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.