And then my guess is the OF will be Cespedes, Conforto, and Bruce. I don't think the Mets view Nimmo and Lagares as a desirable platoon (despite Sandy's Nimmo sarcastic commentary).
I do think Bruce could occasionally play 1B and provide Smith insurance, but unfortunately not as a platoon since they're both lefties. Would have been better f Bruce was a righty and could spell Smith against lefties (assuming Smith struggles at all and if he struggles with lefties).
I can see the Mets trying to trade Lagares too. Wouldn't expect much return, but I believe they also need to make a 40-man move to make Bruce official (not positive). Of course they can waive someone like Matt Reynolds, but maybe trading Lagares is preferable.
Yup. Ignoring the real holes on the team. Bringing back players from a shitty Mets team. Dont tell me youre building a team on pitching if you arent serious about defense.
Team is built around pitching and you're going to field what's probably the worst defensive OF in the league. That's with Conforto. And it doesn't get better in the IF.
We have maybe 3 league average or better defensive players. Your best offensive player is starting the year on the DL and your big off-season signing is guy who's going to hit .235 and hit 30 HRs.
I'm ok with Bruce the hitter in a vacuum. He's a proven RBI guy and they need someone to hit 5th behind Cespedes and Conforto. He got some big hits in his short run as a Met, he got some big hits for the Indians, and hit a couple homers in the series against the Yankees.
When we step outside the vacuum however his style fits with everything that's been wrong with the Mets approach the last bunch of years. He weakens the defense at 2 positions simultaneously by forcing Conforto back into CF.
I guess it wouldn't be a Sandy offseason if we didn't try to put a square peg in a round hole. Guess we should all brace for the Reyes resigning to play 2B and hit leadoff.
2. Flores at 3B might not be ideal but Wilmer and Cabrera/Riveria is vastly better offensively than Nimmo/ Lagares, so it makes sense to sign a corner OF
3. Conforto will miss time and is a question mark since he dislocated his shoulder just swining a bat
4. Cespedes has missed time each of the last two seasons.
I dont think Dom Smith has anything to do with it. Bruce is s terrible 1B and if Smith is sent down, Flores likely takes his place, not Bruce, with Riveria, Cecchini and Cabrera manning 2b and 3B
Of course, we would rather have Martinez but realistically this is the Mets and this is not a bad move. To me, Bruce is the most steady rbi guy on the team.Runner on third with less than two outs,Jay usually gets him home
This is s typical Mets/Sandy move, especially in regard to ignoring the defensive ramifications.
But given the utter lack of prospects, OF is clearly the biggest need over the next few yeArs. Is Bruce ideal? No. But Mets are not signing anyone to s mega deal. So within their financial parameters, this is not s bad move
This is s typical Mets/Sandy move, especially in regard to ignoring the defensive ramifications.
But given the utter lack of prospects, OF is clearly the biggest need over the next few yeArs. Is Bruce ideal? No. But Mets are not signing anyone to s mega deal. So within their financial parameters, this is not s bad move
Mega deal, no. But If they're paying Bruce 13m/per, isn't it worth the extra $3-$5m for Cain? Fowler in CF got $16.5M per last year. Even if Cain's not a GG anymore at 31 he should be able to stick in CF for at least a few more years. You could probably amputate one of his legs and he'd still be a better defensive player than Bruce.
People want shiny toys but Bruce is a good player that adds back something we sorely need. We lost a ton of pop in trading away Duda, Bruce, Walker, and Grandy...
This hedges against injuries in the OF and Smith, Rosario, and Nimmo not becoming amazing in 2018 right away.
Anybody thinking Nimmo, Lagares, Cespedes, and Conforto were going to stay healthy all year need their heads examined anyway. There were still be plenty of play for Nimmo for those rooting for him and Conforto can play CF for 2-3 years as long as he keeps the weight off. He's a baby.
2. Flores at 3B might not be ideal but Wilmer and Cabrera/Riveria is vastly better offensively than Nimmo/ Lagares, so it makes sense to sign a corner OF
3. Conforto will miss time and is a question mark since he dislocated his shoulder just swining a bat
4. Cespedes has missed time each of the last two seasons.
I dont think Dom Smith has anything to do with it. Bruce is s terrible 1B and if Smith is sent down, Flores likely takes his place, not Bruce, with Riveria, Cecchini and Cabrera manning 2b and 3B
Of course, we would rather have Martinez but realistically this is the Mets and this is not a bad move. To me, Bruce is the most steady rbi guy on the team.Runner on third with less than two outs,Jay usually gets him home
People want shiny toys but Bruce is a good player that adds back something we sorely need. We lost a ton of pop in trading away Duda, Bruce, Walker, and Grandy...
This hedges against injuries in the OF and Smith, Rosario, and Nimmo not becoming amazing in 2018 right away.
Anybody thinking Nimmo, Lagares, Cespedes, and Conforto were going to stay healthy all year need their heads examined anyway. There were still be plenty of play for Nimmo for those rooting for him and Conforto can play CF for 2-3 years as long as he keeps the weight off. He's a baby.
People want shiny toys but Bruce is a good player that adds back something we sorely need. We lost a ton of pop in trading away Duda, Bruce, Walker, and Grandy...
This hedges against injuries in the OF and Smith, Rosario, and Nimmo not becoming amazing in 2018 right away.
Anybody thinking Nimmo, Lagares, Cespedes, and Conforto were going to stay healthy all year need their heads examined anyway. There were still be plenty of play for Nimmo for those rooting for him and Conforto can play CF for 2-3 years as long as he keeps the weight off. He's a baby.
Man, you are the ultimate homer as a fan.
He is. But I can't fault him for it. This team is in purgatory for a few years - it will probably be bad, but could be good if injuries (or lack thereof) break right.
Gotta be optimistic about the upcoming season. Until there is no reason to.
overpaid in todays market. I think some of these players might end up sitting by their phones come April/May begging to take a job. This is a meh transaction
Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and Im happy we signed a 38 HR, 3 WAR player who just had his 30th birthday on a very reasonable deal? Da fuq?
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
Throw in one of the middle relievers Sandy got last year if you have to.
Sign Dickey
And this team wins 89 games and makes the playoffs
Cabrera and Cecchini isnt getting you Kipnis and if Kipnis is brought in you need Cabrera to play 3B. A Kipnis package would sting.. Dunn, Alonso, ect.. those guys...
Hilariously, with how slow this offseason has been
Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and Im happy we signed a 38 HR, 3 WAR player who just had his 30th birthday on a very reasonable deal? Da fuq?
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
100% agree.
Need to find a serviceable SP to back up this staff and still provide depth in the bullpen in the interim. Bud Norris?
about this sort of deal is that when the Mets offer a 3 year contract to an also-ran type of player that likely will block at least one of Nimmo or Smith at some point, they are basically admitting that they don't have faith in their first round picks.
For a team with such limited financial resources, it's very concerning to be missing on first round picks like this. With the #6 pick in the draft after losing so many games last year, I'm concerned that Sandy is going to blow the pick.
Also, looks like the Mets are doubling down on the very low OBP, high strikeout, all or nothing HR type of hitters that we had last year.
Jay Bruce's first half in 2017 is what we're getting, or whether his 2014-2017 seasons in aggregate are what we're getting.
There's some hope for optimism. I said above that he had low OBP, but he's shown improvement there. From 2014-2017, his OBP is .281, .294, .309, .324. That's a good trend.
Fangraphs summarized the deal as:
"Steamer thinks the Mets will be hard-pressed to squeeze surplus value out of the deal, but both Bruces 2017 season and his swing might very well be repeatable.
Steamer projects Bruce to post 23 home runs and a 106 wRC+ over 478 plate appearances. The result of that? Just 1.0 WAR. But projection systems might not capture the extent of Bruces swing and philosophical changes. Bruces new, more extreme approach could very well be repeatable.
Now, the Mets have to find a place for the swing.
Mets Nation was once upset that Bruce was blocking Michael Conforto early last season. And its not clear at the moment where Bruce will fit.
With Confortos shoulder still an unknown, Bruce supplies some outfield insurance. But the Mets also have Yoenis Cespedes, Juan Lagares, and Brandon Nimmo in the outfield. Perhaps Bruce can also be a hedge against struggles from Dominic Smith at first base."
but a good signing? 3 years/39M for a guy who is 30 and routinely hits 30 HR and 25-35 HR.
On it's own it's a perfectly fine signing, good price/solid player, it's just a question of whether or not it's the best use of what's likely the majority of their remaining budget. Moving Conforto to CF basically full time the next 3 years is less than ideal also no matter which way you slice it.
i agree with that...but this isn't a "spin the wheels" type signing as some people on here have said. Bruce is one of the better sluggers in the game.
I think people's frustration is more that it's a spin the wheels offseason. Bruce gets the roster closer to where it was last year but not better in any way, and it's recycling the same player that wasn't a great fit the last 2 years instead of upgrading in some facet. I'm probably guilty of this myself, but they are more grading the overall offseason than the individual signing on the expectation that this is mostly it.
what would a 4-man rotation look like coming out of spring training (and then expanding to a 5-man staff after X-amount of time)?
The rotation is the same as last season.
DeGrom, Thor and then Harvey... final 2 spots will go down to Gsellman/Wheeler/Lugo and I guess with an insane spring Flexen. There are no other internal options. The top 5 SP prospects in the system are probably Peterson (nowhere near the 2018 Mets), Szapucki (won't pitch in 2018), Dunn (AWFUL 2017 so 2018 would be pretty shocking), Flexen (still eligible) and Anthony Kay (0% chance he throws a pitch for the 2018 Mets).
says that's a pretty good pitching deal ... obviously with health included.
What are the chances of bringing in a grizzled vet - saw Dickey mentioned in the thread but haven't kept up with much Mets chatter yet. Is that real? Or just speculation here? Seems like it would be a very smart play for the right deal.
Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and Im happy we signed a 38 HR, 3 WAR player who just had his 30th birthday on a very reasonable deal? Da fuq?
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
100% agree.
Need to find a serviceable SP to back up this staff and still provide depth in the bullpen in the interim. Bud Norris?
I think we burned our bridges but Dickey on a 1 year, 7 million dollar deal would be great. He breaks up the hard throwers, is usually good for close to 200 innings, and can keep you in most games. Sadly, its probably not happening but I still would be surprised if somebody like you mentioned isnt brought in to at least compete. I think the next move will be for a 2B/3B though either by FA or trade. I also wouldnt rule out another bargain reliever if the prices keep dropping on Reed/Watson types.
what would a 4-man rotation look like coming out of spring training (and then expanding to a 5-man staff after X-amount of time)?
The rotation is the same as last season.
DeGrom, Thor and then Harvey... final 2 spots will go down to Gsellman/Wheeler/Lugo and I guess with an insane spring Flexen. There are no other internal options. The top 5 SP prospects in the system are probably Peterson (nowhere near the 2018 Mets), Szapucki (won't pitch in 2018), Dunn (AWFUL 2017 so 2018 would be pretty shocking), Flexen (still eligible) and Anthony Kay (0% chance he throws a pitch for the 2018 Mets).
Montero is out of options and is likely in the mix. How good he is is anyones guess but with a new regime and a better 2017, maybe he sticks.
but realistically speaking it's short money even in the back loaded 2 years and the Mets are better with Bruce than without Bruce.
Are there other players out there that could make the Mets better than Bruce? Yes, but this is our reality.
Agreed. It's not a sexy move, but this season is going to hinge on pitching staying healthy and effective. They just need enough offense to compete. My concern is that we may be one of the worst defensive teams in MLB.
The New York Mets, who signed outfielder Jay Bruce to a three-year, $39 million deal Wednesday night, nearly had a deal worked out with the Cleveland Indians for Jason Kipnis, according to sources. And in fact, there were people on both sides who thought they had a deal.
But apparently it was killed by someone at the top, very likely over money.
but realistically speaking it's short money even in the back loaded 2 years and the Mets are better with Bruce than without Bruce.
Are there other players out there that could make the Mets better than Bruce? Yes, but this is our reality.
Agreed. It's not a sexy move, but this season is going to hinge on pitching staying healthy and effective. They just need enough offense to compete. My concern is that we may be one of the worst defensive teams in MLB.
That's my main concern well. I really hope they at least add very good defensive 2B who can get on base in the leadoff spot. That would give a little bit of optimism that if Smith and Rosario are as good with their gloves as their scouting reports at least the IF can be improved defensively.
is expected to retire (which is why the Braves let him out of his contract).
Its mostly my opinion, but I dont believe this is accurate. Dickey made some comments not that long ago that he was on the fence and that if he came back for one more year he would want concessions (ie a day off between starts to be with his family, ect). Also, why would the Braves let him out if his contract if he was retiring if they still wanted him? If they liked him and he was retiring, they still owe him nothing. Why not gamble on him coming back if you like him? I think they declined his option because they didnt want to pay him the 7 mil. Maybe Jay can weigh in.
is expected to retire (which is why the Braves let him out of his contract).
Has he said that himself? I could see him wanting one more run in the place he got his Cy Young.
Yes. He indicated to the Braves he was leaning toward retiring to spend time with his family.
""If I did not continue to play, it would be because our family decided it wasn't the best thing. I've dragged my kids all over the world playing baseball for 21 years. You know, there comes a time they deserve their dad to be around."
is expected to retire (which is why the Braves let him out of his contract).
Its mostly my opinion, but I dont believe this is accurate. Dickey made some comments not that long ago that he was on the fence and that if he came back for one more year he would want concessions (ie a day off between starts to be with his family, ect). Also, why would the Braves let him out if his contract if he was retiring if they still wanted him? If they liked him and he was retiring, they still owe him nothing. Why not gamble on him coming back if you like him? I think they declined his option because they didnt want to pay him the 7 mil. Maybe Jay can weigh in.
They let him out of his deal because they think he's done. If they picked up the option they would how him the money. Why would any team spend 7 million if they didn't have to?
Braves declined RHP R.A. Dickey's $8 million club option for 2018.
Dickey will receive a $500,000 buyout. The 42-year-old is now free to test the open market, but he's reportedly leaning toward retirement.
"Dickey has yet to publicly declare his intentions, but David OBrien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution makes an educated guess that the 42-year-old right-hander will hang up his spikes.
Its seemed since the last week of the season that he was leaning heavily toward retiring, and at this point Id be surprised if the knuckleballer decides to continue his career, writes OBrien. If he did, the Braves would likely pick up his $8 million option for 2018. But again, I dont think theyre going to have to make that call."
If they think hes done (going to retire) they would still owe him nada. If they think hes done (physically) then sure it makes sense.
If a player retires on his own the team doesnt owe them money for that year.
ZGiants show me evidence that he's not expected to retire I've shown you mine including quotes from the player and their primary beat writer. I didn't say he's "100% retired" but you are telling me I'm not "accurate" without an iota of evidence. I've provided mine. If they picked up the option they would have 8 million tied up in "will he actually play or not". Now they do not. For 8 million the Braves 1000% bring him back if they knew he wanted to play. It's a no-brainer.
but I think the rotation is Thor, DeGrom and then the group of Harvey, Matz, Lugo, Montero, Wheeler, Gsellmen competing in spring for the other three spots, rather than Thor, DeGrom and Harvey locked in and the other 2 spots up for grabs. If Harvey looks like he did in 2017 come spring, I can't see Callaway giving him a rotation spot, especially with the Mets having no long-term committment to Harvey.
I'm relatively optimistic that Harvey can turn in a big 2018 with so much to gain for him, but the proof will really be in the first few weeks of spring training. If he looks like shit, then he's toast.
Harvey, Matz and Conforto (health wise) are the guys to keep an eye on this spring. If Harvey and Matz look healthy and have their "good" stuff, we'll have real reason for optimism. If they both look like they did in 2017, we are in deep shit.
Montero isn't exactly super young anymore, but for some reason I still think he has upside. He's already worked with Warthen and Viola but maybe Callaway can finally get him to reach his potential. Aside from DeGrom and Thor, his stuff and velocity just looks so good on TV when I watch the games that maybe he can turn into an asset for us.
he's also said despite pitching in Atlanta it was extremely tough to be away from his family (in Nashville) that's a 3 hour drive, 1.5 hour flight and he still struggled with it. If he decided to come back NYC certainly wouldn't help that.
"deep shit" if Harvey and Matz are the 2017 versions the Mets are DOA. They simply don't have the SP depth to overcome that barring a ridiculous amount of amazing luck.
Having said that, does a lot of your decision depend on whether the Braves pick up the option on your contract? If its not for the Braves, would you pitch for anybody?
It would have to be the perfect spot. There are a few teams that are close to home, like Cincinnati, St. Louis, Atlanta, all three of those.
Did this season prove to be as convenient from a family perspective as you anticipated?
Yeah. And there was only one decision for me this past offseason -- that was to be an Atlanta Brave,
At least post the whole article. We have made no official decision at all, but we certainly have had conversations around both coming back or retiring. is right in it. Your first comment said expected to retire. I guessed he was on the fence but we are really just quibbling now. Im out.
Did this season prove to be as convenient from a family perspective as you anticipated?
Yeah. And there was only one decision for me this past offseason -- that was to be an Atlanta Brave,
At least post the whole article. We have made no official decision at all, but we certainly have had conversations around both coming back or retiring. is right in it. Your first comment said expected to retire. I guessed he was on the fence but we are really just quibbling now. Im out.
He is expected to retire according to the beat writer and mostly everyone. Whether he does or does not doesn't change that. Who knows more about RA Dickey you or DOB who actually... covers the team?
but I think the rotation is Thor, DeGrom and then the group of Harvey, Matz, Lugo, Montero, Wheeler, Gsellmen competing in spring for the other three spots, rather than Thor, DeGrom and Harvey locked in and the other 2 spots up for grabs. If Harvey looks like he did in 2017 come spring, I can't see Callaway giving him a rotation spot, especially with the Mets having no long-term committment to Harvey.
I'm relatively optimistic that Harvey can turn in a big 2018 with so much to gain for him, but the proof will really be in the first few weeks of spring training. If he looks like shit, then he's toast.
Harvey, Matz and Conforto (health wise) are the guys to keep an eye on this spring. If Harvey and Matz look healthy and have their "good" stuff, we'll have real reason for optimism. If they both look like they did in 2017, we are in deep shit.
Montero isn't exactly super young anymore, but for some reason I still think he has upside. He's already worked with Warthen and Viola but maybe Callaway can finally get him to reach his potential. Aside from DeGrom and Thor, his stuff and velocity just looks so good on TV when I watch the games that maybe he can turn into an asset for us.
Agree with everything you wrote.
Top 50 almost done... a lot of relievers as you can see. eek
1) Andres Gimenez (SS) 12/27 votes-44%
2) David Peterson (LHP) 12/24 votes-50%
3) Mark Vientos (SS/3B) 13/24 votes-54%
4) Peter Alonso (1B) 21/28 votes-75%
5) Thomas Szapucki (LHP) 10/22-45%
6) Justin Dunn (RHP) 4/20-20%, runoff with Lindsay/Guillorme/Kay 9/22-41%
7) Desmond Lindsay (OF) 12/26-46%
8) Luis Guillorme (SS) 8/25-32%, run-off with Kay 11/22-50%, advances due to more votes in previous poll
9) Anthony Kay (LHP) 9/24-38%, run-off with Bashlor 10/20-50%, advances due to more votes in previous poll
10) Tyler Bashlor (RHP) 11/16-69%
11) Tomas Nido (C) 6/24-25%, run-off with Molina and Oswalt 12/20 60%
12) Marcos Molina (RHP) 6/20-30%, run-off with Evans 13/20-65%
13) Ronny Mauricio (SS) 6/17-35%
14) Gavin Cecchini (2B) 6/23-26%, run-off with Mazeika 12/15-80%
15) Chris Flexen (RHP) 8/26-31%, run-off with Mazeika/Thompson 8/11-73%
16) Patrick Mazeika (C) 6/22-27%, run-off with Thompson 8/14-57%
17) Corey Oswalt (RHP) 6/21-29%, run-off with Thompson 10/18-56%
18) David Thompson (3B) 8/21-38%
19) Jordan Humphreys (RHP) 9/16-56%
20) Kevin Kaczmarski (OF) 5/14-36%
21)Gerson Bautista (RHP) 5/24-21%, run-off with Evans 11/19-58%
22) Phil Evans (UTIL) 6/17-35%
23) Juan Uriarte (C) 6/19-32%
24) Drew Smith (RHP) 6/21-29%, run-off with Uceta 11/18-61%
25) Adonis Uceta (RHP) 9/20-45%
26) Jamie Callahan (RHP) 3/14-21%, Runoff with Holderman/Conlon 9/16-56%
27) PJ Conlon 6/16-38%
28) Nabil Crismatt 4/14-29%, Runoff with Holderman 10/17-59%
29) Colin Holderman 3/14-21%, Runoff with Blackham 7/13-54%
30) Matt Blackham 5/18 28%, Runoff with Becerra 9/13-69%
31) Steven Villines 3/15-20%, runoff with Becerra/James/Brodey 6/15-40%
32) Adrian Hernandez 3/17-18%, Run off with Becerra/James/Brodey 4/11-36%
33) Jhoan Urena (1b/3B) 3/16-19%, runoff with James 6/11-55%
34) Christian James (RHP) 4/16-25%, runoff with Nogosek 7/12-58%
35) Stephen Nogosek 8/17-47%
36) Jacob Rhame 4/16-27%
37) Quinn Brodey (OF) 5/20-25%, runoff with McNeil/Becerra 6/14-43%
38) Jeff McNeil (UTIL) 4/17-24%, runoff with Becerra/McGeorge 6/15-40%
39) Austin McGeorge 6/13-46%
The Braves were convinced that Dickey would retire. He was aware that he would move to the bullpen at some point next season (perhaps as early as opening day)because of the young arms coming up. That combined with being away from his family is the reason he will retire.
With bad springs. Matz gets a legitimate shot for me because I think the displaced nerve legitimately effected his performance. I honestly dont think some combination of Gsellman, Montero, or Lugo in the 4 and 5 spots would be bad (I think Gsellman is young and bounces back some) but obviously another innings guy for the back would be ideal.
The Braves were convinced that Dickey would retire. He was aware that he would move to the bullpen at some point next season (perhaps as early as opening day)because of the young arms coming up. That combined with being away from his family is the reason he will retire.
Is Thor imo. Keep Thor and DeGrom healthy and will take the pressure off everything. Adding 3 legitimate backend options to the bullpen is gonna help too.
strange topic for someone to obsess over. The expectation is he will retire and he wants to be close to Nashville either way. What does it matter if he decides to hang it up or no? You being "right"? Nobody ever said he "100% is retiring" so you still wouldn't be right. Sometimes you oddly choose to argue things that I'm not even sure the purpose/value of arguing.
Jeff Paternostro (a Mets fan) said it's "easily" the worst since he's been covering the Mets. BA doesn't have it's rankings yet but they said "bottom third". My guess is 24-30.
strange topic for someone to obsess over. The expectation is he will retire and he wants to be close to Nashville either way. What does it matter if he decides to hang it up or no? You being "right"? Nobody ever said he "100% is retiring" so you still wouldn't be right. Sometimes you oddly choose to argue things that I'm not even sure the purpose/value of arguing.
Im just not a fan of absolutes. Its been a point of contention with me for over a decade. I said all along the Mets were an unlikely destination.
strange topic for someone to obsess over. The expectation is he will retire and he wants to be close to Nashville either way. What does it matter if he decides to hang it up or no? You being "right"? Nobody ever said he "100% is retiring" so you still wouldn't be right. Sometimes you oddly choose to argue things that I'm not even sure the purpose/value of arguing.
Im just not a fan of absolutes. Its been a point of contention with me for over a decade. I said all along the Mets were an unlikely destination.
Where is the "absolute"?
"Dickey
DanMetroMan : 9:38 am : link : reply
is expected to retire (which is why the Braves let him out of his contract)."
"
Yes. He indicated to the Braves he was leaning toward retiring to spend time with his family.
""If I did not continue to play, it would be because our family decided it wasn't the best thing. I've dragged my kids all over the world playing baseball for 21 years. You know, there comes a time they deserve their dad to be around."
signing, of course it's a typical Mets signing what did people expect, but trading Merandy Gonzalez for AJ Ramos bothers me a lot more than this Bruce signing.
Bruce is a flawed player, and you have to hope that Callaway is the type of manager who will sit him if one of the other options is playing well.
signing, of course it's a typical Mets signing what did people expect, but trading Merandy Gonzalez for AJ Ramos bothers me a lot more than this Bruce signing.
Bruce is a flawed player, and you have to hope that Callaway is the type of manager who will sit him if one of the other options is playing well.
I would have had Merandy in the second tier of SP prospects after Peterson/Szapucki.
Was fair value. Everyone wants backend bullpen help but when we go out and get it we complain about giving up a second tier prospect? What top 100 list did Merandy ever show up on?
Was fair value. Everyone wants backend bullpen help but when we go out and get it we complain about giving up a second tier prospect? What top 100 list did Merandy ever show up on?
Top 100 is your threshold for value? If that's the case the Mets have 1 good prospect (Gimenez) as nobody else figures to show up on any reputable list.
ranks him #10 in the Marlins system which is moderately better than the Mets post-sell offs (pretty amazing it's not better given the talent they traded off)
He may have started slowly, spending two summers in the Dominican Summer League before coming to the United States, but the Gonzalez train is definitely picking up speed. The right-hander threw well in his U.S. debut in 2015 then backed it up with a New York-Penn League season that saw him finish in the top 10 in ERA and strikeouts. His full-season debut was equally impressive as he pitched himself from the South Atlantic League up to the Class A Advanced Florida State League. The Marlins took notice and acquired him and outfielder Ricardo Cespedes when they traded A.J. Ramos to the Mets in late July.
While Gonzalez is a bit undersized at 6-foot-1, his arm is more than big enough. He pitched at 93 mph with Brooklyn but showed he can reach back for 96-97 mph. He'll throw a very good curveball and messes with a slider, and they will run into each other at times. He has the ability to throw an above-average breaking ball, and likes to throw it, so getting him to focus on one might help him developmentally. His changeup is developing, and he needs to throw it more often so it can improve. While he's generally around the strike zone, he does leave balls in the middle of the plate at times. With good athleticism and a repeatable delivery, his command should improve over time.
The Mets believed his feel for his secondary stuff would continue to improve as he moved up the ladder, and thought that Gonzalez was every bit a starter. The right-hander's fastball-breaking ball combination would play up very well in a relief role, though, if that's what is needed organizationally.
was rumored that the leaks about how bad the clubhouse was were coming from someone who is no longer here. Given the fact Bruce is back, and the Mets have spoken to Reed it's fair to guess it was Neil Walker.
for Merandy, he did nothing to warrant being on a top 100 prospect list before then.
Additionally, in a system so prospect barren, it made zero sense to trade one of your best for a mediocre reliever.
Not a chance I'd trade him for AJ Ramos, and Merandy could turn into a big pile of nothing and I still wouldn't make the trade just for the chance to see him turn into a big pile of nothing.
Quote:
While hes likely still several years away from being Major League ready, Gonzalez possesses all the tools you look for in a pitching prospect.
With a live arm that manages to run the ball up into the upper-90s, topping out around 97 mph. He lives around 93 mph without needing to go max effort and maintains his velocity deep into starts. As it stands, his heater is his best pitch.
He also possesses a plus curveball. The combination of the two pitches is effective, but hell need to develop another pitch to stay in the starting rotation. The Mets saw him as a starter, and he has appeared in that role exclusively since 2016.
His change up continues to develop, and there is reasonable optimism that it will become a plus pitch in time. He needs to throw it more. Expect Miami Marlins pitching coaches to help that along.
I said as an amatuer "minor league follower". I would have ranked Merandy Gonzalez in the second tier of arms. He may or may not develop into a legit prospect (let alone a big leaguer) but he's still better than most of what they have in the minors taking into account numbers, age, stuff and upside.
Are you guys really arguing if RA fucking Dickey is going to
Retire or not? Holy shit you two are in mid season form already and we still have a month before pitchers and catchers. Who cares who is right or wrong, he would never come here anyway.
was rumored that the leaks about how bad the clubhouse was were coming from someone who is no longer here. Given the fact Bruce is back, and the Mets have spoken to Reed it's fair to guess it was Neil Walker.
But dont they still have Walker on the radar as well?
was rumored that the leaks about how bad the clubhouse was were coming from someone who is no longer here. Given the fact Bruce is back, and the Mets have spoken to Reed it's fair to guess it was Neil Walker.
But dont they still have Walker on the radar as well?
It doesn't appear to be the case. Every report has the Mets discussing him but not having spoken to him "yet" which in itself is kind of surprising. He's not a far worse option than guys they have tried for Kipnis/Kinsler which adds credence to the "rumor".
Was fair value. Everyone wants backend bullpen help but when we go out and get it we complain about giving up a second tier prospect? What top 100 list did Merandy ever show up on?
Top 100 is your threshold for value? If that's the case the Mets have 1 good prospect (Gimenez) as nobody else figures to show up on any reputable list.
What? Wow. You are up my ass today. Who said I said he didnt have value. I said it was a FAIR trade. If I like Ramos it stands to reason I thought Merandy had some value. All I said was that he wasnt an elite prospect or a first tier which is exactly what you said. I was agreeing with you!
Was fair value. Everyone wants backend bullpen help but when we go out and get it we complain about giving up a second tier prospect? What top 100 list did Merandy ever show up on?
Top 100 is your threshold for value? If that's the case the Mets have 1 good prospect (Gimenez) as nobody else figures to show up on any reputable list.
What? Wow. You are up my ass today. Who said I said he didnt have value. I said it was a FAIR trade. If I like Ramos it stands to reason I thought Merandy had some value. All I said was that he wasnt an elite prospect or a first tier which is exactly what you said. I was agreeing with you!
It most certainly was a "fair" trade. It doesn't mean it was a good one. He's a solid RP with an inflated salary. Could have opted to keep Gonzalez and sign a RP. On it's face 1-1 it was fine, I wasn't suggesting otherwise.
But IMO it was more of a trade that gets made by the Nats or Dodgers or Astros (for example) a team a middle reliever away from contention or looking to shore up the bullpen of an otherwise complete team.
I would not have traded one of my teams best prospects (top 15 at worst, top 10 reasonably) for a mediocre reliever (Ramos has had some decent years, but lately he's been at best mediocre).
Especially when middle relievers are easily available in FA for similar $$$ than what Ramos makes.
Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and Im happy we signed a 38 HR, 3 WAR player who just had his 30th birthday on a very reasonable deal? Da fuq?
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
No. You're a homer because you think this poorly constructed team of "glass" can win 90+ games. Perennially. It's the thing I look forward to most after Christmas: Z's annual Mets predictions where every journeyman hits his career high and each pitcher makes it through to October. Every Alderson signing is shrewd and every prospect is Mike Trout.
You'd think the Mets were perennial contenders with the way you glowingly flip through team yearbooks and kiss your Sandy Alderson poster before retiring to bed.
Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and Im happy we signed a 38 HR, 3 WAR player who just had his 30th birthday on a very reasonable deal? Da fuq?
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
No. You're a homer because you think this poorly constructed team of "glass" can win 90+ games. Perennially. It's the thing I look forward to most after Christmas: Z's annual Mets predictions where every journeyman hits his career high and each pitcher makes it through to October. Every Alderson signing is shrewd and every prospect is Mike Trout.
You'd think the Mets were perennial contenders with the way you glowingly flip through team yearbooks and kiss your Sandy Alderson poster before retiring to bed.
First of all.... go fuck yourself. Second of all, this isnt a 90 win team right now or close to it until we make another move or two AND we get much better health. Third of all, every damn Mets poster on BBI had us winning 90-ish games the last couple of years. I literally posted the threads in the Mets thread below this so have had it. I was actually conservative compared to some of the win totals being thrown around. Fourth of all, go fuck yourself.
He still doesn't have a viable third pitch, doesn't pitch deep into games, and gets crushed by lefties. Combine that with the late season "shoulder tightness" and the underwhelming stat line in High-A and Dunn looks more and more unlikely to turn into the high-octane starter the Mets hoped for. Considering the Mets' position as a contender (a very short window followed by an almost certain down period in 2-3 years), I think the Mets might be better off punting on developing Dunn as a starter and converting him back into a reliever, where he'd probably fly through the minors.
Steve Sypa says:
Dunn is still far from a bust, but the warts are starting to pile up surprisingly quickly. He wasnt necessarily a reach when he was drafted, but he was and definitely still is a gamble. Because of his profile- plus fastball, strong secondary pitch, lagging third pitch, stamina issues- I still think Dunn is fated for a bullpen somewhere, but even there, he will have to work on his control to avoid being placed in the Rule 5 Draft reliever with flaws junk pile.
It WAS a 90+ win team last season. We've done dick in the off-season. Perhaps that's the problem. Maybe Alderson was trying to knock down those doors on day 1 of the Winter Meetings with his dick. Couldnt get it up or in. Player agents and team executives assume the Mets elected to stand pay since we are fucking stacked.
So, 90+ win team in '17. No additions. Scratch that. We did add 93 relievers. Starting an average RF - No, not in RF- let's put him in CF. Bring back an aging, one-dimensional RF who looks like he's drunk on a high wire on every fly ball. He will, of course, hit 10HRs in June, then go on to strike out in 42 consecutive plate appearances. Cespedes will hit 3HRs in single May game, then rip his quad while taking a curtain call. Out 4 months. Don't worry, he'll return just in time to end the season by in solid form by booting ground balls all over the outfield.
Shall we go to the infield? Where oh where do we start? You've got Cedric the Entertainer at 1B at least until his gastric bypass surgery where doctors will have to retrieve 18 whole wet burritos from of his corony arteries. Jose Reyes at 2B, looking fresh with his new glove and cleats (bought at Dicks using his sweet AARP discount). We've got the swinging maelstrom at SS. He's never seen a pitch thrown inside his zip code that he didn't launch himself at. We've got Asrubel Cabrera at 3B. The guy who threw hissy fits in the clubhouse when he couldn't play SS and whom we tried desperately to deal, but no one wanted. Yeah, that guy's our starter at 3B. Just the type of pro you want Rosario around. I'd comment on d'Arnaud's play, but I've never actually seen him out of a body cast.
High point last season? Definitely the pinched testicles. So basically the same team at '17, minus Walker, minus an old and shitty Granderson, can't win 90+.
Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and Im happy we signed a 38 HR, 3 WAR player who just had his 30th birthday on a very reasonable deal? Da fuq?
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
No. You're a homer because you think this poorly constructed team of "glass" can win 90+ games. Perennially. It's the thing I look forward to most after Christmas: Z's annual Mets predictions where every journeyman hits his career high and each pitcher makes it through to October. Every Alderson signing is shrewd and every prospect is Mike Trout.
You'd think the Mets were perennial contenders with the way you glowingly flip through team yearbooks and kiss your Sandy Alderson poster before retiring to bed.
First of all.... go fuck yourself. Second of all, this isnt a 90 win team right now or close to it until we make another move or two AND we get much better health. Third of all, every damn Mets poster on BBI had us winning 90-ish games the last couple of years. I literally posted the threads in the Mets thread below this so have had it. I was actually conservative compared to some of the win totals being thrown around. Fourth of all, go fuck yourself.
Dude, you need to just fess up and admit what you are. In some ways, I admire your loyalty to the Mets. They are a poorly run organization with sub-standard ownership and yet your fandom never decreases. However, you're unable to look at this team objectively and you do it year after year. If you get called out on it, your response is to curse at someone, which likely means deep down that you know that person is right.
Because our lineup is so stacked, our braintrust has decided to shed salary. You know, to make it fair on the rest of the league.
We also don't bother scouting any American or International players. We don't need a farm system. That shit is expensive. Keep your international prospects. No thanks.
On secind thought, can we pick another career 4th OF with zero discernable ML skills?
This team is nowhere near close. One or two guys isnt going to cut it. It needs to be broken down.
Because our lineup is so stacked, our braintrust has decided to shed salary. You know, to make it fair on the rest of the league.
We also don't bother scouting any American or International players. We don't need a farm system. That shit is expensive. Keep your international prospects. No thanks.
On secind thought, can we pick another career 4th OF with zero discernable ML skills?
This team is nowhere near close. One or two guys isnt going to cut it. It needs to be broken down.
It's sad, but you're right. Mets fans are some of the most loyal and passionate sports fans there are. We deserve better, but the Wilpon's run the franchise like a struggling mid-market team. It's pathetic.
Where signing a guy like Jay Bruce, because the other options are worse(!) is now viewed as a solid move. That's how far they've sunk our expectations.
It's like a married guy who gets excited his wife is out shopping, just so he can jack off in peace.
We are that broken married guy. While the neighbor next door is banging supermodels.
And last year, I picked them NOT to make the playoffs. Why? Because they had 4 starters coming off surgery and a lineup constructed of low average, high K guys.
This year the lineup is more balanced and the starters will perform better as a group. Getting a new managerial team is also a huge plus.
My breakout candidate: Plawecki. He will .280 this year .?
But don't fucking patronize the fans with, "Hey, maybe if you bought some more ticket packs and overpriced beer in our non descript, boring, taxpayer-sponsored stadium, we might sign some better players."
Fuck off, you inept dickwad.
RE: I think this team can make the playoffs with a little luck
And last year, I picked them NOT to make the playoffs. Why? Because they had 4 starters coming off surgery and a lineup constructed of low average, high K guys.
This year the lineup is more balanced and the starters will perform better as a group. Getting a new managerial team is also a huge plus.
My breakout candidate: Plawecki. He will .280 this year .?
I'm not sure that the lineup can be expected to be any more balanced than last year. Bruce, Rosario and Smith all have very very high K-rates. D'Arnaud and Cabrera are both back and are likely opening day starters until we see otherwise.
Maybe Rosario and Smith can be expected to improve but 28.8% and 26.8% K-rates are really high to start with, so just getting those below 20% would be a dramatic improvement but still leave us with players who strike out a ton.
But don't fucking patronize the fans with, "Hey, maybe if you bought some more ticket packs and overpriced beer in our non descript, boring, taxpayer-sponsored stadium, we might sign some better players."
Fuck off, you inept dickwad.
I agree with that, but what choice do you have though? As a fan, you just take the dick punch and hope for the best or move on to a different team.
the only choice you have as a fan is to not give them your money. And this franchise ownership seems to view that backwards.
But don't fucking patronize the fans with, "Hey, maybe if you bought some more ticket packs and overpriced beer in our non descript, boring, taxpayer-sponsored stadium, we might sign some better players."
Fuck off, you inept dickwad.
I agree with that, but what choice do you have though? As a fan, you just take the dick punch and hope for the best or move on to a different team.
the only choice you have as a fan is to not give them your money. And this franchise ownership seems to view that backwards.
We're planning on moving up to Oregon next year. I'll wait until they put a team up there and make the switch.
This time, I'll be making a conscious decision to root for a small to mid-market team.
Yankee fans in Mets threads telling them how they should act about their team...Mets fans screaming from the rafters over signing a 3 WAR 38 HR bat on the cheap. Lol
Yankee fans in Mets threads telling them how they should act about their team...Mets fans screaming from the rafters over signing a 3 WAR 38 HR bat on the cheap. Lol
You're like the John Goodman Ditka skit from SNL.
If Jay Bruce were only 3" tall, how many HRs would he hit?
Yankee fans in Mets threads telling them how they should act about their team...Mets fans screaming from the rafters over signing a 3 WAR 38 HR bat on the cheap. Lol
Jay Bruce hasn't hit 3 WAR since 2013. He's averaged about 0.75 WAR over the past 4 seasons (2300 ABs). He's also never hit 38 HRs even once in his career.
I admire your passion for the team and hope we can celebrate a Mets world series here on day, but you have a habit of adding a little extra to numbers/facts to make an argument stronger in your favor, and then when called out on it, lashing out at the person doing that for nit picking. If you want to make your case, you should IMO try to be more careful with what you're saying, or at least be gracious when someone points out where you were off.
I've blown it on facts myself a bunch of times and it's no problem when someone points out that I missed it. I think it's important for us to use accurate facts, otherwise the discussion here just has no basis.
Yankee fans in Mets threads telling them how they should act about their team...Mets fans screaming from the rafters over signing a 3 WAR 38 HR bat on the cheap. Lol
Jay Bruce hasn't hit 3 WAR since 2013. He's averaged about 0.75 WAR over the past 4 seasons (2300 ABs). He's also never hit 38 HRs even once in his career.
I admire your passion for the team and hope we can celebrate a Mets world series here on day, but you have a habit of adding a little extra to numbers/facts to make an argument stronger in your favor, and then when called out on it, lashing out at the person doing that for nit picking. If you want to make your case, you should IMO try to be more careful with what you're saying, or at least be gracious when someone points out where you were off.
I've blown it on facts myself a bunch of times and it's no problem when someone points out that I missed it. I think it's important for us to use accurate facts, otherwise the discussion here just has no basis.
Dude. What are you talking about? Im clearly referring to the year hes coming off of. Did you see me say hes averaged those numbers the last three years somewhere??? Bruce hit 38 HR last year (the Mets all time best is 41 in a season) and was worth 2.7 fWAR (your quibbling over 3 percentage points?) At only 30 years of age he has cleared 3 WAR 3 times and came close in two other seasons. The biggest difference with Bruce last year is that his defense was much better and Im convinced it was due to defensive positioning, something that should continue going forward. Bunch of nitpicking today, holy smokes. The guy is a multiple time all star in his prime coming off a good season. Isnt there a dog we can go kick somewhere?
36 HRs and 100+ RBIs for a corner OF at $13M a year is good value. Problem is the guy strikes out way too much and his production seems to come in spurts throughout a season.
RE: Yeah but I am in the boat that it is a good signing
36 HRs and 100+ RBIs for a corner OF at $13M a year is good value. Problem is the guy strikes out way too much and his production seems to come in spurts throughout a season.
Almost every power hitter is streaky. A few that arent are guys named Trout, ect. IMO, Bruce was the best OF on the market not named JD. Cains value is tied to his speed/defense and his decline has already started. Id rather have the better bat as Bruce is likely to age better.
He also fills so many holes. We needed power back in the lineup, a LH bat to protect Cespedes... he guards against catastrophe in the OF (how do we even know how Conforto rebounds after tearing his shoulder?) typical injuries in the OF, and more.
Not sure why anybody would be upset about bringing Bruce back.
Matt Ehalt @MattEhalt
3m
Some quick hits:
--Not saying it's happening, but don't be stunned if Mets turn to Reyes for their infield opening (they just spent good amount on Bruce)
--Team's lack of prospects makes them hesitant to deplete that system even further (which could lead to IF add being a FA)
Matt Ehalt @MattEhalt
3m
Some quick hits:
--Not saying it's happening, but don't be stunned if Mets turn to Reyes for their infield opening (they just spent good amount on Bruce)
--Team's lack of prospects makes them hesitant to deplete that system even further (which could lead to IF add being a FA)
Is it Reyes over Flores or do the Mets once again not feel like giving Flores a shot at an everyday role at any position.
At this point I think the Mets have yo-yo-d Flores so much he's got Mejia syndrome and will probably forget he's taking PED's, if there was any shot at him developing into a legit every day player, even a slow as molasses one, it's gone.
Matt Ehalt @MattEhalt
3m
Some quick hits:
--Not saying it's happening, but don't be stunned if Mets turn to Reyes for their infield opening (they just spent good amount on Bruce)
--Team's lack of prospects makes them hesitant to deplete that system even further (which could lead to IF add being a FA)
Is it Reyes over Flores or do the Mets once again not feel like giving Flores a shot at an everyday role at any position.
At this point I think the Mets have yo-yo-d Flores so much he's got Mejia syndrome and will probably forget he's taking PED's, if there was any shot at him developing into a legit every day player, even a slow as molasses one, it's gone.
The implication from the "Reyes is a real option" writers is Reyes would be the starting 2b.
would be willing to give Flores an opportunity if he looks better than Reyes.
Flores looks like he has legitimate upside to hit 25+ HRs with regular ABs. Steamer really likes him and projects him to hit 24 HRs and contribute 2.1 WAR next year (if he gets 526 ABs).
is a hobby for them. They are a real estate company that also happens to own a baseball team. They dont operate this as a business. They operate the Mets like they are a bank account for Sterling.
They dont give a shit if the Mets win or lose. I mean, they pay homage to a player from a different fucking franchise in their stadium for Christ sake.
Sandy Koufax at spring training visit and ceremony was just because Sandy is a national treasure, I had no idea until much later in life it is/was because the Wilpons are Brooklyn Dodgers fans.
Sandy Koufax at spring training visit and ceremony was just because Sandy is a national treasure, I had no idea until much later in life it is/was because the Wilpons are Brooklyn Dodgers fans.
still.
Fred Wilpon is an easy target for a variety of reasons but it's fair to mention that he and Koufax were life long friends. I think I even remember reading once where Koufax only went out for their HS BB team to hang out with his buddy Fred.
Sandy Koufax at spring training visit and ceremony was just because Sandy is a national treasure, I had no idea until much later in life it is/was because the Wilpons are Brooklyn Dodgers fans.
still.
Fred Wilpon is an easy target for a variety of reasons but it's fair to mention that he and Koufax were life long friends. I think I even remember reading once where Koufax only went out for their HS BB team to hang out with his buddy Fred.
My point wasn't to target him, I really didn't know why Koufax showed up every year at Mets spring training.
The players all raved about meeting Koufax and it seemed like an annual spring training highlight that I never questioned.
I simply didn't know the history.
Was Fred life long friends with Jackie Robinson also?
Sandy Koufax at spring training visit and ceremony was just because Sandy is a national treasure, I had no idea until much later in life it is/was because the Wilpons are Brooklyn Dodgers fans.
still.
Fred Wilpon is an easy target for a variety of reasons but it's fair to mention that he and Koufax were life long friends. I think I even remember reading once where Koufax only went out for their HS BB team to hang out with his buddy Fred.
My point wasn't to target him, I really didn't know why Koufax showed up every year at Mets spring training.
The players all raved about meeting Koufax and it seemed like an annual spring training highlight that I never questioned.
I simply didn't know the history.
Yeah evidently they have been life long best friends and have remained close.
Of course, Id rather have them sign Moose or even Nunez, basically a younger version of Reyes, who can also play the OF
But considering they can probably get Reyes on a cheap one year deal, it would not be bad , especially given the relationship he has established with Rosario.
Mets could go either way this year, depending on the health of the starters. Id rather see them go with what they got and then see where they are in July. If they are ten or more games over . 500 then add a bat at that time.
Mets should not lock themselves in with a bunch of multi year deals in free agency, even if they are relatively cheap deals. Given the randomness of injuries, you never know what position you will need to bolster at the trade deadline.
Also, they have to avoid guys on the slippery injury slope. No
More aging vets who have already missed time due to injury
gets a 500,000 raise as I always said he would. It's "impossible" to end up with less or even the same with the arbitration system. He was arguably the worst SP in the entire league and got a half million raise
-Mets still interested in Duda... they must be very down on Dom.
gets a 500,000 raise as I always said he would. It's "impossible" to end up with less or even the same with the arbitration system. He was arguably the worst SP in the entire league and got a half million raise
-Mets still interested in Duda... they must be very down on Dom.
Would've loved to sign Duda as Dom insurance and use the Bruce money to sign a player that can help us (Moose or Kipnis trade).
Not to veer towards the political, but this amused me
gets a 500,000 raise as I always said he would. It's "impossible" to end up with less or even the same with the arbitration system. He was arguably the worst SP in the entire league and got a half million raise
-Mets still interested in Duda... they must be very down on Dom.
Would've loved to sign Duda as Dom insurance and use the Bruce money to sign a player that can help us (Moose or Kipnis trade).
Given the fact Duda is lefty and can only play 1b he'd be more than insurance. He'd be the starting 1b and Dom would be in AAA.
yeah, I think they're going to trade Smith or they hate him.
Sandy is on the verge of having the 13, 12, 11 pick all bust on him from sequential drafts. I know the MLB draft is a crapshoot, but has another currently employed GM had such bad output from that many top 15 picks?
Flores should automatically be the 1B against lefty pitchers if he's not in the lineup elsewhere.
to be clear before ZGiants shows up and starts "fighting" with me, I'm merely commenting on Rosenthal's report the Mets are interested in bringing back Duda. I do NOT claim to know what the Mets think of Smith, rather IF they bring back Duda it sure implies they aren't high on him.
gets a 500,000 raise as I always said he would. It's "impossible" to end up with less or even the same with the arbitration system. He was arguably the worst SP in the entire league and got a half million raise
-Mets still interested in Duda... they must be very down on Dom.
Wish we had a time machine and could go back to the threads of when every single Mets fan panicked about the fear how the cheap Wilpons are going to cause us to lose Harvey to free agency one day. The assumption was we couldnt even affor d his last few arbitratration years. Incredible how it turned out, if you think about it.
And here we are laughing that Harvey got a 500k raise in arbitration after being the worst pitcher in all of baseball. And how most Mets fans are anxiously looking forward to seeing him leave already.
Btw - it will not shock me to see flashes of old Harvey at points this year. Hes a goner, but lets hope he makes it a difficult decision for the fans at least.
to be clear before ZGiants shows up and starts "fighting" with me, I'm merely commenting on Rosenthal's report the Mets are interested in bringing back Duda. I do NOT claim to know what the Mets think of Smith, rather IF they bring back Duda it sure implies they aren't high on him.
if it's true that they even have interest in Duda at this point with another lefty bat capable of backing up 1B (Bruce) and Flores on the roster (as a rightly 1B backup) you don't need a ouija board to figure out what it says about Smith.
and I don't even mind Reyes, he can play anywhere in the infield and probably would lead the team in SB's again with minimal PA's. He's a perfect utility guy if he doesn't want a lot of PT.
I just think Duda is a major condemnation of Dominic Smith and if the Mets re-sign Duda it probably means or should mean they trade Smith to make way for Alonso (and that's me trying to find the silver lining - they like Alonso so much and have doubts on Smith - they want to trade Smith before the doubts are realized).
with Alonso is he's unplayable if he doesn't bounce back from the season he had in the field in 2017. I personally like the bat more than Smith's.
This is my borderline sarcasm borderline hating to actually play baseball after the age of 13 preferring the contact sports, but how hard can 1B defense really be?
If a player wants to be good defensively and puts in the work, to me they should be at least decent at 1B defense.
Remember Wade Boggs, how much of a butcher he was at 3B, and he worked his ass off and became passable at a minimum at 3B. 3B defense seems like it should be harder than 1B.
How can you not be decent at 1B defense, especially for those guys playing it most of their lives?
with Alonso is he's unplayable if he doesn't bounce back from the season he had in the field in 2017. I personally like the bat more than Smith's.
This is my borderline sarcasm borderline hating to actually play baseball after the age of 13 preferring the contact sports, but how hard can 1B defense really be?
If a player wants to be good defensively and puts in the work, to me they should be at least decent at 1B defense.
Remember Wade Boggs, how much of a butcher he was at 3B, and he worked his ass off and became passable at a minimum at 3B. 3B defense seems like it should be harder than 1B.
How can you not be decent at 1B defense, especially for those guys playing it most of their lives?
18 errors over 78 games (with terrible reports on mobility) isn't even playable at the position. That's full-on DH. Not saying he can't bounce back but that's really, really bad. Lets hope he took the off-season seriously.
And he has certainly worked his ass off this winter. Lets hope it pays off. I expect a monster season out of him this year. Bottom five to top ten in one season - lets do it!!
And he has certainly worked his ass off this winter. Lets hope it pays off. I expect a monster season out of him this year. Bottom five to top ten in one season - lets do it!!
And he has certainly worked his ass off this winter. Lets hope it pays off. I expect a monster season out of him this year. Bottom five to top ten in one season - lets do it!!
in 2018 to play with the Mets (although can't completely rule it out) and likely 2019?
Hopefully the glove can come around a bit this year.
Obviously depends on who they sign at 1b or how Dom hits but Alonso in theory could see Queens this season. If his defense is 2017 bad he's not even going to be an MLB option for them. With a big year he could be the 1b of the future.
But I dont put it past them. Duda would be dumbest of all since hes a lefty, not that good, and injury prone, but again not putting it past them.
Reed back in the BP - great. Reyes as super sub - fine. Just really want them to add a strong defensive 2B who can gel with Rosario for multiple years. The defense is locked into sucking everywhere else, at least put together a strong double play combo.
Re Harvey - I actually expect him to have a solid year. After all the injuries and the shoulder muscle imbalance, I have to think Boras had him meet with every medical expert and get every scan there is. With FA on the horizon he probably got more focused than he has been in a long time. Can he turn back the clock and be in the convo with Thor/JDG again? I doubt it, but I think he can be a good #3
The problem with trading Smith now is his value is at an all time low
If they want to trade him then best move would be to send him to AAA and hope he plays well like he did last year which would help rebuild some value. The one issue is that there arent many teams in need of a 1B so there wouldnt be too many suitors. Of course injuries could change that.
Smith's value is at an all-time low from 2 months and 167 at-bats in the majors.
He led the PCL in hits and average and was among the leaders in OPS and other stats when he was called up and has hit every single stop in his minor league career despite being young for every level along the way.
I doubt a random Braves fan knows Dominic Smith's value.
RE: The problem with trading Smith now is his value is at an all time low
If they want to trade him then best move would be to send him to AAA and hope he plays well like he did last year which would help rebuild some value. The one issue is that there arent many teams in need of a 1B so there wouldnt be too many suitors. Of course injuries could change that.
Its hard to speculate on his value at the moment - he showed power and drove in runs at the mlb level, I dont know if it was enough to help his value but I dont think good offensive numbers in vegas are worth much either. I do feel confident saying his value would drop substantially if the Mets signal to the rest of the league that they think so little of him that they are blocking him with someone like Duda.
Smith's value is at an all-time low from 2 months and 167 at-bats in the majors.
He led the PCL in hits and average and was among the leaders in OPS and other stats when he was called up and has hit every single stop in his minor league career despite being young for every level along the way.
I doubt a random Braves fan knows Dominic Smith's value.
In not sure why you felt the need to take a shot at me I was just voicing my opinion as I do follow the Mets as a Braves fan and also because I live in NY. Smith was a top 50 prospect a year ago but he struggled during his call up which clearly hurt his value. It is not difficult to understand that Smiths value has taken a hit with the amount of interest the Mets have shown in 1B this offseason. Was I saying Smith is a bust? Absolutely not, he did show nice power during his brief stint which is an encouraging sign. Even a random Braves fan realizes Smiths value isnt what it was a year ago.
Smith's value is at an all-time low from 2 months and 167 at-bats in the majors.
He led the PCL in hits and average and was among the leaders in OPS and other stats when he was called up and has hit every single stop in his minor league career despite being young for every level along the way.
I doubt a random Braves fan knows Dominic Smith's value.
In not sure why you felt the need to take a shot at me I was just voicing my opinion as I do follow the Mets as a Braves fan and also because I live in NY. Smith was a top 50 prospect a year ago but he struggled during his call up which clearly hurt his value. It is not difficult to understand that Smiths value has taken a hit with the amount of interest the Mets have shown in 1B this offseason. Was I saying Smith is a bust? Absolutely not, he did show nice power during his brief stint which is an encouraging sign. Even a random Braves fan realizes Smiths value isnt what it was a year ago.
How did I take a shot at you? I didn't mean anything personal. If calling you a random Braves fan is offensive, my apologies, simply meant that you really don't have any solid basis to claim Smith's value is at an all-time low.
Smith's stock went up last year, not down. There were questions about power. he answered them. And his average didn't suffer.
He had his best season as a pro last year.
You (and I) have zero way of knowing if his 167 major league at-bats pushed his value to an all-time low, like you said.
I don't believe it did.
As Eric said though, signing Lucas Duda sure wouldn't be a good sign.
I want him to be the everyday 1B, but if the Mets have legit interest in Duda and they sign him then I think they either have to send Smith to Vegas (which would be stupid, why? to work on his defense?, he has zero left to prove hitting in the PCL) or trade him.
That's why I made the comment in the first place. I doubt the interest in Duda is real, at least I hope it's not.
to be clear before ZGiants shows up and starts "fighting" with me, I'm merely commenting on Rosenthal's report the Mets are interested in bringing back Duda. I do NOT claim to know what the Mets think of Smith, rather IF they bring back Duda it sure implies they aren't high on him.
Is this really necessary? If anything you attacked me in most of this thread. Its like you send out a bat single looking to be provoked. lol.
to be clear before ZGiants shows up and starts "fighting" with me, I'm merely commenting on Rosenthal's report the Mets are interested in bringing back Duda. I do NOT claim to know what the Mets think of Smith, rather IF they bring back Duda it sure implies they aren't high on him.
Is this really necessary? If anything you attacked me in most of this thread. Its like you send out a bat single looking to be provoked. lol.
All due respect but we have a history of disagreeing. I was merely commenting before that happened. No offense intended.
With Conforto an unknown I applaud them signing a very competent COFer but this article does a good job illustrating how bad the defense has been and how much of an impact Lagares has had when hes in. If hes playing well whenever Conforto comes back, then what? Bruce to first? Is Juan Lagares the key to Mets improvement? - ( New Window )
Mike Puma
Verified account @NYPost_Mets
59m59 minutes ago
Heard the Mets are taking the approach that Adrian Gonzalez, if healthy, will probably be their first baseman to start the season. There is a good chance Dom Smith will begin the season at Las Vegas.
Bowden is such a fraud, yeah the Brewers are trading Shaw to then sign Moustakas. Makes absolutely no sense. Every single team in baseball takes Shaw over Moustakas ($$, years of control, age included). It would be akin to the Mets trading Conforto in order to sign Lorenzo Cain. Farcical.
look good last year in limited action but to send him to start the season in Vegas in order to give a washed up player like AGonz everyday ABs is ridiculous.
If they don't think Smith is ready to be the starting 1B on a contending team they they sure as hell need a better option there than AGonz.
problem with Smith in LV is it doesn't tell us anything. He was very good (not incredible) but very good in LV in 2017. What does it prove if he mashes in 2018? It's the PCL in a ridiculous hitting environment. Guys like Eric Campbell have mashed there. He could put up a huge run there and we'd still have unanswered questions.
Smith in Vegas is stupid. Sure he wasn't incredible in LV, but he led the league in hits and was top 10 in OPS and many other stats when he was called up.
What is Vegas going to do for Smith? help him work on his defense? His weight?
Mike Puma
Verified account @NYPost_Mets
59m59 minutes ago
Heard the Mets are taking the approach that Adrian Gonzalez, if healthy, will probably be their first baseman to start the season. There is a good chance Dom Smith will begin the season at Las Vegas.
So Smith wastes away in Vegas.
Dont worry, I hear that its a good deal because its just for the minimum and that the Mets will just cut him before the season starts if he doesnt play well. No big deal.
Right.
36 year old, malcontent has-been as starting 1b here we go.
was hardly any better offensively than Smith, obviously the expectations are different per position and Rosario's defense wad fine, but are they going to sign Reyes to start at SS and send Rosario back to LV too?
was hardly any better offensively than Smith, obviously the expectations are different per position and Rosario's defense wad fine, but are they going to sign Reyes to start at SS and send Rosario back to LV too?
You answered your own question. Different expectations due to position and "average" defense (with flashes of more than that) with a sprinkling of speed is all Rosario needs to do to add value. Smith needs to mash or he has none.
Sign here (now) if he wasn't "guaranteed" playing time. Why are people surprised by Puma's comments
It is very possible that he had no other better offers, and sees a real opportunity to win a job here. No entrenched incumbent to battle, and let's face it, the bar for success is pretty low.
Sign here (now) if he wasn't "guaranteed" playing time. Why are people surprised by Puma's comments
I most certainly am not surprised, this was to be expected knowing the Mets BUT Adrian Gonzalez didn't exactly have a lot of options. In fact, I'm not sure another team in baseball was guaranteeing him PT. It's not as if he had 15 options.
rapidly declining in talent, an alleged clubhouse cancer, and didn't have any other teams interested in signing him.
He signed for 550k, doesn't scream "guaranteed playing time" money to me.
He didn't have a choice $$ wise he is being paid 22 million, the Mets portion is subtracted from what the Braves owed, if the Mets "gave" him 10 million all it would mean would be the Braves paying 10 million less.
someone else guaranteeing him playing time would have paid him more than the 545k the Mets are paying.
Yes, it's just subtracted from the 22M Atlanta owes, but because the Mets got him so cheap indicated to me he didn't have much interest.
For sure. I just meant I don't think the $ was even in the equation. Likelihood of starting was almost certainly all he cared about (he also was in SD with Sandy so there is some relationship there).
Mike Puma
Verified account @NYPost_Mets
59m59 minutes ago
Heard the Mets are taking the approach that Adrian Gonzalez, if healthy, will probably be their first baseman to start the season. There is a good chance Dom Smith will begin the season at Las Vegas.
So Smith wastes away in Vegas.
Dont worry, I hear that its a good deal because its just for the minimum and that the Mets will just cut him before the season starts if he doesnt play well. No big deal.
Right.
36 year old, malcontent has-been as starting 1b here we go.
My opinion is that the Mets wants Smith's numbers to be built up in Las Vegas so they could trade him during the season.
Juan Lagares has been worth 7.2 WAR over the last 4 seasons despite missing some time with injury. Jay Bruce has been worth 3.0.
Sandy clearly doesn't value defense and has effectively used most of our offseason budget to block Lagares while leaving the multiple IF needs unaddressed. I just don't understand the strategy.
for a trade with McCutchen (which I'm fine with actually, I think Cutch isn't great anymore and only signed for one more year), then why use the majority of the offseason budget to block him with Jay Bruce? There just doesn't seem to be a coherent strategy from this front office.
Rosenthal thinks the Mets are still looking at Eduardo Nunez, Neil Walker, Moustakos and Todd Frazier, but that it depends on their respective prices.
I know he has more control but valuing Harrison > Cutch seems odd
If its true he wouldnt give up Nimmo for Cutch but would for Harrison. This has been a really strange offseason. Cutch seemingly would have been more flexible Conforto insurance compared to 3 years of Bruce locked into a corner. I know hes not a very good defender anymore but he has to be better than Bruce. Even giving the benefit of doubt its hard to see what Sandys plan is. It appears its never regretted to specific players and always purely bargain hunting.
He also made major strides offensively last year. I always heard him as a total zero with the bat, but good D.
Sure he has 0 power, but patient hitter, and showed good contact. no speed, but I'd almost rather see what Guillorme can do than trade for Harrison.
especially if he's a defensive stud. Rosario and Guillorme, and Nimmo/Lagares in CF is strong D up the middle even if the corners are bad. It's a start, especially for a team still counting on pitching to carry the team.
He also made major strides offensively last year. I always heard him as a total zero with the bat, but good D.
Sure he has 0 power, but patient hitter, and showed good contact. no speed, but I'd almost rather see what Guillorme can do than trade for Harrison.
especially if he's a defensive stud. Rosario and Guillorme, and Nimmo/Lagares in CF is strong D up the middle even if the corners are bad. It's a start, especially for a team still counting on pitching to carry the team.
None. He'd easily be the worst offensive 2b in baseball as of right now. Zero power, zero speed. There is no chance Guillorme is even in the equation. 103 wRC+ in AA good for 6th on his own team (an awful 2017 AA Mets squad).
He also made major strides offensively last year. I always heard him as a total zero with the bat, but good D.
Sure he has 0 power, but patient hitter, and showed good contact. no speed, but I'd almost rather see what Guillorme can do than trade for Harrison.
especially if he's a defensive stud. Rosario and Guillorme, and Nimmo/Lagares in CF is strong D up the middle even if the corners are bad. It's a start, especially for a team still counting on pitching to carry the team.
None. He'd easily be the worst offensive 2b in baseball as of right now. Zero power, zero speed. There is no chance Guillorme is even in the equation. 103 wRC+ in AA good for 6th on his own team (an awful 2017 AA Mets squad).
but what would his WAR be?
Isn't that the better determining factor than just offense? I mean if everyone is being evaluated on WAR, isn't DEF half of it?
He also made major strides offensively last year. I always heard him as a total zero with the bat, but good D.
Sure he has 0 power, but patient hitter, and showed good contact. no speed, but I'd almost rather see what Guillorme can do than trade for Harrison.
especially if he's a defensive stud. Rosario and Guillorme, and Nimmo/Lagares in CF is strong D up the middle even if the corners are bad. It's a start, especially for a team still counting on pitching to carry the team.
None. He'd easily be the worst offensive 2b in baseball as of right now. Zero power, zero speed. There is no chance Guillorme is even in the equation. 103 wRC+ in AA good for 6th on his own team (an awful 2017 AA Mets squad).
but what would his WAR be?
Isn't that the better determining factor than just offense? I mean if everyone is being evaluated on WAR, isn't DEF half of it?
His fWAR would be putrid. There is a reason you don't see teams playing all-glove zero bat players as starters despite the value of defense. DJ LeMahieu was the best defensive 2b in baseball in 2017, posted a 94 wRC+ and was still a below average regular (1.8 fWAR).
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Mets have discussed Josh Harrison with the Pirates, but talks at this point are not ongoing.
Sandy seems to be very bad at maximizing the value of his prospects
If they are down on Smith thats fine, he was never a cant miss prospect, but if thats the case they should have dealt him to fill another hole at some point. Wasting him away in no mans land while playing a retread like Gonzo doesnt accomplish anything for anyone. Its mind boggling that of all the toiling high draft picks and guys who cant get out of their own way due to injuries Fulmer is the guy who broke out and overcame the injury bug.
numbers would suggest a straight platoon would be ideal so this is kind of an odd decision unless of course their internal metrics say "Nimmo can't play CF" but they are okay with other crap defense so...
starts working at 1B from day-one of spring training. I'd like the signing a whole lot more if Bruce can be a 1B/OF for us, rather than a straight up OF.
RE: Sandy seems to be very bad at maximizing the value of his prospects
If they are down on Smith thats fine, he was never a cant miss prospect, but if thats the case they should have dealt him to fill another hole at some point. Wasting him away in no mans land while playing a retread like Gonzo doesnt accomplish anything for anyone. Its mind boggling that of all the toiling high draft picks and guys who cant get out of their own way due to injuries Fulmer is the guy who broke out and overcame the injury bug.
When you take the long view, it's not mind boggling. Leaving the Mets was the best thing for Justin Turner and Daniel Murphy, too.
Could still be true (backloaded). Wouldn't shock me at all something like 5, 15, 19
Either Conforto is a full time CF for 3 years now or Smith is a bust. Maybe they can get some value via trade for Lagares.
Conforto isnt a CF. This is stupid. Spend that money on a real 3B, 2B, or 1B
Jeesh. How exactly are they hurting for funds this season. After the boatload of contracts came off the books???
Conforto is out until what? May?
And then my guess is the OF will be Cespedes, Conforto, and Bruce. I don't think the Mets view Nimmo and Lagares as a desirable platoon (despite Sandy's Nimmo sarcastic commentary).
I do think Bruce could occasionally play 1B and provide Smith insurance, but unfortunately not as a platoon since they're both lefties. Would have been better f Bruce was a righty and could spell Smith against lefties (assuming Smith struggles at all and if he struggles with lefties).
I can see the Mets trying to trade Lagares too. Wouldn't expect much return, but I believe they also need to make a 40-man move to make Bruce official (not positive). Of course they can waive someone like Matt Reynolds, but maybe trading Lagares is preferable.
Yup. Ignoring the real holes on the team. Bringing back players from a shitty Mets team. Dont tell me youre building a team on pitching if you arent serious about defense.
x2.
Are there other players out there that could make the Mets better than Bruce? Yes, but this is our reality.
We have maybe 3 league average or better defensive players. Your best offensive player is starting the year on the DL and your big off-season signing is guy who's going to hit .235 and hit 30 HRs.
Atrocious.
When we step outside the vacuum however his style fits with everything that's been wrong with the Mets approach the last bunch of years. He weakens the defense at 2 positions simultaneously by forcing Conforto back into CF.
I guess it wouldn't be a Sandy offseason if we didn't try to put a square peg in a round hole. Guess we should all brace for the Reyes resigning to play 2B and hit leadoff.
2. Flores at 3B might not be ideal but Wilmer and Cabrera/Riveria is vastly better offensively than Nimmo/ Lagares, so it makes sense to sign a corner OF
3. Conforto will miss time and is a question mark since he dislocated his shoulder just swining a bat
4. Cespedes has missed time each of the last two seasons.
I dont think Dom Smith has anything to do with it. Bruce is s terrible 1B and if Smith is sent down, Flores likely takes his place, not Bruce, with Riveria, Cecchini and Cabrera manning 2b and 3B
Of course, we would rather have Martinez but realistically this is the Mets and this is not a bad move. To me, Bruce is the most steady rbi guy on the team.Runner on third with less than two outs,Jay usually gets him home
But given the utter lack of prospects, OF is clearly the biggest need over the next few yeArs. Is Bruce ideal? No. But Mets are not signing anyone to s mega deal. So within their financial parameters, this is not s bad move
But given the utter lack of prospects, OF is clearly the biggest need over the next few yeArs. Is Bruce ideal? No. But Mets are not signing anyone to s mega deal. So within their financial parameters, this is not s bad move
Mega deal, no. But If they're paying Bruce 13m/per, isn't it worth the extra $3-$5m for Cain? Fowler in CF got $16.5M per last year. Even if Cain's not a GG anymore at 31 he should be able to stick in CF for at least a few more years. You could probably amputate one of his legs and he'd still be a better defensive player than Bruce.
People want shiny toys but Bruce is a good player that adds back something we sorely need. We lost a ton of pop in trading away Duda, Bruce, Walker, and Grandy...
This hedges against injuries in the OF and Smith, Rosario, and Nimmo not becoming amazing in 2018 right away.
Anybody thinking Nimmo, Lagares, Cespedes, and Conforto were going to stay healthy all year need their heads examined anyway. There were still be plenty of play for Nimmo for those rooting for him and Conforto can play CF for 2-3 years as long as he keeps the weight off. He's a baby.
2. Flores at 3B might not be ideal but Wilmer and Cabrera/Riveria is vastly better offensively than Nimmo/ Lagares, so it makes sense to sign a corner OF
3. Conforto will miss time and is a question mark since he dislocated his shoulder just swining a bat
4. Cespedes has missed time each of the last two seasons.
I dont think Dom Smith has anything to do with it. Bruce is s terrible 1B and if Smith is sent down, Flores likely takes his place, not Bruce, with Riveria, Cecchini and Cabrera manning 2b and 3B
Of course, we would rather have Martinez but realistically this is the Mets and this is not a bad move. To me, Bruce is the most steady rbi guy on the team.Runner on third with less than two outs,Jay usually gets him home
+1.
People want shiny toys but Bruce is a good player that adds back something we sorely need. We lost a ton of pop in trading away Duda, Bruce, Walker, and Grandy...
This hedges against injuries in the OF and Smith, Rosario, and Nimmo not becoming amazing in 2018 right away.
Anybody thinking Nimmo, Lagares, Cespedes, and Conforto were going to stay healthy all year need their heads examined anyway. There were still be plenty of play for Nimmo for those rooting for him and Conforto can play CF for 2-3 years as long as he keeps the weight off. He's a baby.
Man, you are the ultimate homer as a fan.
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Now get a 2B/3B and Dickey and Im content....
People want shiny toys but Bruce is a good player that adds back something we sorely need. We lost a ton of pop in trading away Duda, Bruce, Walker, and Grandy...
This hedges against injuries in the OF and Smith, Rosario, and Nimmo not becoming amazing in 2018 right away.
Anybody thinking Nimmo, Lagares, Cespedes, and Conforto were going to stay healthy all year need their heads examined anyway. There were still be plenty of play for Nimmo for those rooting for him and Conforto can play CF for 2-3 years as long as he keeps the weight off. He's a baby.
Man, you are the ultimate homer as a fan.
He is. But I can't fault him for it. This team is in purgatory for a few years - it will probably be bad, but could be good if injuries (or lack thereof) break right.
Gotta be optimistic about the upcoming season. Until there is no reason to.
That said - FUCK the Wilpons..
Sign Dickey
And this team wins 89 games and makes the playoffs
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
Sign Dickey
And this team wins 89 games and makes the playoffs
Cabrera and Cecchini isnt getting you Kipnis and if Kipnis is brought in you need Cabrera to play 3B. A Kipnis package would sting.. Dunn, Alonso, ect.. those guys...
3. Conforto will miss time and is a question mark since he dislocated his shoulder just swining a bat
Sanchez hurt his shoulder swinging a bat last year, too. Cost him a month or so.
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
100% agree.
Need to find a serviceable SP to back up this staff and still provide depth in the bullpen in the interim. Bud Norris?
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3. Conforto will miss time and is a question mark since he dislocated his shoulder just swining a bat
Sanchez hurt his shoulder swinging a bat last year, too. Cost him a month or so.
Conforto had surgery. Not the same injury.
I read last night that he gets to name 5 teams each year of the deal that he can add to a no trade list.
For a team with such limited financial resources, it's very concerning to be missing on first round picks like this. With the #6 pick in the draft after losing so many games last year, I'm concerned that Sandy is going to blow the pick.
Also, looks like the Mets are doubling down on the very low OBP, high strikeout, all or nothing HR type of hitters that we had last year.
There's some hope for optimism. I said above that he had low OBP, but he's shown improvement there. From 2014-2017, his OBP is .281, .294, .309, .324. That's a good trend.
Fangraphs summarized the deal as:
"Steamer thinks the Mets will be hard-pressed to squeeze surplus value out of the deal, but both Bruces 2017 season and his swing might very well be repeatable.
Steamer projects Bruce to post 23 home runs and a 106 wRC+ over 478 plate appearances. The result of that? Just 1.0 WAR. But projection systems might not capture the extent of Bruces swing and philosophical changes. Bruces new, more extreme approach could very well be repeatable.
Now, the Mets have to find a place for the swing.
Mets Nation was once upset that Bruce was blocking Michael Conforto early last season. And its not clear at the moment where Bruce will fit.
With Confortos shoulder still an unknown, Bruce supplies some outfield insurance. But the Mets also have Yoenis Cespedes, Juan Lagares, and Brandon Nimmo in the outfield. Perhaps Bruce can also be a hedge against struggles from Dominic Smith at first base."
On it's own it's a perfectly fine signing, good price/solid player, it's just a question of whether or not it's the best use of what's likely the majority of their remaining budget. Moving Conforto to CF basically full time the next 3 years is less than ideal also no matter which way you slice it.
2B (most likely candidate is Reyes on the cheap)
3B Cabrera
LF Cespedes
RF Bruce
C TDA
1B Smith
CF Lagares (maybe platoon with Nimmo?)
SS Rosario
Pretty weak 5-8 until Conforto comes back unless someone has a big time breakout.
I think people's frustration is more that it's a spin the wheels offseason. Bruce gets the roster closer to where it was last year but not better in any way, and it's recycling the same player that wasn't a great fit the last 2 years instead of upgrading in some facet. I'm probably guilty of this myself, but they are more grading the overall offseason than the individual signing on the expectation that this is mostly it.
The rotation is the same as last season.
DeGrom, Thor and then Harvey... final 2 spots will go down to Gsellman/Wheeler/Lugo and I guess with an insane spring Flexen. There are no other internal options. The top 5 SP prospects in the system are probably Peterson (nowhere near the 2018 Mets), Szapucki (won't pitch in 2018), Dunn (AWFUL 2017 so 2018 would be pretty shocking), Flexen (still eligible) and Anthony Kay (0% chance he throws a pitch for the 2018 Mets).
What are the chances of bringing in a grizzled vet - saw Dickey mentioned in the thread but haven't kept up with much Mets chatter yet. Is that real? Or just speculation here? Seems like it would be a very smart play for the right deal.
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Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and Im happy we signed a 38 HR, 3 WAR player who just had his 30th birthday on a very reasonable deal? Da fuq?
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
100% agree.
Need to find a serviceable SP to back up this staff and still provide depth in the bullpen in the interim. Bud Norris?
I think we burned our bridges but Dickey on a 1 year, 7 million dollar deal would be great. He breaks up the hard throwers, is usually good for close to 200 innings, and can keep you in most games. Sadly, its probably not happening but I still would be surprised if somebody like you mentioned isnt brought in to at least compete. I think the next move will be for a 2B/3B though either by FA or trade. I also wouldnt rule out another bargain reliever if the prices keep dropping on Reed/Watson types.
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what would a 4-man rotation look like coming out of spring training (and then expanding to a 5-man staff after X-amount of time)?
The rotation is the same as last season.
DeGrom, Thor and then Harvey... final 2 spots will go down to Gsellman/Wheeler/Lugo and I guess with an insane spring Flexen. There are no other internal options. The top 5 SP prospects in the system are probably Peterson (nowhere near the 2018 Mets), Szapucki (won't pitch in 2018), Dunn (AWFUL 2017 so 2018 would be pretty shocking), Flexen (still eligible) and Anthony Kay (0% chance he throws a pitch for the 2018 Mets).
Montero is out of options and is likely in the mix. How good he is is anyones guess but with a new regime and a better 2017, maybe he sticks.
Are there other players out there that could make the Mets better than Bruce? Yes, but this is our reality.
Agreed. It's not a sexy move, but this season is going to hinge on pitching staying healthy and effective. They just need enough offense to compete. My concern is that we may be one of the worst defensive teams in MLB.
But apparently it was killed by someone at the top, very likely over money.
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but realistically speaking it's short money even in the back loaded 2 years and the Mets are better with Bruce than without Bruce.
Are there other players out there that could make the Mets better than Bruce? Yes, but this is our reality.
Agreed. It's not a sexy move, but this season is going to hinge on pitching staying healthy and effective. They just need enough offense to compete. My concern is that we may be one of the worst defensive teams in MLB.
That's my main concern well. I really hope they at least add very good defensive 2B who can get on base in the leadoff spot. That would give a little bit of optimism that if Smith and Rosario are as good with their gloves as their scouting reports at least the IF can be improved defensively.
Its mostly my opinion, but I dont believe this is accurate. Dickey made some comments not that long ago that he was on the fence and that if he came back for one more year he would want concessions (ie a day off between starts to be with his family, ect). Also, why would the Braves let him out if his contract if he was retiring if they still wanted him? If they liked him and he was retiring, they still owe him nothing. Why not gamble on him coming back if you like him? I think they declined his option because they didnt want to pay him the 7 mil. Maybe Jay can weigh in.
Has he said that himself? I could see him wanting one more run in the place he got his Cy Young.
I could see penciling in 14-ish wins.
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is expected to retire (which is why the Braves let him out of his contract).
Has he said that himself? I could see him wanting one more run in the place he got his Cy Young.
Yes. He indicated to the Braves he was leaning toward retiring to spend time with his family.
""If I did not continue to play, it would be because our family decided it wasn't the best thing. I've dragged my kids all over the world playing baseball for 21 years. You know, there comes a time they deserve their dad to be around."
Has he flat out said he's done? No.
Quote:
is expected to retire (which is why the Braves let him out of his contract).
Its mostly my opinion, but I dont believe this is accurate. Dickey made some comments not that long ago that he was on the fence and that if he came back for one more year he would want concessions (ie a day off between starts to be with his family, ect). Also, why would the Braves let him out if his contract if he was retiring if they still wanted him? If they liked him and he was retiring, they still owe him nothing. Why not gamble on him coming back if you like him? I think they declined his option because they didnt want to pay him the 7 mil. Maybe Jay can weigh in.
They let him out of his deal because they think he's done. If they picked up the option they would how him the money. Why would any team spend 7 million if they didn't have to?
Dickey will receive a $500,000 buyout. The 42-year-old is now free to test the open market, but he's reportedly leaning toward retirement.
Its seemed since the last week of the season that he was leaning heavily toward retiring, and at this point Id be surprised if the knuckleballer decides to continue his career, writes OBrien. If he did, the Braves would likely pick up his $8 million option for 2018. But again, I dont think theyre going to have to make that call."
If a player retires on his own the team doesnt owe them money for that year.
If a player retires on his own the team doesnt owe them money for that year.
ZGiants show me evidence that he's not expected to retire I've shown you mine including quotes from the player and their primary beat writer. I didn't say he's "100% retired" but you are telling me I'm not "accurate" without an iota of evidence. I've provided mine. If they picked up the option they would have 8 million tied up in "will he actually play or not". Now they do not. For 8 million the Braves 1000% bring him back if they knew he wanted to play. It's a no-brainer.
I'm relatively optimistic that Harvey can turn in a big 2018 with so much to gain for him, but the proof will really be in the first few weeks of spring training. If he looks like shit, then he's toast.
Harvey, Matz and Conforto (health wise) are the guys to keep an eye on this spring. If Harvey and Matz look healthy and have their "good" stuff, we'll have real reason for optimism. If they both look like they did in 2017, we are in deep shit.
Montero isn't exactly super young anymore, but for some reason I still think he has upside. He's already worked with Warthen and Viola but maybe Callaway can finally get him to reach his potential. Aside from DeGrom and Thor, his stuff and velocity just looks so good on TV when I watch the games that maybe he can turn into an asset for us.
Yeah. And there was only one decision for me this past offseason -- that was to be an Atlanta Brave,
It would have to be the perfect spot. There are a few teams that are close to home, like Cincinnati, St. Louis, Atlanta, all three of those.
Yeah. And there was only one decision for me this past offseason -- that was to be an Atlanta Brave,
At least post the whole article. We have made no official decision at all, but we certainly have had conversations around both coming back or retiring. is right in it. Your first comment said expected to retire. I guessed he was on the fence but we are really just quibbling now. Im out.
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Did this season prove to be as convenient from a family perspective as you anticipated?
Yeah. And there was only one decision for me this past offseason -- that was to be an Atlanta Brave,
At least post the whole article. We have made no official decision at all, but we certainly have had conversations around both coming back or retiring. is right in it. Your first comment said expected to retire. I guessed he was on the fence but we are really just quibbling now. Im out.
He is expected to retire according to the beat writer and mostly everyone. Whether he does or does not doesn't change that. Who knows more about RA Dickey you or DOB who actually... covers the team?
So whether he comes back or not it does not appear the Mets would even be on his radar.
I'm relatively optimistic that Harvey can turn in a big 2018 with so much to gain for him, but the proof will really be in the first few weeks of spring training. If he looks like shit, then he's toast.
Harvey, Matz and Conforto (health wise) are the guys to keep an eye on this spring. If Harvey and Matz look healthy and have their "good" stuff, we'll have real reason for optimism. If they both look like they did in 2017, we are in deep shit.
Montero isn't exactly super young anymore, but for some reason I still think he has upside. He's already worked with Warthen and Viola but maybe Callaway can finally get him to reach his potential. Aside from DeGrom and Thor, his stuff and velocity just looks so good on TV when I watch the games that maybe he can turn into an asset for us.
Agree with everything you wrote.
2) David Peterson (LHP) 12/24 votes-50%
3) Mark Vientos (SS/3B) 13/24 votes-54%
4) Peter Alonso (1B) 21/28 votes-75%
5) Thomas Szapucki (LHP) 10/22-45%
6) Justin Dunn (RHP) 4/20-20%, runoff with Lindsay/Guillorme/Kay 9/22-41%
7) Desmond Lindsay (OF) 12/26-46%
8) Luis Guillorme (SS) 8/25-32%, run-off with Kay 11/22-50%, advances due to more votes in previous poll
9) Anthony Kay (LHP) 9/24-38%, run-off with Bashlor 10/20-50%, advances due to more votes in previous poll
10) Tyler Bashlor (RHP) 11/16-69%
11) Tomas Nido (C) 6/24-25%, run-off with Molina and Oswalt 12/20 60%
12) Marcos Molina (RHP) 6/20-30%, run-off with Evans 13/20-65%
13) Ronny Mauricio (SS) 6/17-35%
14) Gavin Cecchini (2B) 6/23-26%, run-off with Mazeika 12/15-80%
15) Chris Flexen (RHP) 8/26-31%, run-off with Mazeika/Thompson 8/11-73%
16) Patrick Mazeika (C) 6/22-27%, run-off with Thompson 8/14-57%
17) Corey Oswalt (RHP) 6/21-29%, run-off with Thompson 10/18-56%
18) David Thompson (3B) 8/21-38%
19) Jordan Humphreys (RHP) 9/16-56%
20) Kevin Kaczmarski (OF) 5/14-36%
21)Gerson Bautista (RHP) 5/24-21%, run-off with Evans 11/19-58%
22) Phil Evans (UTIL) 6/17-35%
23) Juan Uriarte (C) 6/19-32%
24) Drew Smith (RHP) 6/21-29%, run-off with Uceta 11/18-61%
25) Adonis Uceta (RHP) 9/20-45%
26) Jamie Callahan (RHP) 3/14-21%, Runoff with Holderman/Conlon 9/16-56%
27) PJ Conlon 6/16-38%
28) Nabil Crismatt 4/14-29%, Runoff with Holderman 10/17-59%
29) Colin Holderman 3/14-21%, Runoff with Blackham 7/13-54%
30) Matt Blackham 5/18 28%, Runoff with Becerra 9/13-69%
31) Steven Villines 3/15-20%, runoff with Becerra/James/Brodey 6/15-40%
32) Adrian Hernandez 3/17-18%, Run off with Becerra/James/Brodey 4/11-36%
33) Jhoan Urena (1b/3B) 3/16-19%, runoff with James 6/11-55%
34) Christian James (RHP) 4/16-25%, runoff with Nogosek 7/12-58%
35) Stephen Nogosek 8/17-47%
36) Jacob Rhame 4/16-27%
37) Quinn Brodey (OF) 5/20-25%, runoff with McNeil/Becerra 6/14-43%
38) Jeff McNeil (UTIL) 4/17-24%, runoff with Becerra/McGeorge 6/15-40%
39) Austin McGeorge 6/13-46%
He will retire. We shall see....
Jeff Paternostro (a Mets fan) said it's "easily" the worst since he's been covering the Mets. BA doesn't have it's rankings yet but they said "bottom third". My guess is 24-30.
Im just not a fan of absolutes. Its been a point of contention with me for over a decade. I said all along the Mets were an unlikely destination.
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strange topic for someone to obsess over. The expectation is he will retire and he wants to be close to Nashville either way. What does it matter if he decides to hang it up or no? You being "right"? Nobody ever said he "100% is retiring" so you still wouldn't be right. Sometimes you oddly choose to argue things that I'm not even sure the purpose/value of arguing.
Im just not a fan of absolutes. Its been a point of contention with me for over a decade. I said all along the Mets were an unlikely destination.
Where is the "absolute"?
"Dickey
DanMetroMan : 9:38 am : link : reply
is expected to retire (which is why the Braves let him out of his contract)."
"
Yes. He indicated to the Braves he was leaning toward retiring to spend time with his family.
""If I did not continue to play, it would be because our family decided it wasn't the best thing. I've dragged my kids all over the world playing baseball for 21 years. You know, there comes a time they deserve their dad to be around."
Has he flat out said he's done? No."
Bruce is a flawed player, and you have to hope that Callaway is the type of manager who will sit him if one of the other options is playing well.
Bruce is a flawed player, and you have to hope that Callaway is the type of manager who will sit him if one of the other options is playing well.
I would have had Merandy in the second tier of SP prospects after Peterson/Szapucki.
Top 100 is your threshold for value? If that's the case the Mets have 1 good prospect (Gimenez) as nobody else figures to show up on any reputable list.
He may have started slowly, spending two summers in the Dominican Summer League before coming to the United States, but the Gonzalez train is definitely picking up speed. The right-hander threw well in his U.S. debut in 2015 then backed it up with a New York-Penn League season that saw him finish in the top 10 in ERA and strikeouts. His full-season debut was equally impressive as he pitched himself from the South Atlantic League up to the Class A Advanced Florida State League. The Marlins took notice and acquired him and outfielder Ricardo Cespedes when they traded A.J. Ramos to the Mets in late July.
While Gonzalez is a bit undersized at 6-foot-1, his arm is more than big enough. He pitched at 93 mph with Brooklyn but showed he can reach back for 96-97 mph. He'll throw a very good curveball and messes with a slider, and they will run into each other at times. He has the ability to throw an above-average breaking ball, and likes to throw it, so getting him to focus on one might help him developmentally. His changeup is developing, and he needs to throw it more often so it can improve. While he's generally around the strike zone, he does leave balls in the middle of the plate at times. With good athleticism and a repeatable delivery, his command should improve over time.
The Mets believed his feel for his secondary stuff would continue to improve as he moved up the ladder, and thought that Gonzalez was every bit a starter. The right-hander's fastball-breaking ball combination would play up very well in a relief role, though, if that's what is needed organizationally.
Additionally, in a system so prospect barren, it made zero sense to trade one of your best for a mediocre reliever.
Not a chance I'd trade him for AJ Ramos, and Merandy could turn into a big pile of nothing and I still wouldn't make the trade just for the chance to see him turn into a big pile of nothing.
With a live arm that manages to run the ball up into the upper-90s, topping out around 97 mph. He lives around 93 mph without needing to go max effort and maintains his velocity deep into starts. As it stands, his heater is his best pitch.
He also possesses a plus curveball. The combination of the two pitches is effective, but hell need to develop another pitch to stay in the starting rotation. The Mets saw him as a starter, and he has appeared in that role exclusively since 2016.
His change up continues to develop, and there is reasonable optimism that it will become a plus pitch in time. He needs to throw it more. Expect Miami Marlins pitching coaches to help that along.
But dont they still have Walker on the radar as well?
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was rumored that the leaks about how bad the clubhouse was were coming from someone who is no longer here. Given the fact Bruce is back, and the Mets have spoken to Reed it's fair to guess it was Neil Walker.
But dont they still have Walker on the radar as well?
It doesn't appear to be the case. Every report has the Mets discussing him but not having spoken to him "yet" which in itself is kind of surprising. He's not a far worse option than guys they have tried for Kipnis/Kinsler which adds credence to the "rumor".
"nIt remains to be seen if the interest is mutual on Walker's end. Puma notes that there could be some "bruised feelings" toward the Mets. "
"nIt remains to be seen if the interest is mutual on Walker's end. Puma notes that there could be some "bruised feelings" toward the Mets. "
What can he possibly be mad about. Yea he got traded, but cmon he was also on the DL for most of the 1.5 seasons he was here.
maybe they can get Reyes on a minor league deal
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Was fair value. Everyone wants backend bullpen help but when we go out and get it we complain about giving up a second tier prospect? What top 100 list did Merandy ever show up on?
Top 100 is your threshold for value? If that's the case the Mets have 1 good prospect (Gimenez) as nobody else figures to show up on any reputable list.
What? Wow. You are up my ass today. Who said I said he didnt have value. I said it was a FAIR trade. If I like Ramos it stands to reason I thought Merandy had some value. All I said was that he wasnt an elite prospect or a first tier which is exactly what you said. I was agreeing with you!
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In comment 13782778 ZGiants98 said:
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Was fair value. Everyone wants backend bullpen help but when we go out and get it we complain about giving up a second tier prospect? What top 100 list did Merandy ever show up on?
Top 100 is your threshold for value? If that's the case the Mets have 1 good prospect (Gimenez) as nobody else figures to show up on any reputable list.
What? Wow. You are up my ass today. Who said I said he didnt have value. I said it was a FAIR trade. If I like Ramos it stands to reason I thought Merandy had some value. All I said was that he wasnt an elite prospect or a first tier which is exactly what you said. I was agreeing with you!
It most certainly was a "fair" trade. It doesn't mean it was a good one. He's a solid RP with an inflated salary. Could have opted to keep Gonzalez and sign a RP. On it's face 1-1 it was fine, I wasn't suggesting otherwise.
But IMO it was more of a trade that gets made by the Nats or Dodgers or Astros (for example) a team a middle reliever away from contention or looking to shore up the bullpen of an otherwise complete team.
I would not have traded one of my teams best prospects (top 15 at worst, top 10 reasonably) for a mediocre reliever (Ramos has had some decent years, but lately he's been at best mediocre).
Especially when middle relievers are easily available in FA for similar $$$ than what Ramos makes.
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
No. You're a homer because you think this poorly constructed team of "glass" can win 90+ games. Perennially. It's the thing I look forward to most after Christmas: Z's annual Mets predictions where every journeyman hits his career high and each pitcher makes it through to October. Every Alderson signing is shrewd and every prospect is Mike Trout.
You'd think the Mets were perennial contenders with the way you glowingly flip through team yearbooks and kiss your Sandy Alderson poster before retiring to bed.
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Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and Im happy we signed a 38 HR, 3 WAR player who just had his 30th birthday on a very reasonable deal? Da fuq?
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
No. You're a homer because you think this poorly constructed team of "glass" can win 90+ games. Perennially. It's the thing I look forward to most after Christmas: Z's annual Mets predictions where every journeyman hits his career high and each pitcher makes it through to October. Every Alderson signing is shrewd and every prospect is Mike Trout.
You'd think the Mets were perennial contenders with the way you glowingly flip through team yearbooks and kiss your Sandy Alderson poster before retiring to bed.
First of all.... go fuck yourself. Second of all, this isnt a 90 win team right now or close to it until we make another move or two AND we get much better health. Third of all, every damn Mets poster on BBI had us winning 90-ish games the last couple of years. I literally posted the threads in the Mets thread below this so have had it. I was actually conservative compared to some of the win totals being thrown around. Fourth of all, go fuck yourself.
Lukas Vlahos says:
He still doesn't have a viable third pitch, doesn't pitch deep into games, and gets crushed by lefties. Combine that with the late season "shoulder tightness" and the underwhelming stat line in High-A and Dunn looks more and more unlikely to turn into the high-octane starter the Mets hoped for. Considering the Mets' position as a contender (a very short window followed by an almost certain down period in 2-3 years), I think the Mets might be better off punting on developing Dunn as a starter and converting him back into a reliever, where he'd probably fly through the minors.
Steve Sypa says:
Dunn is still far from a bust, but the warts are starting to pile up surprisingly quickly. He wasnt necessarily a reach when he was drafted, but he was and definitely still is a gamble. Because of his profile- plus fastball, strong secondary pitch, lagging third pitch, stamina issues- I still think Dunn is fated for a bullpen somewhere, but even there, he will have to work on his control to avoid being placed in the Rule 5 Draft reliever with flaws junk pile.
So, 90+ win team in '17. No additions. Scratch that. We did add 93 relievers. Starting an average RF - No, not in RF- let's put him in CF. Bring back an aging, one-dimensional RF who looks like he's drunk on a high wire on every fly ball. He will, of course, hit 10HRs in June, then go on to strike out in 42 consecutive plate appearances. Cespedes will hit 3HRs in single May game, then rip his quad while taking a curtain call. Out 4 months. Don't worry, he'll return just in time to end the season by in solid form by booting ground balls all over the outfield.
Shall we go to the infield? Where oh where do we start? You've got Cedric the Entertainer at 1B at least until his gastric bypass surgery where doctors will have to retrieve 18 whole wet burritos from of his corony arteries. Jose Reyes at 2B, looking fresh with his new glove and cleats (bought at Dicks using his sweet AARP discount). We've got the swinging maelstrom at SS. He's never seen a pitch thrown inside his zip code that he didn't launch himself at. We've got Asrubel Cabrera at 3B. The guy who threw hissy fits in the clubhouse when he couldn't play SS and whom we tried desperately to deal, but no one wanted. Yeah, that guy's our starter at 3B. Just the type of pro you want Rosario around. I'd comment on d'Arnaud's play, but I've never actually seen him out of a body cast.
High point last season? Definitely the pinched testicles. So basically the same team at '17, minus Walker, minus an old and shitty Granderson, can't win 90+.
Do I have that right?
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In comment 13782426 ZGiants98 said:
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Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and Im happy we signed a 38 HR, 3 WAR player who just had his 30th birthday on a very reasonable deal? Da fuq?
Btw, Mets need to make two more moves before Im optimistic about 2018.
No. You're a homer because you think this poorly constructed team of "glass" can win 90+ games. Perennially. It's the thing I look forward to most after Christmas: Z's annual Mets predictions where every journeyman hits his career high and each pitcher makes it through to October. Every Alderson signing is shrewd and every prospect is Mike Trout.
You'd think the Mets were perennial contenders with the way you glowingly flip through team yearbooks and kiss your Sandy Alderson poster before retiring to bed.
First of all.... go fuck yourself. Second of all, this isnt a 90 win team right now or close to it until we make another move or two AND we get much better health. Third of all, every damn Mets poster on BBI had us winning 90-ish games the last couple of years. I literally posted the threads in the Mets thread below this so have had it. I was actually conservative compared to some of the win totals being thrown around. Fourth of all, go fuck yourself.
Dude, you need to just fess up and admit what you are. In some ways, I admire your loyalty to the Mets. They are a poorly run organization with sub-standard ownership and yet your fandom never decreases. However, you're unable to look at this team objectively and you do it year after year. If you get called out on it, your response is to curse at someone, which likely means deep down that you know that person is right.
We also don't bother scouting any American or International players. We don't need a farm system. That shit is expensive. Keep your international prospects. No thanks.
On secind thought, can we pick another career 4th OF with zero discernable ML skills?
This team is nowhere near close. One or two guys isnt going to cut it. It needs to be broken down.
We also don't bother scouting any American or International players. We don't need a farm system. That shit is expensive. Keep your international prospects. No thanks.
On secind thought, can we pick another career 4th OF with zero discernable ML skills?
This team is nowhere near close. One or two guys isnt going to cut it. It needs to be broken down.
It's sad, but you're right. Mets fans are some of the most loyal and passionate sports fans there are. We deserve better, but the Wilpon's run the franchise like a struggling mid-market team. It's pathetic.
It's like a married guy who gets excited his wife is out shopping, just so he can jack off in peace.
We are that broken married guy. While the neighbor next door is banging supermodels.
Thanks for that enlightening comment and picture.
This year the lineup is more balanced and the starters will perform better as a group. Getting a new managerial team is also a huge plus.
My breakout candidate: Plawecki. He will .280 this year .?
Fuck off, you inept dickwad.
This year the lineup is more balanced and the starters will perform better as a group. Getting a new managerial team is also a huge plus.
My breakout candidate: Plawecki. He will .280 this year .?
I'm not sure that the lineup can be expected to be any more balanced than last year. Bruce, Rosario and Smith all have very very high K-rates. D'Arnaud and Cabrera are both back and are likely opening day starters until we see otherwise.
Maybe Rosario and Smith can be expected to improve but 28.8% and 26.8% K-rates are really high to start with, so just getting those below 20% would be a dramatic improvement but still leave us with players who strike out a ton.
Fuck off, you inept dickwad.
I agree with that, but what choice do you have though? As a fan, you just take the dick punch and hope for the best or move on to a different team.
the only choice you have as a fan is to not give them your money. And this franchise ownership seems to view that backwards.
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But don't fucking patronize the fans with, "Hey, maybe if you bought some more ticket packs and overpriced beer in our non descript, boring, taxpayer-sponsored stadium, we might sign some better players."
Fuck off, you inept dickwad.
I agree with that, but what choice do you have though? As a fan, you just take the dick punch and hope for the best or move on to a different team.
the only choice you have as a fan is to not give them your money. And this franchise ownership seems to view that backwards.
We're planning on moving up to Oregon next year. I'll wait until they put a team up there and make the switch.
This time, I'll be making a conscious decision to root for a small to mid-market team.
You're like the John Goodman Ditka skit from SNL.
If Jay Bruce were only 3" tall, how many HRs would he hit?
Jay Bruce hasn't hit 3 WAR since 2013. He's averaged about 0.75 WAR over the past 4 seasons (2300 ABs). He's also never hit 38 HRs even once in his career.
I admire your passion for the team and hope we can celebrate a Mets world series here on day, but you have a habit of adding a little extra to numbers/facts to make an argument stronger in your favor, and then when called out on it, lashing out at the person doing that for nit picking. If you want to make your case, you should IMO try to be more careful with what you're saying, or at least be gracious when someone points out where you were off.
I've blown it on facts myself a bunch of times and it's no problem when someone points out that I missed it. I think it's important for us to use accurate facts, otherwise the discussion here just has no basis.
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Yankee fans in Mets threads telling them how they should act about their team...Mets fans screaming from the rafters over signing a 3 WAR 38 HR bat on the cheap. Lol
Jay Bruce hasn't hit 3 WAR since 2013. He's averaged about 0.75 WAR over the past 4 seasons (2300 ABs). He's also never hit 38 HRs even once in his career.
I admire your passion for the team and hope we can celebrate a Mets world series here on day, but you have a habit of adding a little extra to numbers/facts to make an argument stronger in your favor, and then when called out on it, lashing out at the person doing that for nit picking. If you want to make your case, you should IMO try to be more careful with what you're saying, or at least be gracious when someone points out where you were off.
I've blown it on facts myself a bunch of times and it's no problem when someone points out that I missed it. I think it's important for us to use accurate facts, otherwise the discussion here just has no basis.
Dude. What are you talking about? Im clearly referring to the year hes coming off of. Did you see me say hes averaged those numbers the last three years somewhere??? Bruce hit 38 HR last year (the Mets all time best is 41 in a season) and was worth 2.7 fWAR (your quibbling over 3 percentage points?) At only 30 years of age he has cleared 3 WAR 3 times and came close in two other seasons. The biggest difference with Bruce last year is that his defense was much better and Im convinced it was due to defensive positioning, something that should continue going forward. Bunch of nitpicking today, holy smokes. The guy is a multiple time all star in his prime coming off a good season. Isnt there a dog we can go kick somewhere?
Hahaha. That he did.
Almost every power hitter is streaky. A few that arent are guys named Trout, ect. IMO, Bruce was the best OF on the market not named JD. Cains value is tied to his speed/defense and his decline has already started. Id rather have the better bat as Bruce is likely to age better.
He also fills so many holes. We needed power back in the lineup, a LH bat to protect Cespedes... he guards against catastrophe in the OF (how do we even know how Conforto rebounds after tearing his shoulder?) typical injuries in the OF, and more.
Not sure why anybody would be upset about bringing Bruce back.
3m
Some quick hits:
--Not saying it's happening, but don't be stunned if Mets turn to Reyes for their infield opening (they just spent good amount on Bruce)
--Team's lack of prospects makes them hesitant to deplete that system even further (which could lead to IF add being a FA)
3m
Some quick hits:
--Not saying it's happening, but don't be stunned if Mets turn to Reyes for their infield opening (they just spent good amount on Bruce)
--Team's lack of prospects makes them hesitant to deplete that system even further (which could lead to IF add being a FA)
Is it Reyes over Flores or do the Mets once again not feel like giving Flores a shot at an everyday role at any position.
At this point I think the Mets have yo-yo-d Flores so much he's got Mejia syndrome and will probably forget he's taking PED's, if there was any shot at him developing into a legit every day player, even a slow as molasses one, it's gone.
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Matt Ehalt @MattEhalt
3m
Some quick hits:
--Not saying it's happening, but don't be stunned if Mets turn to Reyes for their infield opening (they just spent good amount on Bruce)
--Team's lack of prospects makes them hesitant to deplete that system even further (which could lead to IF add being a FA)
Is it Reyes over Flores or do the Mets once again not feel like giving Flores a shot at an everyday role at any position.
At this point I think the Mets have yo-yo-d Flores so much he's got Mejia syndrome and will probably forget he's taking PED's, if there was any shot at him developing into a legit every day player, even a slow as molasses one, it's gone.
The implication from the "Reyes is a real option" writers is Reyes would be the starting 2b.
Flores looks like he has legitimate upside to hit 25+ HRs with regular ABs. Steamer really likes him and projects him to hit 24 HRs and contribute 2.1 WAR next year (if he gets 526 ABs).
A cheap offensive player
They dont give a shit if the Mets win or lose. I mean, they pay homage to a player from a different fucking franchise in their stadium for Christ sake.
still.
still.
Fred Wilpon is an easy target for a variety of reasons but it's fair to mention that he and Koufax were life long friends. I think I even remember reading once where Koufax only went out for their HS BB team to hang out with his buddy Fred.
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Sandy Koufax at spring training visit and ceremony was just because Sandy is a national treasure, I had no idea until much later in life it is/was because the Wilpons are Brooklyn Dodgers fans.
still.
Fred Wilpon is an easy target for a variety of reasons but it's fair to mention that he and Koufax were life long friends. I think I even remember reading once where Koufax only went out for their HS BB team to hang out with his buddy Fred.
My point wasn't to target him, I really didn't know why Koufax showed up every year at Mets spring training.
The players all raved about meeting Koufax and it seemed like an annual spring training highlight that I never questioned.
I simply didn't know the history.
Again I'm not defending many of his tone deaf decisions just pointing out his life long best friend isn't the best example of those.
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In comment 13783584 pjcas18 said:
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Sandy Koufax at spring training visit and ceremony was just because Sandy is a national treasure, I had no idea until much later in life it is/was because the Wilpons are Brooklyn Dodgers fans.
still.
Fred Wilpon is an easy target for a variety of reasons but it's fair to mention that he and Koufax were life long friends. I think I even remember reading once where Koufax only went out for their HS BB team to hang out with his buddy Fred.
My point wasn't to target him, I really didn't know why Koufax showed up every year at Mets spring training.
The players all raved about meeting Koufax and it seemed like an annual spring training highlight that I never questioned.
I simply didn't know the history.
Yeah evidently they have been life long best friends and have remained close.
But considering they can probably get Reyes on a cheap one year deal, it would not be bad , especially given the relationship he has established with Rosario.
Mets could go either way this year, depending on the health of the starters. Id rather see them go with what they got and then see where they are in July. If they are ten or more games over . 500 then add a bat at that time.
Mets should not lock themselves in with a bunch of multi year deals in free agency, even if they are relatively cheap deals. Given the randomness of injuries, you never know what position you will need to bolster at the trade deadline.
Also, they have to avoid guys on the slippery injury slope. No
More aging vets who have already missed time due to injury
-Mets still interested in Duda... they must be very down on Dom.
-Mets still interested in Duda... they must be very down on Dom.
Would've loved to sign Duda as Dom insurance and use the Bruce money to sign a player that can help us (Moose or Kipnis trade).
link - ( New Window )
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gets a 500,000 raise as I always said he would. It's "impossible" to end up with less or even the same with the arbitration system. He was arguably the worst SP in the entire league and got a half million raise
-Mets still interested in Duda... they must be very down on Dom.
Would've loved to sign Duda as Dom insurance and use the Bruce money to sign a player that can help us (Moose or Kipnis trade).
Given the fact Duda is lefty and can only play 1b he'd be more than insurance. He'd be the starting 1b and Dom would be in AAA.
yeah, I think they're going to trade Smith or they hate him.
Sandy is on the verge of having the 13, 12, 11 pick all bust on him from sequential drafts. I know the MLB draft is a crapshoot, but has another currently employed GM had such bad output from that many top 15 picks?
Flores should automatically be the 1B against lefty pitchers if he's not in the lineup elsewhere.
-Mets still interested in Duda... they must be very down on Dom.
Wish we had a time machine and could go back to the threads of when every single Mets fan panicked about the fear how the cheap Wilpons are going to cause us to lose Harvey to free agency one day. The assumption was we couldnt even affor d his last few arbitratration years. Incredible how it turned out, if you think about it.
And here we are laughing that Harvey got a 500k raise in arbitration after being the worst pitcher in all of baseball. And how most Mets fans are anxiously looking forward to seeing him leave already.
Btw - it will not shock me to see flashes of old Harvey at points this year. Hes a goner, but lets hope he makes it a difficult decision for the fans at least.
if it's true that they even have interest in Duda at this point with another lefty bat capable of backing up 1B (Bruce) and Flores on the roster (as a rightly 1B backup) you don't need a ouija board to figure out what it says about Smith.
LOL. Do they know that other players exist? Or are they only aware of guys who have already played here?
It's like they're so eager to get "the band back together" that wasn't good enough to win with the first time.
and I don't even mind Reyes, he can play anywhere in the infield and probably would lead the team in SB's again with minimal PA's. He's a perfect utility guy if he doesn't want a lot of PT.
I just think Duda is a major condemnation of Dominic Smith and if the Mets re-sign Duda it probably means or should mean they trade Smith to make way for Alonso (and that's me trying to find the silver lining - they like Alonso so much and have doubts on Smith - they want to trade Smith before the doubts are realized).
Just funny that the only names they seem linked to are guys who were already here.
Bruce, Duda, Reyes, Reed...
Maybe go outside the box and look for some players?
This is my borderline sarcasm borderline hating to actually play baseball after the age of 13 preferring the contact sports, but how hard can 1B defense really be?
If a player wants to be good defensively and puts in the work, to me they should be at least decent at 1B defense.
Remember Wade Boggs, how much of a butcher he was at 3B, and he worked his ass off and became passable at a minimum at 3B. 3B defense seems like it should be harder than 1B.
How can you not be decent at 1B defense, especially for those guys playing it most of their lives?
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with Alonso is he's unplayable if he doesn't bounce back from the season he had in the field in 2017. I personally like the bat more than Smith's.
This is my borderline sarcasm borderline hating to actually play baseball after the age of 13 preferring the contact sports, but how hard can 1B defense really be?
If a player wants to be good defensively and puts in the work, to me they should be at least decent at 1B defense.
Remember Wade Boggs, how much of a butcher he was at 3B, and he worked his ass off and became passable at a minimum at 3B. 3B defense seems like it should be harder than 1B.
How can you not be decent at 1B defense, especially for those guys playing it most of their lives?
18 errors over 78 games (with terrible reports on mobility) isn't even playable at the position. That's full-on DH. Not saying he can't bounce back but that's really, really bad. Lets hope he took the off-season seriously.
What level/team is he expected to start with?
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And he has certainly worked his ass off this winter. Lets hope it pays off. I expect a monster season out of him this year. Bottom five to top ten in one season - lets do it!!
What level/team is he expected to start with?
AA
Hopefully the glove can come around a bit this year.
Hopefully the glove can come around a bit this year.
Obviously depends on who they sign at 1b or how Dom hits but Alonso in theory could see Queens this season. If his defense is 2017 bad he's not even going to be an MLB option for them. With a big year he could be the 1b of the future.
Seems like by delaying until Tuesday buys some time.
Sounds like the Mets plan to officially announce the Jay Bruce deal on Tuesday.
Reed back in the BP - great. Reyes as super sub - fine. Just really want them to add a strong defensive 2B who can gel with Rosario for multiple years. The defense is locked into sucking everywhere else, at least put together a strong double play combo.
Re Harvey - I actually expect him to have a solid year. After all the injuries and the shoulder muscle imbalance, I have to think Boras had him meet with every medical expert and get every scan there is. With FA on the horizon he probably got more focused than he has been in a long time. Can he turn back the clock and be in the convo with Thor/JDG again? I doubt it, but I think he can be a good #3
He led the PCL in hits and average and was among the leaders in OPS and other stats when he was called up and has hit every single stop in his minor league career despite being young for every level along the way.
I doubt a random Braves fan knows Dominic Smith's value.
Its hard to speculate on his value at the moment - he showed power and drove in runs at the mlb level, I dont know if it was enough to help his value but I dont think good offensive numbers in vegas are worth much either. I do feel confident saying his value would drop substantially if the Mets signal to the rest of the league that they think so little of him that they are blocking him with someone like Duda.
He led the PCL in hits and average and was among the leaders in OPS and other stats when he was called up and has hit every single stop in his minor league career despite being young for every level along the way.
I doubt a random Braves fan knows Dominic Smith's value.
In not sure why you felt the need to take a shot at me I was just voicing my opinion as I do follow the Mets as a Braves fan and also because I live in NY. Smith was a top 50 prospect a year ago but he struggled during his call up which clearly hurt his value. It is not difficult to understand that Smiths value has taken a hit with the amount of interest the Mets have shown in 1B this offseason. Was I saying Smith is a bust? Absolutely not, he did show nice power during his brief stint which is an encouraging sign. Even a random Braves fan realizes Smiths value isnt what it was a year ago.
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Smith's value is at an all-time low from 2 months and 167 at-bats in the majors.
He led the PCL in hits and average and was among the leaders in OPS and other stats when he was called up and has hit every single stop in his minor league career despite being young for every level along the way.
I doubt a random Braves fan knows Dominic Smith's value.
In not sure why you felt the need to take a shot at me I was just voicing my opinion as I do follow the Mets as a Braves fan and also because I live in NY. Smith was a top 50 prospect a year ago but he struggled during his call up which clearly hurt his value. It is not difficult to understand that Smiths value has taken a hit with the amount of interest the Mets have shown in 1B this offseason. Was I saying Smith is a bust? Absolutely not, he did show nice power during his brief stint which is an encouraging sign. Even a random Braves fan realizes Smiths value isnt what it was a year ago.
How did I take a shot at you? I didn't mean anything personal. If calling you a random Braves fan is offensive, my apologies, simply meant that you really don't have any solid basis to claim Smith's value is at an all-time low.
Smith's stock went up last year, not down. There were questions about power. he answered them. And his average didn't suffer.
He had his best season as a pro last year.
You (and I) have zero way of knowing if his 167 major league at-bats pushed his value to an all-time low, like you said.
I don't believe it did.
As Eric said though, signing Lucas Duda sure wouldn't be a good sign.
That's why I made the comment in the first place. I doubt the interest in Duda is real, at least I hope it's not.
Michael Baron
Verified account @michaelgbaron
9m9 minutes ago
My current #Mets payroll figures after all reported arb agreements today: $128,775,000.
If the Mets get 75% of Wright's salary back, it would be ~$113M.
Is this really necessary? If anything you attacked me in most of this thread. Its like you send out a bat single looking to be provoked. lol.
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to be clear before ZGiants shows up and starts "fighting" with me, I'm merely commenting on Rosenthal's report the Mets are interested in bringing back Duda. I do NOT claim to know what the Mets think of Smith, rather IF they bring back Duda it sure implies they aren't high on him.
Is this really necessary? If anything you attacked me in most of this thread. Its like you send out a bat single looking to be provoked. lol.
All due respect but we have a history of disagreeing. I was merely commenting before that happened. No offense intended.
Less than Ramos (for 2018).
And he wouldn't have cost Merandy Gonzalez.
Good move Sandy.
Less than Ramos (for 2018).
And he wouldn't have cost Merandy Gonzalez.
Good move Sandy.
We probably couldn't afford it.
LOLMets.
L O fucking L
They must have absolutely zero faith in Dominic Smith.
L O fucking L
They must have absolutely zero faith in Dominic Smith.
Why on earth would they do this? Duda makes a ton of sense. Gonzalez is finished and he is a problem in the locker room.
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We're in "serious" talks with Adrian Gonzalez now.
L O fucking L
They must have absolutely zero faith in Dominic Smith.
Why on earth would they do this? Duda makes a ton of sense. Gonzalez is finished and he is a problem in the locker room.
Dont try to understand anything the Mets do. Everything they do defies logic. Ugh.
Is Juan Lagares the key to Mets improvement? - ( New Window )
Mike Puma
Verified account @NYPost_Mets
59m59 minutes ago
Heard the Mets are taking the approach that Adrian Gonzalez, if healthy, will probably be their first baseman to start the season. There is a good chance Dom Smith will begin the season at Las Vegas.
So Smith wastes away in Vegas.
If they don't think Smith is ready to be the starting 1B on a contending team they they sure as hell need a better option there than AGonz.
What is Vegas going to do for Smith? help him work on his defense? His weight?
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Mike Puma
Verified account @NYPost_Mets
59m59 minutes ago
Heard the Mets are taking the approach that Adrian Gonzalez, if healthy, will probably be their first baseman to start the season. There is a good chance Dom Smith will begin the season at Las Vegas.
So Smith wastes away in Vegas.
Dont worry, I hear that its a good deal because its just for the minimum and that the Mets will just cut him before the season starts if he doesnt play well. No big deal.
Right.
36 year old, malcontent has-been as starting 1b here we go.
but to start and to have Smith in Vegas?
It's almost like Sandy is trying to get fired.
You answered your own question. Different expectations due to position and "average" defense (with flashes of more than that) with a sprinkling of speed is all Rosario needs to do to add value. Smith needs to mash or he has none.
but to start and to have Smith in Vegas?
It's almost like Sandy is trying to get fired.
If they fire him, they'd have to pay him out his contract. God knows that's not happening.
It is very possible that he had no other better offers, and sees a real opportunity to win a job here. No entrenched incumbent to battle, and let's face it, the bar for success is pretty low.
I most certainly am not surprised, this was to be expected knowing the Mets BUT Adrian Gonzalez didn't exactly have a lot of options. In fact, I'm not sure another team in baseball was guaranteeing him PT. It's not as if he had 15 options.
He signed for 550k, doesn't scream "guaranteed playing time" money to me.
He signed for 550k, doesn't scream "guaranteed playing time" money to me.
He didn't have a choice $$ wise he is being paid 22 million, the Mets portion is subtracted from what the Braves owed, if the Mets "gave" him 10 million all it would mean would be the Braves paying 10 million less.
Yes, it's just subtracted from the 22M Atlanta owes, but because the Mets got him so cheap indicated to me he didn't have much interest.
Yes, it's just subtracted from the 22M Atlanta owes, but because the Mets got him so cheap indicated to me he didn't have much interest.
For sure. I just meant I don't think the $ was even in the equation. Likelihood of starting was almost certainly all he cared about (he also was in SD with Sandy so there is some relationship there).
Just keep picking pitchers and trade them for offensive vets
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Mike Puma
Verified account @NYPost_Mets
59m59 minutes ago
Heard the Mets are taking the approach that Adrian Gonzalez, if healthy, will probably be their first baseman to start the season. There is a good chance Dom Smith will begin the season at Las Vegas.
So Smith wastes away in Vegas.
Dont worry, I hear that its a good deal because its just for the minimum and that the Mets will just cut him before the season starts if he doesnt play well. No big deal.
Right.
36 year old, malcontent has-been as starting 1b here we go.
My opinion is that the Mets wants Smith's numbers to be built up in Las Vegas so they could trade him during the season.
Juan Lagares has been worth 7.2 WAR over the last 4 seasons despite missing some time with injury. Jay Bruce has been worth 3.0.
Sandy clearly doesn't value defense and has effectively used most of our offseason budget to block Lagares while leaving the multiple IF needs unaddressed. I just don't understand the strategy.
I wouldn't bet against it.
Wait. I thought he stopped eating those web burritos..
LOL
No chance he's packaging Nimmo in a deal for Cutch.
Rosenthal thinks the Mets are still looking at Eduardo Nunez, Neil Walker, Moustakos and Todd Frazier, but that it depends on their respective prices.
He's major league pipeline's best defensive 2B.
He also made major strides offensively last year. I always heard him as a total zero with the bat, but good D.
Sure he has 0 power, but patient hitter, and showed good contact. no speed, but I'd almost rather see what Guillorme can do than trade for Harrison.
especially if he's a defensive stud. Rosario and Guillorme, and Nimmo/Lagares in CF is strong D up the middle even if the corners are bad. It's a start, especially for a team still counting on pitching to carry the team.
He's major league pipeline's best defensive 2B.
He also made major strides offensively last year. I always heard him as a total zero with the bat, but good D.
Sure he has 0 power, but patient hitter, and showed good contact. no speed, but I'd almost rather see what Guillorme can do than trade for Harrison.
especially if he's a defensive stud. Rosario and Guillorme, and Nimmo/Lagares in CF is strong D up the middle even if the corners are bad. It's a start, especially for a team still counting on pitching to carry the team.
None. He'd easily be the worst offensive 2b in baseball as of right now. Zero power, zero speed. There is no chance Guillorme is even in the equation. 103 wRC+ in AA good for 6th on his own team (an awful 2017 AA Mets squad).
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Guillorme is in the mix for 2B?
He's major league pipeline's best defensive 2B.
He also made major strides offensively last year. I always heard him as a total zero with the bat, but good D.
Sure he has 0 power, but patient hitter, and showed good contact. no speed, but I'd almost rather see what Guillorme can do than trade for Harrison.
especially if he's a defensive stud. Rosario and Guillorme, and Nimmo/Lagares in CF is strong D up the middle even if the corners are bad. It's a start, especially for a team still counting on pitching to carry the team.
None. He'd easily be the worst offensive 2b in baseball as of right now. Zero power, zero speed. There is no chance Guillorme is even in the equation. 103 wRC+ in AA good for 6th on his own team (an awful 2017 AA Mets squad).
but what would his WAR be?
Isn't that the better determining factor than just offense? I mean if everyone is being evaluated on WAR, isn't DEF half of it?
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In comment 13793888 pjcas18 said:
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Guillorme is in the mix for 2B?
He's major league pipeline's best defensive 2B.
He also made major strides offensively last year. I always heard him as a total zero with the bat, but good D.
Sure he has 0 power, but patient hitter, and showed good contact. no speed, but I'd almost rather see what Guillorme can do than trade for Harrison.
especially if he's a defensive stud. Rosario and Guillorme, and Nimmo/Lagares in CF is strong D up the middle even if the corners are bad. It's a start, especially for a team still counting on pitching to carry the team.
None. He'd easily be the worst offensive 2b in baseball as of right now. Zero power, zero speed. There is no chance Guillorme is even in the equation. 103 wRC+ in AA good for 6th on his own team (an awful 2017 AA Mets squad).
but what would his WAR be?
Isn't that the better determining factor than just offense? I mean if everyone is being evaluated on WAR, isn't DEF half of it?
His fWAR would be putrid. There is a reason you don't see teams playing all-glove zero bat players as starters despite the value of defense. DJ LeMahieu was the best defensive 2b in baseball in 2017, posted a 94 wRC+ and was still a below average regular (1.8 fWAR).
WAR = (Batting Runs + Base Running Runs +Fielding Runs + Positional Adjustment + League Adjustment +Replacement Runs) / (Runs Per Win)
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@NYPost_Mets
5m5 minutes ago
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In listing the Mets first base options, Alderson didn't mention Dom Smith until fourth.
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Mets have discussed Josh Harrison with the Pirates, but talks at this point are not ongoing.
So how does this work when Conforto is healthy?
We have 3 COFer's and only 2 places to play them
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platoon, Lagares the starter
So how does this work when Conforto is healthy?
We have 3 COFer's and only 2 places to play them
Is that a serious question?
Given the past few seasons are you really worried about the Mets having too many healthy players at any one position?
I'm fairly certain this situation will work itself out.
Odds are it's going to happen. So, who plays?
Odds are it's going to happen. So, who plays?
you need all of them healthy and 1B healthy.
If they're all healthy my guess is the OF would be Cespedes, Conforto, and Bruce.
If it's a lefty pitcher maybe they sit Bruce and have Cespedes Lagares and Conforto.
but not being flippant, between Cespedes, Lagares, Conforto, Bruce, and Gonzalez pretty sure someone will perpetually be injured.
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platoon, Lagares the starter
So how does this work when Conforto is healthy?
We have 3 COFer's and only 2 places to play them
Good question but they have at least 1 month to figure it out aka you know someone will be hurt lol
When you take the long view, it's not mind boggling. Leaving the Mets was the best thing for Justin Turner and Daniel Murphy, too.