Some Sage Observations From Bobby O

Mets broadcaster Bobby Ojeda, lefty starter for the Mets (1986 – 1990), was asked a few questions on the state of the Mets. Some interesting observations and statements:

Will the Mets be competitive in 2010?

“Are they a postseason team? That’s a huge leap. I don’t think they’re ready to make it right now. They have to first achieve an acceptable level of play.”

Wish List for the Mets:

“In my opinion and in this order, their three biggest needs are catcher, an arm and a first baseman.”

“From what I saw in the postseason, there was a dramatic difference in the caliber of baseball that was being played by those teams and what the Mets delivered. But the injuries the Mets suffered were devastating; anyone who says it didn’t make a difference isn’t being fair.

On Josh Thole, whom he loves:

“He’s not ready to start next season in the majors. The Mets have to nurture their future rather than force-feeding their prospects. There’s no way (Thole) should be breaking camp with the big club. That’s what happened with Bobby Parnell this past year. And because of what happened with him, he says he’s skipping winter ball, when that’s exactly what he needs. It’s a shame.”

Should the Mets go after Jason Marquis?

“Absolutely. He is a perfect fit for the Mets. He’s an established Major League pitcher. You know what you have with him ... what you’re going to get from him.

“Mike Pelfrey’s resume is mighty thin and John Maine’s resume is mighty thin. Oliver Perez’s resume is well-documented. And Tim Redding had arm trouble. There’s (Johan) Santana and not much else.”

Will David Wright bounce back?

“I think I have to disagree with my buddy HoJo (Mets batting coach Howard Johnson) and say that, yes, the ballpark got in their heads,” Ojeda said. “Opposing teams hit more home runs at Citi Field than at Shea Stadium the year before. Maybe David was just due for a bad year ... but even in a bad year he still hit (.307).”

Thoughts on former teammate Wally Backman and possibly managing the Mets:

“Wally’s so happy to have this second opportunity. His first love is the Mets. “He has to concentrate on getting his guys in Brooklyn to understand what professional baseball is.”

“What happens down the road is down the road. I spoke with Wally within the last couple of days and he’s just thrilled to be back. I told him it’s a privilege to be in Brooklyn. It’s like a mini-big leagues. Brooklyn is hallowed ground for baseball.”

That's what I've always loved about Bobby O. He states opinions, and although they might not always be well received nor politically correct, he answers and opines honestly.

Thanks go out to Stephen Hart - SI Live for the article.

Still waiting word on the first free agent signing!

Wow 7 hours in and no one has signed yet? Talk about slow! I am sure Omar is working the phones this morning but like I mentioned before there seems to be a notion that the free agent market will be a slow build

On last night episode of Mets Hot Stove which really is just Kevin B spending 15 min talking about what he sees on line and on the radio etc, Mr Newsday mentions that he thinks it will be a slow go this off season.

There are some rumors out there that the reason the Angels are not really gung ho about John Lackey is due to some arm issues. Of course there is nothing out there to think this might be true. I think the Angels want to keep 1 or 2 of there free agents and it just comes down to the $$$

In an article in Newsday Wallace Matthews thinks the Mets fans will have to wait until 2011. check him out here. He thinks that the Mets whatever they do for 2010 will be window dressing. Yes another positive outlook from Mr Matthews!

Paul Lo Duca thinks he can still play

Just some comments to follow up the post on former Met and LA Dodger catcher who thinks he warrants a look this spring.

The Daily News’s Adam Rubin mentions some quotes from Lo Duca here

Seems Paul has spent some time working with Xm Radio.Sirrus and says that he wants to play in 2010 and his healthy to play.

He sat out last year when no teams offered a contract. Now he is looking for an invite.

The firery catcher might hook on with a team but I am sure it will not be with the Mets. No thank you!

Doubtful Anyone Will Pony Up And Bid On The Old Horse

“I’m completely healthy. I feel unbelievable. I’ve been hitting the last four or five days constantly and started my workouts. I feel great. My hand feels 100 percent for the first time in a while. My hamstring and my knee finally healed after the surgery I had there. … I want to come back and play. When I started working with you guys (as a part-time analyst) and started really watching the games it really gave me that edge. My heart’s into it and I want to go back in it full bore and [do] whatever needs to be done. I want to play on a team that wants to winand wants a player that wants to win. I’ll do whatever I need to do. If it’s come off the bench, if it’s spot starts, I’ll do whatever they need me to do.”

The above quote is from Paul LoDuca while being interviewed by Casey Stern and Kevin Kennedy on Sirius XM.

LoDuca played an important role in the Mets 2006 NL East Championship run, but wore out his welcome with his over bearing attitude and implications with his love of the horses and the young mare's (pun intended). LoDuca is lobbying and praying some team will take a gamble on him.

I'm laying 10-1 odds this old stallion doesn't get out of the gate with the

Mets.

Source: Adam Rubin - Surfing The Mets

Mets hot stove with Kevin tonight at 7 on SNY AAron Heilman gets traded again

Dont forget to set your DVR's if your not home tonight for another rousing addition of Mets hot stove where I am sure the rumors of who the Mets might go after will be running rampant.

Kevin Burkhardt will host and I am sure there will be some guests and I am sure they will review the signing of Wally Backman managing the Cyclones.

The Cubs traded former Met Aaron Heilman to the D Backs today.

In less then 12 hours will the Mets set there sights on the Angels John Lackey?

The free agent season is about to begin. As the clock strikes midnight tonight teams can now pursue other teams free agents.

If you have not read this yet over at ESPN check out What Marchand thinks about the Mets should pursue John Lackey here

I agree with him in the fact that the Mets should spend on getting a real# 2 pitcher since Pelfrey took a step back and honestly I don’t see him having the make up as a # 2

Everyone says pitching wins. Just look how the Phillies got quieted down with the like of the Yankees in the World Series.

The Mets might have to pony up some big bucks for Lackey and some stiff competition for his services. Time for the Wilpons to open the wallet and spend wisely!

Davey Johnson Back In The NL East

Congratulations to former Mets manager Davey Johnson who has been hired by the Washington Nationals to be senior adviser to general manager Mike Rizzo.

Johnson who coached the US National team this past summer had the opportunity to manage Nats #1 pick, Stephen Strasburg .

"When I first laid eyes on him, I really got nervous," Johnson said. "He threw so good. ... He reminded me of a little bit more advanced Dwight Gooden."

As we reported in Former Mets Manager Eligible For Hall Of Fame Honor, Davey Johnson will find out next month if he has been elected by the Veterans Committee to be enshrined in Cooperstown.

"He's a deep thinker, and he's done every aspect you can do in the game," Rizzo said. "Just to be around a person of his knowledge and his database, it just helps me out that much better."

Johnson on his appointment: "I love the game of baseball; I love to see young talent," Johnson said. "I know what a good prospect looks like."

How frustrating would it be if the Nationals have a better team than the Mets in the next few years due to better drafting and talent evaluation? Imagine if Davey Johnson is an important cog in that wheel. Ouch, that would hurt!

Source: ESPN.com

2010 Baseball Free agent list.

Thanks to a great site you can check out the free agent list over at Baseball rumors. All teams including our lovable,laughable Mets will be able to negotiate with all free agents in a little bit more then 24 hours from now.

They include catchers like Jason LaRue, Chad Moeller, Bengie Molina and his brother Jose Molina

Left fielders like a Met from the past Cliffy Floyd . Also Joey Gathright and the big guy, Matt Holliday and Reed Johnson to name a few.

Also a few of the pitchers which include Randy Johnson John Lackey, Braden Looper .

The site predicts that Matt Holliday and Randy Wolf will be playing for the Mets in 2010 and that John Lackey will sign with the Yankees. I doubt the Yankees will get involved since they probably need to just worry about there outfield .

We can hope that Lackey might sign with the Mets but at least once Friday starts the fun and we might see some free agents signed. There has been some chatter that it will be a long drawn out process with signings.

Personally I hope the Mets have most of the important pieces by the end of the year. 2009 was rough but at least with the Free Agent market ready to open will the Mets make there fans excited for 2010 our will be calling them the Mutts if they make boneheaded signings. They need to think young!!!!!

Marquis Interested In Mets. Is Feeling Mutual?

Jason Marquis , from Staten Island, has indicated that he would be interested in pitching for the Mets. In fact, Marquis said that the Mets would be “a perfect fit” for him.

Marquis continued that he believes that the Mets can be contenders in 2010;

"The Mets are definitely contenders with the lineup they have. They're tough to pitch to when their lineup is healthy. They had a lot of injuries last year, but the Mets have pieces in place. With a few more pieces, they have a great chance to play in October."

Last year Marquis was 15-13 for the Colorado Rockies. He got off to a good start, made the All Star team, but went 4-7 with a 4.56 ERA after the All Star Break.

Marquis doesn’t appear to be high on the Mets list. Right now it is believed he ranks behind Lackey and Piniero.

Marquis said it would be great to “come home”, but I have read that he grew up a Yankee fan, so it makes me wonder if he is including the Mets in his search to drive up his salary. It’s not like that’s never been done before…

Source: Sporting News

Mets hire new bench coach Dave Jauss

It is being reported that the Mets have hired a bench coach for 2010 .

According to Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com, the Mets have hired Dave Jauss to be Jerry Manuel’s new bench coach.

I would like to here the press conference on why he was picked over Wedge and Melvin who obviously had a shot to move into Manuel position if he got the boot.

He spent three seasons as the Major League Advance Scout for Boston...the Red Sox won a World Series ring in 2004 when he was in that role...served as the director of player development for the Red Sox in 2002...was the minor league field coordinator in 2000-01...served as first base coach from 1997-99, when Grady Little was the bench coach

In the late 80's while he was the field coordinator of the Expos , Jerry Manuel hired Jauss to manage in Montreal's minor league syste.

The 52 year old Jauss, who never has managed in the major leagues, became the Eastern League Manger of the Year in 1994.

Brooklyn Welcomes Backman

"My heart I don't think ever left New York..."

~ Wally Backman ~

And for real Met fans, we wish he never did leave NY. Now, that is all behind us as the Wally Backman era begins in Brooklyn in 2010.

Backman, a guest on Mike Francesa's show on WFAN this afternoon, says he doesn't look back at what might have been, and he accepts all responsibility for his actions from the late 90's/early 00's. He continues to insist that he never hid nor denied his problems with “domestic violence” in 1999 nor his DUI in 2001. Both were greatly misrepresented in the media. Backman never raised a hand nor harmed his wife. He did tell his neighbor, a female friend of his wife, to leave their house. She swung a bat at him, and the police were called. He was charged with domestic violence, when, in fact, he never raised his hand nor hit anyone. His wife backed up his claim.

The Mets hired Backman after and extensive background check, and his contract is filled with a zero tolerance clause to inappropriate behavior.

The Mets will see a marked improvement in the development of their youngsters, and hopefully one day they will give Wally the chance to be at the helm of the team in Flushing, Our Mets. Backman, as we have stated many times, has been a winner wherever he has been, and NY sorely needs his desire, passion, aggressiveness, and acumen in their organization.

"My heart I don't think ever left New York..."

And in our hearts, WELCOME BACK WALLY!

Backman On The Fan

Source: Mets Bring Back Backman - WFAN

Mets release spring schedule

According to Mr Rubin over at the Daily News the mets have released there spring training schedule

The first game is on March 2nd against the Braves at Port St Lucie.

The mets will play games against the Redsox,Tigers,Twins and Rays .

They have 35 games and play 7 against the Marlins and 6 each against the Cardinals and Nationals.

No games against the Phillies or the Yankees . Highlights below.

Thurs. March 11 Boston Red Sox Port St. Lucie 1:10 p.m.
Fri. March 12 Minnesota Twins Ft. Myers 1:05 p.m.
Sat. March 13 Detroit Tigers Port St. Lucie 1:10 p.m.

Fri. April 2 Tampa Bay Rays St. Petersburg 6:05 p.m.
Sat. April 3 Baltimore Orioles Sarasota 1:05 p.m.

Tickets for Mets Spring Training games will go on sale at Tradition Field Saturday, January 23 at 10 a.m.

It's Wally Time

Today the Mets will introduce Wally Backman as Manager of the Brooklyn Cyclones. We have all heard the stories and problems Backman has had, but personally, I have always been in his corner (just ask longislandmetfan). I am so glad this day has come, and if he stays with this organization, I truly expect him to one day manage the team in Flushing. Mike Silva of Mike Silva's NY Baseball Digest shares my opinion in this regard.

The below video is real interesting, and thanks go out to NY Baseball Digest (above link) for the clip.

Mets shopping Luis Castillo Will the Dodgers bite?

The Mets are trying to leverage a good year from Castillo in 09 to see if they can unload what is left on his contract. The Mets 2nd baseman is owed 12 M. There are reports that the Dodgers who might not sign Orlando Hudson might be interested in Castillo. If the Dodgers are the Mets might have to eat some of the salary that is owed.

The question is would the Mets then go after Orlando Hudson or maybe see if they can sign Chone Figgins and have him play 2nd base. There is some talk about the Angels free agent playing Left field for the Mets if they sign him but to me the Mets need power and to have Figgins in Left really doesn’t help the Mets in the Power department.

I would rather seem him playing 2nd base and batting 2nd behind Reyes. Figgins is an on base man and even though 2nd base is not his natural position I bet he would use 2 hands on a pop up!

Mets To Hire Wally Backman As Cyclones Manager

As we have heard, the Mets will officially announce the hiring of former Mets 2B, Waly Backman. As we all know, metsfan73 is thrilled by this. Below is the press release, courtesy of the

Brooklyn Cyclones.

Former New York Mets star Wally Backman has been named the newest manager of the Brooklyn Cyclones, tabbed to lead the club in its tenth season of play.

Backman was a standout second baseman for the Mets in the 1980s – a gritty, hard-nosed table-setter at the top of the lineup for a team that won divisional titles in 1986 and 1988, and an iconic World Series championship in 1986. Backman played in the major leagues for 14 seasons, including nine with the Mets (1980-1988), and five with the Minnesota Twins (1989), Pittsburgh Pirates (1990), Philadelphia Phillies (1991, 1992), and Seattle Mariners (1993). He finished his career with a .980 fielding percentage, and is one of only 66 MLB players ever to notch six hits in a single game (4/27/90). Backman’s 106 stolen bases with the Mets ranks eighth on the franchise’s all-time list and his .283 career batting average for New York ranks ninth. Backman hit .333 in six games against the Boston Red Sox in the Mets’ 1986 World Series win.

“I am thrilled and grateful to be coming back to the Mets’ organization,” said Backman. “The greatest days of my professional career were spent here in New York, and I have always felt a special connection to the city. I am especially excited to be joining the Cyclones. Brooklyn is a major minor-league team, and I know the borough’s fans are – like me – intensely passionate about baseball and about winning.”

Backman’s appointment as the Cyclones’ manager also marks a return to the New York-Penn League for the fifty-year-old Oregon native. Originally selected by the Mets in the first round (16th overall) of the 1977 draft out of Aloha High School (OR), an 18-year-old Backman made his professional debut with the then-affiliate Little Falls club in the NYPL, and hit .325 in 69 games.

“We couldn’t be happier to welcome Wally to Brooklyn, “said Cyclones General Manager Steve Cohen. “He has always been a fan favorite in New York, symbolizing the blue-collar work ethic and unbridled dedication to winning that this city – and particularly this borough – values above all else in its sports stars. Brooklyn and Backman were made for each other.”

After retiring as a player, Backman began a managerial career in 1997. In 2001, he was hired by the Chicago White Sox, and helmed their Winston-Salem (A) club. In 2002, he led the Birmingham Barons (AA) to a 79-61 record, and a Southern League title. In 2004, he was hired by the Arizona Diamondbacks, and led their Lancaster (A) club to an 86-54 record, earning him honors as the Sporting News “Minor League Manager of the Year.” He was named the Diamondbacks’ manager in November of that year, but was relieved of that position four days later. Backman returned to managing in 2007, guiding the independent South Georgia Peanuts to the South Coast League’s inaugural title. In 2008, he managed the Northern League’s Joliet Jackhammers.

Mets still need bench Coach Indians former Manager Eric Wedge on tap?

The Mets still need a bench coach for the 2010 season. 1 might think he could be the Mets new manager if Manuel doesn't get his ducks in a row early in the year. The Mets seem to be considering Indians former Manger Eric Wedge . They also might are said to be interviewing Bob Melvin and the Orioles Dave Jauss.

Wedge was canned in Cleveland after the team just never jelled in 2009. Most players loved playing for him. Melvin was canned very early in the year with the D backs. I think its between Wedge and Melvin unless someone else comes up at the last minute.

To bad Earl Weaver is 79. Loved his fire!

A No Brainer

Edgardo Alfonzo, my favorite Met from the 1990's and early 2000's (A Fan's Fond Memory June 19, 2008) is looking for a utility position in the Major Leagues. Better yet, he has made it known he would love for it to be with the Mets. In fact, Alfonzo says, “My dream is to retire with the Mets colors,that’s my dream. That’s what I’m praying for, maybe it will happen, maybe not, but dreams sometimes come true, you know.”

Alfonzo has so much of what this team is lacking. He is a brilliant baseball mind; rarely saw him make a mental mistake, which not one present Met can claim. As I stated in the above link:

'This player was the most selfless player I can remember, showed shades of brilliance, power, versatility, and was the classiest individual on a talented team. The classiest Met I have ever had the pleasure of watching, day in and day out - Edgardo Antonio Alfonzo.' 'That all being said, Alfonzo was, other than Keith Hernandez and Rusty Staub, the smartest ball player to have worn a Met uniform. I never witnessed him make a "dumb" mistake. He always knew what to do in any given situation.'

I have always stated that Alfonzo would make an outstanding coach someday. He would be able to help not only the Latin players, but all players. To have him retire a Met, and maybe someday work his way through the coaching ranks would not only benefit the Mets fans who adored this guy, but by all means would benefit this team that so frequently makes mistakes in their decision making process when it comes to management of this organization.

How can't you believe that Fonzie couldn't help Wright, who suffered through a miserable year? Alfonzo might be able to tutor him in leadership, hitting with two strikes, and hitting in clutch situations.

Jose Reyes? There is no way Edgardo can't help the often day dreaming Reyes. I'm sure Alfonzo would come cheaper than Alex Cora, and might be a more helpful influence to this team. No knock against Cora, I think he was one of very few bright spots for the Mets this year, but he is no Fonzie.

For a man that showed nothing but class, respect and professionalism, it is time for the Mets to honor one of their own before his playing days are done. Alfonzo, who is listed at 36, is three days younger than Johnny Damon, and only a year older than Derek Jeter, is deserving of that.

He won comeback player of the year for the Venezuelan Winter League last year. He still has "some game" left.

“I’m prepared for anything. Baseball is the one thing in my life that I know how to do. I don’t expect to play every day, but I feel I can help anytime. I can say many things with my mouth, but I have to prove it.”

If this isn't a guy that can help this team learn how to win, there isn't one out there. Time for the Mets to bring home one of our own.

Source: Kevin Kernan - NY Post

Beltran & Francoeur To Be Honored

NY Mets outfielders, Carlos Beltran and Jeff Francoeur are to be honored by New York Chapter of the Baseball Writers' Association of America.

Beltran is to receive the Joan Payson Award For Community Service. The award, named after the Mets original owner, will be presented to Beltran for his continuous philanthropic contributions.

Jeff Francoeur is to receive Ben Epstein-Dan Castellano "Good Guy" Award. The award is named for:

“Epstein, who died in 1958, covered the Yankees for the New York Daily Mirror for most of 15 years - 1943-58. Castellano covered the Mets for the Newark Star-Ledger from 1979 through 1991. He lives in Dumont, N.J.” *

*Source: MLB Pro Log