Some Scary Halloween Possiblities For Mets & Their Fans

With the signing of Sandy Alderson as the new GM of the Mets, to many the frightening memories of the last four seasons is believed to be dead and buried. I'm not yet sure.

I was real curious about Jon Daniels, not so much that he was raised in Queens and grew up a Mets fan, but because he is young (33) and has built a championship caliber team in Texas.

The Rangers success was bad timing for the Mets and Daniels, but Sandy Alderson and his long resume was the best viable possibility here.

As penned many times, I am not a believer in saber metrics. I believe that baseball instincts and the human eye can predict a players potential far better than looking at stats. Sabermetricians would claim that Jose Reyes is mediocre, but watch him play every day, we see how important he is to this team. He single handedly can change the course of a game. I hope the new Mets GM realizes this, and looks to not only pick up Jose's option, but possibly extend him for a few more years.

I was quite impressed with Mr. Alderson's press conference. He handled the media well, and there was no doubt that he is a person that takes charge. It was real eerie when introduced he stated he was real proud to be a part of Oak...then smiled. I hope he was kidding.

As for some scary possibilities, I am still terrified that Jeff Wilpon will still think he's the baseball man. Memo to Jeff...you're not. You're are part owner and COO. You hired Sandy because HE is the baseball man. Please remember this going forward.

Another scary possibility would be if someone insignificant, an Art Howe type, is hired to be the next Mets manager. Mr. Alderson handled that question well, saying a fiery type (Wally Backman?) would be possibly considered because NY is passionate, and they and the players can relate to a passionate manager. Good answer, but actions speak louder than words.



Scary scenario #3: Oliver Perez. The Mets can't go into 2011 with a 24 man roster like they did the second half of 2010. A decision must be made, and although I was in Ollie's corner longer than most, it is time to cut bait. He is not a part of this team, and certainly isn't a part of their future.

Another frightening observation: Alderson said he believes the Mets might be competitive in 2011, but is looking at a longer game plan. I like that he realizes this team needs a face-lift, and that they aren't going to be active in the free agent market, but to think this team, with much of the same "core" that has disappointed for the last four years, will all of a sudden turn it around is a bit over zealous. The talent is there, the leadership is not. David Wright is not the leader. He is the face of the Mets, yes, but he isn't the leader. They haven't had one of those since the combo of Cliff Floyd and Jose Valentin. Jason Bay might have that make-up, but he is going to have to perform better than he did in 2010. Bay, like I did with Beltran, gets a mulligan from me for his first year in NY. Now it's time to get down to business Jason. Show the NY faithful why you were signed. He hustles as much, if not more,than any other on this roster, and over a full, healthy season, should rub off on his mates. Still though, it is frightening to be coerced into believing this team stands a chance in 2011.

For all those trick or treating today, have fun and be safe. For all those parents out there taking their little loved ones door-to-door, enjoy. The time goes by so fast, and it's days like these that can not only bring a smile to your child's face, but to yours too.

As for Mr. Alderson, you did a great at the press conference. I just hope you aren't disguised as a quality GM.

As for Jeff Wilpon, you've been playing dress-up for years as a boss. Now it's time to put the costume away and be a real boss, and let your baseball MAN do his job.

Happy Halloween!