Mets Welcome Jason Bay

The day has arrived. The Mets had their press conference introducing Jason Bay , #44, as the new Mets leftfielder. First off: Guys, if showing the #44 jersey, make sure the top button is buttoned. The top button wasn't buttoned and the neckline kept flopping over, covering the Mets logo. Guy's we've had enough press conferences to be able to know how to show your new player holding up his new jersey, and this kind of mistake shouldn't be made.

Bay had the following to say:

“A big day for me, very excited to be here.”

Bay told his agent when season ended, there was a short list of teams he wanted to go to and the Mets were on that list.

“You only get a chance to do this once or twice in career, and I am very honored to be here.”

The Mets were on his short list. 'We have the chance to win regardless of last year.'

“Straight talent standpoint... very good team.”

“NY is the center of everything”

GHMP – Bay is not worried because Pittsburgh was very spacious as well. The new park had zero factor in his decision making. Not worried about playing defense in GHMP.

“Still tink i'm prettty good and would like to show everyone I can be.”

Bay said that playing in Boston prepared him for this opportunity.

Agreed in principal before Christmas. The entire process didn't take as long as it seemed.

Boston was on his short list

When asked how much was this about the money, Bay said that the money is nice, and players bust tail to get to a position to earn money, but still have to make a decision. The contract was hammered out in about a week. Wouldn't have signed if didn't want to be here.

On Gammons statement saying he would rather play in Beirut than Flushing: Bay cut off all contact until contract was completed. If he addressed all falsities, he would have spent so much time on that, he wouldn't be able to deal with issues at hand. Can't control the media and Gammons statement couldn't be further from truth. He said "It hurts."

Speaking of his problematic shoulders, Bay said he never hurt his shoulder. Had surgery in '03 and all has been well since. No health concerns whatsoever.

At one point NY Ranger Hall Of Famer, Rod Gilbert, presented Bay with an honorary #44 Rangers Jersey. Gilbert said as fellow Canadian, he was proud of Bay's accomplishments. Gilbert finished by quipping,
“Maybe can come and help us score some goals.”

Bay seemed to handle the media like has been reported; he is very low keyed, and seems unflappable. This should bode well for him and the Mets.