I was asked to post this last night, didn't get a chance
1) Spring Training Schedule: The Mets are preparing for their upcoming spring training games, with matches scheduled against the Nationals on February 26 and the Astros on February 25.
2) Hall of Fame Ballot Newbies: Notable players such as Big Sexy, Wright and Reyes are among the new candidates on the Hall of Fame ballot.
3) MLB Awards Week: Recently, MLB Awards Week took place, with results and analysis highlighting key players and performances in the league. This includes the announcement of Acuna and Ohtani as unanimous MVPs.
4) Management and Coaching Updates: The Mets have been making significant changes in their management and coaching staff, including a new 3-year contract for their manager, Mendoza.
Current State of the Coaching Staff
The Mets are currently grappling with a bench coach vacancy, a critical role for any MLB team. This comes alongside role shifts for Eric Chavez and Jeremy Barnes, who are now sharing hitting coach duties. These changes indicate a strategic reshuffle, aiming to bolster the team's coaching effectiveness.
New Additions and Hires
The introduction of Kris Gross and Andy Green in player development and amateur scouting is a significant move. Their expertise could be pivotal in nurturing the next generation of Mets stars, ensuring a bright future for the team.
Willie Randolph's Consideration
The consideration of Willie Randolph for the bench coach position was intriguing. His connection with Carlos Mendoza and vast experience bring a wealth of knowledge, though questions about his age and ability to connect with younger players remain.
Randolph's Tenure as Mets Manager
Randolph's tenure from 2005 to 2008, including the 2006 NLCS appearance and the 2007 collapse, was a rollercoaster of emotions for fans. His firing and legacy are still topics of discussion among the Mets community.
Other Candidates in the Mix
Phil Nevin and other potential candidates are also in the mix. Each brings unique strengths and perspectives, making the decision a critical one for the Mets' future success.
David Stearns' Leadership and Approach
Under David Stearns' leadership, the Mets are exploring unconventional methods and a collaborative decision-making process in staffing. This innovative approach could be a game-changer for the team.
Collaborative Decision-Making
The Mets' collaborative approach to staffing, blending experience with fresh perspectives, could set the stage for a dynamic and successful coaching team.
As a Mets fan, these developments fill me with both excitement and anticipation. The decisions made in the coming days will shape the future of our beloved team. Here's to hoping for a season of triumphs and a future as bright as the stars in Queens!
Mets' Pitching Strategy in the Wake of Cardinals' Market Moves
As a Mets fan, I've seen our share of ups and downs. The recent developments in our pitching strategy, especially in light of the Cardinals setting the market, have me both intrigued and cautiously optimistic.
The Search for Starting Pitchers
The Mets, under the leadership of David Stearns, are on a quest to fortify their rotation. With Kodai Senga and José Quintana as the only certain starters, the need for additional firepower is clear. Last season's 75-87 record is a stark reminder that to compete with the likes of the Braves and Phillies, we need to up our game. The prospect of adding a high-caliber pitcher is exciting and could be a significant step towards contention.
The Cost of Landing Starting Pitchers
The Cardinals have set a new benchmark by signing Lance Lynn and Kyle Gibson for $10 million and $12 million, respectively. This move has implications for the Mets, who now face the reality of spending significantly to acquire top-tier pitchers. However, the question remains: is it wise to invest heavily in uncertain pitchers?
Comparing Pitchers and Mets' Strategic Moves
Joey Lucchesi and Tylor Megill could offer similar value to Lynn, but the Mets' eyes are on bigger prizes. Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Jordan Montgomery are high on our list, offering a blend of talent and potential without the hefty price tag associated with qualifying offer players like
Blake Snell and Sonny Gray.
The Mets must avoid overpaying for injury-prone pitchers, a lesson perhaps they’ve learned. Yet here comes Luis Severino...
Tyler Glasnow's Career and Potential Trade Partners
Speaking of an injury-prone pitcher… Tyler Glasnow, currently with the Tampa Bay Rays, is a hot topic in the trade rumor mill. His impressive career stats, including a 3.89 ERA and 678 strikeouts, make him an attractive target. However, his injury history, including a recent oblique injury, is a concern.
The Mets, known for their deep pockets, could be a perfect landing spot for Glasnow. The Rays and the Phillies are potential trade partners, but the complexity of trade negotiations means anything could happen.
Avoiding Risky Investments
The Mets should steer clear of unreliable options. Investing in pitchers who offer quality and reliability, especially if they command a lower salary than the likes of Lynn and Gibson, is a smarter strategy.
The Fifth Starter Conundrum
Lucchesi, while not the most glamorous option, could be a reasonable gamble as a fifth starter. The ideal scenario? Signing Yamamoto and trading for a young, controllable arm, aligning with the Cardinals' approach but tailored to our needs.
The Disappointing 2023 Season and Rebuilding
After a disappointing 2023 season, where we saw the departure of key players like Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer, signing a player of Yamamoto's caliber is not just desirable but necessary. His ability to electrify the mound could be the catalyst for a much-needed turnaround.
The focus should be on securing Yamamoto and a young arm through trade, emphasizing smart financial decisions. His familiarity with Kodai Senga could be a significant advantage, potentially creating a formidable rotation duo.
The Pursuit of Yamamoto and Other Options
The Mets' aggressiveness in pursuing Yamamoto will be telling. If we fail to secure him, alternatives like Blake Snell (doubtful since he received a qualifying offer) and Jordan Montgomery are still on the table. However, the Mets' approach to free agency this season will be critical in shaping our future.
Mets Sign Bullpen Arm to Bolster Depth
In a strategic move, the Mets signed Cole Sulser to a minor league contract. Sulser, with a mixed performance in MLB, could become a valuable piece in the Mets' bullpen. This low-risk move shows the Mets' intent to address their bullpen issues, which was a key reason for their struggles last season.
Ronny Mauricio's Performance Review
Minor and Major League Breakdown
In the minors, Mauricio's stats were impressive: a .292 batting average, 23 homers, and 24 stolen bases over 116 games. But when he stepped up to the majors, we saw a dip - a .248 average with 2 home runs in 26 games. Despite this, his potential shines through.
Evaluating Mauricio's Future
Mauricio's journey has been a rollercoaster. Starting strong in winter ball, he faced a setback being sent down to AAA Syracuse due to Lindor's presence. However, his performance there - especially those highlight-worthy homers - was nothing short of impressive. His delayed promotion might have been a misstep by the Mets, but once he got his shot in September, boy, did he show flashes of brilliance!
Coleman Crow's Breakout Potential
Now, let's talk about Coleman Crow. This kid has skills that could make him a star, but there's a risk we might lose him in the Rule 5 draft. Keeping an eye on his development is crucial for the Mets' future strategy.
Coleman Crow, a promising Mets prospect, is at risk of being plucked from the organization due to the Rule 5 draft. His impressive performance in Double-A, including a 1.88 ERA and 31 strikeouts, makes him a valuable asset. The Mets face the challenge of balancing their roster while protecting their prospects.
LFGM
As a die-hard Mets fan and someone who's lived through the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with following this team, the latest developments in our pitching lineup have me on the edge of my seat.
From last Mets thread:
- The New York Mets are introduced Carlos Mendoza as their new manager.
- Deadline to add players to the 40-man roster.
- Some fans have expressed their opinions about potential coaching staff changes and candidates.
- Speculation about who the Mets might add to their 40-man roster.
- The Yankees are mentioned in trade discussions for players like Nick Senzel and Soto.
- The agent representing Yamamoto and Senga, Joel Wolfe, is also involved with Stanton and Diaz.
Calling on all the BBI Met threads old posters, for a good Royal Rumble of days past...
Previous Mets thread: Mets to introduce Carlos Mendoza at noon - (
New Window )
re trades he expects at WM:
Michael Marino
@MarinoMLB
Cease should go. Soto should go. Glasnow will go. Crew finally talking Burnes. Rays now talking Randy. Guards now talking Clase. It should be pretty active this offseason.
re mets and montgomery:
Michael Marino
@MarinoMLB
Nothing close to my knowledge here. Like I’ve reported, the Mets REALLY like Jordan Montgomery. The 3 questions here:
1. Does he like the Mets as much as they like him?
2. Is he signing before or after Yamamoto?
3. How does their Yamamoto interest effect their Monty interest?
separately he seems to think mets get margot.
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on Ohtani reminds you of missing out on Arod?
I refuse to comment on this any further because you seem like a good dude, but that is one of the most moronic things I've read a Mets fan say on here it's a pretty high bar.
no offense.
Pj - ouch!!!
Again I post nonsense - even I don’t compare the situations - it did remind me of being on Udalll road in west Islip in the car when the Mets announced they were out - that’s where it ended. My posts have been missing a lot lately I get it. Today, Dec 1 is my birthday so I ask for a bit of slack from my BBI Mets brothers.
It's my pop's birthday too. Don't worry man. Go smoke a jay or have some eddies. You'll feel loosey goosey as possible afterwards, lol.
-Top bid on Yamamoto "almost certainly" will be at or over 300 including posting fee
- It's expected he will receive one (or more opt-out)
-Top bid on Yamamoto "almost certainly" will be at or over 300 including posting fee
- It's expected he will receive one (or more opt-out)
lets just keep fingers crossed LAD get ohtani.
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Today, Dec 1 is my birthday so I ask for a bit of slack from my BBI Mets brothers.
Happy Birthday!
Interesting. Both he and Adams are wild, but tough to hit.
Was Crick out all last year due to elbow inflammation? That's all I can find on an admittedly quick search
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Sign Kyle Crick. Minor league deal
Interesting. Both he and Adams are wild, but tough to hit.
Was Crick out all last year due to elbow inflammation? That's all I can find on an admittedly quick search
Opted out of a minor league deal in March and then didn’t sign with another team aka sat out the season
It's my pop's birthday too. Don't worry man. Go smoke a jay or have some eddies. You'll feel loosey goosey as possible afterwards, lol.
Hahaha Optimus. Maybe.
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In comment 16309885 DanMetroMan said:
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Sign Kyle Crick. Minor league deal
Interesting. Both he and Adams are wild, but tough to hit.
Was Crick out all last year due to elbow inflammation? That's all I can find on an admittedly quick search
Opted out of a minor league deal in March and then didn’t sign with another team aka sat out the season
Thanks. Yeah, I saw that he opted out of the minor league deal, but looks like he had elbow inflammation in 2022. I was wondering if that continued in 2023, or if his not playing at all last year (not even the minors) had nothing to do with injury.
Link - ( New Window )
Very excited for his stateside debut next year after what he showed in DSL!
What do you like about him? I know nothing about him, but looking at his numbers, he looks like a AAAA guy
good article on him from when he was traded last year - he only ended up getting 10 games in the big leagues.
These are all positive traits – so why isn’t Hummel a bigger deal? The short answer is a 65 wRC+ in 201 big league plate appearances. The longer, more in-depth answer starts with understanding that while Hummel has the qualities of a regular contributor, they never harmonized in his debut season. To wit: Upon contact, balls exited Hummel’s bat at consistently medium-high speeds, but seldom at the optimal angles. He hit fastballs well, but Hummel drove breaking balls and offspeed pitches into the ground with alarming frequency. And what’s exit velocity good for if supplied to a grounder? Pitchers are a smart bunch, and they caught on. Consider the relationship between the percentage of sliders Hummel saw and his rolling-average wOBA. It probably isn’t coincidence:
https://blogs.fangraphs.com/the-diamondbacks-and-mariners-combine-on-one-for-one-swap/ - ( New Window )
yep dj stewart a decent example, though he'd had some more success at the mlb level.
the ground ball/exit velo stuff/launch angle sounds kind of vientos-ish too. does the hard things (hard contact) but hasnt quite figured out how to make the simpler adjustments for success.
why? He's 26 and under team control for a while.
I know last year he wasn't as lights out as 2022 and it doesn't really work for the Mets if he wants to close, but a back of the bullpen with a healthy Diaz and Clase would really shorten games.
That is the kind of creativity that would make me care a little less about missing on Yamamoto (if they do). or even more bullish on the move if they get Yamamoto (if they get him).
maybe this year's michael perez and hummel this years mendick.
assuming they continue to be out on ohtani, it would be almost impossible to spend $100m even if they wanted to. most likely they end up below last year's total payroll by at least a little.
obviously need other players to say yes, but i assume their plan A is something like:
$30m yamamoto
$15m-25m Monty or E-rod or Imanaga
$15m COF/DH
$20m to 3 or 4 rp
@martinonyc
Padres asking for King plus money for Juan Soto and Trent Grishman, per sources. Talks have stalled. Story up soon.
Andy Martino
@martinonyc
I should say King plus as many as six prospects and money for Soto and Grisham.
Andy Martino
@martinonyc
·
What could ultimately lead the Yankees and Padres closer to an agreement are talks centered around Clarke Schmidt and other prospects. Dominguez, volpe, peraza, wells, Torres currently not involved
Jasson Dominguez and Anthony Volpe are not involved in these talks, nor are Gleyber Torres, Austin Wells or Everson Periera, per sources.
Sources: Momentum stalls -- for now at least -- on Yankees/Padres Juan Soto talks Yanks believe Padres are asking too much for one-year rental player - ( New Window )
@martinonyc
·
TL/DR: King, Thorpe, Brito, Vazquez. 1-2 more prospects and Cash is too much for Soto, Yankees believe. Yankees are not properly valuing Soto yet, Padres believe.
King >>> Megill
Thorpe = Tidwell? drafted pretty close to each other
Brito << Vasil
Vazquez = Jarvis?
i assume the reports mets not in it are accurate, but i think it's a mistake. boras can say whatever he wants, there is always a risk soto doesn't make it to UFA.
not having a comparable 'king' makes it tough but i would think there's some kind of 3rd team who could send them a king (miami) in return for one of their big league hitting prospects. even if it's baty, soto is only 1 year older than baty. its possibly 10 years of a HOF'er. who mashes in Citifield.
it's a risk hoping he gets there, or that he gets there without a prohibitive favorite elsewhere.
i get not wanting to gut the system for a rental but we might be waiting a long time for the next 25 year old HOF hitter to be on market.
@MarinoMLB
We are entering #LeverageSeason. One thing you’re hearing w/ Soto talks in recent reporting is that Padres believe Yanks offer reflect they think they are the only real team in the mix. Now reporting out that Blue Jays are in. Both sides trying to gain leverage here in talks.
2:49 PM · Dec 1, 2023
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Michael Marino
@MarinoMLB
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1m
It makes sense for the Padres to engage Toronto on Soto. They need change and they need it fast. Toronto has guys they can offload of value in a potential deal. We’ll see where these talks and talks with other potential teams progress.
Quote:
Andy Martino
@martinonyc
·
TL/DR: King, Thorpe, Brito, Vazquez. 1-2 more prospects and Cash is too much for Soto, Yankees believe. Yankees are not properly valuing Soto yet, Padres believe.
King >>> Megill
Thorpe = Tidwell? drafted pretty close to each other
Brito << Vasil
Vazquez = Jarvis?
i assume the reports mets not in it are accurate, but i think it's a mistake. boras can say whatever he wants, there is always a risk soto doesn't make it to UFA.
not having a comparable 'king' makes it tough but i would think there's some kind of 3rd team who could send them a king (miami) in return for one of their big league hitting prospects. even if it's baty, soto is only 1 year older than baty. its possibly 10 years of a HOF'er. who mashes in Citifield.
Thorpe won MILB pitcher of the year. He's in another tier compared to Tidwell. Will be a top 50 prospect if not higher. Their pitching in general a lot better.
I think the Mets will miss on Yamomoto, will go into the season with Senga as #1, and won't add any starting caliber position players.
Pete extension will be the only thing that will be pushed as major move..which is cool, but fully expected and not really exciting.
Not a complaint here, just my gut. Looking forward to the season no matter what because I think the team is better than they played last year and not as far off as some in media are saying.
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Said Mets aren't even in on talks for Soto. When he hits FA I hope they're in on talks then.
it's a risk hoping he gets there, or that he gets there without a prohibitive favorite elsewhere.
i get not wanting to gut the system for a rental but we might be waiting a long time for the next 25 year old HOF hitter to be on market.
Yeah, I don't really understand not being in on him. I mean if you could trade Scherzer, Verlander, Canha, Pham for Soto wouldn't you have done it? Then why not the prospects you got for them?
-I’d call Seattle about Woo and offer McNeil+ (I’d be willing to give up a decent prospect with McNeil too). Very high on Woo. #2 starter upside
4
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3 hits including a 2B
4
And 3 errors.
with whatever healthy games he has left in his body id think he wants to be on a top contender, would imagine there's no great deal out there for him that's not tied to incentives.
if gourriel's defensive improvement in LF is legit, i think he's the best fit. they've seemed to like adding players with good whiff/k rates. his expected homers in citi would have been the same 27 he hit in AZ and over his career only 2 less than his actual total. he was worth 2 fwar year last year with his lowest BABIP too. his .281 babip was 34 points under his career average of .316 (and correspondingly his xba was 12 points higher than actual, so he had a career year even being unlucky). he also had his lowest avg exit velo year and 4th lowest barrel%.
it may be that he's even looking for a 1 year deal to try to earn a bigger deal if he thinks his game is on the upswing (which the under the hood stuff sort of implies there may be).
this is a cool new (to me at least) data viz on savant, it is interactive so if you click through it he only missed like 1 flyball that was categorized below 3 star difficulty (whatever that translates to, which id guess is above 60% catch probability) and 3 that were 3 star (40%?). doesn't make many or any 4/5 star plays but he got to the ones he was supposed to and has the positive value arm. in 2022 the story was similar but in prior years he was less reliable at the < 3 stars.
mlbtr has him for 4x54m, i think id try to juice the aav on a 1x15m w/ 2-3m incentives or something like that with a 2nd year at $15m or a player opt out.