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 I’m 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 I’m 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, it’s probably not happening but I still would be surprised if somebody like you mentioned isn’t 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 wouldn’t 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 anyone’s 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).
It’s mostly my opinion, but I don’t 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 didn’t 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).
It’s mostly my opinion, but I don’t 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 didn’t 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 O’Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution makes an educated guess that the 42-year-old right-hander will hang up his spikes.
”It’s seemed since the last week of the season that he was leaning heavily toward retiring, and at this point I’d be surprised if the knuckleballer decides to continue his career,” writes O’Brien. “If he did, the Braves would likely pick up his $8 million option for 2018. But again, I don’t think they’re going to have to make that call.”"
If they think he’s done (going to retire) they would still owe him nada. If they think he’s done (physically) then sure it makes sense.
If a player retires on his own the team doesn’t 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 it’s 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. I’m 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. I’m 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 Â
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 don’t 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.
I’m just not a fan of absolutes. It’s 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.
I’m just not a fan of absolutes. It’s 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 he’s 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-90’s, 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 he’ll 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.
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.
Quote:
Cespedes, Lagares, Nimmo, and Conforto are made of glass and I’m 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 I’m 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, it’s probably not happening but I still would be surprised if somebody like you mentioned isn’t 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 wouldn’t rule out another bargain reliever if the prices keep dropping on Reed/Watson types.
Quote:
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 anyone’s 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.
Quote:
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.
It’s mostly my opinion, but I don’t 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 didn’t 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.
Quote:
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).
It’s mostly my opinion, but I don’t 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 didn’t 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.
”It’s seemed since the last week of the season that he was leaning heavily toward retiring, and at this point I’d be surprised if the knuckleballer decides to continue his career,” writes O’Brien. “If he did, the Braves would likely pick up his $8 million option for 2018. But again, I don’t think they’re going to have to make that call.”"
If a player retires on his own the team doesn’t owe them money for that year.
If a player retires on his own the team doesn’t 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. I’m out.
Quote:
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. I’m 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.
I’m just not a fan of absolutes. It’s been a point of contention with me for over a decade. I said all along the Mets were an unlikely destination.
Quote:
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.
I’m just not a fan of absolutes. It’s 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-90’s, 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 he’ll 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.