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NFT: Some NYM news from Alderson

Eric on Li : 11/13/2017 5:34 pm
Looks like they are somewhat overhauling the training staff:

Quote:

@ByJamesWagner
In addition to filling head athletic trainer position, Sandy Alderson said Mets will add two new positions to medical/training staff, including a so-called high performance point person focused on training, recovery, health data, etc.


Offseason to do list:

Quote:
Mike Puma& #8207;Verified account
@NYPost_Mets
Alderson speaking with media. Lists bullpen, second base and another power bat as important. Backing away from starting pitcher somewhat.


Shout out to Juan Lagares:

Quote:
Mike Puma& #8207;Verified account
@NYPost_Mets
Mets would like a 1B/OF type says the GM. But Lagares is also "figuring into" the Mets' plans.


Viola back:

Quote:
Mike Puma& #8207;Verified account
@NYPost_Mets
Frank Viola will be the pitching coach at Double-A Binghamton.


Not sure if there's any more out there or a transcript, but I think that mostly sums up the news portion.

I generally agree with that list of needs and 1 guy I really hope they go after is Carlos Santana. As a hitter he's everything this team needs (power, proven run production, good K/walk rates, switch hitter) and his defense at 1B has graded out pretty good the past 2 years (+11 DRS). Callaway connection maybe helps also. MLBTR has him at 3 years $45M, which would seem a bargain. He has position versatility but if you sign him it would be to play 1B, which would also free up Dom Smith as a trade chip. I like Smith but realistically it's problematic to go through growing pains for a non-elite prospect at an important offensive position like 1B. Sign Santana, trade Smith for Dee Gordon and add a couple BP guys. See ya in ST.
Without starting another Mets  
pjcas18 : 11/13/2017 5:37 pm : link
thread, there are multiple tweets about multiple teams being interested in trading for Matt Harvey.

Obviously return is everything here and the Mets would almost definitely be selling low, but depending on he return I'd be very tempted to cut ties.
RE: Without starting another Mets  
Eric on Li : 11/13/2017 5:40 pm : link
In comment 13690814 pjcas18 said:
Quote:
thread, there are multiple tweets about multiple teams being interested in trading for Matt Harvey.

Obviously return is everything here and the Mets would almost definitely be selling low, but depending on he return I'd be very tempted to cut ties.


That's interesting - i'd have no issue with it but I can't imagine anyone is offering anything that interesting. But maybe?
Link on the Harvey story  
pjcas18 : 11/13/2017 5:51 pm : link
also some tweets kicking around that the Mets are considering now allowing pitchers other than deGrom and Thor to face a lineup a 3rd time.

Puts some background to the trade deadline when they acquired 47 relief pitchers.

Quote:
SportsNet New York‏Verified account @SNYtv
14m14 minutes ago

There are a few teams interested in trading for Matt Harvey


Quote:
....Interested teams have contacted the Mets to see if they're open to trading Matt Harvey before the start of next season, sources recently told SNY contributor Andy Martino.

However, according to Martino, the Mets are more inclined to keep Harvey, who will enter next year a full season removed from surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome. Also, Martino adds, "They point to a late-season uptick in velocity as another reason for hopefulness," and, "believe he will be especially motivated to work hard to prepare for his last season under team control.".....

Link - ( New Window )
Sorry  
SethFromAstoria : 11/13/2017 6:08 pm : link
But what?


like Smith but realistically it's problematic to go through growing pains for a non-elite prospect at an important offensive position like 1B.



Explain if you can
Sorry  
SethFromAstoria : 11/13/2017 6:10 pm : link
But what?


like Smith but realistically it's problematic to go through growing pains for a non-elite prospect at an important offensive position like 1B.



Explain if you can
RE: Sorry  
pjcas18 : 11/13/2017 6:17 pm : link
In comment 13690864 SethFromAstoria said:
Quote:
But what?


like Smith but realistically it's problematic to go through growing pains for a non-elite prospect at an important offensive position like 1B.



Explain if you can


Not going to answer for Eric, but it's been pretty public since the off-season began that the Mets are looking for at least a fall-back plan at 1B if not a plan A.

Quote:
Mike Puma‏Verified account @NYPost_Mets

Will Dom Smith have to win the first base job in spring training? "He didn't win it in September, let's put it that way," Alderson said.
Carlos Santana  
allstarjim : 11/13/2017 6:17 pm : link
you say? He also plays a mean guitar.

Count me as one who doesn't want Dee Gordon. His game is completely predicated on speed, and he turns 30 at the beginning of the next season. I would like someone who fit more into the long term plans, even though I acknowledge 30 isn't ancient for baseball. I also don't see 2B as an extraordinary need. I like Wilmer to play there, and I think Rivera is decent enough there as well, and the Mets could have Luis Guillorme manning that position for the long term starting relatively soon. Right now I'd really just like Lance Lynn and Wade Davis on this team. I don't think we need much else. I'm also a Lagares/Nimmo platoon guy, and a Conforto for RF guy.
Sandy  
pjcas18 : 11/13/2017 6:18 pm : link
explicitly mentioned 2B as a position they'll be looking at in FA/trades as well as bullpen and a power bat.
That's ok  
allstarjim : 11/13/2017 6:24 pm : link
I was just putting in my .02. Which isn't even worth .02.
RE: That's ok  
pjcas18 : 11/13/2017 6:27 pm : link
In comment 13690886 allstarjim said:
Quote:
I was just putting in my .02. Which isn't even worth .02.


I'm with you though, I'd pencil Flores in at 2B and look to use valuable resources elsewhere.

Since the day he got to Queens, the Mets have dicked Flores around, I wouldn't expect it to end now.

It seems like they have Cabrera penciled in at 3B and Flores as "super sub" but I'd do it the other way round or try and trade droobs.
RE: Sorry  
Eric on Li : 11/13/2017 6:32 pm : link
In comment 13690864 SethFromAstoria said:
Quote:
But what?


like Smith but realistically it's problematic to go through growing pains for a non-elite prospect at an important offensive position like 1B.



Explain if you can


Smith struggled offensively last year. 1B is an enormously important offensive position. To go into next year with him penciled in at 1B and unlikely to be able to hit in the middle of the order would leave a big hole in the lineup needing to be filled by a player at a position where it's a lot harder to find offensive players as good as normal 1B. Sandy says they need a power bat, it's a lot harder to find that in CF or 2B than 1B.

Also while Smith is a well regarded prospect, even those bullish on him haven't seemed to think he's a future all star or top player at his position. He could exceed expectations but it seems unlikely that he's the next Paul Goldschmidt or Joey Votto.

I like Smith, I expect them to keep him. Just looking at the FA list I think Carlos Santana is the best fit offensively for what's needed (within the Mets expected budget) and he plays the same position - Smith's spot on the roster shouldn't be carved in stone if they want to compete next year.
RE: RE: That's ok  
Eric on Li : 11/13/2017 6:39 pm : link
In comment 13690891 pjcas18 said:
Quote:
In comment 13690886 allstarjim said:


Quote:


I was just putting in my .02. Which isn't even worth .02.



I'm with you though, I'd pencil Flores in at 2B and look to use valuable resources elsewhere.

Since the day he got to Queens, the Mets have dicked Flores around, I wouldn't expect it to end now.

It seems like they have Cabrera penciled in at 3B and Flores as "super sub" but I'd do it the other way round or try and trade droobs.


I agree - I wouldn't be opposed to Flores at 2nd. He's been dicked around and that always seemed like the best fit to hide his defense. Doing that would kind of necessitate spending on a pretty big upgrade somewhere else though - like Cain in CF (which sounds unlikely based on the Lagares mention) or 1B (as discussed re: Smith).
Ahhh classic sethfromastoria  
bhill410 : 11/13/2017 6:50 pm : link
Trading Dom Smith is more palatable with Alfonso in the system who may arguably be better. The problem with Santana is that he clogs up 1b for 3-4 years and there is no DH. Bruce, who I like a little less because of streakiness gives you flexibility with 1b and of.

Not sure how sandy doesnt seem starting pitching as a massive problem. SMH
Mike Minor  
Vanzetti : 11/13/2017 6:52 pm : link
Thats who I think the Mets should sign. Could be dominant lefty out of bullpen and he will be relatively cheap, given that he missed three years

Bringing back Reed wouldnt be bad. Shaw doesnt excite me

Some more details from Carig  
Eric on Li : 11/13/2017 6:53 pm : link
Quote:
Marc Carig‏Verified account
@MarcCarig
For Mets, this offseason is about:

1. Bullpen help.

2. Second base.

3. Rightfield/First Baseman.

4. Fixing the starting pitching they have now, whether through better conditioning or more efficient usage (avoiding third time thru for most, etc.)



Re: 2B (also said Reyes could be back and Walker likely won't)
Quote:
Marc Carig‏Verified account
@MarcCarig
Dont know who they are targeting but certainly Dozier is a name that has been out there. Gordon, too, but it doesnt sound like theyre thinking along those lines.

Just spitballing, but I think Scooter Gennett type could be a guy the Mets target. Some versatility there, not as expensive as others.


re: Lagares
Quote:
Marc Carig‏Verified account
@MarcCarig

Like I said, I think theyre open to just rolling with Lagares even if he doesnt hit.


Important point re: their approach and Conforto. If they think they need a power bat because of his uncertainty it would seem their targets are either at 1B or 2B.
Quote:
Marc Carig‏Verified account @MarcCarig

Alderson said today Mets will target players based on uncertainty with Conforto. They know he may not be ready to start the year, hence desire to find middle of the order bat.


He also said he could see them bringing back Bruce.
Lets remember this is the Mets  
Vanzetti : 11/13/2017 6:59 pm : link
They are not going to sign a big ticket free agent

Plus, Sandys record signing free agents is incredibly poor. So I think we should hope for a few short term deals for guys to fill in holes. I think they have to wait out the market and look for bargains at the end
RE: Ahhh classic sethfromastoria  
Eric on Li : 11/13/2017 6:59 pm : link
In comment 13690925 bhill410 said:
Quote:
Trading Dom Smith is more palatable with Alfonso in the system who may arguably be better. The problem with Santana is that he clogs up 1b for 3-4 years and there is no DH. Bruce, who I like a little less because of streakiness gives you flexibility with 1b and of.

Not sure how sandy doesnt seem starting pitching as a massive problem. SMH


I think re: SP the challenge is two-fold.
1. Very underwhelming players (Lance Lynn) are going to get more money than we have in the budget.
2. Those same underwhelming guys could easily get beat out of a spot by Matz, Harvey, Gsellman, Wheeler, Montero or Lugo.

I can see why he'd rather spend the money strengthening the lineup/BP and just take whatever SP is leftover in Jan/Feb on cheaper deals. Should we do a pool for when they sign Colon?
RE: Lets remember this is the Mets  
Eric on Li : 11/13/2017 7:06 pm : link
In comment 13690949 Vanzetti said:
Quote:
They are not going to sign a big ticket free agent

Plus, Sandys record signing free agents is incredibly poor. So I think we should hope for a few short term deals for guys to fill in holes. I think they have to wait out the market and look for bargains at the end


Not entirely true. I think it's very likely they'll go after at least 1 FA in the range of what they paid Granderson and what they tried to pay Zobrist (4/$60m) and trade for a 2B similar to when they acquired Walker. Also sounds like they're serious about the BP for once, but I'll believe that when I see it.

I agree that it would be very surprising to see them do anything bold.
I think Bruce is on their radar  
Vanzetti : 11/13/2017 7:18 pm : link
I think it is unlikely he gets the five year deal he is looking for. He would sub for Conforto Until he is healthy and be insurance for Smith at 1B

I could see him coming back ona one or two year deal
They've been there with Bruce & pushing Conforto back to CF  
Eric on Li : 11/13/2017 7:25 pm : link
makes me think it's unlikely unless his market is as cold as it was last offseason and he has to settle for a 1 or 2 year deal (which could be). Not saying it's impossible, but I suspect they will have higher targets. He also didn't seem to love the lockerroom here. But who knows if that's truth or just rumor.

Would obviously be a very short term move, but I wouldn't mind rolling the dice on Kinsler at 2B if the price is right. Only on the hook for 1 year $10M and has scored 90 runs 4 years in a row. 1 year removed from a near 6 WAR season.

Also Carig has Sandy making some pretty direct comments about Smith's conditioning.

Quote:
Marc Carig‏Verified account
@MarcCarig
Dominics going to have to be careful about his conditioning, certainly in the next few years if not throughout his career.

Sandy Alderson on Dom Smith
Scooter Gennet  
Rory : 11/13/2017 8:28 pm : link
is a very low profile high reward player out there. He really exploded in the 2nd half of the season last year for the Reds when Jose Peraza went down.

Would love to see him in Flushing
Overhauling the medical staff huh  
Shecky : 11/13/2017 8:51 pm : link
Viola out at Vegas, but not out of the organization...
Bullpen by numbers

Doesnt mean anything yet, but Familia is at oeaceand looks ABSOLUTELY fantastic.
May as well dig up some old controversy and throw out a new tidbit. To the point, Sandy flat out told Ces that if wants to play golf, feel free to play golf. And that if he has an injury related to golf, his contract will be voided...
RE: Overhauling the medical staff huh  
Eric on Li : 11/13/2017 10:42 pm : link
In comment 13691206 Shecky said:
Quote:
Viola out at Vegas, but not out of the organization...
Bullpen by numbers

Doesnt mean anything yet, but Familia is at oeaceand looks ABSOLUTELY fantastic.
May as well dig up some old controversy and throw out a new tidbit. To the point, Sandy flat out told Ces that if wants to play golf, feel free to play golf. And that if he has an injury related to golf, his contract will be voided...


I think that's exactly the right way to handle Ces/golf (or any other player). Any thoughts on the offseason Shecky? I know you thought there would be more changes than there were last year, is this the year it happens?
Wow..  
ZGiants98 : 11/13/2017 11:29 pm : link
I agree with just about everything on this entire thread. :)
I do think Bruce is a target though  
ZGiants98 : 11/13/2017 11:32 pm : link
Sandy wants to add some power back into the lineup. He can play RF and some 1B if Smith struggles so it backs up two positions. You simply can not depend on an injury prone Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto. I mean... Geez... that's the walking wounded. You need one proven bat int he OF. I actually think Bruce gets a Granderson type deal and its viewed as an "overpay". We then look to add an infielder either by trade or free agent... possibly later in the offseason.

I also think we add a SP but somebody like Dickey or CC late ala Colon in 2015.
I'm fine with bringing Bruce  
Metnut : 11/14/2017 9:34 am : link
back on a 1 year deal. Maybe some sort of vesting second year if certain conditions are hit.

The thing we have to remember about guys like Bruce is that it really doesn't make sense to commit large amounts of money and guaranteed years to these guys since they are available for SOOO cheap. Look at the price the Mets got for Bruce last year in the middle of a career year. Why would you pay bigtime guaranteed money when bat first no defense OFs are otherwise so cheap. Let's not bid against ourselves.

RE: They've been there with Bruce & pushing Conforto back to CF  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:37 am : link
In comment 13691008 Eric on Li said:
Quote:
makes me think it's unlikely unless his market is as cold as it was last offseason and he has to settle for a 1 or 2 year deal (which could be). Not saying it's impossible, but I suspect they will have higher targets. He also didn't seem to love the lockerroom here. But who knows if that's truth or just rumor.

Would obviously be a very short term move, but I wouldn't mind rolling the dice on Kinsler at 2B if the price is right. Only on the hook for 1 year $10M and has scored 90 runs 4 years in a row. 1 year removed from a near 6 WAR season.

Also Carig has Sandy making some pretty direct comments about Smith's conditioning.



Quote:


Marc Carig‏Verified account
@MarcCarig
Dominics going to have to be careful about his conditioning, certainly in the next few years if not throughout his career.

Sandy Alderson on Dom Smith



I remember the good old days when people acted like me commenting on Dom Smith's weight was me being some sort of hater... the good old days before people actually got a chance to see his physique.
RE: I'm fine with bringing Bruce  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:37 am : link
In comment 13691686 Metnut said:
Quote:
back on a 1 year deal. Maybe some sort of vesting second year if certain conditions are hit.

The thing we have to remember about guys like Bruce is that it really doesn't make sense to commit large amounts of money and guaranteed years to these guys since they are available for SOOO cheap. Look at the price the Mets got for Bruce last year in the middle of a career year. Why would you pay bigtime guaranteed money when bat first no defense OFs are otherwise so cheap. Let's not bid against ourselves.


Good luck with that. Bruce is reportedly looking for years over AAV (as he should be). 1 year would be absolutely stunning.
I like the idea  
Metnut : 11/14/2017 9:38 am : link
of limiting the rotation to two times through the order, provided they actually can have a deep enough bullpen to do this. It's proven that starting pitchers are generally dramatically less effective their third time through the order and beyond, and given the fragility of our pitching staff, it just makes sense. Onus is on Sandy to put together a good bullpen here which will be hard to do considering where the team was last year.

Santana wouldn't be a bad signing. I feel like Smith's upside is most likely average MLB starter (who knows though, he's still young and his power looks to be developing) so I'm fine with upgrading there, but I'd rather add someone like Moustakos. I like his age and think he's hitting his prime years. It's been a while since we've been settled at 3B. Sign Moustakos and you can probably also sign Duda as a backup option for 1B (I bet Duda gets one year deal at $10M or less). If they do sign Bruce, he better be willing to work at 1B considering how horrible he is in the OF.
Wish  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:39 am : link
the Mets had enough to pry away Kiermaier. Guy is an absolute monster in the OF and has turned into an average or better hitter. Stud.
Nick  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:40 am : link
Stellini hates the Mets supposed "bullpenning plan"
Link - ( New Window )
RE: RE: I'm fine with bringing Bruce  
Metnut : 11/14/2017 9:40 am : link
In comment 13691690 DanMetroMan said:
Quote:
In comment 13691686 Metnut said:


Quote:

Good luck with that. Bruce is reportedly looking for years over AAV (as he should be). 1 year would be absolutely stunning.


Then maybe Mets should pass. Dave Cameron projects him to get 2/yr $32M which IMO is still a bit high but I wouldn't completely HATE it for NYM.
RE: RE: They've been there with Bruce & pushing Conforto back to CF  
pjcas18 : 11/14/2017 9:42 am : link
In comment 13691688 DanMetroMan said:
Quote:
In comment 13691008 Eric on Li said:


Quote:


makes me think it's unlikely unless his market is as cold as it was last offseason and he has to settle for a 1 or 2 year deal (which could be). Not saying it's impossible, but I suspect they will have higher targets. He also didn't seem to love the lockerroom here. But who knows if that's truth or just rumor.

Would obviously be a very short term move, but I wouldn't mind rolling the dice on Kinsler at 2B if the price is right. Only on the hook for 1 year $10M and has scored 90 runs 4 years in a row. 1 year removed from a near 6 WAR season.

Also Carig has Sandy making some pretty direct comments about Smith's conditioning.



Quote:


Marc Carig‏Verified account
@MarcCarig
Dominics going to have to be careful about his conditioning, certainly in the next few years if not throughout his career.

Sandy Alderson on Dom Smith





I remember the good old days when people acted like me commenting on Dom Smith's weight was me being some sort of hater... the good old days before people actually got a chance to see his physique.


to be fair to me (LOL) I never said his physique wasn't an issue, I simply said he could be in the Mo Vaughn/Prince Fielder style of 1B and not Jon Olerud (from a body type standpoint).

I was impressed with Smith's power - which most people also said wasn't going to develop, but if fielding is going to be an issue and it's purely his weight causing it, he has no choice but to lose weight (and keep it off) or lose his career.

Please  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:42 am : link
don't trade for Kipnis. Thanks!
RE: RE: RE: I'm fine with bringing Bruce  
pjcas18 : 11/14/2017 9:44 am : link
In comment 13691696 Metnut said:
Quote:
In comment 13691690 DanMetroMan said:


Quote:


In comment 13691686 Metnut said:


Quote:

Good luck with that. Bruce is reportedly looking for years over AAV (as he should be). 1 year would be absolutely stunning.



Then maybe Mets should pass. Dave Cameron projects him to get 2/yr $32M which IMO is still a bit high but I wouldn't completely HATE it for NYM.


I saw a tweet yesterday saying they thought Bruce could get a 5 -year deal. I thought Bruce was a pleasant surprise last year, but holy shit stay away from that deal.
The  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:45 am : link
issue with praising Smith's power is it came at the expense of his other hitting "positives" so we don't yet know if he can do both concurrently. I'm not saying he can't be he basically sold out for power. K-rate was 26.8 at the MLB level (double his AA rate). Also, GG defense my ass. Maybe that was his projection coming out of HS but... uh no.
Exactly - Bruce had similar years in 16/17 & we couldn't give him away  
Eric on Li : 11/14/2017 9:45 am : link
I'd be fine with him coming back if the value is great but not on a 4 year contract.

I admit Bruce has more versatility and is already proven to be able to play here as opposed to someone like Santana, but I'd prefer a more well rounded hitter. In comparison Santana strikes out less than just about anyone we have had since Murphy. He'd be our most consistent OBP guy since prime David Wright. And you can basically pencil him in for 20+ homers and 85+ rbis.
RE: RE: RE: RE: I'm fine with bringing Bruce  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:46 am : link
In comment 13691704 pjcas18 said:
Quote:
In comment 13691696 Metnut said:


Quote:


In comment 13691690 DanMetroMan said:


Quote:


In comment 13691686 Metnut said:


Quote:

Good luck with that. Bruce is reportedly looking for years over AAV (as he should be). 1 year would be absolutely stunning.



Then maybe Mets should pass. Dave Cameron projects him to get 2/yr $32M which IMO is still a bit high but I wouldn't completely HATE it for NYM.



I saw a tweet yesterday saying they thought Bruce could get a 5 -year deal. I thought Bruce was a pleasant surprise last year, but holy shit stay away from that deal.


I'd be very surprised if he gets 5 years unless he settles for a reasonably low AAV but anything less than 2-3 would be stunning. The market is never hot for Bruce but 1 year is what guys coming off bad years end up with.
RE: RE: They've been there with Bruce & pushing Conforto back to CF  
Shecky : 11/14/2017 9:47 am : link
In comment 13691688 DanMetroMan said:
Quote:
In comment 13691008 Eric on Li said:



Quote:


Marc Carig‏Verified account
@MarcCarig
Dominics going to have to be careful about his conditioning, certainly in the next few years if not throughout his career.

Sandy Alderson on Dom Smith




I remember the good old days when people acted like me commenting on Dom Smith's weight was me being some sort of hater... the good old days before people actually got a chance to see his physique.


It was more the lazy comments regurgitated by some than the out of shape. But I think wed all happily go back to the good old days of a winning org with a great minor league system just a few years ago :(
Depends  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:47 am : link
what the Mets think of Alonso. His defense was beyond bad in 2017, like unfathomably so. But wasn't previously. He put on a good 30 pounds since being drafted so presumably the hope is off-season work will get him back to the average-ish (or slightly below) where the 70 power suddenly becomes very intriguing.
RE: The  
pjcas18 : 11/14/2017 9:47 am : link
In comment 13691705 DanMetroMan said:
Quote:
issue with praising Smith's power is it came at the expense of his other hitting "positives" so we don't yet know if he can do both concurrently. I'm not saying he can't be he basically sold out for power. K-rate was 26.8 at the MLB level (double his AA rate). Also, GG defense my ass. Maybe that was his projection coming out of HS but... uh no.


power is power, I wasn't praising it as anything other than people said "Smith will never be a power buy, 15 - 20 HR's max" and in an admittedly small sample he was on pace for 30.

I had no other commentary about it being positive or negative.

he's shorter than i thought too, he looks shorter than 6'.
RE: RE: The  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:50 am : link
In comment 13691711 pjcas18 said:
Quote:
In comment 13691705 DanMetroMan said:


Quote:


issue with praising Smith's power is it came at the expense of his other hitting "positives" so we don't yet know if he can do both concurrently. I'm not saying he can't be he basically sold out for power. K-rate was 26.8 at the MLB level (double his AA rate). Also, GG defense my ass. Maybe that was his projection coming out of HS but... uh no.



power is power, I wasn't praising it as anything other than people said "Smith will never be a power buy, 15 - 20 HR's max" and in an admittedly small sample he was on pace for 30.

I had no other commentary about it being positive or negative.

he's shorter than i thought too, he looks shorter than 6'.


Not looking to have a big debate but totally disagree on the first point. Power is only relevant if you can tap into it while giving quality ab's. What good is 25+ homers if the other 550 ab's aren't quality? Again, it was his first taste so I'm not saying he can't do them both concurrently but he was bad in September, 3 homers while showing better ab's would have been a far better sign.
RE: The  
Eric on Li : 11/14/2017 9:50 am : link
In comment 13691705 DanMetroMan said:
Quote:
issue with praising Smith's power is it came at the expense of his other hitting "positives" so we don't yet know if he can do both concurrently. I'm not saying he can't be he basically sold out for power. K-rate was 26.8 at the MLB level (double his AA rate). Also, GG defense my ass. Maybe that was his projection coming out of HS but... uh no.


Completely agree, he did not look at all like the polished hitter and top defender as advertised. There are going to be growing pains with him. That's why I'd sign a 1B and use Smith as a trade chip, whether it's for a good young pitcher or an every day player with some term on a reasonable contract.
I'm  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:53 am : link
pretty sure "most" MLB players could hit more homers if they sold out for power. Supposedly (and this is an extreme case) most people around Ichiro felt he could have been a 25-30 homer guy if he were focused on hitting for power. The power projections placed on guys are within the assumption they can/will hit X homers while doing whatever is it they did to get there. Smith 26.8 k/rate with the Mets was worse than guys like Jay Bruce and Grandy, 2 guys known for high k rates
RE: RE: The  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 9:56 am : link
In comment 13691717 Eric on Li said:
Quote:
In comment 13691705 DanMetroMan said:


Quote:


issue with praising Smith's power is it came at the expense of his other hitting "positives" so we don't yet know if he can do both concurrently. I'm not saying he can't be he basically sold out for power. K-rate was 26.8 at the MLB level (double his AA rate). Also, GG defense my ass. Maybe that was his projection coming out of HS but... uh no.



Completely agree, he did not look at all like the polished hitter and top defender as advertised. There are going to be growing pains with him. That's why I'd sign a 1B and use Smith as a trade chip, whether it's for a good young pitcher or an every day player with some term on a reasonable contract.


He may yet be an MLB all-star one day. I'm far from closing the book on him but I'm actually happy/surprised to see the Mets acknowledging he did NOT look ready to be an asset to open 2018. Can't go into 2018 with Smith penciled in given what we saw. He's a good prospect, he's not viewed as a can't miss/special talent that you just roll the dice on. Rosario showed warts as well BUT he's a SS and graded above average at the position. So if worst case in 2018 is he's a glove with some speed and the bat takes some time, so be it. 1b not so much.
RE: RE: RE: The  
pjcas18 : 11/14/2017 9:56 am : link
In comment 13691715 DanMetroMan said:
Quote:
In comment 13691711 pjcas18 said:


Quote:


In comment 13691705 DanMetroMan said:


Quote:


issue with praising Smith's power is it came at the expense of his other hitting "positives" so we don't yet know if he can do both concurrently. I'm not saying he can't be he basically sold out for power. K-rate was 26.8 at the MLB level (double his AA rate). Also, GG defense my ass. Maybe that was his projection coming out of HS but... uh no.



power is power, I wasn't praising it as anything other than people said "Smith will never be a power buy, 15 - 20 HR's max" and in an admittedly small sample he was on pace for 30.

I had no other commentary about it being positive or negative.

he's shorter than i thought too, he looks shorter than 6'.



Not looking to have a big debate but totally disagree on the first point. Power is only relevant if you can tap into it while giving quality ab's. What good is 25+ homers if the other 550 ab's aren't quality? Again, it was his first taste so I'm not saying he can't do them both concurrently but he was bad in September, 3 homers while showing better ab's would have been a far better sign.


You're missing my point. I'm not debating the quality of his offense - I made no commentary on that, people, you included, said Smith doesn't project to have much HR power.

He (in a SSS, but not really small b/w AAA/MLB) proved that wrong. HR power is a tool measurable in and of itself.

Period.

He was on pace for 30 MLB HR's and actually hit 25 HR's between AAA and MLB
I  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 10:00 am : link
guess agree to disagree. My point was the power projections are made with the assumption he will continue to do what he's doing. He didn't do that. He struck out a ton, swung at more bad pitches etc. When they put power grades on someone it's based on them continuing what they showed and growing into more strength/knowing what to drive not "if he sold out for more power this guy couldn't hit 30 homers".
Carig  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 10:04 am : link
While the Mets wont pursue top-of-the-market players such as Wade Davis, a source said arms in the tier below likely will be in play. That group includes Brandon Morrow, Mike Minor and Bryan Shaw.

(I'd be shocked if they land Minor, and Morrow wants to stay in LA but Shaw makes a lot of sense given his Callaway ties).
Yea Shaw seems like the most realistic candidate  
Eric on Li : 11/14/2017 10:06 am : link
would love to see them involved in Jake Mcgee or bringing back Reed. 2 of those 3 guys would go a long way to adding depth to the BP.
Is that true? I ask because seriously you know more about  
pjcas18 : 11/14/2017 10:07 am : link
this stuff than me.

but as an extreme case (admittedly very extreme) let's say "people" generally had that view of Smith. He's a line drive hitter, a doubles guy, may hit 15 HR's, 20 on a good year.

If the then hits 60 HR's but strikes out 300 times and bats around .100.

Would people then say "see I told you he had no power"

anyway, point is moot, I get what you're saying.

Some of his HR's were absolutely crushed though and that RF porch probably got in his head too (though I think he even had a couple oppos).

I liked Dom's September though (at the plate at least) a lot better than August.
I like both  
Metnut : 11/14/2017 10:14 am : link
Morrow and Shaw. Sign them both?

Reed is solid, but he doesn't miss enough bats for me. Even if he's been fine/good the past two years, he looks like a regression candidate to me. I'm not sure he finished the year well after being traded to Boston either.
RE: Is that true? I ask because seriously you know more about  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 10:26 am : link
In comment 13691744 pjcas18 said:
Quote:
this stuff than me.

but as an extreme case (admittedly very extreme) let's say "people" generally had that view of Smith. He's a line drive hitter, a doubles guy, may hit 15 HR's, 20 on a good year.

If the then hits 60 HR's but strikes out 300 times and bats around .100.

Would people then say "see I told you he had no power"

anyway, point is moot, I get what you're saying.

Some of his HR's were absolutely crushed though and that RF porch probably got in his head too (though I think he even had a couple oppos).

I liked Dom's September though (at the plate at least) a lot better than August.


Yeah it's true. When you see power projections and grades it's within the context of what the player already is, approach, patience etc. Nobody is saying "well if he stops having quality ab's and worries about pulling the ball over the wall he can't hit for more power". I mean even in concept, if the power was a clear sign he could do both together then we wouldn't be hearing Sandy voicing concern would we? If he's a 25-30 homer hitting with his minor league k-rate etc then there is no concern to be had. He sold out for power, if he can do both together then that changes the power profile. If he can only hit for significant power at the expense of his k-rate, ab's then it's a net negative and not a change to what scouts suggested. He was really bad. Even his "improved" September... 100 ab's 34 k's. That's really, really bad 6 homers or not.
RE: I like both  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 10:28 am : link
In comment 13691756 Metnut said:
Quote:
Morrow and Shaw. Sign them both?

Reed is solid, but he doesn't miss enough bats for me. Even if he's been fine/good the past two years, he looks like a regression candidate to me. I'm not sure he finished the year well after being traded to Boston either.


I'd be very surprised if Morrow is a Met. Very injury prone and likely finds a team to give him way more than expected given his great 2017 season. I really can't see the Mets investing in Familia/Ramos/Blevins and then also paying big for 2 more $$ relievers. Shaw likely gets something like 2 for 16-18 which would mean just adding him would have the Mets "top 4" relievers at over 30 million.
Are any of the Mets  
pjcas18 : 11/14/2017 10:30 am : link
deadline relief pitcher acquisitions anywhere close to major league ready? Do any even project to be major leaguers? I know most were not rated highly (if at all) on their former teams prospect lists.

Maybe it's me, but it just seems like they acquired about 12 relief pitchers at the deadline.
The  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 10:34 am : link
Mets best RP prospect remains Tyler Bashlor. None of the guys the Mets acquired at the deadline profile to be back end guys (Bautista has a shot but he's yet to throw a AA pitch). We've already seen 2 of them (Rhame and Callahan) both look like potential big leaguers but "nothing special". Bashlor has a "shot" to be a late inning guy.
People  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 10:39 am : link
who focus on spin rate are high on Nogosek but he really needs to throw more strikes. Smith should see the bigs reasonably early in 2018. For context over at NYFS we have Bashlor #10, Bautista #21, none of the other relievers have placed yet.
At the deadline they played the numbers game  
Eric on Li : 11/14/2017 11:22 am : link
I would imagine the hope is out of the 5-10 RP arms in the system that 1 or 2 of them can develop into regulars in the BP at some point in the next 2 years. Which seems reasonable enough.

I wonder what the cost would be to swing a trade for Brad Hand. 2 years of arbitration left but he and Shaw would be a really nice offseason haul for the BP.
why would anyone  
gmenatlarge : 11/14/2017 1:12 pm : link
trade for dom smith, he has shown nothing so far and is a middling prospect.
I  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 1:35 pm : link
don't expect the Mets to sign Santana but early interest suggests to me the Mets have indeed soured on Smith and not just about 2018.
RE: why would anyone  
PhiPsi125 : 11/14/2017 1:37 pm : link
In comment 13692034 gmenatlarge said:
Quote:
trade for dom smith, he has shown nothing so far and is a middling prospect.


He wasnt a middling prospect. Smith was a good prospect and a first round (11th) draft pick. He also played less than a third of a season on a shitty team. I still view him more of a prospect than a pro player right now. Im interested to see how he does under this new team leadership.
RE: I  
PhiPsi125 : 11/14/2017 1:38 pm : link
In comment 13692061 DanMetroMan said:
Quote:
don't expect the Mets to sign Santana but early interest suggests to me the Mets have indeed soured on Smith and not just about 2018.


I feel like the Mets sour on players really quickly. Many times to the detriment of the team. God forbid they actually develop a player.
RE: RE: why would anyone  
pjcas18 : 11/14/2017 1:38 pm : link
In comment 13692064 PhiPsi125 said:
Quote:
In comment 13692034 gmenatlarge said:


Quote:


trade for dom smith, he has shown nothing so far and is a middling prospect.



He wasnt a middling prospect. Smith was a good prospect and a first round (11th) draft pick. He also played less than a third of a season on a shitty team. I still view him more of a prospect than a pro player right now. Im interested to see how he does under this new team leadership.


Even if Smith was a "middling" prospect, why in the world would that prevent him from being traded? It's actually kind of rare (comparatively speaking at least) top prospects get traded vs prospects of Smith's stature.
RE: RE: I  
DanMetroMan : 11/14/2017 1:50 pm : link
In comment 13692067 PhiPsi125 said:
Quote:
In comment 13692061 DanMetroMan said:


Quote:


don't expect the Mets to sign Santana but early interest suggests to me the Mets have indeed soured on Smith and not just about 2018.



I feel like the Mets sour on players really quickly. Many times to the detriment of the team. God forbid they actually develop a player.


To be clear I wasn't even defending them. I just get the vibe (Santana interest included) that they may already be looking for a longer term option vs. "Dom needs a few months". It's not as if Santana is settling for 1 year and the Mets know this so interest (at minimum) would suggest an openness to basically "moving on" from Smith. You don't block a guy you believe in for 2-3 years.
Smith didn't really  
Metnut : 11/14/2017 1:55 pm : link
look close to ready last year. The situation our team is in now is part of why we all wanted him (and Rosario) to get called up a little bit earlier since last year was lost and we really need ABs to evaluate these guys.

I wish our AAA team was moving a year earlier so Smith could get another 200-300 ABs at AAA to work on his game. Then you could do a Duda/Bruce with Flores vs LHP type of thing out of camp and see if Smith forces his way back into MLB.
Smith isnt ready to Dominate MLB pitching  
spike : 11/14/2017 3:52 pm : link
We can sign a third/first baseman who can transition to third base when Cabrera is gone after next season.
RE: RE: Ahhh classic sethfromastoria  
spike : 11/14/2017 3:56 pm : link
In comment 13690950 Eric on Li said:
Quote:
In comment 13690925 bhill410 said:


Quote:


Trading Dom Smith is more palatable with Alfonso in the system who may arguably be better. The problem with Santana is that he clogs up 1b for 3-4 years and there is no DH. Bruce, who I like a little less because of streakiness gives you flexibility with 1b and of.

Not sure how sandy doesnt seem starting pitching as a massive problem. SMH



I think re: SP the challenge is two-fold.
1. Very underwhelming players (Lance Lynn) are going to get more money than we have in the budget.
2. Those same underwhelming guys could easily get beat out of a spot by Matz, Harvey, Gsellman, Wheeler, Montero or Lugo.

I can see why he'd rather spend the money strengthening the lineup/BP and just take whatever SP is leftover in Jan/Feb on cheaper deals. Should we do a pool for when they sign Colon?


Get me RA Dickey !
If you're a team that needs offense and trying to compete  
Eric on Li : 11/14/2017 5:16 pm : link
it's really hard to go into the season breaking in a 1B prospect that looked overmatched. You just can't have your 1B hitting 7th or 8th in the lineup.
Everyone will hate me for it but I'd  
ZGiants98 : 11/14/2017 8:30 pm : link
love Duda back on a one year deal if it meant giving Smith more time in AAA. Smith could use a bit more time. I wouldn't hand him 1B next year if we are trying to compete. It then keeps Smith in play and Alonso later. You lose nothing.

Only thing is it would have to come late in the offseason in lieu of other moves. Duda would be nice as a 4th or 5th move... not a 1st or 2nd.
Mets reached out to Cain...  
ZGiants98 : 11/14/2017 8:37 pm : link
Ugh. I know people here like him but he shows massive signs of slowing down. He's basically a slightly above league average bat for his career. He had one decent season offensively in 2015 and not much else. So why is he valuable? Defense, which took a major hit in CF last year (not surprising at age 32 when the 2018 season starts) and 28 swipes (likely going to completely fall off at 32 when the 2018 season starts). So what do you do? Move him into RF soon where his league average bat won't play?

I don't get it. He 's going to command a pretty penny too.
Mets might be favorites to land Joe Smith?  
ZGiants98 : 11/14/2017 8:41 pm : link
I would be pumped to ink Smith. He was better than McGee last year and is better than Ramos. He's has turned into a real solid backend option.
Link - ( New Window )
I agree with all three of your  
Metnut : 11/14/2017 9:26 pm : link
posts Zgiants, good work.

If Mets want to roll with Smith, Duda is a fine cheap insurance policy. Signing Duda and say Moustakos would give us some nice IF option.

Big no on Cain. Lagares 4 year outlook is similar to Cains IMO (even with the injury risk) and hes already signed.

Smith would be welcomed. Signing at two good relievers would be even more welcomed.
Wonder how cheap  
Shecky : 11/14/2017 9:30 pm : link
Joey Bats is willin* to sign a one year deal for? Worth asking,..
Mets connected to Otani?  
ZGiants98 : 11/14/2017 9:48 pm : link
Marc Carig ✔ @MarcCarig
Sources tell @DPLennon and I that the Mets are weighing a pursuit of Japanese star Shohei Otani. Heres the news story and a column:https://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/mets-shohei-otani-1.14982402 https://www.newsday.com/sports/columnists/david-lennon/mets-shohei-otani-1.14982415

Will never happen but shocking we would even consider a conversation.
RE: Wonder how cheap  
ZGiants98 : 11/14/2017 9:50 pm : link
In comment 13692580 Shecky said:
Quote:
Joey Bats is willin* to sign a one year deal for? Worth asking,..


He'd be a nice 1 year Duda type deal filler if he'd be willing to play some 1B?
Slight exaggeration but...  
ZGiants98 : 11/14/2017 9:55 pm : link
Sandy: "Mets will lower payroll and are unlikely to be in on anything significant. We love Lagares, Flores, and TJ Rivera. We especially love our SP options!"

Two days later: Mets in on Cain, Joe Smith, and Otani.

Sandy you sly dog you. :)
Get your popcorn ready... Hot stove is here...  
ZGiants98 : 11/14/2017 10:23 pm : link
@Jim_BowdenSXM: John Ricco #Mets Asst GM made it clear with us tonight that the Mets will be players on some of the big free agents https://t.co/00vtkhXygh
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