Jose Reyes scratched from lineup tonight

According to StevePopper on Twitter "Reyes left field for clubhouse holding his side - came out abd tested it. Now back in clubhouse and not happy "

update per Popper

Reyes sore- stiff lower back - out of lineup

Tejada to play short and bat 2nd and Feliciano moves up to lead off.

No Pagan against Righty Volstad. Mets vs Marlins June 30th

The Mets are set to face the Marlins and try to salvage 1 game from there set with the Marlins in Puerto Rico and will do without Angel Pagan in the lineup.

Pagan seems to be ok batting from the right side but still has some soreness when he is batting from the left side so look for Feliciano to get another start in Center field.

Also Frenchy sits and Chris Carter, who had a pinch hit double last night, will play right field. Volstad is 1-2 lifetime against the Mets with a ERA of 2.70 and is 4-7 this year with a ERA over 4. Frenchy had the best numbers against the righty in limited at bats.


Reyes-SS
Feliciano-CF
Wright-3B
Davis-1B
Bay-LF
Carter-RF
Barajas-C
Cora-2B
Pelfrey-P

Oliver Perez To Start Rehab Today

Omar Minaya spoke with reporters about Oliver Perez, and informed us that Ollie will make his first rehab start today with St. Lucie.

Minaya said that they are looking to have Perez throw 90 pitches, and he isn't worried about velocity, but location; "Location is the key."

When asked what type of role Ollie will have with the Mets, Minaya indicated that he believed that Perez is a starter, but the decision was up to Manuel and pitching coach Dan Warthen as to where the much maligned left hander will best help the team.







Video below is courtesy of Adam Rubin and ESPN New York.

As Takahashi gets bombed for 6 runs in 1 inning, Lee gets a win.

As the Mets lost last night 7-6 due the inability to get a 3rd out in 2 different innings Cliff Lee beat the Yankees last night in a complete game victory in the Bronx..

He did falter though. Rumor has it that he gave up a walk. The prices for Lee just went down! According to the boys over at ESPN.com it is the first time in 7 years that a pitcher had 4 complete games in a month. Ok price is back up again.

Back in 2008 the Brewers got C C Sabathia from the Indians and he pitcher 17 starts for the Brew crew. Including there 162nd game that year on short rest. The Brewers needed him for everyone of those starts to have the Brewers just beat the Mets in the wild card.

If the Mets trade for Lee, do we need to wait until its too late ? Will Santana, Dickey and Takahashi win us 3 games in the next round of the rotation? Are the GM’s just haggling over prospects? Will we lose Wilmer Flores? Stay tuned.

Who is the Manager here K Rod or Manuel?

In the bottom of the 8th in a game the Mets are down 2 who walks to the Mound? K Rod..Sorry I dont care if he needs work or not, he should have been held back especially since he would have to be lifted for a pinch hitter against the Marlins bullpen.

Of course I dont doubt that K Rod if was pitching the 9th might have done the same as EL Pedro did by giving up some 2 out hits so the Mets waste a decent comeback and lose 7-6

Manager Jerry I know wants to be accomadating to his closer but enoguh is enough. Also can we get 1 out when we have 2 outs and nobody on? Cohen was talking about the Marlins pen and how they were trying to keep the Marlins starters go longer, well our pen in Puerto Rico is no better.

Pagan back in the line up.Mets vs Marlins in Puerto Rico Game 2 June 29th, 2010

The Mets try to win the second game of there 3 game set against the Marlins and Lefty Nate Robertson who is 5-6 with a Era of 4.89. He has beaten the Mets 2 times this season but the Mets beat him in there last matchup at Citi Field 6-1. Takahashi is 0-1 with a ERA over 7 against the Fish.

Reyes-SS
Pagan-CF
Wright-3B
Bay-LF
Barajas-C
Tatis-1B,
Francoeur-RF
Tejada-2B
Takahashi P

Mets rivals Phillies lose Utley and Polanco to the DL.

Good news for David Wright since even if he doesn’t catch Polanco he could be the starting 3rd Baseman in the 2010 All Star Game as the Phillies have placed Placido Polanco on the 15-day disabled list.

Chase Utley has joined him as well. Utley is out with a sprained right thumb. He didn’t seem himself when he was in NY last time but Utley is always denying everything. Polanco said yesterday he thought he had a pre-existing bone spur that might require surgery after the season. Maybe it cant wait. He was replaced by Wilson Vades at 3rd last night. Big blow for the Phillies who just got back Rollins from a hamstring injury.

The Phillies had been playing better of late with the return of Rollins. Now they can get a taste of the Mets 2009 season or if Polanco is lost for the year maybe they trade for Feliz who is playing for the hapless Astros!

Mets and Cliff Lee rumors for Tuesday.

Ok so Smiling Omar Minaya according to the NY Post is walking around saying oh no problem we can get Lee if need be without Mejia.Really that is great! Then what are you waiting for? If you want Lee to part of the rotation then get him. Why wait for Takahashi to blow up or Dickey to have another bad start and drive the price up just do the deal!

Of course I do not think the Mariners are as interested in what the Mets have unless there going to be after a numbers game. Give them 4 prospects with F Mart and Thole being 2 of them. If they want to have some pitchers then give them Parnell and they can try to convert him back to a starter. Or Dillion Gee or Brad Holt even though there not lightening it up in the minors.

The longer you wait the odds are the more competition the Mets would have and other teams like the Twins -Rangers or whoever more then likely have better prospects if Mejia is not part of the deal. Where is Carlos Gomez when you need him.

Also here is a take on the Mets injuries this year and how they have an opposite affect opposed to 2010. Of course it does include SNY.TV /Megdel thoughts on Lee as a rental.

Green, Davis, Mejia, Perez

DO you remember a pitcher the Mets got a while back in the Endy Chavez deal? No not J J Putz who was lame but the 1 and only Sean Green. Who? Yes Sean Green is still with the team . Wow I feel better now about the bullpen!!!! He is rehabing and might be on the mound pitching soon . He was diagnosed with a fractured rib in early April.

Ike Davis will be getting a breather tonight when the Mets face Lefty Nate Robertson. Davis seemed to be pretty tired just running to first last night in the Mets 10-3 loss. Look for Mr. Fernando Tatis to get a start. Tatis has not had a hit since the end of May.

With Mejia out and Omar saying he wont be out long,look for the Mariners to maybe wait before then unload Lee. The Mariners have already mentioned that there ok with getting pitchers or hitters that might not be major league ready this year.

Ahh good ole Ollie. He might be heading to rehab soon and be put on the 30 day clock like Beltran is. Of course the Mets would use all 30 days for Ollie and then maybe beg him to stay on with rehab to about, oh I dont know mid October.

Mets vs Marlins in Puerto Rico -No Pagan- June 28th,2010

As the Mets head out on the road with 3 against the Marlins in Puerto Rico, Angel Pagan will not be in the lineup again. He has not played since Wednesday contest against the Tigers to do a muscle spasm in his trunk area. Felicano gets to play in front of friends and family as the starting Centerfielder. Dickey goes for his 7th win against 0 losses. Barajas also sits tonight against Marlins starter Ricky Nalasco who is 6-6 and a ERA just under 5.00

News on Mejia if you have not heard yet is that he has a posterior cuff strain in his right shoulder. He will resume pitching when he is pain free. Hope that doesnt mean a week from now he will be on the DL.

Reyes SS
Feliciano CF
Wright 3B
Davis 1B
Bay LF
Francoeur RF
Blanco C
Tejada 2B
Dickey P

Mets showing interest in Ted Lilly?

According to MLB Rumors the Mets might be interested in 34 year old Ted Lilly. My first question is what do you give up for the 34 year old whose strikeouts are down and walks are up. He is no Cliff Lee that is for sure. His ERA is a decent 3.28 with a 2-6 record for the hapless Cubbies. He is owed a little over 6 Million this year. Not sure if the Cubs would want to part with him.

Last year was the first year for Lilly to have less then 30 starts since 2003 so he has been pretty durable but is he much of an upgrade at this point.

Mets might not have the weapons to chase after Lee if Mejia is not able to rebound from his shoulder Stiffness.

Jenrry Mejia leaves start

Jenrry Mejia was taken out of his started for the Binghamton Mets because of a stiff shoulder.

Per the NY Post, "he lasted just an inning-plus against Akron. He threw 43 pitches (23 for strikes) before exiting after giving up a base hit and a walk to the two hitters he faced in the second inning."

The Mets said Mejia’s departure was “precautionary,” but it’s certainly disturbing that the prospect’s shoulder is hurting.

Mets now can say bye bye to and deal with acquiring Lee if Mejia is down for any length of time.

To land Cliff Lee Mets need to be swift and send Mejia

As the Mets just completed a rubber game victory earlier today against the Twins the Mets have to be thinking that with wins against good teams in the American League that they are ready to be a contender as the summer goes on and leads to the playoffs.

If this is the case with Santana not being a true #1 at this point they might have to give up something decent to land Cliff Lee and keep him from landing with the Twins or another club. If the Mets want the lefty they might have to add Henrry Mejia to a deal, if Mejia is still healthy at this point, so the Mariners might want to a trade with the Mets. Without Mejia the Mets do not have a real deal that the Mariners covet. The Mariners want a catching prospect which the Mets do not have the prospect in Thole as the Twins have.

It is also being reported that the Mets want to have an opportunity or a window to see if they can get Lee to sign to an extension with them. Now Lee has said inthe past that he wants to test the waters. If the Mets can convince him to sign a deal then dealing away Mejia wouldnt be such a bad move. Of course again if the 20 year old is healthy. Imagine 3 lefties in Niese, Santana and Lee against the lefties the Philles have? Awesome!

Mets Lineup V. Twins - June 26, 2010

Thanks to Adam Rubin for today's Mets lineup:

1. Jose Reyes, SS
2. Jesus Feliciano, CF
3. David Wright, 3B
4. Ike Davis, 1B
5. Jason Bay, LF
6. Rod Barajas, C
7. Jeff Francoeur, RF
8. Alex Cora, 2B
9. Johan Santana, LHP

Rod Barajas is back behind the plate after missing two games with a sore back. Alex Cora will spell Ruben Tejada at second base. Today's game is a 1:10 start.

Mets Lineup V. Twins - June 25, 2010

Here is tonight's Mets lineup courtesy of Kevin Burkhardt:

1. Reyes ss
2. Feliciano cf
3. Wright 3b
4. Davis 1b
5. Bay lf
6. Thole c
7. Francoeur rf
8. Tejada 2b
9. Pelfrey p

Pagan is given another day of rest, as is Barajas. Last year's surprise, Josh Thole, will be given the starting catcher's duties tonight against Big Pelf.

Mets Vs Twins Matchup for 3 game set at Citi Field

The Mets host the Twins for the first time at Citi Field. They last played in 2007 when Santana a Twin at the time beat the Mets 9-0. Now this weekend he faces his former team for the first time.

None of the Mets starters this weekend have faced the Twins and Big Pelf who goes tonight only has faced the O-Dog who in 7 at bats has 4 hits. Kevin Slowey who is 7-4 with a ERA of 4.58 has never faced the Mets but has given up homers to Bay,Barajas and Frenchy in limited at bats.

The Twins are in first 8 games over .500 in the AL Central with .5 game lead over the Tigers. They have lost 3 straight after just completing a series with the Brewers where they were shut out 5-0 and scored 8 runs in the 3 game series. The Twins are 7-8 in interleague play while the Mets are 11-4.

Mets fans get a chance to see Joe Mauer in person this weekend which to me is worth the price of admission. Mauer, who has a day off yesterday is hitting .309 but with only 3 home runs. He has 28 last year which was his high for his career . In 06 he hit 13. Manager Gardenhire always has his troops playing hard clean baseball so this could be a pretty good series that will be the final of the interleague games this year.

Saturday the Mets will see Carl Pavano matched up against Santana. Sunday Niese gets the start against Scott Baker.



Stats source-Adam Rubin

Beltran Debuts In With Port St. Lucie: His Comments

“I feel like I'm in shape physically, but being out there playing for a game, you can never prepare for that. That's something that will come with time. I'm excited to be here today, my first game and looking forward to go out and having the chance to compete.”

“The knee's been fine right now. It hasn't given me any problems. It's been improving every single day. I hope it stays that way. Whatever happens, happens. In the game, you react to plays. If I get the chance to slide, I need to slide, I will slide. If there's an opportunity for me to dive for a ball, you just react to the game."

~ Carlos Beltran On His First Game At Single A Port St. Lucie ~

Carlos Beltran had his rehab debut last night for Single A Port St. Lucie, and was 0-2 with a walk. Beltran played five innings, and had no defensive opportunities.

Last night Jerry Manuel hinted that Beltran might be available after this weekend, but we've heard this before. The Mets are playing well, and no one wants Beltran back more than me, we must be cautious in our optimism. We can't expect Carlos to return to the Carlos of 2006. He should certainly add a jolt to this lineup, and his presence should certainly help Nuke and Bay, but let's not rush him. Even if he returns after the All Star break, that's OK. It's better to have him fully healthy, rather than rush him back where he might risk further injury to an already suspect knee.

Source: Anthony McCullough - Star Ledger

Mets rally comes up short lose 6-5

Wait a minute..I thought this team had heart and won games like this? Yeah ok I guess they can lose 1. Of course when Nuke (Wright) had the bases loaded and as I watched his swings I was like yup MR K is back. He was doing his version of Frenchy instead of just trying to loft a ball to the outfield. I was really hoping that Davis would get up and at least tie the game since I really wanted for once to have Bay come through and knock in some go ahead run but it wasn't too be.

The Mets Takahashi only last 4 innings as the Tigers took him deep a couple of times. Mr Gary Cohen or was it Darling made some great comments about the heat and how that in the past Takahashi was used to pitching in domes. No Matter its still been a fun season watching this team battle back. Leyland I am sure was talking to himself as his pitchers started coughing up runs.

Mets host the Twinkies tonight with Big Pelf on the mound. Twins are having trouble scoring run lately.

Mets Lineup V. Tigers - June 24, 2010

Tonight's Mets lineup courtesy of Kevin Burkhardt:

1. Reyes SS
2. Feliciano CF
3. Wright 3B
4. Davis 1B
5. Bay LF
6. Francoeur RF
7. Blanco C
8. Tejada 2B
9. Takahashi LHP

Angel Pagan is still sore and is day-to-day - most likely will play tomorrow. Rod Barajas awoke with a sore back, but is available if needed. Jesus Feliciano will get the start in CF tonight.

Bring out your dead. Marlins signing Mets former closer Armando Benitez

The Marlins are desperate. They are hitting the dead pile from the Independent league and are working on signing former Met Closer and blow up doll Armando Benitez according to MLB Rumors.

He was last pitching for the Newark Bears. Now if they bring back Bobby V the 2 of them can have a reunion.

Cliff Lee rumor Angel Pagan to Seattle? No shot

This got my attention today over in the Seattle Times . Now I do agree the Mets are looking for some help but of course at what expense.

They mention 2 guys I would not give up to rent Lee. Angel Pagan and Jenrry Mejia. Mejia just went down to Binghamton to stretch out into a starter. Pagan has been awesome with Beltran out. There is no way Pagan can be dealt since there is no telling what Beltran will be like if or when he returns. Having Pagan in the lineup behind Reyes has been a lot of fun to watch. Even if Beltran comes back we will see Pagan in rightfield sometimes since Frenchy is pretty streaky and if not for his arm probably they would just have him be the right fielder.

Now to rent Lee for 2 months would be great but lets just stick to some prospects. If the price doesn’t come down let him go to the Twins. As long as he doesn’t wind up in the National League we can live with not getting Lee.

Possible Reasons For Johan's Ineffectiveness?

"I'm aware of the situation. What I can tell you is that police have investigated these claims last year, and I was never charged with anything, and the case is closed. Unfortunately at this time, that's all I can say. And I have no further comments."

~ Johan Santana's Written Statement ~

It came out yesterday that Mets starting pitcher Johan Santana was accused of Sexual Battery last October at a golf course in Fort Meyers, Florida, although no charges were filed.

According to TMZ, Johan was walking with the alleged victim:

_____________________________________________________________

when he "began to kiss her and pull up her top, unclasping her bra." _________________________________________________________________

TMZ gets a bit more graphic, but due to the sensitivity of the subject, we will not print it. You can use the above link for further information.

The police determined that "the alleged victim's statement is not consistent with other witnesses."

That relieves him from prosecution, but it does not relieve him of being involved with something he shouldn't have been involved with.

Might the incident from last October be weighing on his mind, thus causing him to pitch poorly? Could guilt or stress be the problem?

Other Sources: USA Today Daily Pitch, DNA Info

Ramon Ortiz, Angel Pagan,Jenrry Mejia & Luis Castillo

The Mets wasted no time after signing Ramon Ortiz yesterday in getting him some action. He started for the Bisons and pitched 4 innings where he gave up 2 runs on 7 hits and just 1 walk. Ortiz has been averaging a walk every other inning so if he can keep his walks down he will be some added depth if the Mets wind up making a trade and add pitching to the mix.

Angel Pagan was wearing a heat pack before the game last night and felt a little sore in his side during bp and the trainers for the Mets feel it was just a muscle spasm that didnt calm down during the game Pagan mentioned it to Manager Jerry after his 5th inning at bat so he was taken out in the 7th.

Mejia pitched 2+ innings for Binghamton and gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3 in his first game as a starter.

Nothing new with Castillo. He has not started playing in rehab games and still is nursing his sore heels.

Mets move closer to first after another sparkler from R A Dickey

Manager Jerry was not sure what he was getting when he was told the Mets would having R A Dickey transferred to the ball club earlier this year and at this point he can say he is happy the Mets brass made the move. R A Dickey baffled the Tigers and should have had a complete game but pitched 8 innings in the Mets 5-0 victory and are now just .5 game out of first with the Braves loss.

K Rod needed to pitch an inning to stay effective so he got to pitch the 9th. So Dickey who hasn't pitched a complete game since 2003 wound up taken out after 8 innings and 97 pitches.

The Mets bats especially Jose Reyes had another decent game against the Tigers pitching. Reyes, who scored 3 runs, hit a homer right above the mo zone in right field off of starter Bonderman to give the Mets a 2-0 at that point. He also had a triple and a single and scored 3 runs.

Angel Pagan was lifted in the 7th inning for muscle spasms and will more then likely sit tonight's finale against the Tigers.

Pic source-AP

Mets Lineup V. Tigers - June 23, 2010

Today's Mets lineup courtesy Kevin Burkhardt:

1. Reyes ss
2. Pagan cf
3. Wright 3b
4. Davis 1b
5. Bay lf
6. Francoeur rf
7. Blanco c
8. Tejada 2B
9. Dickey p

In other news, John Maine's second opinion was the same as the first; no structural damage to his pitching shoulder. Just tendinitis.

Marlins fire Manager Fredi Gonzalez

The Marlins fired manager Fredi Gonzalez and two coaches as per the Palm Beach Post. Edwin Rodriguez, who had been managing the organization's Triple A affiliate, will replace Gonzalez as interim manager. The Marlins have been hovering around .500 and right now are at 34-36. Also let go were coaches Carlos Tosca and Jim Presley . They will be replaced with Brandon Hyde and John Mallee.

Gonzalez has a 276-279 record in close to 3 and half years managing the Marlins. This will probably open the door for Gonzalez to become the skipper of the Braves once Cox retires since he was a favorite in Atlanta before he took the Marlins Job.

Marlins owner Loria has been looking to replace him since last year since he thought his team was a playoff team.

Some Positive Signs In Mets Drubbing Of Tigers

Last night the Mets busted out the Whupping Sticks en route to a 14-6 victory. Aside from the obvious, here are some positive signs I took out of the Mets performance last night:

After a long rain delay followed by a long bottom half of the third inning, Jerry Manuel allowed Jon Niese to pitch the top of the fourth. In the past, Niese would have been done after a 90 minute delay due to weather and a long offensive half inning. He gave Niese every chance to pitch the required five innings for the win, but unfortunately the kid ran out of gas.

Mets first three hitters, Reyes, Pagan, and Wright - were a combined 10-15 last night with seven RBI and nine runs scored.

Jason Bay was 1-2 with 2 RBI and 2 walks.

Fernando Nieve pitched well, going 2.1 IP in earning the win. He gave up one hit, one walk, and struck out four.

Bobby Parnell making his 2010 debut for the Mets, just called up from Buffalo, pitched one inning striking out two. He was consistently hitting 97-98MPH on the gun.

And lastly, when Detroit started clawing back and made the score 11-6, the Mets tacked on more insurance runs; they didn't stand pat.

These are just some positive signs I took from last night's game. Oh yeah, one last positive is that the Mets were 'Stellar' in their traditional white uniforms and blue caps.

Game 2 against Detroit is 7:10 tonight.

Sources: CBS Sportsline & ESPN

Mets could use Cliff Lee but not worth the price as a rental

The Mets are in the playoff hunt 70 games into the 2010 season. What a change from the debacle of 2009. The Mets are looking at pitching with the top tier of arms being Cliff Lee and Roy Oswalt. One comes with alot of $$ that is owed and is not someone who might be looking to come to the spotlight of NY. The other would come as a rental. Lee, the Rental should be only something the Mets should look at if the price is warranted.

The Mariners would like some talent in return for the superstar. Lee I am sure would love to pitch for the Mets just for the fact of pitching against the Phillies who traded him away to sign Roy Halladay. There is some talk the Mets would have to give up Thole since the Mariners are looking at scoring a catcher. Thole value to the Mets has soured a little. I would be ok if they also gave up the present day version of Alex Escobar in Fernando Martinez. There have been plenty of rookies coming through the NL East teams system that do not have the injuries this kid has. Just dont have faith that this kid can play and hit for power. At this point let him go but that is all I would give up and if the Mariners want Wilmer Flores or Ruben Tejada just say buh bye. It is a rental of a superstar for 2 months and to give up players that could be playing in the majors for years to come is not worth it.

Plus now that the Rangers might not be able to make a play for Oswalt he might have limited options. Which the Mets can use as a chip saying we can go another route if the price for Lee is too high. Don't sell the farm to get Lee. That is all I ask.

Carlos Beltran to start minor league rehab thursday:Look for him to be activated right after All Star Break

Mets announced earlier today that Carlos Beltran will start his minor league rehab on Thursday of this week. That will start the 20 day clock on his return to the Mets. If all goes according to the 20 day schedule with no set backs, Beltran has to be activated in time to start the 2nd half of the season right after the All Star Break. Of course he could be activated sooner.

If the Mets decide to wait and give him the full 20 days theyl have a long road trip and will start it in San Fran against the Giants and that first game on the 15th of July we could see Beltran ready to roam. Manager Jerry said if all goes according to plan, Beltran will be playing Centerfield so look for Pagan and Frenchie to split time in right.

Mets vs Tigers lineup Tuesday June 22

The Mets face off against the 2nd place Tigers tonight against 100mph Justin Verlander. Normal lineup tonight against the righty.

Reyes-SS
Pagan-CF
Wright-3B
Davis-1B
Bay-LF
Barajas-C
Francoeur-RF
Tejada-2B
Niese-P

Would you take .500 Mets baseball the rest of the way?

Most people didn’t give the Mets a chance when the season started. They felt that even though they were better then the 20 games under they were last year they weren’t a playoff team. A lot of predictions gave the Mets 80-82 wins. Well now the Mets are 9 games over .500 and can go back to 10 if they win tonight. The Mets at this point are the team in the lead for the wild card in the National League and return home where they have 24 wins .

Say for argument sake the Mets win tonight they will have 40 wins and 30 loses after 70 games. Would you take the Mets going 46 and 46 the rest of the way and finish the season with 86 wins? Or now has the bar been raised since the Mets have been playing pretty well? Take into account of course if the Mets trade for a pitcher and or Beltran comes back and contributes in a way we expect Beltran to play. Honestly some team will get hot and more then likely it will take at least 90 wins for a wild card team and I think the Mets might top out at 88. Check out our latest poll and let us know what you expect from the Mets going forward.

Mets matchup against the surging Detroit Tigers

The Mets are home for the next 6 games with 3 against the Tigers and 3 against the Central Division leaders Minn Twins.

The Tigers record is 38-30 and they have won 8 0f there last 10. They just came in from playing the D Backs this past weekend where they won 2 of 3.

The Mets will face Verlander tonight who is 8-4 and a ERA of 3.56. He has never faced the Mets but Frenchy has 3 at Bats and 2 hits . Blanco and Barajas have faced him as well in minimum at bats . The Tigers will be facing Jon Niese. Cabrera is leading the League in dingers with 19 and is hitting .328 and already has 60 runs batted in. Austin Jackson has been hurt so another rookie Boesch has started to lite it up .

Mets send R A Dickey on Wednesday against Jeremy Bonderman Some of the Tigers have hit Dickey well. Cabrera has 4 hits in 10 at bats including a roundtripper and Guillen has 3 hits in 10 at bats including a round tripper. Thursday the Mets will send Takahashi against 1 hitter, should have been a no hitter, Mr.Armando Galarraga

Are The Mets Interested In Fausto Carmona?

According to MLB Trade Rumors and ESPN's Buster Olney, the Mets have discussed acquiring Fausto Carmona...internally. There have been no offers (known) made, but the team has discussed possibly working a deal for the Right Hander.

Carmona's contract is palatable: he is guaranteed $8.9M through 2011, and the Indians have three consecutive club options. This year Carmona has bounced back; he is 6-5, 3.31ERA, 1.224 WHIP - no bad numbers for a poor team.

Could this be a possible reason that Jenrry Mejia was sent down to the minors to practice starting? Many believe Mejia was sent down to become possibly trade bait. Personally, I wouldn't be surprised if the Mets did it so that they can rid themselves of either John Maine or Oliver Perez.

I'm sure this scenario will pick up steam as we roll closer to the trade deadline.

Mets send Jennry Mejia down-Here comes Bobby Parnell

Mets might have lost yesterday but they did a gain a possible starting pitcher in a month or 2.

After the loss to the Yankees by the score if 4-0 then sent Jenrry Mejia down to double a Binghamton to be coverted back to a starter. His first start will be Wednesday night so there is no fooling around here. He had is last inning in the majors yesterday pitching the 7th and did fine.

Look for Bobby Parnell to be heading to Citi Field in time for Tuesday''s game against the Tigers. Parnell has been inconsistent lately for the Bisons. Right now he has a ERA over 4 and has walked 17 and struck out 42 in 41+ innings for the Bisons. Mejia finished his relieving stint with a 0-2 record and a decent ERA of 3.25

SS Maine Sinking: Manuel Announces Maine Has Been Shut Down

_______________________________________________________

*** Updated June 23, 2010 ***

John Maine's second opinion was the same as the first; no structural damage to his pitching shoulder. Just tendinitis.

_____________________________________________________________


Just in from Ken Davidoff:

_____________________________________________________

" We have an update from this story. Jerry Manuel just announced, moments ago, that Maine has been shut down after complaining of discomfort from his last start for Triple-A. He'll be examined again shortly."
__________________________________________________________

All surprised readers raise you hand...Bueller? Bueller?

I don't think I'm going out on a ledge when I say that John Maine will not be on the Mets team the remainder of this year, and will either be traded (fat chance) or non-tendered at season's end. If haven't yet voted on our poll on this subject, you have until tomorrow.

For a career that began with such promise for the Mets in 2006, and continued into the 2007 season, Maine's success has plummeted like a rock dropped into the ocean. It is a shame, but Maine must bear some of the blame. His refusal to acknowledge injuries has brought his honesty into question, as well as his ability to rebound from injury.

As I have stated many times, Maine has frustrated me, but he will always have a special place in my heart as a Mets fan. I was at game 6 of the 2006 NLCS when he pitched real well for the Mets en route to their 4-2 win over the Cardinals, forcing a game 7.

What could have been. Maine isn't a youngster anymore. He is 29 years old, and shoulder problems are difficult to overcome - especially the older you get.

The Mets have shown that they win BETTER without him, and that is never good for one's stock.

Mets Lineup Vs. Yankees June 20, 2010

Happy Father's Day to all the father's out there. Hopefully the Mets will make this a memorable one, in the positive fashion, for us all. Today's lineup courtesy of Andy McCullough:

1. Reyes SS
2. Pagan CF
3. Wright 3B
4. Davis 1B
5. Bay LF
6. Barajas C
7. Tatis DH
8. Francoeur RF
9. Tejada 2B

Johan looks to put together a good start against Sabathia. Johan has been less than impressive this year, but this is the time of year where Johan customarily starts to become dominant. No better day than today to start a strong finish.

Mets John Maine might be heading elsewhere

The Mets might be looking to trade or designate for assignment pitcher John Maine. He pitched Friday night in Buffalo and needed over 80 pitches to get through 4 plus innings in his start with his Fastball hovering in the 88-89 mph range.

He is scheduled to pitch 1 more game on his rehab assignment this Wednesday. Manager Jerry says he doesn't see him in the bullpen and the Mets are keeping Takahashi in the starting rotation after he was able to beat the Yankees Friday night.

Maine is owed less then 2M for the remainder of the season. Like to see the Mets retain him only for depth in case of injury but I know Manager Jerry was not a happy camper on Maine's last 5 pitch start when he was pulled in the first inning against the Nationals which led to his DL stint. Maine cant be sent directly to the minors so he could be gone by next weekend.

Mets Lineup Vs. Yankees June 18, 2010

Here is tonight's Mets lineup courtesy Kevin Burkhardt via Twitter:

1. Reyes ss
2. Pagan cf
3. Wright 3b
4. Davis 1b
5. Bay lf
6. Carter DH
7. Barajas c
8. Francoeur rf
9. Tejada 2b

Animal Carter's hustle and attitude has garnered him another start at DH. Jason Bay, who was on WFAN earlier, will start in LF and bat fifth.

Could Tonight Be The Start Of A New Mets Era?

I certainly hope so. Tonight is the managerial debut of a beloved former Met, Wally Backman. David Lennon has a great post about Backman and his philosophy. Backman still has the fire that endeared him to Mets fans in the 1980's. Among some of the things he expects from his players: __________________________________________________________________ "One of the things that I do is I take losses personally, and I try to instill that in my players: take it personal. This is your job. You're paid X amount of dollars to do whatever you can do, and I expect at least 100 percent on the field. I think the only reason you play a professional sport is to win a championship. And if you look at it any other way, that's not the guy I want playing for me." ___________________________________________________________________

Lennon makes a real insightful interpretation of Backman's managerial style; he compares it to Atlanta's Bobby Cox, whom players love playing for. Marlins 2B Dan Uggla said he felt so strongly about Backman, that he "would have run through a brick wall for him."Uggla played for Backman in Class A Lancaster.

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"I try to earn the trust of my players. I'm going to get -- off when we lose, but I don't take it to any extreme. There's times when I'm going to chew some butt once in a while, and it's all for a good reason. I'm not going to yell and scream just because we lost a game. It really depends on how they go about their business. And they learn pretty quickly what my expectations are." __________________________________________________________________

Backman is known for his fiery attitude and presence on the field, and is not afraid to get tossed from a game. He goes to the end of the earth for his players, and does not plan on changing:

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"I'm not going to say that I'm going to change. Most of the time, you're protecting your players. Am I going to throw bats and balls? No, I'm not going to do that kind of stuff. People perceive me in different ways. Have I got thrown out of games? Absolutely. Am I still going to get thrown out of games? Without a question.

"But 99 percent of the time, it's protecting your players. They know that if something happens, I've got their back, I'm very capable of yelling and screaming at an umpire and getting thrown out of a game, but it's over with just as fast. Very, very seldom will you see me get thrown out of a game without a player being ejected first."

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Tonight Wally Backman will begin his Met managerial career in Staten Island against the Staten Island Yankees.

Will it be long before his NY Mets managerial career begins?

Mets roll into Bronx with 6 game road win streak

The Mets got home early this morning after sweeping the Indians with a final 6-4 win last night after K Rod the Drama king struck out the side in the 9th with a man to preserve a victory for R A Dickey.

During the post game Dickey gave kudos to pitching coach Dan Warthen for pushing the pitcher to use his hard knuckleball since after the first inning his regular knuckler was not moving or settling in the strike zone. Nice to here an interview that was straight forward like that. Good job for the 5-0 Dickey who has a ERA of under 3.

Mets now will be playing the Yankees for 3 games in the Bronx after the Yankees lost 2 out of 3 to the Phillies. Takahashi faces Vasquez in a rematch from there Friday night bout in Citi Field a couple of weeks ago.

Mets are now 10 games over .500 and still 1/2 game out of first since the Braves are still hot after beating the Rays.

Jason Bay sits: Mets vs Indians game 3 June 17th

Mets go for the sweep tonight with R A Dickey on the mound tonight . Mets have won 6 straight and the last 5 on the road. Bay, as of right now, didn't work his magic to be part of tonight's lineup. Manager Jerry has Feliciano in left. Barajas sits as well after having a rough go at catching Dickey's knuckler last week.

Reyes-SS
Pagan-CF
Wright-3B
Davis-1B
Francoeur-RF
Carter-DH
Blanco-C
Feliciano-LF
Tejada-2B

A Proud Grandpa Strains To See His Grandson Play: Chris Carter

If you haven't had the pleasure yet, please take the time to read David Waldstein's article about the Mets Chris 'Animal' Carter and his Grandfather, Bill Carter.

Carter's grandfather Bill is legally blind; his eyesight decimated by the ravaging effects of glaucoma. He has a difficult time seeing. He can merely make out colors and certain movements.

Mr. Carter resides in Barberton, Ohio, about a 45 minute ride from Progressive Field in Cleveland, where the Mets will conclude their series against he Indians tonight.

Grandpa Carter's neighbor and friend of 47 years, Edwin Baker, drove Carter to the ballpark. He would give Carter the play-by-play, because of his inability to discern most of the action.

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“Ball one, Bill,” Baker said on Tuesday night, turning his head toward Carter as his left-handed-hitting grandson took a pitch in his second at-bat of a game that the Mets went on to win, 7-6.

“Strike one, Bill,” Baker added as Chris Carter swung through a changeup from Indians pitcher Justin Masterson.

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Said Carter, "I can detect colors and motions, and I can definitely tell that swing. I don’t think anybody else swings like he does.”

At 86 years old, and being Animal's only surviving grandparent, Carter made sure to attend the games the Indians played against the Mets.

Carter, who was a Red Sox fan, especially a Ted Williams fan, remembers when Chris got his chance to play in Beantown. I am unable to provide any better insight than Waldstein, so I will quote directly from his article:

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So when Chris made his debut for the Red Sox in 2008, it was an especially rewarding moment for the family. Bill Carter made that trip to Boston, and when he heard his grandson announced over the public address system, and made out the blurry image of Chris at the plate, he was overwhelmed.

“He was standing in the same batter’s box that Ted Williams stood in, and he played left field under that wall where Ted played,” the grandfather said. “They said I was crying. I couldn’t tell, but they said there were tears. When I heard that name announced, I got goose bumps. I still do today.”

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The younger Carter was pleased that his grandfather was able to see him play against the Indians. Said Carter, “It’s been a long road for me, and my grandpa has helped me a lot. He was always there supporting me, playing soft toss when I was a kid and watching me the whole time. For him to be here now is really, really nice for me.”

The Indians management deserves a considerable amount of credit for their handling of Mr. Carter. Carter was seated in the family section at the ball park, which isn't close to homeplate. Upon hearing of Mr. Carter's condition, they provided seats behind homeplate for both Carter and Baker so that it would be "easier" to see the action - seats usually afforded to professional scouts.

Tonight the Mets go for the sweep against Cleveland. What would be more fitting than a grandfather seeing his grandson crush one in person?

Bill Carter picture courtesy of New York Times

John Maine to pitch in Buffalo Friday night. Crickets rejoice.

The Mets were off on Monday and I think SNY showed the Buffalo Bisons telecast . They were playing the Iron Pigs. Isnt that the best name for a team? Anyway they were showing the pitcher and off to his right you can see the stands behind 3rd base. A lot of empty seats I tell you. There was 1 attentive fan in that block of seats. A seagull. He was perched on top of the seat watching the action as F Mart pop out to shallow center field. I am not sure if he was a Bisons fan but he did stay through 2 batters before he found something more of interest. Probably a hot dog wrapper.

John Maine will pitch for the Bisons Friday night in his 2nd rehab start. Manager Jerry said he is destined for the rotation when he comes back. Great. So Takahashi has not been lights out but do they really expect Maine to produce? Or is it more like they have to hope for lighting in a bottle. He was on the DL for shoulder stiffness, tendinitis or whatever they made up. Did he find his fastball during this hiatus? No but the Mets will hope that Maine will be able to pitch better then he has all year. Good luck

Mets Lineup Vs. Cleveland June 16, 2010

Tonight the Mets look to continue their recent winning ways on the road. The lineup for tonight's game is:

1. Reyes SS
2. Pagan CF
3. Wright 3B
4. Davis 1B
5. Bay LF
6. Carter DH
7. Barajas C
8. Francoeur RF
9. Tejada 2B

LSP Niese-P

Carter's hustle and work ethic have earned him another start at DH. Lineup courtesy of Adam Rubin

Hey Carlos Beltran time to put rehab into high gear

With the way the Mets are playing these days Mr Beltran is sure to take notice. The Mets now are in the process of beating the bad teams and with 1 more win have assured themselves there first winning road trip of 2010. They started off the road trip at 8-12 and now are at 12-18 after 4 wins. As the Phillies falter and the Braves battle the tough Rays, the Mets find themselves only ½ game out of first place. Not too shabby eh Mr Beltran?

Every other day we seem to get a report on Beltran. Oh he went 3-6, or he went 2-5 with a home run in simulated game. He might be back before the All Star game or maybe after the All star game. Oh boy he played 2 innings in the outfield. Then yesterday we heard he is still limping and has not exploded yet in his running rehab. Yawn…who cares!

I really do not care about what he does until he plays in minor league games & the clock for his return is ticking. It is maddening the reports we get about his minuscule progress.

What I hope is that he sees how the team is doing and puts his rehab into high gear. Or if he needs more surgery just get it so we can move on. Of course when he is healthy he is exciting to watch. His daily progress right now should be an after thought. If things don’t accelerate soon, before you know it. Beltran will be a footnote in 2010.

Bad Mechanics aside Santana squeezes out a win

He might not have that same dominating changeup but Santana proved that he could still find a way to win even with ok stuff as the Mets beat the hapless Indians 7-6.

Santana has to be on point earlier in May where if he gave up more then 1 run he was stuck since the Mets were not hitting. For the 2nd game in a row he was given a lead but coughed it up early. Then found a happy medium and stopped the bleeding by retiring the Indians 3 innings in a row with only 1 hit as the Mets had given him back the lead 6-4. He still has not been in strike out mode. In his last 3 starts he has struck out only 5 while walking 11.

Santana seem to wrestle with his motion has he changed where he kept his arms in front of him as he started his wind up. Pitching coach Dan Warthen mentioned "felt the arm was in the right slot, but we didn't feel that he was loading the same way that he has in the past."

As per the Daily News Santana has developed a bad habit of rotating his midsection too early in his windup, causing his arm to lag. That has made his fastball cut out of the strike zone, and affected the sharpness of his changeup. Before the game, Warthen said that he saw evidence of improvement in Santana's most recent bullpen session.

Kudos to K Rod to giving us drama by giving up a 2 run jack to former Yankee Shelly Duncan in the ninth to make it 7-6.

Mets Lineup Vs. Cleveland June 15, 2010

Here is tonight's Mets lineup Vs. the Indians - courtesy of Adam Rubin:

1. Reyes SS
2. Pagan CF
3. Wright 3B
4. Davis 1B
5. Bay LF
6. Carter DH
7. Barajas C
8. Francoeur RF
9. Cora 2B

LSP: Santana

Chris Carter is being rewarded for playing well on Sunday with another start at DH. Hopefully Wright, Francoeur, and Reyes will continue their hot hitting. Tonight's game time is 7:05.