NFT: The Official NY Mets Off Season Thread

Mookie Betts will be expensive, but he should be worth it. He can hit, has some pop and very good speed. He could be the lead off hitter we've been missing since letting Reyes go.

Great pitching was showcased the past few weeks. Quiets the noise from the past year plus that pitching isn't as valuable as it used to be, pitchers get injured, etc. Mets surplus is a bit more valuable today than it was a month ago. Problem is wheelers value jumped but colons is status quo.

Wouldn't be shocked to see a move mets fans hate. Ex. Moving Legares as part of a package for a stud corner OF. Not the Mets preferred approach, but may be necessary.

SP:
Lester (31)
Scherzer (30)
Shields (33)
Liriano (31)
McCarthy (31)
Hammel (32)
Masterson (30)
Peavy (34)
ESantana (32)
Volquez (30)

RP:
Robertson (30)
Romo (32)
Janssen (33)
Gregerson (31)
Hochevar (31)
Neshek (34)
Stauffer (32)
Coke (32)
Duke (32)
Miller (30)

C:
Martin (32)
Soto (32)

1B:
LaRoche (35)
Morse (33)
Cuddyer (36)

2B:
Bonifacio (30)
KJohnson (33)
RSantiago (35)

SS:
Hanley (31)
Lowrie (31)
Drew (32)
ACabrera (29)
Barmes (36)

3B:
Sandoval (28)
Headley (31)

OF:
Tomas (24)
MCabrera (30)
Cruz (34)
Denorfia (34)
Willingham (36)
Rasmus (28)
Aoki (33)
Markakis (31)
Rios (34)
Hunter (39)
Ichiro (41)

DH:
Butler (29)
VMart (35)
KMorales (31)
DYoung (29)

be absolutely stunned to see Lagares moved. OF defense is still undervalued (as great as Lagares is) and Sandy has proven he won't "lose" a trade on paper. Lagares wouldn't bring back his "equal" value on a good CO.

Unrelated in terms of payroll Rubin is projecting Duda at 4.25, Murphy 8.1, Gee 4.9

Adam gives Gee 4.99 bringing our projected total to 71.39 without Parnell, EYJ, Tejada, Carlyle, Eveland

First 3 likely come in at a combined 8.5 million or so which would put the payroll at roughly 80 million plus everyone making 500K or so (minimum) before any additions so not much room if they bring everyone back unless payroll is increased. So on paper it appears moving Murphy (and/or Gee/Niese etc) is "necessary" to add anyone "expensive" unless the payroll is going up.

1. Noah Syndergaard (RHP) 22 years old (AAA/MLB) 88% of 34 votes
2. Dilson Herrera (2B) 21 years old (AAA/MLB) 56% of 39 votes
3. Brandon Nimmo (CF) 22 years old (AAA) 33% of 43 votes (Run-off vs. Matz 55% of 40 votes)
4. Steven Matz (LHP) 24 years old (AAA) 69% of 48 votes
5. Michael Conforto (LF) 22 years old (A+) 49% of 43 votes
6. Kevin Plawecki (C) 24 years old (AAA) 59% of 34 votes
7. Rafael Montero (RHP) 24 years old (AAA/MLB) 65% of 37 votes
8. Marcos Molina (RHP) 20 years old (A) 43% of 40 votes (Run-off with Rosario 55% of 40 votes)
9. Amed Rosario (SS) 19 years old (A) 75% of 40 votes
10. Jhoan Urena (3b) 20 years old (A) 42% of 38 votes
11. Gavin Cecchini (SS) 21 years old (A) 57% of 37 votes
12. Dominic Smith (1b) 20 years old (A) 75% of 28 votes
13. Matt Reynolds (SS/2b) 24 years old (AAA) 52% of 31 votes
14. Cory Mazzoni (RP/SP) 25 years old (AAA) 46% of 28 votes
15. Matthew Chou Bowman (SP/RP) 24 years old AAA 42% of 38 votes
16. Cesar Puello (23) AAA (OF) 24% of 33 votes, runoff with Fulmer 52% of 31 votes
17. Buca di Beppo (Becerra) 28% of 29 votes, runoff vs. Maz 57%
18. LJ Mazzilli (24) 28% of 32 votes, runoff with Meisner 52% of 31 votes
19. Casey Meisner (20) (A) 57% of 30 votes
20. Milton Ramos (19) (A) 21% of 28 votes, run-off with Ynoa 52% of 23 votes
21. Gabriel Ynoa (22) (AA) 64% of 22 votes
22. Champ Stuart (22) (A+) 36% of 25 votes
23. Michael Fulmer (22) (AA) 41% of 22 votes
24. Akeel Morris (22) A+ 31% of 26 votes

they non-tender EYJ that would "save" roughly 2.5 million (no idea if they do this) but I would. Assuming they tender Tejada (probably worth it at around 2 million even though he blows) and Parnell (this one is sort of questionable given his availability but all indications are they will) that's about 6 million. If they brought back Eveland and Carlyle at around 800 K that would give them 12 players under contract at roughly 80 million, so the "current" payroll would be

80 + 13 x 500K (roughly) or about 87 million. So I think Murphy is a goner and I'm sure they will look to move guys like Gee and Colon if they can save money.

In comment 11947830 Ira said:

Quote:

Mookie Betts will be expensive, but he should be worth it. He can hit, has some pop and very good speed. He could be the lead off hitter we've been missing since letting Reyes go.

Betts looks like a stud to me but I think the price would give most fans a heart attack. Thor would have to go as part of the deal 100% and then some. The goal needs to be finding guys like Dickerson and Brantley BEFORE they break out. Brantley was MVP caliber good this year (no exaggeration) but I can only imagine how little he would have cost talent wise pre-2014.

young players get done. The asking price for a Wheeler or DeGrom or for a Starling Castro would floor you. Then you get to Stanton, Harvey , McCutcheon, you would need a defibulator handy next to your phone

In comment 11947878 Headhunter said:

Quote:

young players get done. The asking price for a Wheeler or DeGrom or for a Starling Castro would floor you. Then you get to Stanton, Harvey , McCutcheon, you would need a defibulator handy next to your phone

Gotta find the guys pre-breakout or take a shot on a guy who might be able to breakout who showed some decent signs ala Travis Snider with the Pirates this year. Otherwise the price is going to be tough to swallow given the fact the Mets could/should be "in it" this year but aren't "WS" contenders on paper and likely won't be this year, tough to give up big time talent unless you are landing a proven stud. Guys like Betts are very rarely traded, offense is currently at a premium and Thor had a solid season but his stock is neutral.

in a blink of an eye it all can go into the toilet. Young controllable pitchers are like diamonds

give Sandy a call

as a trade partner. They have a ton of young offensive talent, but need pitching desperately. I know a lot of folks here are down on him, but I'd inquire about Sterling Castro.

Mets will surely call about Castro. Question is how much they would be willing to give up for him. Can't see him moved for anything less than 1 of Wheeler, Thor or deGrom as a headliner.

do believe they would deal Montero however. Not that they don't like him but I think given the right deal I think they deal a smallish RHP with good/not overwhelming stuff. Obviously they would prefer to deal one/some of the others but obviously Dillon Gee at 5 million, Jon Niese at 7 and Colon at 11 (and 42 years old) fetch a whole lot less.

Trying to move Colon's 11M goes without saying, but moving that other 11M, all of whom can be backfilled with league minimum players, is one of the keys to the offseason.

If they can fill a hole while shifting a lot of that 22M off the books, they will have a solid amount of financial flexibility to spend to improve the team elsewhere.

Getting a good leadoff hitter is important so I could see them a Victorino swap for some combo of the above, but that depends on the prognosis on his return from injury. I could see Gee in a trade for Brad Miller, or other young SS whose value isn't at it's peak. Castro would be a good addition but agree with Dan the price will be too high. CarGo is still a very interesting option, perhaps there's a package that can get him where they could save the bigger prospects and only part with a Plawecki/Montero type? Montero having pitched well in Vegas could make him an intriguing option for COL.

Castro only owed 13 million over the next 2 and 22 over the next 3 the Cubs can/will ask for a true bounty. Why wouldn't they? "Too much" depth? Imagine that as an argument to deal deGrom (far less proven at a deeper position no less) but imagine reading from a Brewers fan "why don't we deal our #3 prospect for deGrom, not our premium guys but the Mets have pitching depth so they will do it". I like to look at potential deals from the other teams point of view.

likely has very, very little trade value given his arbitration/season he is having but if they could get a B prospect for him I'd probably do it given the 5 million in savings they could use in better spots. Murphy I wouldn't "give away" despite his 8.1 or so million/Herrera but I suspect they shop him hard. 8.1 million is significant to the Mets.

awful OF FA market.



OF:
Tomas (24)- Huge deal
MCabrera (30) -60+ million
Cruz (34)- Big contract
Denorfia (34)- Terrible season, 35 in July, STILL likely could land 2 years if the money were low enough
Rasmus (28)- one of the few young FA, can land multi-years if he wants it
Aoki (33)
Markakis (31)- "Big" deal
Rios (34)- Could land multiple years but likely will take 1 to "fix" value
Hunter (39)- Could land multiple years but says he doesn't want that
Ichiro (41)- Ancient

and those are the cream of the crop guys too

Ridiculously small sample size but still caught my eye. Rasmus vs. the NL this year (15 games)

.358/.414/.849.

seeing articles/quotes about Dominic Smith working out like a madman and coming into camp in amazing shape. He was a real disappointment last year and a lot of the rap against him was that he didn't appear to be in great shape.

I'd offer Thor + Herrera for Betts (with the plan being to extend Murphy).

would the Sox do with Herrera? They have Pedroia locked up through 2021.

he being serious? lol

keithlaw ‏@keithlaw 56s56 seconds ago

I'll be playing in a Smashing Pumpkins cover band tonight at @RybrewCafe in Philly's Brewerytown: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=307564942774791 �

In comment 11947979 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

would the Sox do with Herrera? They have Pedroia locked up through 2021.

Really? I did not know that. I was udner the impression that Pedrioa was breaking down. That's not a good contract (although I guess they can point at Wright and say the same thing after last year).

In comment 11947982 Metnut said:

Quote:

In comment 11947979 DanMetroMan said: Quote: would the Sox do with Herrera? They have Pedroia locked up through 2021. Really? I did not know that. I was udner the impression that Pedrioa was breaking down. That's not a good contract (although I guess they can point at Wright and say the same thing after last year).

Pedroia certainly looks like he's in decline but he has 7 years left on his contract and is actually YOUNGER than Wright by a little bit. Sox also have Coyle who is a Herrera caliber prospect himself. Don't think Herrera is of interest to the Sox.

In comment 11947915 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

Mets will surely call about Castro. Question is how much they would be willing to give up for him. Can't see him moved for anything less than 1 of Wheeler, Thor or deGrom as a headliner.

Agreed. Mets aren't getting a legit bat without giving up a premium piece. The Cubs need a lot of pitching, so a Thor and a lesser pitching prospect or 2 might pique their interest. Theo is a savvy trade partner though. Like Sandy, he's not going to be on the losing end of a deal.

Of the FA OF's, I agree Dan, Rasmus is the only one who really interests me.

In comment 11947888 Section331 said:

Quote:

as a trade partner. They have a ton of young offensive talent, but need pitching desperately. I know a lot of folks here are down on him, but I'd inquire about Sterling Castro.

What about the Pirates? I'd look to get an OFer from them. Maybe Marte.

In comment 11948001 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 11947888 Section331 said: Quote: as a trade partner. They have a ton of young offensive talent, but need pitching desperately. I know a lot of folks here are down on him, but I'd inquire about Sterling Castro. What about the Pirates? I'd look to get an OFer from them. Maybe Marte.

Pirates are LOADED in the OF but Marte has an amazing contract, is young and had an MVP caliber second half. Asking price most certainly is 2 of Wheeler/deGrom/Thor. His contract alone makes him a ridiculous value.

including prospects have 8-9 potential MLB regulars in the OF. Really crazy depth. Snider is the realistic target for me from them (of the big leaguers).

second half .348/.408/.576-.975 OPS, will play all of 2015 at 26 years old and the Pirates own his rights through 2021.

Cant trade Lagares. As it stands we're slated to have below average to poor defenders at C, 2B, SS, and an aging 3B who was injured last year. Need to give these pitchers some plus defense if they are going to anchor our rise to contention.

I want no part of the FA position players (you could talk me into a Lester or Scherzer followed by a trade of a SP). Explosion of TV money and GMs rolling the dice on long term deals for arb-eligible players (a no-lose proposition for GMs when you think about it; lose your star and you're fired anyway) mean that red-flag free 28 year olds are just not hitting the FA market. Instead you get the clear downside-of-the-career guys. Im also convinced that the prior era of useful FAs was largely driven by steroids, which extended the peak performance window and also let guys have a little more confidence that they could get to UFA before injuries set in.

In comment 11948006 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

including prospects have 8-9 potential MLB regulars in the OF. Really crazy depth. Snider is the realistic target for me from them (of the big leaguers).

Yeah, then target someone else, any chance they trade McCutchen? He has a good contract too (for him), but comparatively speaking much higher than their other options. THAT would be making a splash.

In comment 11948011 Deej said:

Quote:

Cant trade Lagares. As it stands we're slated to have below average to poor defenders at C, 2B, SS, and an aging 3B who was injured last year. Need to give these pitchers some plus defense if they are going to anchor our rise to contention. I want no part of the FA position players (you could talk me into a Lester or Scherzer followed by a trade of a SP). Explosion of TV money and GMs rolling the dice on long term deals for arb-eligible players (a no-lose proposition for GMs when you think about it; lose your star and you're fired anyway) mean that red-flag free 28 year olds are just not hitting the FA market. Instead you get the clear downside-of-the-career guys. Im also convinced that the prior era of useful FAs was largely driven by steroids, which extended the peak performance window and also let guys have a little more confidence that they could get to UFA before injuries set in.

Shecky may be my favorite Mets fan on this site but I don't agree with him at all on Lagares. Sure, if the Marlins knocked their heads and insisted on Lagares as part of a Stanton deal he would be gone tomorrow but teams just don't give up good CO for CF's who are defensive value only (which is what Lagares currently is). He's an AMAZING CF, in fact I'd say he's top 10 I've ever seen (granted I've only been watching baseball since 85-86). But the skillset is still undervalued.

if they traded McCutcheon. They LOVE him there.

In comment 11948020 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 11948006 DanMetroMan said: Quote: including prospects have 8-9 potential MLB regulars in the OF. Really crazy depth. Snider is the realistic target for me from them (of the big leaguers). Yeah, then target someone else, any chance they trade McCutchen? He has a good contract too (for him), but comparatively speaking much higher than their other options. THAT would be making a splash.

I don't see any way they would deal him. He's their golden boy and Dave Cameron suggested he was top 5 most valuable trade assets in baseball (I think #3 in fact). The Pirates are no longer "cheap" and have a pretty bright future. McCutchen likely costs MORE than Stanton in a trade since his new team would have him through 2018 vs. Stanton through 2016.


But their OF depth throughout the organization is nuts
Polanco, McCutchen, Marte, Harrison can play out there, Snider and then in the minors they have Bell, Meadows, Harold Ramirez, Willy Garcia, JaCoby Jones can play out there (and likely ends up out there), Barnes

really like Snider as a target. Former HUGE prospect aka talent has always been there. .776 OPS in 140 games this year, will only be 27, team controlled through 2016.

McCutchen is probably a top 3 player in all of baseball right now. The cost for him in a trade would be astronomical. They wouldn't do it anyway. He's their David Wright.. except he's younger, better and is a ridiculous bargain for another 3-4 years

price would be one of those ridiculous deals where you unload most of your assets all in one fell swoop ie Thor, Wheeler, deGrom, Nimmo and Herrera. It would have to be an offer so good that the Pirates could sell it to their fanbase AND so good they couldn't reasonably say no.

from them then. They just can't play all those guys and having them hang around longer just lessens their value, because realistically while they're all good prospects, they all won't pan out.

I said I think Snider is the guy you have a shot to pry away. I think they view Polanco McCutchen and Marte as their OF for the next 4-5 years and Harrison so far is a 1 year wonder who can play all over the field and is cheap so no issue with keeping him as well. Garcia is at least a year away

folks disagree with me about its importance, but I'd still make an effort to pad our bullpen. I love our arms right now, but I love what the Royals did this year out of the pen. If we can add a power lefty and then move montero from the right side, i think we can have a super dynamic bullpen. This is an addition, not in lieu of, adding a big bat in left field.

Adams from MLBTR says he's heard from Sox sources that Betts is "100% untouchable" unless it's part of a deal for a young superstar (as the should be).

In comment 11948107 CMicks3110 said:

Quote:

folks disagree with me about its importance, but I'd still make an effort to pad our bullpen. I love our arms right now, but I love what the Royals did this year out of the pen. If we can add a power lefty and then move montero from the right side, i think we can have a super dynamic bullpen. This is an addition, not in lieu of, adding a big bat in left field.

Scouts don't believe Montero is suited for the pen. Unlike Mejia/Familia he doesn't have blow you away stuff or a plus breaker. He's more valuable as a trade chip if he's not starting.

do you like Andrew Miller, would you want the Mets to pursue him?

In comment 11948124 CMicks3110 said:

Quote:

do you like Andrew Miller, would you want the Mets to pursue him?

I think Miller is fantastic. I don't think he fits into the Mets budget. He's going to be marketed as the best available reliever/closer (even though he hasn't really closed). MLBTR projects 4 years 32 million, I've seen others project 4 for 40 if he's a closer.

In comment 11948107 CMicks3110 said:

Quote:

folks disagree with me about its importance, but I'd still make an effort to pad our bullpen. I love our arms right now, but I love what the Royals did this year out of the pen. If we can add a power lefty and then move montero from the right side, i think we can have a super dynamic bullpen. This is an addition, not in lieu of, adding a big bat in left field.

I don't think anyone disagrees with you about its importance, but many believe the Mets already have the pieces to make a dominant bullpen. The 8-9th inning combo of Familia/Mejia was pretty damn good last year, add in Parnell, Matz, etc, and there are more than enough options to have an outstanding pen.

This team needs bats.

Mazzoni I can see as a bullpen guy.

1. OF (LFer specifically)
2. SS
3. upgrade bats elsewhere - could be bench, could be 2B
4. Something else
5. Another thing
6. Bullpen

In comment 11948031 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

really like Snider as a target. Former HUGE prospect aka talent has always been there. .776 OPS in 140 games this year, will only be 27, team controlled through 2016.

If we can get Snider for a Mazzoni/Verrett-type that might be interesting. We have a surplus of arms who could work out of the pen

I just dont trust Wilmer's d there long term. He'll be passable at best. With our pitching staff (Wheeler in particular), I want a plus defender at SS. And if we get a SS, I'd feel confident moving Murphy and trusting that Wilmer, Herrera, Reynolds etc will ably fill the position for years to come.

LF (or RF, since Grandy was a terrible RF) seems like a bigger priority, but I think you can piece together ABs there more credibly and I like Nimmo/Conforto there for 2016 much more than I like our SSs in 2016.

has Mejia at 2.5 million


2.5 for Mejia would put us at 73.89 + Parnell, EYJ, Tejada, Carlyle, Eveland + 500K for every other player not under contract.

is:

C: Darnaud, Plawecki. Outlook: B+

1B: Duda and Smith is a few years away. Outlook: B-

2B: Murphy unless traded, Herrera waiting in wings. Outlook: B-

SS: A bunch of flawed prospects. Outlook: D-

3B: Wright and hopes of a rebound. Outlook: B

LF/RF: unsure of the prospects like Nimmo and the outlook.

CF: Lagares - premier fielder, can he repeat his '14 hitting?

Starting pitching: Outlook - at least a B+, right?

Relievers: unsure

Note: my baseball knowledge is pretty weak, so I defer to DMM and others.

In comment 11948322 JOMO25 said:

Quote:

is: C: Darnaud, Plawecki. Outlook: B+ 1B: Duda and Smith is a few years away. Outlook: B- 2B: Murphy unless traded, Herrera waiting in wings. Outlook: B- SS: A bunch of flawed prospects. Outlook: D- 3B: Wright and hopes of a rebound. Outlook: B LF/RF: unsure of the prospects like Nimmo and the outlook. CF: Lagares - premier fielder, can he repeat his '14 hitting? Starting pitching: Outlook - at least a B+, right? Relievers: unsure Note: my baseball knowledge is pretty weak, so I defer to DMM and others.

I honestly don't even count Smith until he actually does something. I'm not saying he won't but he just as easily could be a non-prospect. Well see what happens this year and luckily we have Duda so it's less of an issue. SS prospects are all 2+ years away. Cecchini is still somewhat interesting, Rosario very much so (though Toby/Jeff P not as high on him as other "experts" interestingly enough. Reynolds still profiles as a utility type but who knows?

OF in the system is insanely weak. Nimmo and Conforto are very good (not elite) prospects but beyond them it's very, very, very thin. I'm not even sure who the next guy would be... maybe Becerra who is 3+ years away? Or Stuart who is a Dyson type?

3b it comes down to Wright and Wright only. The next best 3b talent is probably Urena... who is again 3+ years away if he's even any good.

In comment 11948169 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

1. OF (LFer specifically) 2. SS 3. upgrade bats elsewhere - could be bench, could be 2B 4. Something else 5. Another thing 6. Bullpen

Gee, kinda looks the same as last offseason.

same holes as last year, but I'm kind of glad they didn't sign Stephen Drew to a 2-year $20M contract even with a hole at SS.

Although last year I might have had bullpen higher, but the emergence of Familia, the official move of Mejia, and the return of Parnell, plus guys like Black, Edgin, and even Carlyle proving to be legit major league bullpen regulars (some of them better than that - even though I know it doesn't mean they will be next year) I have almost no issue with the bullpen AS IS. I don't know for sure who the closer will be, but they have options.

Corey Vaughn is still in the Mets organization and was playing regularly at AAA speaks volumes to the dearth of talent the Mets have in the OF - specifically at higher levels, but maybe anywhere beyond the aforementioned Nimmo and Conforto.

I didn't watch much baseball this year and last night I tuned in to hear them wax poetic about Bumgarner (rightly so). But am I correct in saying that was the worst display of strike zone discipline? It seemed guys were swinging at pitches two feet over the zone and all were high.

In comment 11948455 JOMO25 said:

Quote:

I didn't watch much baseball this year and last night I tuned in to hear them wax poetic about Bumgarner (rightly so). But am I correct in saying that was the worst display of strike zone discipline? It seemed guys were swinging at pitches two feet over the zone and all were high.

IMO, part of it is Bumgarner - he's tall and lanky, and his delivery is a bit funky and hard to pick up the ball. Throw in he's a lefty and voila! Lots of swing and misses at bad pitches...

Wilmer Flores at SS.

Enough already with Tejada

my guess is they just sign Cuddyer for LF. Probably because they can get him for the same thing they got Chris Young for. I do think they should take a serious look at Miller for the bullpen though.

In comment 11948670 Rflairr said:

Quote:

my guess is they just sign Cuddyer for LF. Probably because they can get him for the same thing they got Chris Young for. I do think they should take a serious look at Miller for the bullpen though.

Cuddyer is expected to get 2, possibly even 3 years due to the market.

In comment 11948670 Rflairr said:

Quote:

my guess is they just sign Cuddyer for LF. Probably because they can get him for the same thing they got Chris Young for. I do think they should take a serious look at Miller for the bullpen though.

For what role? Closer? he has one career save, and I don't see the Mets paying Miller 4 years 32M to be the 8th inning guy when they have about 4 options for 8th inning guy on the roster making a fraction of that.

Pass

In comment 11948677 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

In comment 11948670 Rflairr said: Quote: my guess is they just sign Cuddyer for LF. Probably because they can get him for the same thing they got Chris Young for. I do think they should take a serious look at Miller for the bullpen though. Cuddyer is expected to get 2, possibly even 3 years due to the market.

2yrs at 7-8 mill per wouldn't surprise me. When I say what they got Chris Young for. I mean his a salary. I believe he got 7.5 mill.

Cuddyer in LF and Granderson in RF equals a top ten protected pick in 2018

Wright are good friends (happened to play on my brother's baseball team as a kid)

I'm not even crazy about him for 1 year. I don't think he'll be a good fit here.

with Ryan Zimmerman and the Upton's too, I'd prefer one of them over Cuddyer if we're signing Wright's friends.

Well, not BJ Upton, he's awful, but Zimmerman or Justin.

For one, Dilson Herrera has emerged as our best position prospect in a loaded system and is second only to Thor AND is also just about major league ready. You almost have to clear a spot for him soon and its unlikely he can play any other position. Whether you keep Murphy for a while and give Herrera more time or trade him, that's the bridge in my mind. All this talk about Flores at 2nd and Reynolds at 2nd seems like a waste of time.

Flores was one of the best hitting prospects this team has ever had. To be honest, my biggest concern last year after watching his defense at SS, was if he was going to hit. The bat clearly started coming around the last 6 weeks after he started playing regularly finally. Reynolds hit everything in sight last year and far surpassed expectations with his defense as well. A couple people said his defense was better than Tejada's which might not say much but Reynolds is nice depth. We also have Tovar if we really want a glove and Cechinni in high A ball now, and Rosario right behind him. I think we are ok in the middle infield. If there is a clear upgrade like Addison Russell, fine but Im not looking for a Stephen Drew or a Didi trade anymore. Those days are gone.

I want a bat in RF. I'd prefer to pull off a trade for Bautista or Stanton but thats just unrealistic but who knows?. Maybe we'll go for Cargo although that is a big risk. In an insanely weak free agent market, Cuddyer looks to be the best of the bunch. Ill take the former batting champ with real nice road splits for 2 years until Conforto and Nimmo get here. I also don't think MDD or Kirk are useless if you want work them around the outfield a bit or if Cuddyer can't play a whole year.

I'd start looking to unload some of the veterans. Id hang on to Murph to hedge against Wright for at least half a season. I start looking to see if anyone wants Gee, Neise, Colon, or even Parnell and trade them for prospects if need be.

Maybe sign another nice reliever to make our bullpen that much better.

Go to war.

First rotation in ML history with 5 starters that hit can hit 98 MPH. Harvey, deGrom, Wheeler, Syndergaard, and Matz! (ok so maybe deGrom hasn't but he's close enough! ;) )

of Nimmo and Conforto I haven't completely given up on Puello. Sure, not much is expected at this point... but he actually hit pretty well to close out the year and was pretty good against lefties all year. He might be able to work in as a righty platoon partner/bench option to start the year. Im betting the Mets still protect him but we'll see.

In comment 11948718 Headhunter said:

Quote:

Cuddyer in LF and Granderson in RF equals a top ten protected pick in 2018

Almost spit my beer out reading that HH. Thanks!!! Hysterical, but well said.

getting 3 years here. He even alluded he would take a discount to come to the Mets. If some team wants to offer him 3-4 years? Peace brother.

but WTF do I know...

out of the options available. The guy is a former batting champ.. not some scrub. Yeah he's approaching his mid-30s but it hasn't seemed to slow him down. His only issue is his health.

I do give it about a 50/50 chance we pull off a blockbuster trade though. I say that only because Sandy has been trying to get that outfield power bat for years now. Whether it was Justin Upton, Will Myers, or Cargo ect... he's been asking about all of them. I know he wants and is willing if the price is right. But if the deal isn't there, he isn't going to force it and Im happy about that actually. But if he was ever going to pull the trigger, now is the time.

However, if the deal isn't there then the deal isn't there. Don't come away with nothing. Cuddyer fills a need.

not anti-Cuddyer but he's more than "approaching mid-30's". He's 36 opening day.

affordable deal nothing wrong with Cuddyer - he should not be plan A, and he's not a break the bank guy. I wouldn't give him 2 years 20M.

and I don't go three years on him. I'd handle it like Sandy did the Drew negotiations, hold firm at how they value him and don't cave.

His years in Colorado were the best in his career in many offensive categories at 33 - 35 year old, he's ripe for an overpay. I don't know for a fact, but he's probably approaching defensive liability, if he's not there already.

I'm thinking he's 35. Still... on a 2 year deal it doesn't hurt us in any way.

Hell... I'd trade for Cargo and still sign Cuddyer for 2 years. I think we have enough hitters that can't hit lefties where he would get plenty of time at 1st, LF, and RF.

for what it's worth he's already below average in the OF and has been all but 1 season. Again, I'm not against him just stating the facts.

In comment 11949214 ZGiants98 said:

Quote:

I'm thinking he's 35. Still... on a 2 year deal it doesn't hurt us in any way. Hell... I'd trade for Cargo and still sign Cuddyer for 2 years. I think we have enough hitters that can't hit lefties where he would get plenty of time at 1st, LF, and RF.

Where would they fit the 2 of them? Cuddyer is signing somewhere to start and CarGo + Granderson + Lagares? They have room for 1 full-time OF.

in AAA. There is talent coming.

I love Wright but honestly I think the whole team is changing. Before it was Wright and nobody else.

I think TDA hits 20 homers next year and is a borderline all-star, especially with the fences moved in. Duda, unlike Ike, will maintain his bat and even improve slightly. He'll be a all-star caliber bat as well The new core is Lagares, TDA, and Duda. Murphy is always gonna be a nice .300 hitter with passable defense at 2nd or 3rd but I could really see Herrera and Flores breaking out next year if they play regularly. Wright is almost a complete wild card to me. Im not counting on him at all but still think we are set up well enough to cover his absence. If he comes back healthy its a bonus. Granderson will hit better as well even if not by much. A solid bat and Im going to be very happy with our lineup.

In comment 11949216 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

In comment 11949214 ZGiants98 said: Quote: I'm thinking he's 35. Still... on a 2 year deal it doesn't hurt us in any way. Hell... I'd trade for Cargo and still sign Cuddyer for 2 years. I think we have enough hitters that can't hit lefties where he would get plenty of time at 1st, LF, and RF. Where would they fit the 2 of them? Cuddyer is signing somewhere to start and CarGo + Granderson + Lagares? They have room for 1 full-time OF.

Sign Cuddyer first then still pull off a trade? Im saying I think there would be enough playing time for all 4 in that situation. Or another outfielder noontime Cargo. Im saying with all those lefty I still think Cuddyer will get plenty of atbats.

great typing. lol

but with Cuddyer and Cargo's injury history and Granderon and Duda's ability to hit lefties not crazy.

In comment 11949223 ZGiants98 said:

Quote:

In comment 11949216 DanMetroMan said: Quote: In comment 11949214 ZGiants98 said: Quote: I'm thinking he's 35. Still... on a 2 year deal it doesn't hurt us in any way. Hell... I'd trade for Cargo and still sign Cuddyer for 2 years. I think we have enough hitters that can't hit lefties where he would get plenty of time at 1st, LF, and RF. Where would they fit the 2 of them? Cuddyer is signing somewhere to start and CarGo + Granderson + Lagares? They have room for 1 full-time OF. Sign Cuddyer first then still pull off a trade? Im saying I think there would be enough playing time for all 4 in that situation. Or another outfielder noontime Cargo. Im saying with all those lefty I still think Cuddyer will get plenty of atbats.

I'm going to go out of my way to be positive until proven otherwise but I don't see any scenario where the money is there for BOTh a Cuddyer and Gonzalez unless they get really wild and deal a bunch of guys like Niese, Gee, Colon, Murphy etc. Possible of course but I project Cuddyer+Cargo to come in at around 26 million in 2015 and the Mets to have roughly 15. million to spend unless they move some guys around

Its late and I can't even type or think anymore. lol. Im pro Cuddyer if a trade can't be pulled off. A 2 year deal isn't going to hurt us and he will be a hell of a lot better than Chis Young. Im ready for April now.

doable.

Young PLOP

the annual Fielding Bible Award as the best defensive CenterFielder in Baseball

That's the type of guy I could see them getting for Gee. Scott Van Slyke is another one I've seen rumored with fans, but I haven't really seen him play so not sure if he's worth pursuing. Basically we just need to hope Sandy can find another team's pre-2014 Lucas Duda.

Well, it depends what you are looking for in acquiring him. Starting OF? Or 5th OF? And what we give up to acquire him.

Might consider it for Colon if that's the best you can do in a Colon salary dump. For Gee? I'd rather not trade a5th. Starter for a 5th OF. One who has a slight bit more upgrade potential over MdD/Kirk.

If you are picking up Snider as an inexpensive starter, I'm very against it. Can't base a season on an OK player being your lightening in a bottle. I'd be OK hoping to catch lightening in a bottle with a24th/25th player on the roster. The team isn't good or deep enough to hope on a starter for 2015 too many question marks already.

In comment 11949436 Shecky said:

Quote:

Well, it depends what you are looking for in acquiring him. Starting OF? Or 5th OF? And what we give up to acquire him. Might consider it for Colon if that's the best you can do in a Colon salary dump. For Gee? I'd rather not trade a5th. Starter for a 5th OF. One who has a slight bit more upgrade potential over MdD/Kirk. If you are picking up Snider as an inexpensive starter, I'm very against it. Can't base a season on an OK player being your lightening in a bottle. I'd be OK hoping to catch lightening in a bottle with a24th/25th player on the roster. The team isn't good or deep enough to hope on a starter for 2015 too many question marks already.

Snider would be a good inexpensive OF option if they spend a good chunk of the budget on a really solid SS who can hit mid-order. Problem is I don't think there's a SS that's a good match.

Tulo is too expensive. Reyes and Andrus are expensive and who knows if available. Castro will cost too much in prospects, Hanley likely too much money. That said I'd take any of the above even if it meant that any other additions had to be cheap options like Snider.

Andy Martino (Daily News) says that Alex Gordon may be available, and that "Kansas City would likely see a package of, say, Rafael Montero and Daniel Murphy as fair value".

I'd be all over that. Try to resign Gordon during the season and if not you get a #1 pick as compensation (Murphy would get us comp too, but I suspect he'd be signed by a team that was on a spending spree and wouldnt net us their #1). Though it's tough to tell how much Gordon will make. I've seen anywhere from a 65-5 deal mentioned to Choo's 130.
Link - ( New Window )

return for Gordon. Martino is off his rocker. Murphy and Montero don't SNIFF Gordon. Makes absolutely no sense for the Royals.It's not even close to realistic.

Royals are going to trade one of the best players in baseball in terms of WAR (#15 since 2010, #7 since 2011) because they know they can't keep everyone... and then they take back Murphy who himself is a FA in a year and the far inferior player? It's ridiculous.

I wonder what the real cost would be.

"WAR since" stuff you cite is irrelevant or should be.

A trade like this (or any trade really) should be about going forward, not looking back, too often GM's get caught up in the agent hoopla about "WAR since" and sign guys to contracts they don't deserve or trade more than they should for them.

Jason Bay in 2010 when the Mets signed him was probably top 5 in WAR from 2005 - 2010.

I'm not saying that offer is fair value for Gordon or not, but he's 31 before the next season starts, and costs 12.5M per year the next two years (which is good I guess for his production, but probably more than KC wants to pay 1 player). So, if they were to deal him, it's not exactly like they'd be dealing from a position of strength like if the Pirates were to deal Marte or even the Cubs with Castro.

So, just saying even if that offer Martino cited is light, he's not a guy I empty the farm for in a trade. I do like him though.

In comment 11949719 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

"WAR since" stuff you cite is irrelevant or should be. A trade like this (or any trade really) should be about going forward, not looking back, too often GM's get caught up in the agent hoopla about "WAR since" and sign guys to contracts they don't deserve or trade more than they should for them. Jason Bay in 2010 when the Mets signed him was probably top 5 in WAR from 2005 - 2010. I'm not saying that offer is fair value for Gordon or not, but he's 31 before the next season starts, and costs 12.5M per year the next two years (which is good I guess for his production, but probably more than KC wants to pay 1 player). So, if they were to deal him, it's not exactly like they'd be dealing from a position of strength like if the Pirates were to deal Marte or even the Cubs with Castro. So, just saying even if that offer Martino cited is light, he's not a guy I empty the farm for in a trade. I do like him though.

PJ,
Murphy has 1 year left as well. Why in the world would the Royals want a player like that? Their whole "plan" would be to move Gordon so they could afford to keep other players. Murphy will be a FA and/or need a new deal himself at significant money. It's not "light" it makes no sense at all. If they deal Gordon it will be for controllable players/prospects not another pending FA who happens to be slightly cheaper.

was not specific to the players offered by Martino, it was specific to the "WAR since" comment.

In comment 11949719 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

"WAR since" stuff you cite is irrelevant or should be. A trade like this (or any trade really) should be about going forward, not looking back, too often GM's get caught up in the agent hoopla about "WAR since" and sign guys to contracts they don't deserve or trade more than they should for them. Jason Bay in 2010 when the Mets signed him was probably top 5 in WAR from 2005 - 2010. I'm not saying that offer is fair value for Gordon or not, but he's 31 before the next season starts, and costs 12.5M per year the next two years (which is good I guess for his production, but probably more than KC wants to pay 1 player). So, if they were to deal him, it's not exactly like they'd be dealing from a position of strength like if the Pirates were to deal Marte or even the Cubs with Castro. So, just saying even if that offer Martino cited is light, he's not a guy I empty the farm for in a trade. I do like him though.

Just for the record Jason Bay from 2005-2010 was 44th in baseball in WAR. That is neither here nor there. The point is Gordon 1. is elite but more importantly 2. the entire point in considering moving him would be to free up significant money to spend on others/replenish the farm. Murphy doesn't do that and Montero while a solid prospect is certainly not considered some blue chipper. 3. Gordon's salary is so low MOST teams in baseball will be interested/able to add him.

I had a guess (assuming Murphy has a good season... equal to this past year) he will land a deal in the 4 year 40-48 range. Obviously it depends on his season.

say this as someone who isn't gaga for Alex Gordon who is a good offensive player but whose value is very much weighted on his elite level LF play (which is legit) but just not the skillset of a guy I want to invest a huge deal in. But that's mostly on an entertainment level + "what happens if/when he loses a step"?

I suspect any trading partner would discount it since so much of his value comes from playing superior defense at a less important position. He'll get paid like a prime 120 OPS player who is leaving his prime years, with some additional adjustment for playing a great LF. I dont think he gets paid like a 7 WAR (ie superstar), which he has been in 3 of 4 prime years.

I just dont see a GM plunking down $25 million per for a .265 hitter who you'll expect to get 15-20 HR and 10-15 SBs at a non-premium position. I get that it could be justifiable based on defensive #s, but I dont see any GM actually doing it.

In comment 11949751 Deej said:

Quote:

I suspect any trading partner would discount it since so much of his value comes from playing superior defense at a less important position. He'll get paid like a prime 120 OPS player who is leaving his prime years, with some additional adjustment for playing a great LF. I dont think he gets paid like a 7 WAR (ie superstar), which he has been in 3 of 4 prime years. I just dont see a GM plunking down $25 million per for a .265 hitter who you'll expect to get 15-20 HR and 10-15 SBs at a non-premium position. I get that it could be justifiable based on defensive #s, but I dont see any GM actually doing it.

I'd suggest that will potentially effect his eventual contract than his trade value. Remember, all but one team in baseball currently has a full-time Sabermetric staff. There are teams that view defense as the most important aspect of the game (run prevention). But as I said the biggest issue with such an offer is Murphy is a pending FA making 8.1 million. That alone makes it a non-starter. If Daniel Murphy were making 3 million and locked up for 2-3 more, then MAYBE there would be an argument to be had for him in a deal. This does nothing for them.

Gordon has his "usual" season in 2015, I suspect he still clears 100 million pretty easily. The only reason I would hedge on that prediction is he will be 32, but that did't stop Choo. At the very least Gordon will clear 20 million per if he has his usual season.

teams aren't giving up the farm for him (or part of the reason at least) and it's probably why he's not going to get an elite package of prospects. Again - NOT SAYING MURPHY SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN ANY TRADE, just he's not a guy in his situation I see teams offering a huge package of players for.

In comment 11949765 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

teams aren't giving up the farm for him (or part of the reason at least) and it's probably why he's not going to get an elite package of prospects. Again - NOT SAYING MURPHY SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN ANY TRADE, just he's not a guy in his situation I see teams offering a huge package of players for.

PJ,
I actually think despite all of the words used here by both of us... we agree lol

as an example I'm sure the Royals are looking for the Dilson Herrera's of the world in a potential deal and not Murphy's.

LOL

In comment 11949761 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

Gordon has his "usual" season in 2015, I suspect he still clears 100 million pretty easily. The only reason I would hedge on that prediction is he will be 32, but that did't stop Choo. At the very least Gordon will clear 20 million per if he has his usual season.

100/6 would be 16.7 million per. Given the market, that seems way cheap. Look at Choo and Grandy.

However, re the defensive stats/Sabermetrics comment, I think the problem with paying for defense is not that it is somehow undervalued; the problem is that the defensive statistics are decently flawed right now from what I've read. Maybe teams have proprietary data we dont know about for defense though.

Steven Matz, LHP

�He had a very good season in 2013, and exceeded that in 2014, both at St. Lucie and at Binghamton. His numbers were very similar at both places, which is very positive given the fact that he had moved up a level. I would say Steven is probably one of the top handful of left-handed pitching prospects in the game right now. The guy who was supposed to be the best left-handed prospect, Andrew Heaney, came up to the Marlins last year and didn�t do particularly well in his transition, but I think Steven is very comparable. He�s got an excellent fastball for a lefty, at 93, 94 mph. It can get a little bit higher than that. His breaking ball has gotten much better. And he threw some excellent changeups that night in Binghamton in that championship game.

�He�s been on the roster. He was on the roster last year. He�ll, of course, be on the roster again this year. I think the difference is that last year we put him on the roster to protect the talent. This year I think he�s got a chance potentially sometime during the season to help us at the major league level.�

Brandon Nimmo, OF

�There are several qualities that I think distinguish Brandon. One is his commitment to excellence, if you will. He�s a tremendously competitive individual. He takes his preparation very seriously. He has grown physically very impressively over the last couple of years through offseason workouts. He has an approach that�s very consistent with what we try to promote, which is selectivity at the plate. Being aggressive with good judgment, I guess, is how we look at it � getting a good pitch to hit. If anything, at Binghamton, I think he began to demonstrate a little more power, which we think he has. There may be a little trade-off between his discipline at the plate and his ability to turn on the ball, but I think that�s something that�s coming. He�s a very committed guy.�

Dilson Herrera, 2B

�We�re very happy with his progress. I mean, it was phenomenal last year really coming from Port St. Lucie through Binghamton and up to the major league club. It was tough for me to make the decision to bring Dilson up to the major leagues knowing how important he had been to Binghamton. I think I called [B-Mets owner] Mike Urda and said, �Look, I really apologize, but this is really what we need to do.� And he was the right guy at the time. We had some playing time because [Daniel] Murphy was down.

�Herrera has surprising power for his size. He runs well. He�s very athletic. Turns the double play. I think he�s going to get more consistent defensively. He�s got pretty good hands and moves laterally well. We were impressed with him during his time with us. He had very good at-bats. I think he hit three home runs. So he�s got some real potential. And we were very happy with him during the course of his time with us, and he�ll come to spring training.

�You know, our middle-infield situation over the next couple of years is probably going to be in a little bit of flux. So he�s got an excellent opportunity.�

Matt Reynolds, SS

�He�s been solid at shortstop. And we�ve left him there and expect that he�ll be able to remain there. He�s also an excellent athlete. He�s got a strong arm, pretty good range defensively. Offensively, he had just a great season last year � really a breakout season for him both at Binghamton and at Las Vegas. The numbers get a little inflated at Las Vegas, but his were right in line with what he had done in Binghamton.

�I think what he�s done � by his own word, he�s indicated � he�s started to use all the field. He�s not really trying to pull everything. And although he had some home runs, and I think he�s got three home runs already in the Arizona Fall League, he tries to use the whole field. He�s sort of a gap-to-gap guy. So we�re very high on Reynolds and hope that he can at least at the outset of 2015 duplicate what he was able to do last year.�

Kevin Plawecki, C

�Plawecki is very solid � one of the handful of best catching prospects in baseball. I think we�re fortunate to have two young guys like [Travis] d�Arnaud and Plawecki. Plawecki is a little different hitter � more of a contact hitter, more patient at the plate. But I think he has some power potential. He�s a big guy.

�Defensively, he catches the ball well, blocks reasonably well. He probably has an average arm, but is very solid behind the plate and I think develops a pretty good rapport with his pitching staff. So we�re very high on both of those players. �

�Right now we�re fortunate that we have two who are essentially major league ready � I think Plawecki is close � of such high quality. At the same time, as they sort of both converge on the major leagues, it�s a question of whether both can be accommodated. I think there are circumstances under which that�s possible. For example, sharing the catching duties and then one of them playing first base a little bit or playing in the outfield. Or, during interleague games one of them DHing against left-handed pitching. I think there are ways to do it. The question is really whether that�s the best use of those two resources. And it may be, because beyond those two there�s a little bit of a drop-off at least in the catching we have in the system. We�ve got a couple of very young guys that we really like, but there may be a little bit of a drop-off after Plawecki. And so we have to be careful about trying to keep both of those guys in the system.�

Michael Conforto, OF

�Since I arrived in New York, he�s the first first-round pick out of college that we�ve drafted. Our other three had been high school players. So I do expect that he�ll move a little more quickly. We did get him to Savannah for the playoffs late in the season this year. So I would expect that he�ll move more quickly than some of our other top draft picks have certainly.

�Michael comes from a very athletic and competitive family. His father, I think, was a linebacker at Penn State. He played football there. His mother is a former Olympic athlete � a medalist in synchronized swimming. So he comes from a very athletic family. He�s a great kid, very humble and committed to the game and has interacted with fans � I think a terrific individual, and an outstanding hitter.

�A left-handed hitter, power is probably not his foremost quality. He�s got some, but he�s more of a gap-to-gap guy � high average, high on-base percentage � and a pretty good defender, which was not his reputation coming into the draft. But based on the time he spent in Brooklyn and then Savannah, our guys were very pleased with him defensively. He�s kind of an all-around player, and we do expect that he�ll move very quickly.�

Brown claimed by the A's

As for Gordon, regardless of the numbers I think "everyone" agrees he's an elite defender.

claimed by the Brewers

do you think Martino is generally an awful reporter? I read that article last night and it seems like a reporter trying to create a story. So much of that article seems like nonsense.

In comment 11950309 NyquistX3 said:

Quote:

do you think Martino is generally an awful reporter? I read that article last night and it seems like a reporter trying to create a story. So much of that article seems like nonsense.

I am not a fan of Martino's. Routinely seems to have "stories"that never end up being proven true that nobody else has. he also made the claim the fan base didn't like Castillo because they were racist...

on the CO prospects
Link - ( New Window )

In comment 11950328 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

on the CO prospects Link - ( New Window )

I guess he was looking at Nimmo as a center fielder. I'm assuming the Mets like what they have in Lagares and won't trade him, so when Nimmo is ready for the majors it will be as a corner outfielder.

In comment 11950340 Ira said:

Quote:

In comment 11950328 DanMetroMan said: Quote: on the CO prospects Link - ( New Window ) I guess he was looking at Nimmo as a center fielder. I'm assuming the Mets like what they have in Lagares and won't trade him, so when Nimmo is ready for the majors it will be as a corner outfielder.

Yes. Nimmo is a CF per Toby's lists.

tune in to the MLB Network at 8:00pm for a peek on the televised AFL All Star game

New York Mets
Released: RHP Ramon Estevez, RHP Juan Marte, RHP Bret Mitchell, RHP Flabio Ortega, RHP Luis Rengel, LHP T.J. Chism, LHP Alex Panteliodis, LHP Waldo Rodriguez, LHP Juan Urbina, C Luis Arrizurieta, C Miguel Leal, 2B Jorge Rivero, 3B Cole Frenzel

didnt we give him a massive bonus?

In comment 11953227 Deej said:

Quote:

didnt we give him a massive bonus?

Yup he was a bonus baby. I wouldn't say "massive" but over 1 million aint chump change. He sucked.

son?

In comment 11953361 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

son?

Yup

like it's sayonara for Dice-K

In comment 11953365 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

In comment 11953361 pjcas18 said: Quote: son? Yup

Uggie wound up with a wild post-baseball off-season list of incidents, wasn't his mother kidnapped and held for ransom and they he murdered someone with a machete?

Was that all him?

Chris Cotillo @ChrisCotillo
Source: #DBacks held private workout for Yasmany Tomas today. Told he "absolutely demolished" the baseball.

murder, got out 1-2 years ago.

with Nimmo
Link - ( New Window )

In comment 11953151 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

New York Mets Released: RHP Ramon Estevez, RHP Juan Marte, RHP Bret Mitchell, RHP Flabio Ortega, RHP Luis Rengel, LHP T.J. Chism, LHP Alex Panteliodis, LHP Waldo Rodriguez, LHP Juan Urbina, C Luis Arrizurieta, C Miguel Leal, 2B Jorge Rivero, 3B Cole Frenzel

Panda Pants is gone?!? Say it ain't so :(

The 19 year old defected from Cuba and is subject to the International Draft. Most of the big boys have put themselves in luxury tax dollar for dollar situation. He rates as a super prospect

In comment 11953988 Headhunter said:

Quote:

The 19 year old defected from Cuba and is subject to the International Draft. Most of the big boys have put themselves in luxury tax dollar for dollar situation. He rates as a super prospect

If he's in the international draft we wouldn't be able to sign him thought right?

In comment 11953441 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

Chris Cotillo @ChrisCotillo Source: #DBacks held private workout for Yasmany Tomas today. Told he "absolutely demolished" the baseball.

Someone's going to get a young stud by signing this dude. Too bad it won't be us.

really gonna get like 110? Based on upside, age, and the fact that its just money he seemed like such a great fit. No way the mets get near that number though.

just offered Cuddyer the qualifying offer, so you can cross him off for the Mets.

In comment 11954043 Metnut said:

Quote:

just offered Cuddyer the qualifying offer, so you can cross him off for the Mets.

Would that imply that they may be moving one of their other OF's? Or is it a sign they are making him a full-time 1B?

they don't anticipate him accepting it, and he will decline; become a FA and them getting draft pick compensation for losing him.

The Mets have over $800k to sign him the Yankees Red Sox Eangers and Cubs are in luxury tax territory. If they do sign him they will lose their internatiinal picks next year from the way I understand it

The Mets have over $800k to sign him the Yankees Red Sox Eangers and Cubs are in luxury tax territory. If they do sign him they will lose their internatiinal picks next year from the way I understand it

I mean the teams that are in luxury tax territory. The Mets can spend $800k and still have all their picks. Sandy has signed 6 IFA's this year so he is a player in that market

His hitting is rated 60 His Speed 70
and power 70
Since he is under 23 he is subject to the Internal Draft this year on June 15th
He is a SS

in luxury tax land. This is the guy the Mets need to get

he would have been a good addition, but I think for the 10-12M he would have cost there's someone who could be a bigger help. He would have been a solid pickup, but almost certainly not "the piece the gets them over the hump".

says Mets 100% out due to Cuddyer news. Good.

In comment 11954009 Italianju said:

Quote:

really gonna get like 110? Based on upside, age, and the fact that its just money he seemed like such a great fit. No way the mets get near that number though.

Badler says the 100+ demands are false. he's asking for "more than" Castillo who got 72.5

In comment 11954254 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

says Mets 100% out due to Cuddyer news. Good.

Agree, good news. Not worth a 1st round pick plus 12-15M.

@MarcCarig: Told that the qualifying offer kills the Mets� interest in Michael Cuddyer. Draft pick compensation changes everything. My sense is Mets don�t seem particularly enthused by the other options on FA market (Rios, et al.)

#15 pick AND a multi year deal would have been insanity. Remember, he already has 15.3 "in his pocket" which means he KNOWS he can make 15 next year so you are likely looking at 22-25 MINIMUM + #15 overall pick if you wanted to sign him. No thank you

winning the Players vote for ROY. Not bad for a Ivan Nova type

note on the Cuddyer stuff.


2 years 25 or so million + the #15 pick for a guy you are HOPING isn't starting for you in 2016 (the hope in this scenario would be a Granderson bounce back, Lagares legit and Nimmo ready). Dude is 36! Great to hear they are "out".

one that will set the direction for the next 5 years plus. Lot of names that we thought were a big part of the future are on the way out of town. In return are coming guys we never thought would be wearing a Met uniform.

Need a blockbuster to draw interest yet don't trust SA after last offseason's comical misuse of funds.

why the hell wouldn't they make a play for Tomas? If 5/75 is in the neighborhood, that's $3mill more a year. If that's too steep, the Wilpons fucking suck and they should sell. Sure there's risk, but in the Mets situation, they're going to have to assume some risk. It's not like Cuddyer was risk free.

In comment 11957431 Giants2012 said:

Quote:

Need a blockbuster to draw interest yet don't trust SA after last offseason's comical misuse of funds.

The only thing I like about last year was other than Granderson, who I thought was a year too long, but otherwise not a move I'll complain massively about - is that the misuse of funds was short-term. Chris Young a 1-year deal, Colon a 2-year deal that should be moveable if they want to move him.

In comment 11957244 Headhunter said:

Quote:

one that will set the direction for the next 5 years plus. Lot of names that we thought were a big part of the future are on the way out of town. In return are coming guys we never thought would be wearing a Met uniform.

I could see it. I don't think a lot of prospects will be on the way out, but 1 of the big pitchers (Thor, Wheeler, Matz or JdG) will get moved.

Of names "rumored" out there I could see it for Gordon, Tulo, CarGo, Bruce, or obviously Stanton (supposedly Marlins are trying to negotiate a deal with him again, and aren't sure if his reps will engage in talks).

Also think Sandy will be interested in Jose Bautista or Starlin Castro, just don't see him giving up 1 of the 4 big pitchers for a 34 year old or a SS whose glove isn't markedly significantly better than what Flores showed last year.

At this point I'm back to the Tulo bandwagon 100%. 6 years, 114 million remaining. That's less than Hanley will likely get and not far off what a completely unproven Cuban OFer may get. The only MVP caliber player even remotely available and fits our needs to a T. Trade Murph & Colon for prospects and there's the $20M saved to afford it. Give them Thor and 2 other solid prospects like Montero and Plawecki, then fill in the rest of the roster with bargain signings.

The Mets have very little interest in giving up their top pick (15th overall) in next year�s draft, a source said this week (Martino, Nov. 4).

In comment 11957513 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

The Mets have very little interest in giving up their top pick (15th overall) in next year�s draft, a source said this week (Martino, Nov. 4).

It is early but there look to be a number of quality arms in the 2015 Rule IV Draft. A lot can change between now and then but some of the high draft picks on arms have not developed as hoped

draft? Is that a draft that happens before the rule V draft? different minor leaguers?

In comment 11957674 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

draft? Is that a draft that happens before the rule V draft? different minor leaguers?

Isn't IV simply the regular amateur draft? I'm pretty sure it is.

In comment 11957649 Mike in NY said:

Quote:

In comment 11957513 DanMetroMan said: Quote: The Mets have very little interest in giving up their top pick (15th overall) in next year�s draft, a source said this week (Martino, Nov. 4). It is early but there look to be a number of quality arms in the 2015 Rule IV Draft. A lot can change between now and then but some of the high draft picks on arms have not developed as hoped

Daz Cameron specifically has fallen in peoples eyes. Still intriguing talent.

The article lists Mets as a potential suitor, suggesting Thor or Wheeler, but I think there's no way that happens given his injury history and the Coors factor.

I do think he is a very realistic and solid trade candidate for the Mets. Would slot in very nicely hitting 3rd and has a great glove.

My best offer would be something like Montero, Plawecki, and Gee. Montero has pitched well in tough environments and is still somewhere close to a top 100 prospect. Plawecki is a 2nd top 100 prospect and then a useful 1-2 WAR player who is still young (could swap in Murphy if they want a hitter back).
Look For Rockies To Trade Carlos Gonzalez - ( New Window )

No reason to believe that he will ever be a 150+ game OF, and we cant pay $18 million per over 3 years for a 100-120 game corner OF. His injuries are getting worse; this is structural stuff, not freak bone breaks. And then take a gander at his brutal home-road splits.

In comment 11957688 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

In comment 11957674 pjcas18 said: Quote: draft? Is that a draft that happens before the rule V draft? different minor leaguers? Isn't IV simply the regular amateur draft? I'm pretty sure it is.

Yes it is :)

he has seen

In comment 11958875 Headhunter said:

Quote:

he has seen

Me too. In his short career, Lagares has probably been a better defender than Andruw Jones was. Lagares is at a staggering 6.9 dWAR (Baseball Ref) in 1850 innings.

that is one hell of an endorsement

In comment 11957448 Section331 said:

Quote:

why the hell wouldn't they make a play for Tomas? If 5/75 is in the neighborhood, that's $3mill more a year. If that's too steep, the Wilpons fucking suck and they should sell. Sure there's risk, but in the Mets situation, they're going to have to assume some risk. It's not like Cuddyer was risk free.

Some people think that Tomas isn't that good. His numbers at the same age as the better Cuban players were much lower.

invest a fraction of that for Yoan Macando. He has to either sign before 6/15 or subject himself to the International Free Agent Draft

In comment 11959007 Ira said:

Quote:

In comment 11957448 Section331 said: Quote: why the hell wouldn't they make a play for Tomas? If 5/75 is in the neighborhood, that's $3mill more a year. If that's too steep, the Wilpons fucking suck and they should sell. Sure there's risk, but in the Mets situation, they're going to have to assume some risk. It's not like Cuddyer was risk free. Some people think that Tomas isn't that good. His numbers at the same age as the better Cuban players were much lower.

Tomas reportedly was "incredible" this week in a workout with the Dbacks. But yes, the guy people should want is Mancado.

In comment 11958972 Deej said:

Quote:

In comment 11958875 Headhunter said: Quote: he has seen Me too. In his short career, Lagares has probably been a better defender than Andruw Jones was. Lagares is at a staggering 6.9 dWAR (Baseball Ref) in 1850 innings.

No knock on Lagares but NO WAY. Andruw Jones is the greatest CF in baseball history defensively by a LARGE margin in terms of the numbers. 1998-37.4, 1999 38.5... as great as Lagares has been 2013 (his better defensive season) total defense rating of 25.4. That's not a knock. Lagares is INCREDIBLE. But better than Andruw simply isn't fair.
Link - ( New Window )

first 3 seasons he was worth 10 wins with his glove alone. 98-99 seasons 7.6. Amazing defensive player.

No knock on Andruw Jones. But Willie Mays is the greatest CF in baseball history.

Jones's two great seasons were 1998-99, where he had a combined dWAR of 7.7. But that was in 321 games covering 2820 innings. Lagares has put up a dWAR of 6.9 in just 228 games, covering 1850 innings. That's 90% of Jones's dWAR in just 66% of Jones's innings. And of course this isnt cherrypicking Lagares's best years -- this is his who MLB career to date. After year 3, Jones never got back to being a 3 dWAR player.

Lagares doesnt have Jones's track record of a decade of superior defensive play, but inning for inning he is the equal or better of the guys I've seen (Jones, Junior, White etc.).

Ravitch compares him to Jones.

Congrats JL!

They have to pursue Moncada. They still have IFA budget to spend and it's completely feasible. The guy could wind up being our SS for the next decade+

Sign him, make a trade for a LFer with power and all of a sudden the Mets are in pretty good shape.

He is something else.

We're as good as the hype. But DiMaggio might of been the best( I never saw him play)

Dimaggio play, but when he was healthy Ken Griffey Jr, was about as good defensively as anyone I've seen and better offensively than most.

Too bad, like Mantle, injuries robbed the end of his career (2nd half of his career really - he played over 140 games twice after 30).

I thought he'd go down as one of the all-time greats, you barely hear him mentioned anymore.

his power I read compares to Tomas, his hitting to Puig and overall a Jorge Soler with more upside. This is the guy I want. The Mets have $ 800,000 in cap room. Alderson, get it done

.

may make Upton or Heyward available if blown away for young pitching but I don't see any chance the Mets get involved. Upton is a FA in one year which means you'd be giving up a deGrom or Wheeler (PLUS) just for the right to give Justin Upton the biggest contract in franchise history (doubtful the Wilpons would even do that) and then risk Wheeler or deGrom becoming stars with the Braves.

Word is Starlin Castro won't be dealt unless the Cubs are blown away. Maddon was told the Cubs are going to try and win in 2015, add legit talent and none of the other SS's they have a ready to help. I never really expected a Cubs/Mets deal as the Cubs will just use $$ to add pitching and Plawecki (part of the Mets potential surplus otherwise) wouldn't be of huge interest to the Cubs.

Cuddyer obviously will not be a Met after receiving his QO, Markakis is reportedly close to a deal with the Orioles.

Puma says they have Morse "on their radar" but teams have major health concerns with Morse (as well as fielding issues). Most think he should sign with a team he can 1b/DH.

Phillies shopping Ryan Howard hard (good luck with that).

Mickey Mantle was not in DiMaggio's or Mays' class as a fielder even before he injured his knee.
DiMaggio made it look effortless, but did not have the speed or the arm that Mays had.
Willie Mays is the greatest CF ever. Anyone who saw him doesn't require statistics to come to that conclusion.

Metsblog is really poorly run. They claim that a link on their site (from MLBTR) notes the Mets are out of IFA money. This isn't true, nor does the link mention the Mets. This was posted at 9 am and still haven't changed it.

is advocating a deal based around Thor for Upton. Again, this ONLY makes sense if Fred is giving Upton the biggest deal in Mets history upon making the trade. Otherwise it's a disaster. He walks and the Mets get a 2016 1st round pick at the cost of Thor and others? Talk about a kick in the nuts.

And Thor for a rental is a total non-starter for me. Seems like everyone is saying "we'll trade a hitter if blown away". Well if that is the case then we arent making a trade.

Its a bad offseason to be trading for a hitter, with almost no decent FAs and a historically terrible year for hitters just concluded.

a Wheeler, deGrom or Thor for a big time young hitter is fine... it's NOT fine for a pending FA unless Fred is seriously willing to give the guy a monster deal upon making the trade. To give up a guy like this only for the hitter to walk would be the kind of move that buries the franchise (and destroys positivity) for years to come. Talk about a ghosttown if Upton came here, hit 275 30 100, signed for 160 with the Yankees while Wheeler wins 17-18 games the next 5-6+ years... the Mets would have a 2016 pick to show for it, David Wright would be a spry 36 years old by the time this pick were helping the Mets. Granderson would likely be retired.

.

" you are the finest Center Fielder I have ever seen"

get that the market sucks but unless Morse is settling for 1 year I really hope they pass. He's 33, oft-injured and THE WORST LF in baseball. I understand Lagares is great in CF but the Mets pitchers don't need to have to worry about every single ball to LF. Last 3 seasons Morse has missed 60, 74 and 31 games and has leg issues. He's a 1b at this point. trade, trade, trade.

are up to #27



1. Noah Syndergaard (RHP) 22 years old (AAA/MLB) 88% of 34 votes
2. Dilson Herrera (2B) 21 years old (AAA/MLB) 56% of 39 votes
3. Brandon Nimmo (CF) 22 years old (AAA) 33% of 43 votes (Run-off vs. Matz 55% of 40 votes)
4. Steven Matz (LHP) 24 years old (AAA) 69% of 48 votes
5. Michael Conforto (LF) 22 years old (A+) 49% of 43 votes
6. Kevin Plawecki (C) 24 years old (AAA) 59% of 34 votes
7. Rafael Montero (RHP) 24 years old (AAA/MLB) 65% of 37 votes
8. Marcos Molina (RHP) 20 years old (A) 43% of 40 votes (Run-off with Rosario 55% of 40 votes)
9. Amed Rosario (SS) 19 years old (A) 75% of 40 votes
10. Jhoan Urena (3b) 20 years old (A) 42% of 38 votes
11. Gavin Cecchini (SS) 21 years old (A) 57% of 37 votes
12. Dominic Smith (1b) 20 years old (A) 75% of 28 votes
13. Matt Reynolds (SS/2b) 24 years old (AAA) 52% of 31 votes
14. Cory Mazzoni (RP/SP) 25 years old (AAA) 46% of 28 votes
15. Matthew Chou Bowman (SP/RP) 24 years old AAA 42% of 38 votes
16. Cesar Puello (23) AAA (OF) 24% of 33 votes, runoff with Fulmer 52% of 31 votes
17. Buca di Beppo (Becerra) 28% of 29 votes, runoff vs. Maz 57%
18. LJ Mazzilli (24) 28% of 32 votes, runoff with Meisner 52% of 31 votes
19. Casey Meisner (20) (A) 57% of 30 votes
20. Milton Ramos (19) (A) 21% of 28 votes, run-off with Ynoa 52% of 23 votes
21. Gabriel Ynoa (22) (AA) 64% of 22 votes
22. Champ Stuart (22) (A+) 36% of 25 votes
23. Michael Fulmer (22) (AA) 41% of 22 votes
24. Akeel Morris (22) (A+) 31% of 26 votes
25. Logan Verrett (25) (AAA) 27% of 22 votes, 47% of runoff with Whalen/Mateo
26. Jack Leathersich (25) (AAA) 24% of 17 votes, 57% of runoff with Whalen
27. Tyler Pill (24) (AAA) 40% of 20 votes

will be huge. Sandy Alderson gets to get the pieces for a run

Makes you realize how insanely deep the Mets farm is now compared to years past. Guys like Pill, Verret, Leather etc used to be the second half of our top ten list level of prospects. Now they are 20 slots lower. Truly remarkable A) how bad the farm has been over the years and B) how good the farm is now.

If I'm a GM of another team I'd be chasing down Sandy for a 3-1 trade and load up on our B level prospects for an OK OF.

will give Wilmer competition for the SS job. Maybe not out of ST, but by June

is so low on the list. He was insane last year, do they think his stuff is like Tapia where it won't be as dominant at the higher levels?

Morris 2014:

4 - 1 with a 0.63 ERA with 16 saves in 57 innings 19 hits, 22 walks, 89 k's, .719 WHIP, 14.1 K/9 and a SO/W of 4.05

is that video game like? Was 21 old for low A ball?

would almost be better off simply being great vs. lefties and horrid vs. righties. He has reverse splits which actually hurt him because it's not too often you will go to/leave in a lefty vs. a righty. Still misses bats but his command needs significant improvement. It's now or never in 2015. He's no longer young. Verrett has a shot to be a Hefner-type swingman/6th inning arm. Scouts like the slider even if the FB is subpar.

In comment 11959646 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

is so low on the list. He was insane last year, do they think his stuff is like Tapia where it won't be as dominant at the higher levels? Morris 2014: 4 - 1 with a 0.63 ERA with 16 saves in 57 innings 19 hits, 22 walks, 89 k's, .719 WHIP, 14.1 K/9 and a SO/W of 4.05 is that video game like? Was 21 old for low A ball?

He's extremely small with good, not great stuff. 91-94 on the FB, average changeup, doesn't really throw anything else. He was age appropriate for the league but 5th year in the system and still only in Savannah + not even promoted to St. Lucie in-season doesn't suggest the Mets are especially impressed with him. He has a shot to be a big leaguer but even BA only mentioned him in passing when discussing the prospects in Savannah.

walks in 57 innings in Savannah also is pretty damn poor. If that's what he's doing in A ball what happens in the bigs? His ranking also represents his limited upside which is that of a reliever with good/not great stuff ala Gonzalez Germen type. This isn't a Familia/Mejia type of arm.

is Rule V eligible and likely represents the guy they will have the biggest discussion regarding whether to add him or not. Adam says Mazzoni, Verrett, Leathersich are "expected to" be added with Morris a potential add. It seems unlikely a team would select Morris AND he would lost all season on their 25 man roster so if I'm the Mets I leave him exposed. This isn't the Matz decision where it's a young lefty starter.

89k's in 57 innings, more than compensates for the 22 walks when guys aren't hitting you. .719 WHIP is microscopic, isn't it?

Anyway, I've never seen him pitch like most minors guys I go by stats and rankings unfortunately.

Oh well, the Mets did award him the award for best player at his level (he and Dario Alvarez both got it for Savannah)

did a twitter chat and one of his answers on the subject is relevant



(Questioner-)�@ihateprospects: the problem the Mets are going to have with R5 is border dudes like Mazzoni, Leathersich, and Morris are absolutely �15 bullpen candidates�

�@jeffpaternostro: @ihateprospects Mazzoni yes, the other two, not really a big deal if they get poached and no way Morris makes it a year on the 25. I would protect Verrett before either of the latter two frankly.�

"@thebs19: @jeffpaternostro great stats aside, am i missing something on Akeel? Scouting reports say max effort low 90s with bad command. Meh?"

�@jeffpaternostro: @thebs19 Nope.�

In comment 11959664 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

89k's in 57 innings, more than compensates for the 22 walks when guys aren't hitting you. .719 WHIP is microscopic, isn't it? Anyway, I've never seen him pitch like most minors guys I go by stats and rankings unfortunately. Oh well, the Mets did award him the award for best player at his level (he and Dario Alvarez both got it for Savannah)

PJ,
The sterling awards are often given out to guys they want to hype up vs. "best" prospects. I remember Mike Jacobs won player of the year. I'm not crapping on Morris, I just understand why he is where he is. Savannah also was left with very, very little talent once the mid-season promotions happened.

P does like him more than Germen despite not being a huge fan


"Morris still ran a 10 percent walk rate, which indicates his real command and control issues. His wild pitch in game two of the Gnats� Southern Division Championship Series allowed the eventual winning run to score for Asheville. His slider is still not a very useful weapon. All the same, I like his stuff a whole lot more than Gonzalez Germen, and Germen made his way into a big league bullpen. I expect Morris to do the same either by late 2015 or 2016."

I can't debate anything about Morris, like I said I've never seen him pitch, so all I can go by are his stats, which as the tweet says, are great (for most of them).

So, if these scouts says he's borderline Rule V protection-worth with mediocre stuff then that's what he is. Probably not a guy worth watching - with all the other high potential prospects the Mets have - both starters and in the BP.

Mets promoted Alvarez, Cecchini, Mazzilli, McNeil, McGowan (not that he's a big prospect) all at mid-season leaving Savannah with very little prospect wise. Obviously Smith is a prospect but he didn't have a good year. Stuart could have won as well however.

In comment 11959674 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

I can't debate anything about Morris, like I said I've never seen him pitch, so all I can go by are his stats, which as the tweet says, are great (for most of them). So, if these scouts says he's borderline Rule V protection-worth with mediocre stuff then that's what he is. Probably not a guy worth watching - with all the other high potential prospects the Mets have - both starters and in the BP.

Hey bullpen arm is still "something". It's not like you should be giving these guys away but hard to really argue protecting a small a-ball reliever who has yet to throw a pitch in St. Lucie who has command issues when you already have a crowded 40 man. Unless something truly shocking happens the absolute worst case would be Morris being taken, lasting an entire season on a 25 man roster and giving another team 40-50 solid middle relief innings. If that's "worst case" it's not so bad. Matz worst case would have been REALLY bad aka a #2 starter type arm lost for nothing.

what the Mets should have done though is tested Morris knowing he was going to be eligible for Rule V this year.

You know, push him a little and find out what you have.

Unless they wanted him to dominate a lower level to include him in a trade.

In comment 11959685 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

what the Mets should have done though is tested Morris knowing he was going to be eligible for Rule V this year. You know, push him a little and find out what you have. Unless they wanted him to dominate a lower level to include him in a trade.

PJ,
Your exact thought was a MAJOR topic of discussion all season on NYFS (well as much as one can be for an a-ball reliever).

fast baller racks up K's by the bushel and a guy with. 96 mph fast ball pitches to contact. It can't be late movement for the 91mph and the 96 mph throws straight with no movement. Nobody in ML baseball throws a straight no life fastball consistently

a deceptive motion and the ability to make it hard for the hitter to pick up the ball out of his hand

at Parnell. Touches upper 90's (or at least did previously, well see this year) but doesn't really miss many bats for a reliever.

velocity is fine. His issues are command and lack of a breaker. Very few relievers can get by with that combination. Familia might have taken time to develop but the pure stuff was always seen as dominant, same as Mejia.

I know Pompey loses some value moving to a corner but he's a potential leadoff hitter, speed, defense guy. Might be a nice match.

Comment From Dave
So they Jays seem to be making an effort to shed payroll to start the winter. Where do you see them investing this cash? Cabrera extension, R.Martin, left side of the infield?
12:13
Dave Cameron: I still think they�re best off acquiring a second baseman and keeping Lawrie at third. That means a trade.

Put him next to Legares and the other team better hits lots of ground balls. Those two would make one heck of an OF

Then trade Thor/Plawecki for Tulo, dump Colon's 10M, sign a couple depth guys, and go to ST.

1.Harvey 2.Niese 3.Wheeler 4.JdG 5.Gee
and
3.Tulo 4.Duda 5.Wright 6.Granderson

= playoffs, plus plenty of young talent to grow (TdA, Nimmo, Matz, Herrera, Flores, Reynolds, etc.)

In comment 11960611 Shecky said:

Quote:

Put him next to Legares and the other team better hits lots of ground balls. Those two would make one heck of an OF

I really like him. He's the kind of guy I'd target even if it cost a "solid" amount.

offensive upside has been compared to Victorino which I think we can all agree would be pretty sweet hitting leadoff and patrolling the OF with Lagares.

In comment 11960648 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

offensive upside has been compared to Victorino which I think we can all agree would be pretty sweet hitting leadoff and patrolling the OF with Lagares.

I'd consider leadoff hitter to be a huge need on this team. That trade really makes a lot of sense all the way around.

dealt to the Astros for Nick Tropeano. Really like that move for the Angels.

BA suggests Moncada would be the favorite for 1/1 in the 2015 draft if he were eligible #mets

unless he wants to be a Ranger

I like that. Sounding more and more like they are gearing up to take aim at a trade.
From Carig - ( New Window )

They have already forfeited their future rights. Now it's just a financially penalty only. Mets have about 3/4 mm to spend, so you are talking about less than a million dollar advantage over teams like the Yankees.

Add the money, closeness of the front office to commish office, future penalties, and the Mets depth of teenage shortstops -I'd be shocked if the Mets even consider him. Him or Tomas would definitely get fans thinking the Mets are truly ready to turn the page and not the same old Mets. Just not getting my hopes up on this one.

I know the risks involved, but Tulo would be my #1 target. Literally the only guy who, by himself, could be a game changer. The Mets are one of a handful of teams who have what it takes to get him (both prospects and cash). I'd be interested in CarGo as well, but it would have to be a lesser deal as I would not trade Thor for him.
Rockies listening - ( New Window )

so if they pay him $60 million, it would cost them $120 million and they lose the the right to participate in the 2015 International Free agent Draft

.

in a NY minute if they can sign him to an extension.

I just don't see Tulo staying healthy.. you know he will get hurt if he comes here and it'll be a waste.

In comment 11961187 Headhunter said:

Quote:

so if they pay him $60 million, it would cost them $120 million and they lose the the right to participate in the 2015 International Free agent Draft

If the mets bid is equal at $60mm and he chose the Mets, the Mets "advantage" is tiny. They are over the IFA cap by $59mm vs the other team being over the full $60mm. So penalty would be $59mm to the mets. Total cost to the Mets would be $119 instead of $120mm of the team already over. The team over already forfeited future drafts, but this signing would cost the Mets $119mm PLUS future forfeiture.

on November 12 in Guatemala.

The Mets are not gojng dollar for dollar

He's not coming to Flushing

after everyone signs elsewhere, we can hear Sandy tell people that everyone signed above the value the Mets put on them -- ie the Mets are not willing to pay market rates.

but if you can't be optimistic before the start of the Hot Stove season when they are in a better position to contend since 2006, why follow them?

chosen to be positive this season until they give me reason to feel otherwise. There of course is a limit to my positivity aka I'm not expecting much of a payroll increase. They signed Johnny Monell to a minor league deal. Omar actually drafted him on 06, he's from the Bronx so that's pretty cool. I guess he would have a shot to beat out Recker but more like Vegas depth to go with Plawecki now that Centeno is gone.

people want to know more about the Mets system I highly recommend NYFS for discussion
Link - ( New Window )

At present, the Mets are more inclined to fill their needs in the corner outfield via trade than through a free agent signing, reports Marc Carig of Newsday. New York is still hesitant to give up any of its best young talent in a swap. But veterans like Michael Morse, Alex Rios, and Torii Hunter all seem more like fallback options that the team would pursue if value can be had and nothing better has materialized. The Mets are said to prefer to add a right-handed bat.

(Hunter said he's retiring or playing for a WS contender so I don't see that one happening. Rios and Morse will get more than 1 year so if it's accurate that's all the Mets will offer neither will be Mets either).

Home pinstripes go from cream back to white and snow whites now gone among the changes.


Mets Blog - ( New Window )

It's a damn shame that's gone.

Why do the Mets wear pinstripes again?

In comment 11961801 Ten Ton Hammer said:

Quote:

It's a damn shame that's gone. Why do the Mets wear pinstripes again?

Almost positive it's in tribute to the Yankees

not a fan of pinstripes.

Jays reportedly interested in Kendrick. Would certainly imply Murphy could be in play there.

Kendrick 1 year 9.5 left, 31 in 2015, 4.6 WAR this year 7.3 over the past 2
Murphy 1 year "8.1" left, 30 in 2015, 2.8 WAR this year, 5.8 WAR over the past 2

I'm probably in the minority but I like the pinstripe homes better than the solid whites.

They have an alternate road cap now, too.. blue hats but the "NY" is white with an orange trim I believe. Not bad as long as they stick to the classic blue with orange logo most of the time.

The gray road unis are the best ones they wear, IMO. Especially now that they got rid of the black.

better the pinstripes.

Those 2000 uniforms were the best.

The only pin stripes I liked were the throw-backs as an alternate jersey.

These are my favorites of all time, though.. I wish they'd wear these..

But I see the Dodgers being a surprise interested matchup. If they lose Hanley, can shift Gordon back to SS. Murphy can play 2b or 3b. And Mattingly likes his game a lot.
Conveniently Dodgers have excess OF and want a pitcher as well...

the Dodgers reportedly don't think Gordon is even halfway passable at SS and are looking to add a SS via trade/FA if Hanley walks. Gordon is pretty locked in at 2b for them.

Dee Gordon truly is awful at SS career -21 DRS in 160 games, Ruben Tejada comparatively who is "averagish" at SS over the past 2 seasons 169 games -3 DRS

Comment From Guest
If/when Hanley leaves LAD, does Dee Gordon move back to SS, opening 2B for Guerrero?
12:16
Dave Cameron: Gordon can�t play short and Guerrero can�t play second. I�d expect the Dodgers to try and trade for an SS.

WAR is expected to be worth about 7 million in 2015 which would mean a league average regular would be worth about 14 million per season in 2015 money. That's how much money has exploded around the game.

But also pro 1980s V-neck style.

I just wish they'd have 1 home and 1 away uniform.

In comment 11962155 FakeDannyHeep said:

Quote:

But also pro 1980s V-neck style. I just wish they'd have 1 home and 1 away uniform.

+1

on the mets offseason planning
link - ( New Window )

In comment 11962569 sshin05 said:

Quote:

on the mets offseason planning link - ( New Window )

I would've gone with the Benny Hill theme.

In comment 11962112 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

WAR is expected to be worth about 7 million in 2015 which would mean a league average regular would be worth about 14 million per season in 2015 money. That's how much money has exploded around the game.

That's why i'd be all in on Tulo. 20M for an all world SS for 3-4 possible prime years. Put him in bubble wrap, give him days off, tell him he's not allowed to slide into 2nd base, whatever. He's available, many teams won't want to take on the risk and most don't have a Syndergaard to trade. This is a chance for the Mets to go for it.

Who wants to give up a stud pitcher prospect for a not young guy with A-Rod hips.

want to see some evidence of a pulse this off-season... waiver claims, looking into guys like Travis Snider, not simply "Mets are interested in Asdrubal Cabrera at their price".

He loved to "contribute to the offense"

Shawn Green was a fine gentleman too.

a fan of this guy but I could see them looking into Viciedo as well

team in payroll then they're not blowing prospects trading for the right to pay guys $15+ million per. Show me one low budget team that does trades like that.

And yes, it is ridiculous that our budget is going to be in the $90 million range. We're easily a top 10 team by revenue, probably top 5 with our SNY share.

but that might mean it's feasible to get another big contract on the books, especially if league average players are going to be getting 14-15M going forward.

@Dan - I think they will be pretty aggressive this year. The fact that they've already basically crapped on the entire FA market is a good sign, and with each name that pops up as 'available' it's looking better and better that the option of giving Cuddyer 12M is off the table.

In comment 11962813 Eric on Li said:

Quote:

but that might mean it's feasible to get another big contract on the books, especially if league average players are going to be getting 14-15M going forward. @Dan - I think they will be pretty aggressive this year. The fact that they've already basically crapped on the entire FA market is a good sign, and with each name that pops up as 'available' it's looking better and better that the option of giving Cuddyer 12M is off the table.

I'm giving up my fanhood if they sign Cuddyer at this point at the cost of #15 lol

I think there's no chance they sign Cuddyer. They're going to be aggressive trading for an OF'er. Quality of player is still to be determined, but it seems like there will be enough guys on the market who are similar or better fits than Cuddyer.

In comment 11962830 Eric on Li said:

Quote:

I think there's no chance they sign Cuddyer. They're going to be aggressive trading for an OF'er. Quality of player is still to be determined, but it seems like there will be enough guys on the market who are similar or better fits than Cuddyer.

Giving up that pick to pay him 15.3 million would be a true farce. In fact, something crappy like Gomes/MDD likely doesn't give you THAT much less production.

I don't think they are that dumb.

I think that would be a great signing personally. Good contract, decent bat, good glove. A lot to like.
White Sox Receiving Interest In Alexei Ramirez - ( New Window )

Invest in a LF for 1-2 years, preferably a Right Handed bat.

wouldn't give up a ton for any 30+ pending FA. He's 33 years old, good season and you are looking at having to lock him up 34-35-36-37 at minimum. Certainly an upgrade but rentals make more sense for true contenders in my view. Mets aren't yet there.

that, has a team option. I'd be more interested now.

even if he didn't look it. Nobody else wants to see the numbers Wilmer will put up with 550 AB's?

prefer Flores and a veteran turd like Drew as insurance to be honest. White Sox don't have a SS who is close so my guess is they are going to try and bleed the market. Ramirez is solid but not a difference maker. Unless it was a shockingly sweet deal I'd pass. Teams like the Yankees and Dodgers may need a SS (among others) and make more sense honestly.

Jim Bowden says the Mets will make the Playoffs after missing the last 8 years. Pitching and bounce backs from Wright and Granderson

job to lose. If Drew isn't going to cost 10M+ for a year I'd have no problem with him as insurance, but I prefer to just let Flores lose the job and have someone like Tovar back him up.

Tovar can play 2b as well as SS, so if he's going to be a major leaguer, do it now or get him off the 40-man.

IF Matt Reynolds who they are really high on continues to light it up in Vegas April May June

In comment 11962971 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

job to lose. If Drew isn't going to cost 10M+ for a year I'd have no problem with him as insurance, but I prefer to just let Flores lose the job and have someone like Tovar back him up. Tovar can play 2b as well as SS, so if he's going to be a major leaguer, do it now or get him off the 40-man.

PJ,
Drew was AWFUL this year. I'm thinking something like 3-4 million with incentives if he ends up playing X amount (even at another position).

I don't want an older dude. I want youth at SS and someone with some potential longevity. Enough stopgaps.

Moncada would be awesome but obviously I can't expect the Mets to actually spend competitively to acquire a guy like that..

Give Flores the job and we may even have internal options to back him up if need be.

he was terrible, one of the worst decisions Boras has made.

He's not known for mistakes, but I feel like he cost Drew a lot of money this past off-season - assuming it was Boras not Drew calling the shots.

and Drew getting on the field in Boston sealed his fate. As bad as Bogaerts was at SS, the fans practically booed every time Drew trotted out there.

as bad as the bullpen was prior to last year, the bench was worse and continues to filled by dreck

like Gomes off the bench (not as a starter as Cerrone has suggested).

the bench bats, but he's a raging asshole you don't need in the clubhouse, seems like the Mets have been weeding out guys like that lately. As far as I can tell.

He can play a few positions and in a limited role, his bat is passable. He's just not an everyday player.

you are at a disadvantage when you go to the bench for PH's and you have nobody that belongs in the Majors to send up there and it is only a matter of time before they lose

I think that has to be a genuine concern. I also think it would be an equally significant concern to plan on breaking in both Flores/Herrera at the same time.

If I were the GM that's one of the key reasons (along with $) why I'm trading Murphy. And if Murph gets traded I'd be shocked if Flores isn't penciled in - which would make SS a pretty big need.

Ramirez is really solid all around, and depending on the cost of acquisition would be a really good interim solution (2 years) while waiting for a younger prospect to emerge.

Hoping for a bounce back season from Drew isn't an awful backup option assuming he's cheap, but he was pretty bad last year.

good lord, that's awful

In comment 11963007 Giants2012 said:

Quote:

good lord, that's awful

Yup. I think you could certainly live with either at 2B, and I'd even consider Flores at SS under the right circumstance. But that circumstance would require a real good glove at 2nd and that player doesn't seem to be out there.

he is not good defensively. Period.

suggest what you consider acceptable trades for:

Tulowitzki

and a separate trade for:

CarGon

I know what some of you wouldn't give up.. what WOULD you give up??

In comment 11963492 feelflows said:

Quote:

suggest what you consider acceptable trades for: Tulowitzki and a separate trade for: CarGon I know what some of you wouldn't give up.. what WOULD you give up??

Tulo - I'd give up Thor, Plawecki, Reynolds. They get a headline piece that can be an elite power pitcher, another top 100 prospect that's close to the bigs, and a possible SS. I'd also hope they chip in a little bit of $. Unless there's more cash coming back that's the max of prospect value I'd give up considering the injury history. I'd also be willing to sub Murphy or Gee for either of Reynolds/Plawecki if the Rox were interested.

CarGo - Montero & MDD (or Kirk). In this one they'd also likely need to send some $ back to the Mets. CarGo's injuries seem more severe than Tulo's, plus obviously his road splits are more concerning. His contract is better though so i'd be willing to roll the dice with a non-Syndergaard package. Montero is a power arm who has pitched well in hitter's havens so i'd imagine the Rox will have some interest in him, plus they'd get back a versatile 4th OFer.

Alexei Ramriez - bonus trade, I'd do Montero or Plawecki & Tejada for Ramirez. The Chicago writer who broke the news that the Mets were interested said guys like Thor and Montero would interest the Sox, and while Montero would be a lot to give up for a 33 year old, he's a top 5 glove and won the silver slugger last year for the 2nd time. He's a potential 3 WAR player for 2 years at a reasonable contract. He'd be a really really solid addition until hopefully Ceccini or Rosario are closer. Tejada gives Chicago a cheap 1.5 WAR replacement while they wait for their big prospect to get to the bigs.

In comment 11963492 feelflows said:

Quote:

suggest what you consider acceptable trades for: Tulowitzki and a separate trade for: CarGon I know what some of you wouldn't give up.. what WOULD you give up??

Since we are playing fantasy GM. I'd go all in. Make a deal for both carGo AND Tulo.
We can't afford it? If Colon, Murphy, Gee and Parnell are moved - we add $35mm and cut $28mm. Still a sub $100mm payroll.
Why would the Rockies do it? It's time to rebuild. Blow it up. It's unlikely, but getting rid of that much in contracts and receiving a ton of talent? Pretty impressive way for a new GM to start. Who keep in mind was a farm guy.
Why would the Mets do it? Seriously? Their three biggest holes plugged. LF, SS, and righty power. All while barely nudging payroll. And serious exciting the fan base! Spend an extra $7mm and can you imagine the next weeks worth of ticket sales, jersey sales and buzz???

Immediately offer any of our salary cuts to them. They could use help at 2b (Murphy, Herrera, Reynolds, Mazzilli), desperate for starters and pen help (wheeler, THOR, Montero, Matz, Verret, Pill, Colon, gee, Niese, Parnell, mejia, leather, etc). Send them TejadA or Matt Reynolds to replace Tulo. They don't need a reacement LF. They will wAnt TDA or Plawecki.

Pick and choose a package from above. Not likely, but certainly doable by both sides. Talent and financially.

No surgery=great news
Link - ( New Window )

that Montero/Tejada for Ramirez trade seems pretty fair. Doubt they have much interest in Plawecki since they seem to high on Phegley and have Flowers already. I also get the impression the Mets want to hold onto Plawecki as long as they can"just in case" given TDA's head injury issues. I'm sure in a megadeal they would give him up but in a "not necessary" deal like Ramirez I'd be pretty surprised.

In comment 11964675 Headhunter said:

Quote:

No surgery=great news Link - ( New Window )

Doesn't matter, he's just gonna need surgery anyway. This type of rehab won't help. He should just get the operation done now.

tulo: wheeler or thor +Murphy or plawecki + MDD


cargo : Montero + Murphy

Ramirez : Montero and tejeda

In comment 11964721 DanMetroMan said:

Quote:

that Montero/Tejada for Ramirez trade seems pretty fair. Doubt they have much interest in Plawecki since they seem to high on Phegley and have Flowers already. I also get the impression the Mets want to hold onto Plawecki as long as they can"just in case" given TDA's head injury issues. I'm sure in a megadeal they would give him up but in a "not necessary" deal like Ramirez I'd be pretty surprised.

I agree on both. Regarding Alexei, I don't think the other teams rumored to be interested would give up a lot (Yankees) because they can just go out and pony up cash instead of prospects for Hanley or Andrus. AR isn't a guy that moves the needle for them. I could see Oakland making a play for him, but I'm not sure they'll be looking to move good prospects after last year. The rumor leak from the CHI reporter strikes me as the White Sox putting it out there that he's available to see if other teams can top whatever the Mets have offered.

Honestly looking around the league if the Sox are willing to deal Ramirez I think Sandy will get him because he's such a great fit within their budget. From there I'd imagine they'll look for someone "interesting" to bring into the OF mix, possibly by trading Murphy or Colon (Victorino, Van Slyke, Snider, Saunders, maybe even Ethier with LA picking up most of the contract). If I was going to predict the off-season, that would be it.

The only crazy, longshot, "headline grabbing" move I could see is Tulo, because he's exactly what the team needs, but it would be an undeniable risk that will come at a high cost.

Wow, sounds healed. I'm sure once he starts playing it will remained healed.

thanks?

Mets top 10. Smith over Conforto is a shocker to me


The Top Ten

RHP Noah Syndergaard
LHP Steven Matz
OF Brandon Nimmo
SS Amed Rosario
C Kevin Plawecki
2B Dilson Herrera
RHP Marcos Molina
1B Dominic Smith
OF Michael Conforto
3B Jhoan Urena

In comment 11966203 Headhunter said:

Quote:

thanks?

You're welcome?

Joel Sherman ‏@Joelsherman1 2m2 minutes ago

#Rays are moving closer to dealing Jeremy Hellickson to an NL team. Likely this week

All three outfielders are under contract and owed a lot of money:

Kemp: $21 million in 2015; $21.5 million every season between 2016-19

Crawford: $20.5 million in 2015; $20.75 million in �16 and $21 million in �17

Ethier: $18 million in 2015; $18 million in �16, $17.5 million in �17, and a $17.5 million club option in �18 with a $2.5 million buyout


NBC HardballTalk - ( New Window )

wouldn't take Ethier for free.

No thanks.

Is the most likely future met of those three unless Dodgers ate most of Kemps $$. None of those three are likely thankfully.

1. RHP Noah Syndergaard
2. LHP Steven Matz
3. OF Brandon Nimmo
4. SS Amed Rosario
5. C Kevin Plawecki
6. 2B Dilson Herrera
7. RHP Marcos Molina
8. 1B Dominic Smith
9. OF Michael Conforto
10. 3B Jhoan Urena
Link - ( New Window )

Fucking right.

the all pitch, no hit system becomes batter heavy. It will be interesting to see what we do for lower minors arms going forward -- the guys to take the place of the big MLB arms in 5-6 years.

That the Mets have signed Cuddyer to a two year deal.

No details as to he financials....