gaudy numbers with New Orleans while getting ready for the bigs in 2008.

Organizational Pitcher of the Year -- Deolis Guerra
Mulvey's probably the safer choice, or Humber, if you think he'll be in Triple-A most of the year. But Guerra's got that projectable body, the vast ability to improve on a fine 2006 season and a very friendly pitching league to call home.


For the rest of the article (No I didn't take the entire article) go to milb.com
Some things I think they should of mentioned were Mike Carp, and Juan Lagares.
I also think they could of mentioned Lastings Milledge even though hes not considered a prospect he's still only 21 years old and their a good chance he will be in AAA for a good portion of the year..

MILLEDGE MAKES THE TEAM

FROM METS.LOHUDBLOGS.COM

Milledge made the roster as a role player.

Willie Randolph stressed how hard Milledge worked in the offseason and during spring training, and there’s no question this was a reward for that work.

``I’ll try to find him some at-bats,’’ Randolph said. ``He’s on the team to play.’’

we all know how much I like and defend Milledge, don't be surprised when its time to make another descion on the roster (When Pelfrey gets called up) If Milledge becomes the starting Right Fielder..

In honor of one of my favorite players Lastings Milledge here are some pictures, and a video.

Mets 2007 Spring Training Stats

Going by Mets.com opening day roster I will post the stats they had during spring..


1.Jose Reyes
77 AB .338 4 homeruns 9 RBI 18 R 13 stolen bases

2.David Wright
67 AB .284 1 Homerun 7 RBI 8 R

3.Carlos Beltran
58 AB .241 3 Homeruns 10 RBI 9 R

4.Carlos Delgado
32 AB .219 0 homeruns 5 RBI 1 R

5.Moises Alou
60 AB .167 0 homeruns 3 RBI 5 R

6.Shawn Green
72 AB .153 2 homeruns 5 RBI 8 R

7.Paul Lo Duca
51 AB .196 0 homeruns 5 RBI 3 R

8.Jose Valentin
51 AB .314 2 homeruns 11 RBI 6 R

1.Tom Glavine
1-0 20 IP 13 k's 2.25 ERA

2.Orlando Hernandez
0-1 12 IP 7 k's 5.25 ERA

3.John Maine
1-1 20.2 IP 17 k's 3.05 ERA

4.Oliver Perez
2-3 25.2 IP 20 k's 7 WALKS 3.51 ERA

5.Mike Pelfrey
1-1 19 IP 5 k's 2.84 ERA

Bullpen
Billy Wagner
12 IP 4 k's 5.25 ERA

Aaron Heilman
10 IP 7 k's 6.30 ERA

Scott Schoeneweis
10.2 IP 7 k's 1.69 ERA

Pedro Feliciano
13 IP 13 k's 0.69 ERA

Joe Smith
14.1 IP 17 k's 1.26 ERA

Aaron Sele
18.2 IP 7 k's 5.79 ERA

Chan Ho Park
18.1 IP 23 k's 5.89 ERA


Bench
Endy Chavez
53 AB .377 0 homeruns 5 RBI 8 R 6 SB

David Newhan
51 AB .314 3 homeruns 12 RBI 11 R

Ramon Castro
33 AB .333 2 homeruns 9 RBI 7 R

Damion Easley:
50 AB .220 1 homerun 6 RBI 4 R

LASTINGS MILLEDGE:
57 AB .368 1 HOMERUN 8 RBI 10 R 5 SB

Some of these stats jump out at you.. You wonder WOW can he really put up numbers like that during the regular season? or how long is it until he's replaced and put in a retirement home.

Some of my thoughts are David Wright should not bat second, The Mets have an amazing lineup with him batting 5th. Its balanced, and there is no weak points. With Wright batting second he is forced to take pitches for Reyes to run on, and also your going to have Wright's RBI production go down, and I just feel Lo Duca is the perfect #2 hitter, and doesn't really fit into this lineup anywhere else.

All these starters looked great this spring, especially Oliver Perez who struck out 20 this spring. Mets can only hope for a big year from Perez who if can recapture his old status could become this rotations ACE.

The bullpen numbers like Wagner, Heilman, And Park are a bit off because of the slow start they got off to. They have been pitching better of late and once the season start those numbers like the rest won't mean anything. Smith earned his spot, and I feel Park will get the last spot because he has looked a lot better lately and you can't ignore his 23 k's this spring.

Lastings Milledge will come north with the team until at least mid April when Pelfrey is scheduled to make his first start. I really have no faith in Shawn Green and if Green gets out to a real slow start we could see Milledge as the RF'er.

Update:
The Mets have optioned Chan Ho Park to AAA, and Burgos has made the team. I really don't get this move as The Mets will most likely lose Park who will ask to be released, just to keep Burgos who hasn't proved he can be an effective pitcher at all this spring. At least with Chan Ho Park once in awhile he could spell Aaron Heilman and pitch the 8th inning, Burgos is more like Jorge Julio who will only be in blow outs so I don't see the point. Unless Peterson has seen something in Burgos in his last couple of appearances this is a mistake.

Mets beat The Marlins 8-2 In last game of spring

In The Mets last game before opening day they beat The Marlins 8-2.

Chan Ho Park: Started the game for The Mets and looked great pitched 3 scoreless and hitless innings while striking out 5. A little to late for Park

Carlos Delgado: In his first game back Delgado went 1-2 with 2 RBI

Lastings Milledge: Milledge only had 1 at bat, but made it worth it as had 2 RBI in his one at bat.

Jose Reyes: 2-4 2 runs scored, and a stolen base another day at the office for Reyes.

David Wright: Didn't have a hit but had 2 RBI's.

Joe Smith, Pedro Feliciano, Aaron Heilman, and Billy Wagner: all threw a scoreless inning in relief

Later ill be doing Mets individual player stats for spring.

Martinez a 5 tool player

From Mets.com

"He's a five-tool player," said Tony Bernazard, the Mets' vice president of development. "He's one of those hitters that comes along once in a generation. As long as he stays healthy, he has a chance to be a real impact player."

many team were looking at him but he chose to sign with The Mets. Omar's thoughts:

"I call it the domino effect," Mets general manager Omar Minaya said. "He had a few teams that were very interested in him, but he chose us at least in part because of the influence of Pedro."

"He's one of those special kids," Bernazard said. "He's got a great attitude, great desire. He doesn't want to be just good; he wants to be great, and he works at it."

I thought this was intresting

Martinez is 6-foot-1 and 198 pounds -- average size for someone who has been regularly peppering the maintenance facility beyond the right-center field fence on Field No. 4 with 400-foot-plus home runs.

"Said Bernazard, "From everything we've seen, he's got a great future ahead of him."

Now we all love Fernando Martinez but before I start crowning him The Mets future I want to see him hit 280 this year in double A with 16 homeruns. He will be the youngest player in AA, and will be one of the best prospects there. As of now its all potential, and could develop like I said before, but as of now he looks to be a GREAT player. I can't wait...
On this pace he would be ready to play in the MLB by 2009.. which is not likely as he would be 20 years old but if he is really as good as they say, and I've seen him compared to the best think it could happen.
2007:AA
2008:AAA
2009:MLB

Don't let Alou's bad spring scare you

Even though Alou keeps saying doing worry, " I always have a bad spring" people are still getting worried.. Take a look at these stats I dug up..

2004 ST With The Cubs:.239 1 homerun 11 RBI
2004 regular season: .293 39 homeruns 106 rbi

2005 ST with Giants:.232 2 homerun 9 rbi
2005 regular season .321 19 homeruns 63 rbi 427 at bats (injuries)

2006 ST with Giants:.227 1 homerun 4 RBI
2006 Regular season: .301 22 homeruns 74 RBI in 345 at bats (Injuries amazing numbers in limited at bats)

So as you can see like Alou says he NEVER does good in spring, it doesn't have any impact on his season, and we can all stop worrying about his production. What you can worry about is injuries, Though I think he will have so many off-days he won't have any major injuries

Mets starting rotation to start the season

Over at Metsblog.com

Matthew Cerrone writes

"Following today’s win over the Dodgers, Willie Randolph told reporters he will use the following rotation through the first week of the season…

Sunday: Tom Glavine at St. Louis
Monday: off day
Tuesday: Orlando Hernandez at St. Louis
Wednesday: John Maine at St. Louis
Thursday: off day
Friday: Oliver Perez in Atlanta
Saturday: Tom Glavine in Atlanta
Sunday: Orlando Hernandez in Atlanta
Monday: John Maine vs. Phillies, in home opener"

Congratulations to John Maine, and Oliver Perez, we all knew you were going to be in the starting rotation but now its official. All I can say is it's time for The Mets starting pitching to go out there and show the rotation is not a question and can be dominant.

Also at metsblog.com I found this out.

That The Mets announced that Joe Smith, and Aaron Sele have made the team in the pen, and that Ben Johnson and Anderson Hernandez have been cut and sent to minor league spring training. The Mets still have a spot open on the bullpen, and there as of now it looks like Milledge will make the team.

Hats off to Metsblog for the info

The Mets bring the wooping stick and destroy The Dodgers

The Mets offense finally came alive today in a game were they started what Willie likes to call the A- lineup. The Mets homered 4 times from unlikely sources, and beat The Dodgers 13-2

John Maine: In his last spring start Maine pitched great pitching 6 innings giving up 5 hits 2 ER while striking out 5

Ramon Castro: Castro hit a GRAND SLAM in the 5th inning of todays game. He is leading The Mets in homeruns and is batting .323 on the spring

David Newhan: had a terrific day at the plate overall he was 4-4 with a homerun and 4 runs scored while driving in 2.

Lastings Milledge: Didn't start the game but got his first action since being hit in the wrist by a pitch on Monday. Milledge went 1-2 with an RBI

Fernando Tatis: The new Met went 3-4 with a 3 run homer against the team that cut him earlier this spring.

Damion Easley: Easley was 3 for 5 with 2 RBI today.

Aaron Sele: trying to earn a bullpen spot pitched 1 inning giving up 2 hits 0 runs and striking out 1

Lino Urdaneta: pitched another scorless inning

~Good to see some guys that will be key for The Mets on the bench step it up big today. Endy Chavez was also 3 for 3. It's amazing that The Mets can't score with there regular crew but the A- lineup can score 13 runs. John Maine is ready for the season, and will be the #3 starter. Great to see Milledge get back in the action, and get an RBI. Looks like he still might make the roster on the bench until April 15th.

Phillies need to put up or shut up

The Phillies again are calling there shots.. The latest Ryan Howard..

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17843915/

Here are Howard's comments

“It was shocking because other people weren’t expecting him to say it,” Howard said. “He’s basically saying what everyone feels. Everybody in this locker room feels we have a great team this year. We got a chance to do a lot of good stuff. Jimmy was the one who came out and said it. When he said it, it opened up a lot of people’s eyes.”

Phillies need to take some advice from The Braves. Just because you feel you are the best team that dosn't mean you can come out trash talking the team that just beat you by 16 games. It's great that you think adding a pitcher who had a 4.5 ERA last year, and a guy who has never pitched over 200 innings makes your rotation "deep" but that dosn't mean anything. Talk is cheap and until you prove it on the field that you are the best team, you have no right to call out the division champs. Writers want to talk about The Mets problems... Lets talk about The Phillies problems..

There starting rotation..
Freddy Garcia-Injuries throughout spring whats his ERA? Have fun pitching in CBP
Jamie Moyer-Who's older him or Julio Franco? I forgot
Brett Myers-I'm not going to lie he's pretty dam good but he's still not as good as Glavine
Adam Eaton-What a waste of money.. The guy is always injured and hasn't proved to be any good
Cole Hamels-Great prospect not going to lie he's pretty good.. and will prob have a great year

There rotation is basically The Mets rotation with less upside..

The Mets think there bullpen is in bad shape? The Phillies bullpen has Tom Gordon who is always injured and after that nobody..

The Phillies in 2007 remind me of The Braves in 2006, they both have good offenses and good starting pitching. But what killed The Braves? Their bullpen.. wake up Philly that bullpen is HORRIBLE..

We can do all the lineup comparisons we want, we can go posistion by posistion. The Mets are the better team, and will show it this year.

David Wright said it best

“The Phillies, they can come out and talk as much as they want,” Wright said. “Until they prove it on the field, then it’s just talk. As far as throwing out predictions and talking about it, talk is very, very cheap.”

Mets lose to the Braves

Mets lost to the Braves today in a game that was pitched by all relief pitchers. The outcome Mets lose 8-3.

Jon Adkins: Started the game for The Mets gave up a grand slam to Jeff Francoeur. His final line was 2 innings 5 ER 2 BB and his spring ERA is 10.38.

Chan Ho Park: In his second relief outing of the spring trying to get ready for his new role Park allowed 1 run in 2 innings while striking out 2.

Ambiorix Burgos: Had his best outing of the spring, and just looked dominant out there. Burgos pitched 2 innings striking out 3.

Aaron Heilman: got roughed up today giving up 2 ER in 1 inning of relief.

Billy Wagner And Pedro Feliciano:both threw a scoreless inning.

Jose Reyes: Reyes was 1-3 with an RBI double while stealing 2 bases (12 stolen bases on spring)

Paul Lo Duca: 1-4 with an RBI

~The Mets definitely are not looking good, but we have to remember its just spring training. It's kind of scary to see Aaron Heilman getting hit around like he did today because he is going to be the key to this bullpen. The offense was quiet again, I don't think batting Wright 2nd is good for the offense.

Mets 2007 team outlook

The Mets ran away with the 2006 division and 1 hit away from the World Series. The Mets thought they didn't need to overpay big name free agents, and little additions could put them over the top.

Now The Mets Roster looks something like..

1.Reyes
2.Lo Duca
3.Beltran
4.Delgado
5.Wright
6.Alou
7.Green
8.Valentin

9.Glavine
10.El Duque
11.Maine
12.Perez
13.Pelfrey

14.Wagner
15.Heilman
16.Scott S
17.Chan Ho Park
18.Joe Smith
19.Aaron Sele
20.Pedro Feliciano

21.Franco
22.Castro
23.Easily
24.Newhan
25.Chavez


Most likely Mike Pelfrey won't be on the opening day roster, and wont get called up until he is needed to start. Meaning a spot on the bench for Lastings Milledge who will continue to try and earn a spot on this team.

The offense is solid, and will be one of the best. Don't let these spring games fool you. One question that needs answering is if The Mets are going to have David Wright bat second in the order. Wright was the #5 batter in 2006 and had a great year, though Wright had a decline in the second half, and it can be debated that it was because he didn't have enough protection. So ideally you bat Wright in front of Beltran for protection. But that means Wright will have less runners on base, and will be forced to take more pitches for Reyes to run. What to do? I would keep Wright hitting 5th, he will have plenty of protection in Moises Alou. Wright can bat 2nd when Moises Alou or Paul Lo Duca gets a day off (which should be often) Endy Chavez, and David Newhan will give Moises Alou, and Shawn Green (for now) more then enough rest. Damion Easley will take almost every start against left handed pitchers, and give Valentin a day off. The bench, and the lineup look great.

The Mets starting rotation has some questions. You have hall of fame pitcher Tom Glavine but then after that you go with the injury plagued Orlando Hernandez, 1 year vet John Maine, Oliver Perez who was 3-13, and rookie Mike Pelfrey. I think the starting rotation will be fine, and we will see some big years from the guys at the back end of the rotation. Oliver Perez, John Maine, And Mike Pelfrey have looked great this spring in there own ways. Perez is not walking batters keeping composure, and getting the outs he needs. John Maine is throwing more change ups then he did last year, and throwing scoreless innings. Mike Pelfrey has earned his spot in the rotation this spring. He came to camp with a different way of pitching, and he now knows he can't just throw fastballs by everyone and must work with his off-speed pitches, and pitch to contact as he has been getting ground ball after ground ball looking like Ching-Ming Wang.When El Duque gets hurt The Mets will have to decide who they want to start. They have Chan Ho Park (bullpen) Aaron Sele (bullpen) and Jason Vargas (Minors) that are all good options for a limited amount of time. Philip Humber most likely won't be ready to make an impact until at least July. We saw from him this spring that he could use some more time in the minors. We are all hoping that Pedro Martinez will be able to make a comeback to baseball after his rotator cuff injury, but as of right now no 34+ year old pitcher has ever come back from that kind of surgery and succeeded, though not many were hall of fame pitchers like Pedro Martinez. Doctors and trainers say Pedro will come back throwing harder, and will be fine. While others say Pedro will never be the same. What I expect from Pedro in 2007 is nothing. Hopefully he can come back strong and will be a huge impact down the line to help The Mets get into the playoffs.

The bullpen right now is full of huge question marks like Chan Ho Park, Aaron Sele, and Joe Smith. I really don't know what to expect from Chan Ho or Sele and it might be a rough go around for the bullpen until guys like Padilla, and Mota get back. The Mets were hoping for a great lift thinking Duaner Sanchez might be ready by mid-late April. But Sanchez is needing another surgery and most likely won't pitch again until August. Your main setup man Aaron Heilman is having tendinitis in his elbow, and might have trouble pitching back to back days another problem. Heilman says this is a problem he will have his entire life, and he will just have to deal with it. But Heilman this year is most likely going to have more innings out of the pen then he has ever had in his career. Scott S. (not even going to attempt) was a huge pickup for The Mets. At the time we all wondered why The Mets would give him the contract they did after letting Chad Bradford go, and trading away lefty Royce Ring. We all see that Scott will be able to get out big lefty's like Howard, and will be able to throw some innings in middle relief. Pedro Feliciano will probably not have a season like he did last year. But he has looked great this spring and better not complain how about how much he will be pitching as he will be a major part to this pen. The Rookie Joe Smith has big shoes to fill. He has looked amazing this spring and will be looked upon to get out right handed hitters, pitch in long relief and may be used in middle relief.

The Mets defensively are the same around the infield, Delgado and Lo Duca are a little older, but Reyes and Wright are more experienced. The outfield defense looks to be a major problem. You have 41 year old Mosies Alou in LF, and 34 year old declining Shawn Green in RF. In the middle you have Gold Glover Carlos Beltran. You're asking a lot of Beltran by doing this. As neither Green or Alou have any range. Plus there arms are not good. The solution is giving them days off on separate days, and getting Endy Chavez or David Newhan out there.

This last subject is one I will not talk about anymore after this. Lastings Milledge should be the starting Right Fielder over Shawn Green. Shawn Green is in decline. He will have a worse year then last year because he won't be playing in a hitters park in Arizona. Green offers no defense, and no speed. Lastings Milledge has come to camp with a new attitude, and is determined to prove all his haters wrong. Milledge offers the team a #2 hitter without taking Wright out of the power spot, and it still adds more speed and power at the 2 spot in the lineup. Milledge can at least put up numbers offensively like Shawn Green would put up. If Milledge did that then it would still be a plus, as Milledge would steal more bases. But more importantly Milledge plays great defense and takes a lot of the pressure off Beltran to cover 3 positions. Lets remember Beltran has had some quad problems the last couple of years extra running in the outfield won't do him any good. Milledge's injury won't help his chances and might cost him a spot on the roster. But in my opinion in a month (May) Milledge will be starting in RF.

I'm not going to lie this Met team has a lot of questions. But some of these questions will be answered soon like the starting pitching. And some of these questions might take a trade or two (bullpen). We know this team will score a lot of runs, and the starting rotation will get it to the bullpen. Whether that be after 5 innings or after 7 that is to be seen. But every team has there questions, and just because The Mets play in New York all these questions will be all over the media. But lets look over The Yankees starting day pitcher is Carl Pavano, and following him is Kei Igawa Mike Mussina, and Rasner. Come on Met fans our problems aren't that bad.

Carlos Zambrano thinking about The Mets

http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/cs-070326cubsbits,1,5789313
.story?coll=cs-cubs-headlines
"With six days left to reach a contract extension before Opening Day, Carlos Zambrano is discussing the possibility of wearing a New York Mets uniform next year."

"Asked by SI.com if he'd consider the New York Yankees, Zambrano said": "I like the Yankees, but I don't see myself pitching at Yankee Stadium. Too many rules. If I play in New York, it's going to be with the Mets. First of all, because I get to hit. And I love hitting. I can't say … that I would never play for the Yankees. Hopefully no, but you never know."

The article goes on to say how Zambrano wouldn't mind pitching for the White-Sox. But lets be serious the White-Sox can't even afford to bring back there own pitchers. They have made it clear they will not overpay in this market.

I would love to see Zambrano become a Met. He's a workhorse, an ACE. Everything we need right now.

Mets beat the dodgers 6-5

The Mets won a close one today against The Dodgers the same day they found out they would be missing a huge part of there bullpen for almost the entire year in Duaner Sanchez. Though Omar said Sanchez might opt not to go to surgery. Dwayne Wade anyone?

Tom Glavine: Started the game for The Mets and looked amazing early on. Fatigue got him in the 5th in 6th inning but Glavine still pitched 6 innings giving up 3 ER and striking out 7! Total ERA for the spring 2.25

Chan Ho Park: In his first real relief appearnce of the spring Chan Ho almost blew the game for The Mets. Chan Ho threw 1 inning giving up 2 ER.

Joe Smith: One of the newest additions to the bullpen saved the game for The Mets and struck out 1 while doing so.

Jose Valentin: Valentin just keeps on raking, and cant wait for the season to start. He went 3-4 with 2 RBI and upping his average to .341

Julio Franco: Franco is playing like he's only 45 years old. He went 1-2 with 2 RBI. His spring average is now .314

~Lastings Milledge is hoping for a return to the lineup Wednesday, but is looking for something to wear near that wrist that won't affect his swing. Remember that "button" type thing Aaron Rowand wears on his hand? Think that would work? Its so big it prob covers his wrist.

SANCHEZ TO HAVE SECOND SHOULDER SURGERY?

AT ADAM RUBINS METS BLOG

http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/mets/

"Source: Sanchez to Have Shoulder Surgery

Duaner Sanchez is headed for a second surgery on his surgically repaired right shoulder, a source told the Daily News. The Mets have yet to announce the procedure. Sanchez heard a pop while throwing on the mound Thursday for the first time since Aug. 1 surgery to repair a separated shoulder."

This is just horrible news for the Mets. The Mets have to now figure out what to do with there bullpen. And just hope Padilla can come back from injury strong, and Mota doesn't miss a beat when he gets off suspension.

Jose Reyes 2007 prediction

Jose Reyes

Average: 305

Homeruns:24

RBI:84

Stolen Bases:64

Doubles: 28

Triples:16

~Jose Reyes had an amazing 2006 season. I believe he can build off that season, and have an even better MVP type season. Reyes came to camp stronger, and has showed it so far already with 4 homeruns this ST. What I want to see from Reyes this year is more walks, and a higher OBP. Jose Reyes the #1 fantasy SS in the MLB is one of the most exciting players to watch. A season like this could put him over the top.

Mets minors outlook

This Mets minor league system basically had to build from the bottom. With the Duquette and Phillips decade the Mets minor leagues basically produced Wright, And Reyes. After Wright, and Reyes the farm had Scott Kazmir as the top prospect. We all know what happened there. The same thing also almost happened with Wright, and Reyes. After the Mets got rid of those 2 horrible GMS they got a great one in Omar Minaya. Omar has started rebuilding this farm system, and it is now slowly moving to the top of Overall Farm Ranks.

Two big steps Omar took in getting this farm system moving in the right direction were the signings of Pedro Martinez, and Carlos Beltran. Now how does the signing of 2 MLB players help the farm? Pedro, and Beltran are legends in there respected home towns. Many young domican players, have high hopes of one day playing with the great Pedro Martinez, and Carlos Beltran. These signings opened up the Mets international scouting. Here's a look at some of the guys the Mets drafted in the 2006 draft.

• 2006 Draft: Kevin Mulvey

"Scouts are impressed with his command of three average or better pitches: a 90-94 mph fastball, a slider that is effective against righthanded hitters and a curveball that some scouts like even better than the slider. He also has good feel for a changeup that can be used to get lefties out. Mulvey has loose, easy arm action and clean mechanics,"

• Joe Smith

"After Rob Cooper took over as head coach before the 2005 season, new assistant coach Greg Lovelady suggested Smith drop down to a sidearm delivery. That usually adds movement and subtracts velocity, but Smith's fastball now sits at 88-91 mph and reaches 94. He also throws a nasty slider and his changeup has improved this spring as well. Hitters have trouble picking up his pitches, as evidenced by his regular-season 0.75 ERA--which would lead NCAA Division I if he weren't five innings short of qualifying. Smith could move quickly as a pro reliever."

~Smith made the Mets opening day roster

• Josh Stinson

"Josh Stinson is a 6-foot-4, 190-pounder with a 90-91 mph fastball. His velocity and secondary pitches could improve if he cleans up his mechanics and stops falling away from the plate."

~Stinson did very well in his short time in the minors in 2006. Scouts are now saying he was one of the top steals of the draft

• Tobi Stoner

I love his name, Stoner after being drafted pitched the rest of the year in Brooklyn were he dominated.


My Mets Top Prospects list

1.Mike Pelfrey:
"Mike Pelfrey was named Kansas high school player of the year in both 2001 and 2002. He spent his college career at Wichita State University, where he went 12-3 in his last season, posting a 1.93 ERA in 139.2 innings. His 3 year college stats were staggering… 33-7 with a 2.18 ERA, striking out 366 batters while walking only 69. The Mets selected Pelfrey in the 1st round (9th overall) of 2005 draft. He received a 5.25 contract, through 2009, with a 3.5mil signing bonus. Mike was named to the Eastern League all-star team in 2006, and OnDeck currently ranks him as the Mets #2 prospect. He has posted outstanding numbers (4-2, 2.71) so far this season and is expected to be called up to the Mets before the season ends. John Sickles pre-season ranked him A- as the 2nd overall Met prospect. "

~Pelfrey has made the Mets rotation

2.Lastings Milledge:

"Lastings Milledge was drafted in the 1st round of the 2003 draft, out of Lakewood Ranch High in Bradenton, Florida, where as a senior, he hit .414 with 4 doubles, 3 triples, 10 homers, 35 RBI and 42 steals. A 5-tool talent, Milledge fell due to signability concerns, among other factors."

~Milledge had some attitude problems in 2006. But he has come to camp this year with no problems, and 15 pounds more of muscle. Lastings has had a great spring and is trying to earn a spot on this roster.

3.Fernando Martinez:
"Omar Minaya made the Mets a player in the Latin American scene by signing Carlos Beltran in the winter of 2004. In the summer of 2005, Fernando Martinez signed with the Mets, partly due to Beltran's signing. Given a $1.4 million bonus, Martinez had a lot to live up to.""Strengths: Martinez has an advanced approach well beyond his years. He has good pitch recognition, strike-zone awareness and power to all fields. He has slightly above-average speed, though he's better underway than down the line or as a base stealer. He has a strong outfield arm." "The Future: Martinez has the highest ceiling of any hitter in the system and will put himself into the discussion of the best prospects in baseball if he can build on his 2006 season. Even if he has to move from center field, his bat could make him an all-star. He should be back in high Class A to begin 2007."

4.Carlos Gomez:
"The Mets signed Gomez in 2002 out of the Dominican Republic, and he made his stateside debut in 2004""Strengths: Gomez' arm and speed both rate as a 70 on the 20-80 scouting scale. He's an above-average center fielder and he refined his base stealing technique to where he had 41 swipes in 50 attempts in 2006. His lightning-quick bat and natural swing path allow him to make consistent hard contact. His arm gives him yet another plus tool."

5.Phillip Humber:
"Humber was first drafted in the 29^th round of the 2001 draft by the New York Yankees, but chose to attend Rice University instead. Humber pitched 3 years for Rice University, compiling a 35-8 record and a 2.80 ERA. The Mets picked him as their #1 pick (3^rd overall) in 2004, where he received a 3.7mil signing bonus.Humber throws a 90-94 mph fastball that tops off at 97, a curve, and a splitter that he also uses as a change."

6.Mike Carp:
"Mike Carp was drafted out of Lakewood High in the 9th round of the 2004 draft, after putting up these stats as a senior: 32 games, 52 for 107, 14 2b, 8 3b, 11 HR, 60 RBI, 17 BBs, 11 Ks, .486/.557/1.075 with a 1.632 OPS."
~Carp had a huge year in 2006 and was named the orginaztions player of the year. Carp is most compared to David Wright in his hitting approach, as he goes to all fields with power. Looks to be the Mets future 1B

7.Joe Smith:
"Smith was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2006 draft out of Wright State, as one of the top college closers available. He put up 13 saves in 31 appearances, with a 0.98 era in 55 innings pitched. After drafting Smith, the Mets sent him to low A Brooklyn, where he dominated using a low 90s sinker (which hits 94), and an outstanding slider – both offered from a sidearm delivery."

8. Deolis Guerra:
"Guerra signed out of Venezuela in 2005 for a $700,000 bonus, and was challenged immensely, he was sent to the South Atlantic League as a 17 year old, by far the youngest player in the league. After getting off to a rough start, he recovered to go 6-5, 1.90""Strengths: Guerra stands out most with a feel for his changeup that's exceptional for a teenager. He maintains his normal arm action, setting up a fastball that sits at 88-90 mph and touches 92."

9.Kevin Mulvey:
"Originally selected by St. Louis Cardinals in 34th Round of 2003 amateur, but chose to attend college (Villanova) instead. Mulvey was 3-8 with a 3.61 ERA as a junior at Villanova. He logged 92.1 innings, and compiled 88 Ks against just 23 walks."""pitcher who always works around the zone and isn't afraid to attack hitters." Mulvey features a dominating fastball that has been clocked as high as 94 and consistently is in a range between 89-92. He sets that up with a slider to right-handed hitters and an improved curveball and changeup (82-84 mph) that he uses to get lefties out. The change-up comes out of his hand the same way as his fastball. That’s 4 quality pitchers. Mulvey is well known to consistently throw strikes and go after hitters."

10. Juan Lagares:
"Juan Mercado, the scout that found Jose Reyes, said in a Dominican newspaper that 16-year-old SS Juan Lagares is better than Reyes at the same age. Lagares was signed by the Mets in 2005"

As you can see The Mets have some depth in there minors that they are hoping will be able to fill out there MLB team sometime in the future. The Mets should keep a good minor league system because of the Latin connections they now have.


Mets 2010 Team (only with Reyes, and Wright on the team)

C-Pena
1B-Carp
2B-Lagares
SS-Reyes
3B-Wright
LF-Milledge
CF-Gomez
RF-Martinez

1.Pelfrey
2.Humber
3.Guerra
4.Neise
5.Mulvey

not a bad group of kids.

Thanks to
macksmets.com
metsprospecthub.blogspot.com
and baseballamerica.com for scouting reports

Great Milledge News

No his Wrist isn't broken, or fractured. Milledge's X-Rays are in and all he has is a bruise on his wrist. He is Day to Day, and will be treated with Ice.

Willie confirms Pelfrey makes the team

http://mets.lohudblogs.com/
"Mike Pelfrey walked into Willie Randolph’s office and less than five minutes later walked out with a smile and the announcement": ``They told me I made the team.’’

Can't say I didn't see it coming Pelfrey pitched great all spring (except for today) and really earned his spot in the bullpen. The most important things for Pelfrey from now to his first regular season start sometime in mid April, is him working on his off-speed pitches during bullpen sessions. Now Willie said he made the team, does that mean Pelfrey will work out of the pen? Or does it mean OK you made the team but until its your time to start go to AAA.

Pelfrey should provide the Mets a very good #5 starter if nothing else, and he was the best possible options. Congratulations Mike you earned it.

Mets lose Milledge hurt

Mets lost the Astros today 11-3 on a day where Lastings Milledge was hit hard in the 9th inning.

Mike Pelfrey:Started the game, the day after he found out he would be the #5 starter. Pelfrey had his worst outing of the spring pitching 5 innings giving up 4 ER 6 H while striking out 2. ERA 2.84

Jorge Sosa:Sosa must of been pretty upset he didn't make the team. He showed it today pitching .2 innings giving up 6 ER.

Aaron Heilman and Billy Wagner both pitched 1 scoreless inning each both giving up 1 hit

Again the offense was quiet though

Jose Valentin: had a 2 RBI double with the bases loaded.

Lastings Milledge was hit by a pitch in the 9th inning on his hand. He was in a lot of pain and was forced to come out of the game. Lets hope it's not anything serious because that would just give the Mets another excuse not to start him.

Fox Sports #8 Prospect In MLB F-Mart

From Foxsports.com

"8. Fernando Martinez, CF, Mets

Age: 18
Acquired: Non-drafted free agent, 2005, Dominican Republic

Martinez was tremendous in his full-season debut, but he scuttled a bit after a promotion to High-A St. Lucie. Still, his performance was thoroughly impressive for a 17-year-old. On the field, he's impressive on a number of levels. He's got speed, a quick and level bat through the zone, good range in center and a polished approach overall. The only question is whether he'll develop the power. Considering his success against much older competition and his natural hitting skills, the power will probably come."

Now I'm a huge F-Mart fan and I can't wait for him to be on the Mets.. But calling him a #8 prospect based on "He Should" and "He Will" is wrong. I love F-Mart and I do believe that he will become a big time player, but until he shows something in the Minors that proves he will hit these 30+ homeruns, I just don't think he should be ranked higher then guys like Mike Pelfrey, Andrew Miller,Luke Hochevar, and Andy Laroche. I guess this is why I'm not a scout rating top prospects. But either is Dayn Perry (sorry I had to)

Mets announce there opening day bullpen

We all know that Duaner Sanchez, and Juan Padilla won't be ready for opening day. So the Mets are going to have make do with what they have. Today the Mets made some huge announcements about the starting rotation.

"With the first game of the season slightly more than a week away, the club has decided to use Chan Ho Park, a starter by trade, in short relief and to carry rookie Joe Smith and veteran Aaron Sele on the season-opening roster."

During today's game against the Orioles we were all wondering why the Mets took Chan Ho Park out after 3 innings. Well we got our answer.. The Mets have made the decision to put Chan Ho Park into the bullpen. And Park isn't sure if he will stick around.

Before meeting with his manager and pitching coach, Park said, "Obviously, if they ask me to be a reliever, I'm unhappy," and "If they ask me to be a reliever the whole year, I'll have to think about it."

"And a person who was in the clubhouse directly after Park's surprise removal from the game said the 33-year-old Korean pitcher was "really ticked off" about not being told of the plan before his start. "

The Mets bullpen will now look something like

Wagner
Heilman
Schoeneweis
Feliciano
Smith
Park
Sele

Smith really deserved the most out of everyone to make this bullpen. He showed great things this year and should fill the role nicely that was once owned by Chad Bradford. Kind of surprised both Park, And Sele are getting in the pen. The Mets will only need 4 starters to start the season which means there is possibly another 2 spots left in the pen, most likely one. The question now is will Mike Pelfrey be used in the bullpen until that time? Or will he stay in extended spring training/AAA? Then left is Jon Adkins Out Of Options, Jorge Sosa Out Of Options, and Burgos.
The bullpen doesn't look all that good right now, but once Sanchez,Padilla, and Mota all come back this will be one of the top bullpens in the league.

Its also a HUGE day for Mike Pelfrey. He should go out and have himself a party tonight hes earned it. He is now almost guaranteed a spot in the starting rotation. Pelfrey was the best option for this team, and lets hope we can see some Justin Verlander/Jered Weaver luck this year.

Mets lose both split-sqaud games

Mets lost to the Orioles today 2-1


Chan Ho Park:started the game for the Mets and pitched 3 scoreless innings

Joe Smith,Scott Schoeneweis,Jorge Sosa, And Billy Wagner all threw a scoreless inning in relief

Pedro Feliciano: gave up his first run of the spring and got the loss


Mets lost to the Marlins today 6-5

John Maine: started the game for the Mets and had his worst outing of the spring. Maine pitched 5.2 innings giving up 12 hits 4 ER and striking out 5

Urdaneta: pitched 2 innings and gave up 2 runs and got the loss

Lastings Milledge: Milledge just keeps on raking as he went 2-4 today with an RBI double

Ramon Castro: Castro keeps his good spring going as he went 2-4 with an RBI

Anderson Hernandez: Went 2-3 with an RBI


The Mets lost 2 close games today but guaranteed this is not what the talk in the clubhouse will be tomorrow.

Milledge doing his part to stay

http://www.bergenrecord.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMTQmZmdiZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTcwOTgzNjYmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXk2

"I've already proved what I can do," Milledge said Friday. "Personally, I feel I deserve a chance. It might fall into the numbers game. I did everything I can do to make it possible for me to make the team. It's all up in the hands of the front office now."

"It'd be great of course," Milledge said of remaining with the club. "But it might fall into the numbers. I just do what I do

"Now I think I'm ready, but you can't pay attention to figuring out where you fit. It is what it is. I've been looking at a lot of different possibilities. But I don't think they want me on the team until I'm ready to play every day. I'll just have to wait for that opportunity."

We all know my feelings on the Milledge situation I don't think I need to go into it again..

Mets 2007 Starting Pitching Outlook

Alot is being said that the Mets huge weakness is starting pitching, and because of this starting pitching nobody will pick the Mets to repeat. Omar, has been getting all the blame for not signing a big name starting pitcher.. I'll tell you I was on the Zito bandwagon, and I wanted him a Met. But when I saw the number of years and the money he was getting, I had no problem that he wasn't signed. Same thing with D-Mat I would of loved for him to get signed, figured the Mets would get all the money they put into him back by the Japanese fans, but there was no way anyone knew a team would go past the $50 million mark. The guess around baseball was that probably 34 million wins it. Mets winded up bidding 38 million, and came well short of Boston's 51.1 million.
So now here are the Mets. A starting rotation that will consist of 2 40+ year olds at the top of the rotation, completed by a 26 year old with 1 year MLB experience. A 25 year old who had a 6+ era last year, and a rookie Mike Pelfrey who can't control an off-speed pitch. For any projection you look at for the Mets this is why you see them finishing with 80 something wins, and finishing in second place. But here I may be a bit optimistic but I see a chance for a good rotation that will take the Mets to the promise land. Rick Peterson has alot of work ahead of him with the Rotation. It all starts with Tommy Glavine...

Tom Glavine:This guy is a work horse, maybe he is not an Ace but he is a guy you can depend on to put up solid numbers, and to make all his starts. You would have to go back to 1995 to find a year which Tom Glavine didn't have at least 30 starts. Glavine revived his career after 2003 which was the worst year ERA wise he has ever had. Glavine in 2003 went 9-14 with a 4.52 ERA, and all it took for this soon to be hall of famer was a golf analogy by Rick Peterson. Rick taught Glavine to throw his fastball more inside, and more importantly spot his change up on the inside. This made Glavine harder to guess, and it worked in 2004 which Glavine had a 3.60 ERA. Glavine came up big for the Mets in the post season overall going 2-1 with a 1.59 ERA. Even at age 41 will give you performances deep into games with a chance to win every time out. In 2006 he put up some great numbers, and the only reason why he didn't have more then 15 wins was because of a dry spell in July, and August were he won just 1 game combined. Thus meaning a little fall off in the second half that he picked up in September, and definitely picked up in October. An overlook for Glavine for 2007 looks something like 16-17 wins and a 3.6 ERA this including his 300th win of his terrific career, and also 2500 strike outs.

Orlando Hernandez: El Duque was traded to the Mets mid May for Jorge Julio. El Duque was another great trade for Omar Minaya, as he pitched to a 4.09 ERA as a Met. El Duque thrived pitching in the big time New York, and loved pitching in a great pitchers park in Shea where he pitched to a 3.00 ERA. But Hernandez's injury problems hurt him in 2006. After a great September when he had a 2.01 ERA, Hernandez was running in the outfield getting ready for his start in October when he hurt his calf muscle that took him out for the rest of the playoffs. Nobody knows how old El Duque really is, but we would have to guess around 40. El Duque's 2007 outlook depends on health, because when healthy he is a dominating pitcher, with some of the best off-speed pitches in the majors. For El Duque you would have to guess around 13 wins, and a ERA around 4.2.

John Maine:25 year old John Maine was just a throw in for the Kris Benson for Jorge Julio trade. But this kid showed great promise in 2006. In his rookie season John Maine pitched to a 3.60 ERA and a 3.28 ERA after the all-star break. But this rookies season was not done, because of the Injury to Orlando Hernandez before the playoffs started John Maine was now the Mets #2 starter in the playoffs, and he shined. Maine was 1-0 in the playoffs with a 2.63 ERA. But no start in the playoffs more important then his game 6 start against the St.Louis Cardinals where the Mets were facing elimination, and Maine was there last hope. Maine had to face off against Cardinals ace Chris Carpenter one of the best pitchers in the MLB. Maine came up huge for the Mets throwing 5.1 innings striking out 5 giving up 0 RUNS. And still after a great Rookie campaign, and Maine coming up big in the playoffs, nobody thinks he can do it again. A 2007 outlook for John Maine futures a much better change-up then he had in 2006 that he can control and throw more often so he doesn't have to keep throwing fastballs. Also a improved Slider which should make him tuff to hit. John Maine did have trouble with the homerun ball in 2006, he'll look to overcome that in 2007 where he will be around 15 wins and an ERA of close to 3.8

Oliver Perez: Oliver Perez was traded from the Pirates to the Mets near the trading deadline in 2006 in a deal that included Xavier Nady for Roberto Hernandez. It didin't matter where Perez was pitching he was AWFUL in the 2006 regular season. He combined for 3-13 and an ERA of 6.55. But once Perez was traded from the Pirates the true story came out. Perez's pitching coaches in Pittsburgh were trying to take this 25 year old fire baller, and turn him into a Tom Glavine finesse type pitcher. That didn't work, and when Perez got the the Mets Rick Peterson threw all that stuff out the door. Perez showed signs of being great for the Mets in 2007 as he returned throwing his mid to high 90's fastball, and a slider that when was on made him seem like Randy Johnson. Perez like Maine came up big in the playoffs, though he only pitched during the NLCS, and the Mets didn't want to put Perez the situation that would come about. At the time Perez was an untamed beast, he threw hard and didn't exactly know where the ball was going half the time. His first start during the NLCS he pitched 5 innings giving up 3 runs. But his second start would come after John Maine gave the Mets a huge win in game 6, Perez was the only starter that could throw game 7, and it was on 3 days rest. Perez came up HUGE for the Mets in game 7 giving them a chance to win the NLCS he threw 6 innings giving up just 1 run (Thanks to Endy Chavez) Perez struck out 4 walking just 2. Willie showed faith in Perez as he came out of the dugout in the middle of the 6th everybody in the stadium thought he was going to take Perez out, but Willie showed faith, and confidence in Perez that came through in the end. The Mets hope Perez's success in game 7 of the NLCS will give him all the confidence he needs to get over his horrid 2006 season. A 2007 outlook starts with Perez's spring training where he has a 2.70 ERA, and has looked great every time out. The most important thing Perez is doing this spring is not walking batters. I expect a much improved season from Perez, though with this kid he will make me look like an idiot, or a genius. Perez could win anywere from 5-17 games, and have either a 3.0 ERA or a 6.5 ERA.. I just think this kid, has to much potential to go to waste. And Perez already has all the good stuff it's just putting it together, and repeating his delivery. Who else better to help then Rick Peterson?.. Perez should have a much improved 2007 season.

Mike Pelfrey:2006 was Mike Pelfrey's first full year in the minors, and during that year Mike Pelfrey got his call up the MLB. At first Pelfrey looked great, but towards the end it was evident that Pelfrey did not have the off speed pitches necessary to be a starter at that time in the majors. After the season Pelfrey went to play winter ball, where he drooped his curveball and went to the slider. Also Pelfrey worked very hard on his change up. One scout from USA today calls Pelfrey a right handed Randy Johnson. Pelfrey's repertoire now consist of a 4 seam fastball, a heavy sinker, a slider, and a chang eup. Not many people thought Pelfrey would make the team out of spring training, but Pelfrey has put together a great spring pitching to a 1.0 ERA. Pelfrey showed in his start vs Detroit this spring that if he doesn't have his good fastball he can rely on his off speed pitches to help him get out of trouble. Something he could not do last season. This Spring Pelfrey has dominated people with his Sinker, and his Strike out numbers have been down, but he has solidified a spot in the rotation. Pelfrey should make his first start for the Mets around mid April because of off-days the Mets still don't know if there going to carry Pelfrey in the pen until that time or put him in AAA. A 2007 outlook for Mike Pelfrey features around 13-15 wins, and somewere around a 3.8 ERA. Pelfrey has been compared to Justin Verlander, and Jered Weaver and scouts say they wouldn't be surprised to see Pelfrey put up a rookie year like them. A rookie of the year award is not out of the question.

Bullpen Tomorrow?

Mets beat the Cardinals 2-1

Orlando Hernandez:Answered any questions about his health pitching 6 Innings giving up just one unearned run on 3 hits walking 3 and striking out 3. He is now on schedule to be ready for his first start during the season. 5.25 ERA

Damion Easley:hit a go-ahead RBI single in the eighth inning, that proved to be the game winning hit.

Jon Adkins:Scoreless Inning

Aaron Heilman:Scoreless Inning

Pedro Feliciano:Scoreless Inning

~Now that El Duque had this great start if he has another good one to end spring training, I'm guessing Mike Pelfrey will be in extended ST/AAA or start the season in the bullpen because of the off-days..

Jon Adkins is finally starting to pitch but is it to late? he has no more options that might land him on a spot on the team.

Feliciano 0.00 ERA enough said

"Wagner Stinks It Up"

Mets lost to the Braves today. Today's Boxscore is from MikesMets.com

"Aaron Sele started the game against the Braves today. Surprisingly enough, he only gave up an earned run in 5 innings of work. Considering that, after a terrible first inning, he pitched 5 shutout innings last time out, he is on somewhat of a roll. While the fifth starter's job would seem to be a long shot, the long reliever spot in the bullpen is still open.
Sele's final line: 5IP, 1ER, 2H, 1K, 2BB

Scott Schoeneweiss relieved Sele in the sixth and was touched up for a run on doubles by Chris Woodward and Larry Jones.

Billy Wagner came into the game with the Mets down 2-1 in the seventh and proceeded to nail it down -- for the Braves. After retiring Craig Wilson leading off the inning on a called strike 3, Wagner allowed consecutive singles to immortals Doug Clark and Bill McCarthy. Martin Prado doubled home a run, and another run scored on a fielder's choice. Tony Pena's 3-run homer capped the inning off, and Wagner finally settled down to get the last 2 outs. I wonder if Wagner was throwing his split change today?

Joe Smith pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for the Mets, striking out two.

Orlando Hernandez takes the hill for his third start of the spring tomorrow in St. Lucie against the Cardinals. We should get a better idea about where he stands after that one. The game will be televised on SNY at 1 PM. "

Somethings Mike left out

Jose Reyes:keeps on raking 2-4 today raising his average to .386 on the spring

Jose Valentin:2-4 with a RBI today, Valentin has looked terrific this spring hitting .333


Uhm nothing very interesting besides Sele making a bid for the LR spot in the bullpen. Wagner got ruffed up a bit..

The run that Schoeneweiss gave up was his first of the spring..

And Joe Smith another perfect inning 2 k's, ladies and gentleman your Right Handed Specialist for the 2007 New York Mets JOE SMITH

~Mikes Mets is a great website, Mike is a terrific writer and if you don't know about his site then go there immediately as he has done a great job on Bullpen and Starting Rotation previews..

2007 Mets Offensive Outlook

The Mets 2007 season looks bright, I don't pay attention to these beat writers that try to put down everything the Mets are doing. For example "Is Omar overselling his Mets?" The Mets in 2007 are likely to have one of the best offensive lineups in the league. That should carry a starting pitching staff which experts don't expect to be to good. It all starts with the lead off hitter Jose Reyes

Jose Reyes is a complete 5 tool player. He is one of the those players that just make you say "WOW" offensively Reyes will hit around .300 and steal around 65 bases. But Reyes has added a new dimension to his offensive game. Last year Reyes showed his power hitting 19 homeruns, and some like ESPN fantasy say that was a fluke. But I'm here to tell you this is no fluke. Reyes coming to camp even bigger then he was last year will hit somewhere in the range of 23-26 homeruns. Reyes is one of the best players in the league and at age 24 will have a chance to win a MVP this year if he stays healthy. A definite all-star

The Mets also have one of the best 3-4-5-6 combo's in the majors today, with
Carlos ² David Wright, and Moises Alou.

Carlos Beltran another 5 tool player looks to do better at home this year then he did last year when he hit just .224 with 15 homeruns and 38 rbi. Beltran has said repetitively this year that he wants to be a .300 hitter and steal more bases. He has been working with Ricky Henderson this spring on stealing more bases. Last year Beltran stole 18 bases, and it was pretty obvious he did not want to steal bases in front of Delgado. For Beltran to complete his goals he is going to have to hit MUCH better at home, but also a problem that was not talked about last season alot was Beltran batting Right Handed hit just .247 with 8 homeruns.
A 2007 outlook for Beltran should be somthing like .285-.292 average around 33 homeruns and 118 rbi. As for Beltran stealing bases, he's still going to be a little gun shy stealing in front of Delgado, 25 stolen bases should keep him happy.. In total another great year. A Definite all-star

Carlos Delgado had a horrible month of April which really killed his average, to go along with the elbow problems Delgado had throughout the season which turned this 300 hitter in 2005 to a .265 hitter in 2006. Delgado is still one of the most feared hitters in the game today, and when hes going good he can carry a team on his back for weeks. Delgado also like Beltran has to hit better at home at Shea Delgado hit .226. (Tell me the Mets can't wait for Citifield) The 2007 season for Delgado looks like a healthy one expect a higher average (.280-.285) and about the same Homerun Production (around 35) and provide a power bat to get Beltran pitches to hit. Might have a hard time making the all-star team in a league that consist of 2 of the best hitters in the game playing his posistion. (Pujols and Howard)

David Wright had an AMAZING MVP type 1st half of the season. Until he entered the homerun derby, now whether it be the homerun derby him getting tired or him having problems with his mom, Wright was not the same player in the second half, though he hit .360 in September he just didn't have the same power. What I think was Wright's main problem was that Cliff Floyd was just never healthy. Wright did not have that big power bat to protect him, and Wright became vunerable to the slider on the outside corner. With the addition of Moises Alou this should change.Wright has come to spring training and is more leveled out (Body) he is having a great spring training hitting .340+ and I expect Wright to be the player of the first half this season. 2007 outlook Wright to finally get to 30 homeruns. Also 120 rbi, and an average around .315. What people don't notice about Wright is that David Wright gets his stolen bases, which makes him key in fantasy leagues. Wright stole 20 bases last year, look for around the same this year. Definite All-Star

Last year one major problem with the Mets lineup was ability to hit Left Handed pitchers. Especially in the second half when David Wright struggled. But this signing of Right Handed hitter Moises Alou who absolutely crushed Left Handed pitching will change this(349 last year against leftys). Moises Alou signed with the Mets for a 1 year 8.5 million dollar contract with a team option for 2008. Alou insisted he had guaranteed 2 year deals from other teams but wanted to come to the Mets because it was his best chance to win. Alou only played in 98 games in 2006 (about same as Cliff Floyd) but in this 98 games he hit .301 with 22 homeruns and 74 rbi in just 345 at bats (a little more then half a season) The Mets know that Moises Alou is getting up there in age (41) and the Mets will give Alou his rest against mostly Right Handed pitchers, where Endy Chavez or David Newhan will fill in. But Alou is a major part to the offense this year, as he provides protection to David Wright, which last year Wright had none of when Floyd was hurt which could of caused to Wrights decrease in the second half. 2007 outlook without Injuries Moises Alou will still only play around 120 games for the Mets getting his rest. He should be around a .290-.300 average, around 24 homeruns and 90 rbi. Again this is only if he does not get hurt, this is alot to ask of a injury prone player. (last 3 years Moises Alou has hit 2006-.301 2005-.321 2004-.293) Alou has an OK chance to make the all-star team at this point its probably not likley.

Starting Staff, And Bullpen tomorrow?

Sanchez feels a "Pop" in his shoulder

SANCHEZ UPDATE http://njmg.typepad.com/springtraining/2007/03/sanchez_scare.html#more
The initial assessment was that it scar tissue and adhesions from the surgery, which included adding a piece of his hamstring over the shoulder, tearing. But Omar Minaya said that while that appears to be the problem, if it does not respond well in the coming days that the team will then send him for an MRI.
Sanchez believes that will not be necessary.
“I just felt a tingle all the way down to my hand,” Sanchez said. “Nothing major. It’s not a ligament, not a tendon, nothing like that.
“I set myself back today because I don’t want to risk everything that I’ve been doing for another two weeks. I set myself back and (will) relax for today and see what happens tomorrow.”


http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/nl/mets/2007-03-22-sanchez_N.htm

"New York Mets reliever Duaner Sanchez felt a pop in his right shoulder Thursday and cut short his first bullpen session in eight months after 11 pitches."

also~

"Another reliever, Juan Padilla, won't throw for two weeks after experiencing soreness in his surgically repaired right elbow"


The Mets might be getting a little bit worried right now.. So far they have 4 locks in there pen. And The rest of the guys consist of a guy who had a 5+ ERA for the royals (burgos) a guy run out of Atlanta (Sosa) a rookie who hasn't played a full year in the minors (Smith) and a guy with an inifiti era (Urdaneta)

3 of these guys unless Park/Sele beats out Sosa for the LR spot in the pen will make the team.

Now I don't think its that bad of a problem but if Sanchez, and Padilla aren't going to be back until lets say Mid May, with Mota out 50 games (suspension) the main 4 in the pen might get overworked...

Pelfrey like Jered Weaver?

Mark Hale of the New York Post wrote an article on Mike Pelfrey, and how some people in baseball think Pelfrey can be the Next Jered Weaver.

"He's very, very close to being really dominant," the Mets catcher said yesterday. "I think he's on his way."

One major-league team executive, who watched Pelfrey pitch Tuesday, said he could have a solid season. "He's got more than enough stuff. He could be Jered Weaver of last year."

Pelfrey hit 94 mph, and his slider and changeup are at the point, according to Lo Duca, "where he can throw 'em for a strike when he wants to."
The catcher said Pelfrey's changeup has improved. "[He] has made unbelievable strides from what it was last year."

For the rest of the article on Pelfrey go to http://www.nypost.com/seven/03222007/sports/mets/five_alive_mets_mark_hale.htm

I have seen Pelfrey compared to Justin Verlander alot but this is the first time I have seen Pelfrey compared to Jered Weaver. Pelfrey has come to spring looking great, and a positive is he is not walking batters, but he also is not striking anyone out.

I think Pelfrey will come through big for the Mets this year, and he will be a major reason why this team goes were it goes. Ill be ready to see Mike Pelfrey make his first start in the regular season for the Mets whether it be the 4th game of the season (El Duque DL or #5) or Mid April.

I wouldn't say Pelfrey would have a season like Jered Weaver lets remember Weaver went 11-2 with a 2.56 ERA. But I do think if Pelfrey can be a 16 game winner on this team with a great offense. With the talent Pelfrey has he should be around a 3.7 ERA (Rookie of The Year?)

Mets beat Dodgers 6-2

Game Recap by Metsblog

"Oliver Perez was outstanding, pitching 6 innings, giving up just 1 run that was unearned, 4 hits and 2 walks. He was nailed in the right thigh by a hard hit one-hopper off the bat of Olmedo Saenz in the first inning, but remained in the game and showed no signs of being injured.

Jose Reyes was 3 for 3 with 4 runs scored and a walk. He made a error on a ball that hit the palm of his glove and bounced out. Reyes stole 3 bases in the game, giving him 10 total this spring.

Ramon Castro hit a 2 run homer, and was 1 for 3

David Wright was 2 for 4 and made an errant throw to first that bounced before the bag at first for an error. He was thrown out at home in the 7th inning.

Carlos Beltran hit a double and was 2 for 3. He drove in two runs.

Carlos Delgado was 1 for 4 and drove in a run.

Lastings Milledge hit a double and was 1 for 4. He also scored a run.

Ambiorix Burgos pitched the seventh inning. He gave up 3 hits and had a run score off him on an infield hit that ricocheted off his foot. He was uninjured and completed the inning.

Lino Urdaneta pitched a scoreless eight, giving up just 1 hit. His ERA this spring is an impressive 2.25 in 8 innings of work.

Jorge Sosa pitched a perfect ninth, striking out 1."

~Reyes just does not stop hitting, lets hope he can keep this going through the regular season..
This spring he's hitting .377 with 10 stolen bases in 16 games (53 at bats)

Oliver Perez got his second win of the spring, Perez didin't have his great stuff last night like he did against Boston, but unlike the Perez of last year instead of a early shower, Perez got through it and pitched 6 scoreless. ERA now 2.70

Carlos Beltran is starting to hit which is a good sign

Urdaneta is very intresting, Ive said it alot about him being in the pen opening day. I truley believe the Mets will put him in the pen he has got ALOT of work this spring and has pitched terrific.

Who is Urdaneta?

"Urdaneta, 27, spent most of the season recovering from "Tommy John" surgery on his right elbow which occurred in September, 2005. He began pitching for the Mets' Gulf Coast (R) League team in August and had a 0-0 record and a 1.29 ERA in six games. The 6-1, 170-pounder was also 0-1 with a 2.25 ERA in five games for New York's Binghamton (AA) team of the Eastern League. Urdaneta was acquired by the Mets from Cancun of the Mexico League on June 29, 2005. He pitched one game for the Detroit Tigers in 2005."


"Urdaneta was originally signed as a free agent by the Dodgers in 1996… played minor ball through the Dodgers system until 2003, then joined the Detroit Tigers system. In 2004, made one appearance for the Detroit team, officially 0 IP, gave up 6 ERs and has a lifetime major league ERA of 540000000.00 to show for it. Yes, that’s correct… 540000000.00 ERA. Joined the mets organization in 2005 and pitched for St. Lucie (1.93 ERA) and Binghamton (5.40). In 2006, he continued his success, both at the GCL Mets and Binghamton, with a combined record of 0-1 in 11 games, and a 1.64 ERA."

~macksmets.com

What the Mets like about Urdaneta is his fastball.. He throws 98-99 MPH but unlike Burgos, and Sosa Urdaneta can keep the ball which gives his ball some more movement and he gets alot of ground balls to go along with K's

Willie Randolph said that after the off-day (tuesday) the Mets would start to get serious.. and so far they are 2-0

In Game Update

Oliver Perez
6 IP 4 H 1 R 0 ER 2BB 2 K: ERA FOR THE SPRING 2.70

Jose Reyes has 3 stolen bases


~Rest of the boxscore later
This is a good sign for the Mets, if Oliver Perez can have a good year the Mets are going places.

Lastings Milledge 2007 Prediction

Lastings Milledge

Average:.284

Homeruns:21

RBI:79

Doubles:24

Stolen Bases:15


~These are the stats if Lastings Milledge is the starting RF in 2007 like he should be. Milledge has come to camp in the best shape of his life. Milledge was heavily scrutinized for not going to Winter Ball. But Milledge said he wanted to go home and lift weights. The Results? Milledge comes back with 15! pounds of muscle, and a new healthy diet. All this? Milledge is hitting .381 in spring (Yes I know its spring training but that's alot better then Shawn Greens .161?)
Lastings Milledge doesn't have to be the 20+ 100+ rbi guy to make this team better.. This team has enough offense that Milledge would be batting 7th. It's more important that Milledge does something Green can't do, and that's play defense. This takes a heavy burden off Beltran's shoulders, and makes the OF defense alot better. Also Milledge provides speed at the bottom of the lineup.

Mets beat the Orioles 6-1

Mike Pelfrey started the game for the Mets, and got the win. here's the boxscore


NY Mets IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA
Pelfrey 5.0 7 1 1 0 1 0 1.29 (W1)

Feliciano 1.0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0.00

Smith 1.0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1.93

Schoeneweis 1.0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0.00

That might be a little hard to follow, but all you really need to know is that mets pitching was solid last night.. Feliciano and Schoeneweis keep up there perfect spring, and Joe Smith is on his way to making the 25 man roster.

Beltran: 1-3 with a homerun and 2 rbi

Anderson Hernandez:1-1 with 2 rbi

Jose Valentin: 1-2 1 tripple 1 rbi

Lastings Milledge:1-2 (Now batting .381)

Shawn Green: 0-3 (Now batting .163)


Good to see Beltran hit a homerun, he has been struggling this spring. Jose Valentin just keeps the great spring going... and again Shawn Green has another 0-, I don't see how it can be anymore clearer on who the starting RF should be.


~Pelfrey talked to reporters after the game, and asked about if he was throwing only fastballs Pelfrey said that he didn't have good control of his fastball last time out, and couldn't locate it. This time he had good location, and the fastball after fastball can be seen in the 7 hits in 5 innings.

(sorry it took so long for the post, basketball game last night)

Shawn Green 2007 Prediction

Shawn Green:

Average:270

Homeruns:15

RBI:63

Doubles:27

Stolen Bases:6


~These stats are if Shawn Green is the starting RF in 2007, and never loses his job. Shawn Green has had some great years. Years that great players will never achieve, but those days are over.It should be expected Shawn Green at age 34 should start to decline fast. Last year when Green came to the Mets he hit .257 in 113 at bats.. Predicting an entire year playing for the Mets at Shea, you can expect Greens power numbers to go down even more then last year.

Realistically Green should not be the starting Right Fielder going into the season. Even if you believe these stats are fine, they are empty numbers. Green does not hit with runners in scoring position. Green is not the clutch hitter you want up in a late inning game.
Also these offensive stats don't show how much the team loses on defense with Green in the game. Green has ZERO range, and NO ARM. Thus making Carlos Beltran try to cover LF (Moises Alou 41 years old) and Right Field. All this means is horrible DEFENSE that will cost the Mets some games.. Lastings Milledge should be the starting RF, and Milledge will be the next player predicted.

Spring Training: Sweet And Sour

http://www.nypost.com/seven/03202007/sports/mets/sweet__sour_of_grapefruit_mets_mark_hale.htm

Over at this Newsday Metsblog Mark Hale writes about the good, and bad so far about mets spring training.

In the sweet section:Fernando Martinez
"Tony Bernazard regarding Martinez's signing, "The number you gave him, you got him cheap!" "I was very impressed with his poise and his presence at the plate," Manuel said. "It wasn't the presence of an 18-year-old. It was the presence of a major league hitter."


Scott Schoeneweis:"who has tossed 6.2 innings in six appearances, giving up no earned runs and surrendering only three hits and four walks "

Pedro Feliciano:"who has fired eight shutout innings, striking out nine. "

Joe Smith:"The sidearmer has given up two earned runs in 8 1/3 innings. "

Mike Pelfrey:"Pelfrey has become the leader to earn a spot in the rotation, thanks to his three terrific spring training outings. "

And the Sour:
Mets bullpen without sanchez

El Duque:Orlando Hernandez has dealt with neck arthritis and on Sunday suffered a right hamstring cramp."

I thought it was weird how he says the main guys in the bullpen are doing well, but then says the bullpen is doing bad. The people in the pen that are having bad springs are most likley the one's not to make the team..

He could of put Lastings Milledge in there as Sweet.


For more of the article go to the link :)

Jose Valentin 2007 Prediction

Jose Valentin

Average: .270

Homeruns: 12

Rbi: 55 RBI

Doubles: 24

Stolen Bases: 8


~Jose Valentin did a great job for the mets last year when nobody expected much from him. I expect Valentin to have a worse offensive year, but a similar average because Valentin will not play much if at all against Left Handed pitchers thanks to the acquisition of Damion Easley. Which means Valentin will only face Right Handers which will give him a better average. Less homeruns, and RBI just because not playing in entire games vs Lefty's. And another year older. My fear with Valentin is that he will wear down to quick, but with Easley he will get alot of days off. It was just a bad sight seeing Valentin in September, and October were he was absolutely horrible.

Stats to back it up?

in 288 at bats vs right handed pitchers last year Valentin hit .288 with 16 homeruns and 51 rbi
Figure Valentin to have close to 400 at bats vs mostly Right Handers, I'm actually saying he is going to have a pretty big decline.

My Mets Player Predictions

I will be doing 1-2 mets player predictions a day. Each prediction will be accompanied by a picture, and some info on why I believe the player will have that type of season.

Im going to start with the starting lineup.. then go to starting rotation and then to the pen, and bench. But to make the lineup, and starting rotation seem like its going in order (top to bottom) im going to start with Jose Valentin and work my way up to Jose Reyes.

An early return for Pedro, or no return at all?

http://weblogs.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/blog/2007/03/the_pedro_show.html

"I know the Mets are predicting an early August return for Pedro, but I'm betting it's going to be earlier than that." Martinez is zipping his throws with surprising ease, popping Correnti's glove from about 75 feet away, and judging from his demeanor, he could not be feeling much better. He even playfully snapped off a couple of soft curve balls when Correnti closed in to about 12 feet.

~This is weird, everybody close to Pedro (his trainers, and the Mets) say Pedro will be coming back with added velocity, and is going to be ready to pick up where he left off. But people for ESPN don't think Pedro will come back at all, or won't win more then 10 games if he does come back.
I would want to believe Pedro's trainers more then ESPN, because his trainers are with him everyday. About Pedro coming back early, its definitely possible but I believe its Pedro who doesn't want to rush back. In my opinion I think Pedro wants to take as much time off as possible for his arm to be 100%. And he wants to be ready for a playoff push as soon as he gets back. But if Pedro is really looking as good as this writer made him out to be its a definite possibility that Pedro comes back before August. (Mid June-Early July?)
According to his trainers and Pedro, Pedro might be coming back with more velocity. Pedro lost alot of his velocity because of the arm troubles when he dropped arm angle to deal with the pain. Maybe with the fixed shoulder, Pedro goes back to the old arm angle, and can be in the low 90's consistently.

Here is the link to that ESPN Article
www.sportsworldny.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=9760
Scratch that its not insider, its a forum where somebody post exactly what the article says.

Individual Mets Leaders ST 2007

As Of March 19th

(Minimum 25 at Bats)
Average:
1.Lastings Milledge .375
2.Endy Chavez .361
3.Jose Reyes .340


Homeruns:
1.Jose Reyes 4
2.Beltran,Green,Johnson,Valentin 2

RBI:
1.David Newhan 9
2.Jose Reyes 8
3.Carlos Beltran 6

Hits:
1.Jose Reyes 16
2.Lastings Milledge 15
3.David Wright,Endy Chavez 13

SLG:
1.Jose Reyes .660
2.Jose Valentin .630
Lastings Milledge .550

OBP:
1.Lastings Milledge .468
2.David Wright .415
3.Jose Reyes .392

Pitching
No point to do wins..

ERA: (SP)
1.John Maine 1.00
Mike Pelfrey 1.00
2.Tom Glavine 1.29
3.Oliver Perez 3.86

ERA:(RP)
1.Scott Schoeneweis: 0.00
Pedro Feliciano 0.00
2.Joe Smith 2.16
3.Billy Wagner 2.57
Lino Urdanetha 2.57

Strike Outs:Top 5
1.Oliver Perez 13
Chan Ho Park 13
2.Ambriox Burgos 11
3.Pedro Feliciano 9
4.Joe Smith 8
5.John Maine 7


~Just think this shows how much Milledge belongs on this team. He's doing everything right, getting hits driving in runs and WALKING. He's looking alot better then Shawn Green right now. Also this shows how much of a BEAST Jose Reyes is.
The starting pitching looks pretty good here dosn't it?

Im actually very surprised to see Jose Valentin having such a good spring. I hope he can put up numbers that come close to last year. He would be the best #8 hitter in the league.

Q+A with Joe Smith

Scout.com Article

Inside Pitch Magazine: What was your winter like?

Joe Smith: Winter was nice. I didn’t do much; they didn’t really want me to do anything since I pitched so much last year. I took a month and a half off from everything. Then in November and December I got running and starting throwing and went on from there.

Inside Pitch: What in your repertoire has progressed and what do you continue to struggle with?

Smith: This whole winter I worked on my pitches hitting both sides of the plate. My problem last year was that I was only hitting the right side of the plate. Now, I’ve got a lot better and I can move to the ball to both sides of the plate.

Inside Pitch: What have the coaches focused on with you?

Smith: They stress keeping the ball down in the zone and throw strikes. They want me to go out there, get ground balls and let the defense work. The guys I’ve got behind me are real good and now how to play.

Inside Pitch: What did teaching in Binghamton last year teach you?

Smith: It doesn’t matter if you throw 86 or 94, if you get up in the zone they are going to hit it. Again, as you keep moving up you have to be able to hit both sides of the plate. At that level you have to able to do it and I couldn’t. I had a good start and than I struggled, I was all over the place and couldn’t hit my spots and throw strikes consistently.

Inside Pitch: How did you recover physically after a year in which you pitched more than ever before? How are you getting ready for another long haul?

Smith: In terms of recovery they just have to gear down and get some rest. I didn’t even pick up a ball from the beginning of September until the beginning of December. I really just gave my arm and my body a break. I stopped lifting for a month and half. Come January I really kicked it into high gear. I think I’ll be alright this year. I don’t think I’ll break down as easily.

Last year I added up 80-something innings, for a guy how I’m going to be used, at whatever level, if I get to 80 innings again, I’ll be amazed. I talked to a few guys they said I’ll probably get to 60-70 innings. At around 75 innings last year is when I started to wear down.

Inside Pitch: What have you picked up from being around the big leaguers?

Smith: Everyday I’m talking to somebody whether it’s the mental or physical side. I talked to Pedro Feliciano to see how he handles left-on-left and I try to take that to right-on-right. I try to pick guys’ brain. There is so much experience in our clubhouse I would stupid to not take advantage of it. It’s a great learning things and taking what I learn into my own game.

Inside Pitch: What kind of pitcher do you want to be?

Smith: I want to be a guy that can be stopper. I want to be that guy can come in with a man on second and third, one out, or first and second, one out, and the coach says “go get a groundball and get us out of the inning”. I want to come in and not let those guys on base score. Coming in a big game situation and being relied on to get your team back in the game is a great feeling.

Inside Pitch: Does the middle relief / set up role suit you for the future?

Smith: I just want to get to the big leagues. If they want me there as a righty specialist, as a longer relief guy, whatever, I just want to get there. I may get picky after a few years but for now I just want to get there.

Inside Pitch: Tell us a little more about your arsenal.

Smith: Some days my changeup is there, other days I don’t know what the heck is going on. For the most part it’s there, now it’s getting it consistent and throwing it for strikes. Everything else is going well. I’m rotating the ball well. I’ve backed off my fastball a little for the sake of better location and that’s helped me tremendously. My slider is there.

My confidence level is much higher with those pitches and I feel I can throw them in any count, any situation. Now it’s my changeup that I have to get to that level. As soon as I can do that, it’s about how many strikes can I throw and making guys beat the ball into the ground.

Inside Pitch: Are the comparisons to Chad Bradford fair?

Smith: No, I’m not a Chad Bradford right now. He’s probably the game’s best side arm guy. He’s done an amazing job with the Mets. The time I’ve spent with him has been great. I’ve talked to Paul LoDuca about (Bradford’s) strategies to see if I can put a little of what he does into my game. If I can be compared to him one day that will be a good sign that I’ve done a pretty good job.

Inside Pitch: What do you hope to achieve in 2007?

Smith: To be honest, it’s do everything I can in my power to not let them send me down. I can’t control where they are going to send me, but I can make it a very hard decision for them. If they feel I need more time in the minor leagues to develop some more, alright, then I’ll go to the minor leagues to work and do what I can to get back up. They’ve been honest with me. When they feel I’m ready, I’m confident they’ll give me the call. It’s a matter of showing them I can perform day in, day out.

I usually would not post every single question in a Q+A but I thought it would be appropriate for this, because it shows how hard of a worker Joe Smith is, and how he will take any role the team wants him to do as long as he can be on the team. I also think Smith gives a good scouting report about himself. I expect smith to be on the opening day roster.

Predicting The NL EAST 2007

Now I wrote this article a while ago, before Mike Hampton got injured, Before Josh Johnson along with seemingly the rest of the Marlins pitching staff got injured. Also before Chipper Jones got hurt. And for the Mets, Milledge coming to camp looking great, Pelfrey has command of off-speed pitches. And the starting rotation dominating (I know its only spring)
Mack (From Macksmets) seems to disagree alot with me on this. Lets see what you think.

Team Win Loss
Mets 94 68
Phillies 91 71
Braves: 85 77
Marlins 79 83
Nationals 68 94

The NL East in 2007 will be the most improved division in the NL. The league has tons of young talent and theres alot to expect from each team(besides the Nationals).

The Mets will finish first just because they are the most complete team. Although they don't have the starting pitching that a division winner would usually have,they have the offense that should be able to keep them in the high scoring games. Also, the Mets have a solid bullpen that should also help them in cases where the starter could only go 5 innings. SO overall, they are the most complete team who just needs a young pitcher to step up and establish himself as a starter.

Even though the Phillies completed tons of trades and signings for starting pitching its still hard to see that much better of an team ERA. This is because most of the pitchers they aquired are question marks. Add to that the fact that they will pitch half there starts at Citizen Bank Park which is one of the best hitters park in the game. Freddy Garcia will have some home run troubles here. The Phillies will also have some trouble finishing games because, like last year, their bullpen is not good at all. The saving grace of this phillies team is their solid offense and solid starter in Myers and Hamels (who I predict to have a huge year). The Phillies team in 2007 reminds me alot of The Braves 2006 team. Good starting pitching and a good offense but a horrible bullpen. So they are slotted second in the league with 91 wins and a Wild Card.

The Braves are finishing 3rd because even with the upgrade in the bullpen, they still have weak spots in their pen. They lost a major offense bat in Adam Laroche, and still have an aging, injury plagued Chipper Jones. The Braves offense will not be as good and the starting pitching led by the ace John Smoltz has many question marks. Also many Braves fans think Chuck James will be a big impact pitcher are mistaken, he really only has the potential to be a solid 4 or 5.

The Marlins are finishing 4th because you can't really know what to expect from such a young ball club. Seriously, what if they all go through a sophomore slump? They showed alot of potential last year but they lost a big part in manager Joe Giradi. The Marlins still have some question marks in the offense and have a bullpen that shows ton of holes. Also will Josh Johnson be able to pitch the entire season?

The Nationals are going to finish last just because they have nothing going for them. They lost a key part to the offense in Alfonso Soriano. The ownership made a huge mistake in not trading Soriano and the trading deadline for some top prospects to help them out now. The Nationals have Ryan Zimmerman and Austin Kearns. Thats basically it for Offense. They have John Paterson who when healthy is a good starter but thats basically it. They have a decent bullpen but are looking to trade away the key part to the pen in Cordero. The Nationals better get 2 top prospects for him. The worst part is that The Nationals have no top prospects that can make an impact either.

Mets Lose To Cardinals 5-4

El Duque Update
"Orlando Hernandez left Sunday's game in the fifth inning with a cramp in his right hamstring.Hernandez felt the cramp running to first on a sac bunt, but it went away after a couple of minutes. He should be fine to make his next start. El Duque allowed two runs in four innings before departing."

~Just More reason to begin the season with El Duque on the DL, and Pelfrey as the #4 until mid April

Before I go into the box score (thanks to metsblog) I would just like to post what Burgos thinks his posistion on making the team is
"I don't have any doubt that I'm going to make the team."

"RHP Orlando Hernandez allowed 2 ER on three hits over 4 IP. He left the game as a precautionary measure in the top of the 5th inning after running out a sacrifice bunt.
In two innings of work,

RHP Ambiorix Burgos allowed 2 ER on four hits.

LHP Scott Schoeneweis pitched a scoreless seventh inning.

SS Jose Reyes hit his fourth home run of the spring.

OF Endy Chavez was 2-for-3, including a drag bunt single. He was caught stealing second base.

LF Moises Alou had an RBI single that plated two runs.

3B David Wright was 1-for-2 with two walks and two runs scored.

1B Shawn Green was 0-for-4 with two strikeouts and 5 LOB. He also grounded into a double play."

~Lino Urdaneta got the loss for todays game giving up 1 run 0 ER. I still believe Urdaneta should get a spot in the pen to start the season over Burgos, or Sosa. Urdaneta lowerd his ERA to 2.57. Urdaneta along with Joe Smith, And Jason Vargas should get the remaning spots in the bullpen until Sanchez, and Padilla are healthy.

~Just how many homeruns will Jose Reyes hit this year? My prediction 24

~Nice to see Alou get a hit

~I actaully like to see Shawn Green struggle in ST. I think Lastings Milledge deserves the spot more then Green, and would be a better fit for the team. Green is now hitting .174 this spring while Milledge is hitting .374. How much easier can it get for Milledge?

~Same old same for Scott Schoeneweis another Goose Egg. Era now 0.00 for the spring

An Idea

Since the Mets won't be using a 5th starter until Mid-April, and El Duque is not 100%, and is just making his 2nd start this spring today. The Mets should DL El Duque and use Pelfrey as the #4 starter. Then after April 15th Take El Duque off the DL, and then go with the 5 man rotation. This way you get Pelfrey work, and you let El Duque build up strength for the rest of the season...

Inspiration LoHud Blog~

2 Bullpen Updates

http://www.nypost.com/seven/03182007/sports/mets/damon__mets_were_wise_to_sign_schoeneweis_mets_joel_sherman.htm

Johnny Damon on Schoeneweis

"I thought Schoeneweis was the best left-hander out of the pen in our division," Damon said. "He did not give up homers, he knew how to pitch and he's tough. The Mets made a real good signing."

~some people including myself were alittle confused with the Schoeneweis signing. We had traded away Royce Ring, still had Feliciano and then gave a big contract to Scott. But seeing him in spring training Schoeneweis looks like a good pickup and it feels good to have a cross town rival say he's a good pitcher. And just think without Scott what would the bullpen look like come opening day? Burgos Sosa Adkins in the pen?

Urdaneta has a chance?

A Mets scout in Mexico, Fred Mazuca, liked what he saw of Urdaneta following Tommy John surgery, the Mets signed him with an invite to this camp, and with the cleaning up of his delivery and the addition of a changeup to his 96-98 mph fastball/groundball tendencies, he actually has pushed himself into the discussion to make the Mets bullpen. "He has impressed," GM Omar Minaya said. "He has a chance."

~Urdaneta has looked better then alot of people who are competing for the final 3 spots in the pen. I would not mind seeing him getting a spot on the team for opening day. It would just be like an extended spring training because he would still be battling for a job and because Sanchez, And Padilla are expected back sometime in late April.

Alou Not Worried About Slow Start

http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/nyspmnotes185135090mar18,0,5876509.story?coll=ny-mets-print

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. - Moises Alou's struggles continued with an 0-for-3 effort yesterday against the Nationals that dropped his batting average to .161.

But the 40-year-old outfielder isn't concerned.
"Same old spring training. Same old getting used to a new team," said Alou, signed in the offseason after spending the previous two years with the Giants. "I've been doing this for quite a while now."

Alou is confident he'll continue to be as productive as he was last year in San Francisco, when he drove in 74 runs in 98 games.


~Alou's major job is to protect Wright. Last year when Floyd was hurt is when Wright started slumping. Look for Alou to get alot of off-days against rightys, meaning he will be playing against mostly leftys and should have a high average. Prediction .290 20+ homeruns 78+ RBI. But more importantly give protection to Wright who looks to find his swing from the first half of 06

Pelfrey/Park could make the team in The Pen?

http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=188446

"Notes: Mets SS Jose Reyes had two errors. Mets third baseman David Wright stole his first base of the spring. Randolph said that either Park or Pelfrey could be put into the bullpen if either did not make the rotation."

~This could mean 2 things.. If the Mets are going with 4 starters, instead of having Pelfrey go down to the minors or stay in extended spring he goes north with the team and works out of the bullpen until mid April.. Or it means that Chan Ho Park can be the long man in the pen.. Because in my opinion Chan Ho Park has no shot at the #5 spot. For the time being Pelfrey would make a better Long Relief pitcher then Jorge Sosa, and a better MR then Burgos. Around the same time Pelfrey would enter the rotation, Sanchez and Padilla should be coming back from injury to solidify the bullpen.

MLB.COM 2007 Mets Projections

C-Paul LoDuca- 500 AB .296 8 HR 62 RBI .338 OBP .411 SLG .749 OPS (#19 catcher)

1B-Carlos Delgado: 550 AB .279 35 HR 120 RBI .369 OBP .541 SLG .910 OPS (#9 1B)

2B-Jose Valentin: 325 AB .230 14 HR 48 RBI .309 OBP .425 SLG .733 OPS (#31 2B)

SS-Jose Reyes: 600 AB .303 19 HR 78 RBI .358 OBP .490 SLG .848 OPS 55 SB 128 R (#1 SS)

3B-David Wright: 525 AB .306 30 HR 107 RBI .373 OBP .527 SLG .900 OPS 20 SB 105 R (#2 3B)

LF-Moises Alou: 425 AB .296 25 HR 75 RBI .367 OBP .541 SLG .908 OPS (#52 overal OF)

CF-Carlos Beltran: 550 AB .281 36 HR 111 RBI .361 OBP .516 SLG .877 OPS 17 SB 118 R (#4 overal OF)

RF-Shawn Green 550 AB .276 21 HR 73 RBI .345 OBP .457 SLG .802 SLG (#78 overal OF)

Bench-Endy Chavez: .375 AB .280 3 HR 34 RBI .323 OBP .384 SLG .707 OPS 18 SB

Lastings Milledge- .300 AB .241 7 HR 40 RBI .292 OBP .420 SLG .720 OPS
___________________________________________
SP-Tom Glavine: 12-11 4.01 ERA

SP-Pedro Martinez: 5-3 3.62 ERA

SP-John Maine: 9-10 4.58 ERA

SP-Oliver Perez:9-12 4.68

SP-Mike Pelfrey 6-3 4,23 ERA

SP-Philip Humber 5-5 4.62 ERA

SP-Chan Ho Park 7-7 5.34 ERA

RP-Wagner 37 S 2.00 ERA 91 K 75 IP (#5 RP)

RP-Sanchez 4-3 3.31 ERA

MLB also says the Mets have the #1 offense (which is why I find these projections a bit off) and the #5 bullpen

~I think MLB did a good job with Lo Duca,Alou,Delgado,Chavez,Wagner and Sanchez
But I would have to believe
David Wright+Carlos Beltran would have more rbi (around 120)
I thought they were alittle to nice with Shawn Green if he puts up those numbers I would be more then happy with him.
Jose Valentins prediction is giving Valentin no respect at all.. Though I don't believe he will have a year like last year, .230 is unrealistic..

~They are defenitley way off on Lastings Milledge, they basically just took his stats from last year and put them on there.. If Milledge got the chance to start I would believe he would put up numbers like .275+ 20 homeruns and 88 RBI somewere in that range for a rook

~All the starters ERA's and Wins are off..
Glavine: I would think alot more wins with this offense less losses ERA around 3.7
John Maine: more wins less losses I think maine is terribly underrated ERA around 3.8
Oliver Perez: same as Maine with the ability to be better
Pedro Martinez: I thought they were alittle nice with Pedro id be glad if he can comeback and put up numbers like those

My 25 Man Roster

This is my 25 man Roster with a 5th starter but Willie says he might go with 4 starters to start the season.

"Prior to yesterday’s loss, Willie Randolph told reporters that he might not need a fifth starter until the middle of April, since the team has three days off through the first month of season." ~metsblog

1.Reyes
2.Lo Duca
3.Beltran
4.Delgado
5.Wright
6.Alou
7.Green/Milledge
8.Valentin

9.Chavez
10.Castro
11.Newhan
12.Franco
24.Easily

13.Glavine
14.Maine
15.Perez
16.Pelfrey
17.Duque

18.Wagner
19.Heilman
20.Schoweniess
21.Feliciano
22.Smith
23.J-Vargas (gets called back up)
25.Burgos

~I think Milledge should be the starting RF, but the mets like there VETS. Though with Milledge the Mets are putting the best possible all around team on the field as possible for them. Right now Milledge is hitting .375 in spring, and Shawn Green is hitting .196 So I leave RF as a toss up

~The only major diffrence if mets only carry 4 starters to begin the season are Pelfrey is not on the team until mid April, and Ben Johnson makes the team on the bench.

This bullpen dosent look Amazing right now.. But its basically just a tryout for Smith, And Burgos.. Id say 2-3 weeks after the season starts Padilla, And Sanchez will be ready for a spot.. Then another 3-4 weeks Mota is off suspension... By the end of the year the bullpen will look somthing like
Wagner
Heilman
Sanchez
Schoweneiss
Feliciano
Padilla
Mota
Vargas/smith


What changes would you make?

Mets Lose 2 Games Today

Mets lost to the Nationals and Orioles today 13-1 and 9-0.

Chan Ho Park started against The Nationals
His final line for the day was 3 innings 7 Hits 7 Runs 4 Earned Raising his spring ERA to 8.68.
~In my opinion this start takes Park out of the race for the #5 spot. And gives the spot to Mike Pelfrey.

Aaron Sele started against The Orioles, and was no better then Park.
Sele pitched 5 innings giving up 8 hits 6 runs 5 earned. Sele's ERA is now 7.82.
~Sele's start was diffrent from Park's though.. As Sele gave up all his runs in the first inning, and then pitched well the rest of the day. Sele might make the team as a Long Reliever.

Jorge Sosa who was the leading canidate for the LR spot did not help his cause at all..
Sosa pitched 2 innings gave up 8 Hits 6 Runs 3 Earned. His ERA is now 5.40
~I don't see why the Mets like Sosa. He throws hard but throws a ball that moves back over the plate and is batting practice for the hitters. The Mets should call Jason Vargas back up because so far this spring he looked the best and deserves a spot in the Pen more then Sosa

Lastings Milledge did nothing to hurt his cause today going 2 for 4 raising his average to .375
~Milledge came to camp with a great attitude and looking great. He has been a monster this spring hitting everything. He should be the starting Right Fielder over Shawn Green because he offers so much more then Green.
1.Better Defense 2.More Speed 3.Ability to hit leftys


Though the Mets got crushed today im not worried.. Taking a look at who pitched today nobody that pitched and gave up runs will be on the mets opening day roster besides Joe Smith (2 innings 2 runs ERA 2.16)Feliciano Schoweneiss and Wagner all pitched scoreless innings.

Mike Pelfrey

Mike Pelfrey Starting Pitcher
TEAM: New York Mets
HEIGHT/WEIGHT:6'7' / 190
DOB:1/14/1984
AGE:23
BATS/THROWS:Right / Right


Mike Pelfrey was drafted by the mets in the 1st round of the 2005 after going 33-7 2.18 era in college for Wichita State. Pelfrey signed early in 2006, and advanced quickly through the mets farm system. Pelfrey has come to spring training this year with a very good feel for his change-up a dominating Sinker, and a vastly improved Slider.

Fastball: There are few pitchers in the minors with a better fastball then Pelfrey. Pelfrey throws a 2 seam fastball that ranges from 92-95 MPH topping out at 98. His fastball has such a fierce sink to it that rates 70 (out of 20-80 scouting range). Pelfrey also throws a 4 seam fastball with good control, for higher Velocity (95-98 MPH)

Changeup: Pelfrey has a good feel for his changeup and fiddled with his grip a bit during the 2006 season. The change is his #2 pitch, and has a few control problems with it.

Slider: Pelfrey ditched the curveball and went for the slider. He throws it in a range from 84-87 MPH and he can reduce the break on it to make it seem like a cutter against left handed hitters. Pelfrey's main problem is control with it. He lacks the consistancy to make it one of his better pitches. Though we believe he will get more control of it, it will always be his #3 pitch.

Curveball: Though Pelfrey picked the Slider over the curveball, don't be surprised to see Pelfrey throw it once in a while to keep hitters off-balance. He never had good comand of it and it needed alot of work.


The Future: According to USA today, they already call Mike Pelfrey a right handed Randy Johnson. Pelfrey has so much potential and upside.Thanks to a great Spring Training by Pelfrey, and a bad spring training from his competetion Pelfrey looks to be The #5 starter on the mets staff. In the longterm Pelfrey predicts to be a #1-2 starter.

Welcome

Welcome to my blog. We will start off by taking a look at Mets pitcher Mike Pelfrey.