Pictures from Wednesday's Spring Training

Here are a few pictures from Wednesday's workout.

All the pitchers and catchers meet up for the last day before position players arrive.

 

He needs no explanation.

 

That looks like it hurts. We will see how long this experiment lasts before a DL stint. Surprised they aren't emphasizing his upper body needs to get lower (side bend more).

 

Good balance and flexibility by Oliver Perez. He really looks like a changed player.

Enjoy!

Videos of Live BP from Wednesday

Bobby Parnell- 3rd base side





Johan and Oliver long tossing - 30 second clip







Sean Green from 3rd base side







Pat Misch- nice and smooth and effortless. 1st base view







Pat Misch- 3rd base view











RA Dickey throwing his knuckleball

Recap of the Marlins Camp- February 22nd

As I was driving down and across Florida to go to Marco Island for the day, I stopped in to check out the Marlins and Cardinals spring training camp in Jupiter. They both share the same facility, but it is a solid 15 minute walk between the 2 facilities, or a short trolley ride. We parked over in the Marlins side of camp and walked over to the Cardinals side.

When you first enter the Cardinals camp, you only have access to 2 fields, then have to walk around another field to get access to 4 other fields. There was very little security/people to ask where to go (I'm comparing this to the plentiful security guards at Tradition Field), and it was more just follow where everyone else was walking.

After taking a trolley back to the Marlins side, there is one entrance and it opens you up into 4 fields, with a walking path to another 2 or 3 fields all in close proximity. Pitchers were working on PFPs (pitchers fielding position), as well as bunting on 2 other fields. 

There was no BP going on, nor any bullpens being thrown, so not much to report on skill-wise.

The biggest contrast between the Mets & Cardinals vs Marlins camp is the lack of fans. There were probably 10 fans there for the Marlins. The players would walk on the same path as the fans, and make eye contact, practically begging you to recognize them.

Here is a couple pictures from the workout:

 

And my favorite picture of the day, courtesy of the Marlins player's parking lot (anyone know who's car is this?):

Recap of Cardinals Camp- Monday February 22

As I was driving down and across Florida to go to Marco Island for the day, I stopped in to check out the Marlins and Cardinals spring training camp in Jupiter. They both share the same facility, but it is a solid 15 minute walk between the 2 facilities, or a short trolley ride. We parked over in the Marlins side of camp and walked over to the Cardinals side.

When you first enter the Cardinals camp, you only have access to 2 fields, then have to walk around another field to get access to 4 other fields. There was very little security/people to ask where to go (I'm comparing this to the plentiful security guards at Tradition Field), and it was more just follow where everyone else was walking.

I saw the last few pitches of Jason Motte's bullpen from across a parking lot. Couldn't see enough to gauge how he was throwing, although from this picture below I would be worried about a potential arm injury in his future (that's a lot of scapular loading/increased pressure on the anterior portion of the shoulder).







 The largest crowd was gathered around the field where Mark McGwire was watching a couple minor leaguers take batting practice and he really seemed comfortable and enjoying it.

The field next to him a couple of the infielders where taking ground balls, and D Freese was taking fungoes from Tony La Russa. Such a stark contrast to Jerry Manuel just walking around all day talking and smiling with the fans...

 

D Freese looked very comfortable defensively, and showed good hands and nice footwork going in the hole, as well as back-handed plays. 

 

There were probably 50-70 fans there, a pretty good amount for a weekday.  I did feel like the Cardinals were accomplishing more at this point in spring training than the Mets were (Mets infielders were just fielding ground balls right at them, not requiring very much range or footwork).

And this was my favorite picture of the day (no one else was sporting the stirrups).

 

Hope you enjoyed a different perspective; it definitely was enjoyable for me to see how another team runs their spring training vs the Mets.

Spring Training Wednesday February 24th

Couple quick hits:

• K Escobar did not throw at all again today.
• Johan and Ollie P once again long tossed from foul line to the center field fence but it was not as much pure strength/power as Sunday's display
• Sean Green is definitely more submarine rather than side arm, as you will see in the videos.
• Bobby Parnell's motion looked free and easy
• Jeff Wilpon was in camp (1st time I had seen him this year)
• The position players weren't on the fields in the morning due to physicals. First team workout is today.
• Pedro Feliciano gave a baseball to a little girl he sees as he jogs between fields, which is a nice gesture, and I've seen him do it twice already
• I didn't get a chance to see either Hisanori Takahashi and Ryota Igarashi throw bullpens or live bp.

Other posts today will feature videos of Sean Green and B Parnell throwing BP, Johan and Oliver Perez long tossing. Also will put a couple pictures up from yesterday, as well as a post recapping my trip to Marlins and Cardinals camp on Monday, with some pictures.

It was a lot easier posting these blogs in 80 degree weather than watching snow fall.

Spring training this am

I did get a chance to go to spring training this morning for an hour. Rain is definitely on the horizon, but was able to take some video of Johan and Ollie P long tossing, as well as Parnell and Sean Green throwing live Bp

check back tomorrow for the videos.

Tuesday night update

I went to Cardinals and Marlins camp yesterday, and I will have a recap with pictures either Wednesday night or Thursday morning. It was a different experience for Mets camp that's for sure!

I am planning on going to Mets camp again tomorrow morning, weather permitting (70% chance of rain/thunderstorms), then flying back to reality tomorrow afternoon.

Plans for the blog for the rest of the week include beginning the preview of the 40 man roster, as well as more pictures from Spring Training.

Pray for no rain so you get more exciting news updates tomorrow night/Thursay morning.

Thank you and welcome

I just wanted to say thank you to my loyal followers and welcome to any new readers from this weekend.

The last 2 days at spring training were awesome, and I will continue to provide valuable insight and analysis leading up to the season and during the hopeful journey to the post-season.

Opening day is 6 weeks from today, and as a countdown, I will be previewing/providing a scouting report each day for a player on the 40 man roster/ those battling for a roster spot.

Again thank you for your support, and please continue to provide feedback and comments.


Anthony

Pictures from Day 2

Hey Johan, it's good to see you too! (He was pointing/dancing with a 12 month old right next to us)

Pelf's is Big, and was having fun with J Maine today

Mejia waiting to run after his bullpen. Such a young kid, but he has an electric arm.

The two home-grown hitters (D Murph and D Wright).

And saving the best picture for last...

And here is a video (taken the wrong way and couldn't rotate it, sorry!)

Be sure to check out the post 'thoughts from day 2', as well as the other posts from Saturday. Enjoy!

Thoughts and Observations from Day 2

Today's crowd was probably 1/2 the size of yesterdays, but it was just as much fun as Saturday. I saw some other die-hard Mets fans that I met yesterday, and really enjoyed the comraderie. I got there around 9:45 and walked right in, and the team was still listening to Jerry talk and then went into their stretches. During the stretches, Johan and K-Rod were both joking around/talking more than anyone else.

•  K Escobar didn't even warm up toss, or throw a baseball during drills. When I asked him about it, he said he wasn't throwing today, but would throw tomorrow. Guess this is all part of the strengthening/rehab program he is following.
• Not sure if Johan/Ollie P saw my post yesterday that no one was long tossing yesterday, and they definitely took the crown today. Johan was on the left field line, and throwing to dead center (the 408 sign), without even crow hopping. Such an impressive display of power/strength. Ollie P was very accurate from that distance as well, but was using a crow hop. At times Johan looked like he was trying to throw the ball over the fence. No one else long tossed to within 75 feet of Johan/Ollie.
• The 2nd group of pitchers threw their bullpens today, and that was again blocked from the public's view. I could get a good view of Sean Green, and agree 100% that he is a lot more submarine vs the side-arm he was last year.
• J Mejia threw a bullpen, and from a far I couldn't see his results, but his motion was so free and easy, almost effortless. It was definitely nice to see him throw besides doing PFPs yesterday. 
• Jerry Manuel was once again walking around and interacting with the fans, and when one fan yelled to him 'this is the year', Jerry responded to the tune of, 'it's gotta be this year. you look like you're getting old with your gray hair, we got to do it for you!'  Of course with a wink over his shoulder. 
• Omar stayed off of the fields/out of the public's view for the most part today, and spent most of the day on the phone. Trying to acquire another catcher? (tongue in cheek)
• D Wright was back at practice today and is bigger/stronger, and a leader of the position players/infield. He was definitely driving the ball with authority during BP today.
• Position players who weren't at camp today: Jose Reyes, Luis Castillo, J Bay, A Pagan, F Tatis, C Beltran (no surprise).
• Gary Matthews flew in last night and was at camp today for the 1st time. He is a big guy and looks like he is in good shape. However, he probably had the worst round of BP of all the position players that I saw. He did spend a lot of time talking with hitting coach, Ho-Jo, so hopefully he was just working on some different techniques. I also welcomed him to the Mets and he said 'thank you, i'm happy to be here'.
• Nick Evans was isolated from the rest of the outfielders (Frenchy, Matthews, J Pridie, K Nieuwenhuis), and didn't interact with them at all, which definitely was odd. Evans, Pridie and Niuwenhuis all sprayed the ball well, using all fields. Frenchy did show some signs that his power is still there. And for those wondering, it seems like Francoeur beat D Wright in golf yesterday.
• D Murphy had a rough day fielding at 1B, which I was surprised to see. M Jacobs and C Carter made all the plays, but they didn't need to show much/if any range.
• N Green and R Adams were both in camp playing 2B; I didn't see either of them take BP, but they both made all the easy plays during practice. N Green was also getting on D Murphy for him being so popular with the females, which was funny (I think he used the word 'special').  S Bowman was here today for the 1st day, and had a couple nice strokes during BP.
• Mike Jacobs again had some glimpses of the power he has during BP. Again, no one has questioned his power, just the ability to make consistent contact/decrease the number of strike outs.
• I wish Ike Davis was here at camp so I could've gotten a look at him, but oh well.
• Johan Santana's contagious attitude was on full display, and he was laughing and interacting with the fans, and also signed at the end of the day. He also didn't run the same program as the rest of the pitchers, but he can do whatever he wants and has earned that right (after winning his cy youngs).

So another positive day with no known injuries; I had a great 2 days and hopefully every one else enjoyed reading the recaps.


I will be following this post up with a couple pictures. If anyone has any questions, feel free to e-mail me at ARMarsala@gmail.com, and I will answer it to the best of my ability.


Let's Go Mets!

A Few Select Pictures from Today's workout

THE FUTURE METS #1 PITCHER?

Omar interacting and being very friendly with the fans

Daniel Murphy styling and "smiling for my wife"

C Carter (1B), making solid contact.

Jose Reyes is focused, but also ready to have fun.

I LOVE watching him play, and I know I'm not alone.

Again, I will update with more pictures/storylines from tomorrow's camp.

P.S. Yes Carlos Delgado did have a 2nd hip surgery today and is out for 4 months. Hopefully Omar will finally close the door on him after this...

Jose Reyes video

Here is a video of Jose fielding today; So smooth and should bring joy to any Mets fan.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcaFFzg9AYo

Spring Training Day 1

First and foremost, for anyone who has not been to spring training yet; YOU NEED TO GO. Today is a day that everyone feels like a kid again. There is something special for the first time you see guys throwing the ball, practicing fundamentals etc. I got to the park at 7:30 AM, and the gates didn't open til 9:45, but it was completely worth it.

Getting there so early I was able to see most of the players arrive in their vehicles of choice, and R.A. Dickey had the most original mode of transportation: a bicycle. I will definitely root for anyone that shows up to work on a bicycle and throws a knuckleball.

Michael Baron of Metsblog got the 100 or so fans going with the 1st "Let's Go Mets" chant of the year around 9:30.

As many of you guys know, I love taking pictures, and I estimated today that I had 700+ pictures of the festivities. HOWEVER, I had trouble with my camera and 3/4+ of the pictures were deleted. So today's pictures today will be very limited, (I will make up for it tomorrow AND make sure I don't delete any of it), but if you are looking for more pictures of today, check out this awesome gallary: http://www.flickr.com/photos/michaelgbaron/sets/72157623351069175/

Some thoughts from today:

• Everyone was smiling and signing autographs (as they should, it's day 1)
• Ollie P. looks so much more flexible and in control. I know people will doubt all the work he put in this winter etc., but after seeing him today, I believe. My expectations could be 15 wins, around 4.00 ERA from Perez.
• It was great to see Fred Wilpon today, and no sign of Jeff Wilpon...
• One part that I was disappointed with was that the bullpens were closed off from the public, but overall the access to the fields/players were great.
• K Escobar is definitely behind the other pitchers. He didn't extend past 60 feet, and was "tossing" with a member of the training staff, not another pitcher.
• Figgy (Nelson) long tossed the longest of the pitchers, but no one seemed really concerned about "airing it out" today.
• Mejia (the Mets #1 prospect) looked very young/inexperienced during PFPs (pitchers fielding position), throwing away numerous bunts to 1st and 2nd base, as well as looking lost trying to put a bunt down. Thank goodness he's young.
• Both Omar Miyana and Jerry Manuel were very friendly with the fans. Omar, when I asked about Rod Barajas, said he had yet to hear from him, (now we know he has signed with the Mets). I gave Jerry a fist bump and told him to "keep it gangsta" and he turned around and smiled.
• 12:50 or so the position players that were at camp, jogged onto the field and had some fielding practice, followed by a short BP. The infielder group was highlighted by the presence of Jose Reyes, D Murphy, M Jacobs, and C Carter (I'm missing one person from that group). Jeff Frenchy was on another field with the outfielders. The regulars that were not present: J Bay, L Castillo, D Wright (had a promo to do according to Jeff F.), and C Beltran (recovering from knee surgery). Position players are not required to be there yet, but a lot of the regulars are already here obviously.
• Seeing Reyes having fun (playing catch with his shirt out, without a hat etc), was a delight to see.
• Mike Jacobs definitely has pure power, and hit multiple bombs today. That follows the scouting report, just hopefully he makes contact more and strikes out less. One interesting thing was that he was warming up throwing with Jose; I know a lot of people feel there is no way Jacobs goes to AAA with the Mets, and after today, I am tending to agree.
• D Murph keeps hitting line drives and I love watching him work. He also signed probably for 100+ people after the workout.
• C Carter (traded from Boston in Billy Wagner trade), had more power than I realized, and hit multiple HRs in BP. I understand it's BP, but again, I thought he was more of a doubles hitter vs a power hitter.
• While signing autographs for the fans, Frenchy said "sure" when one fan asked if we could expect 30 HRs from him this year. I'll take the under, but I did grow to appreciate Jeff's attitude and passion for the game after watching him up close today. He seems very happy to be getting a new start in NY and very happy here. He was going to play golf with D Wright this afternoon. I will try to let you guys know who won tomorrow.

I will be posting a few pictures, and a video of Jose fielding ground balls in a little bit.

Final thoughts: I'm very excited for the upcoming season, and hopeful/expecting the Mets to outperform the national expectations this year.

LET'S GO METS!

PS. Be sure to check out the video of Jose Reyes fielding and the post titled a few select pictures from yesterday's workout also. These can be found on the home page or the upper right hand side where all the blog posts are listed. Enjoy

And pitchers and catchers 1st official workout begins today!

It's currently 54 degrees, the sun has yet to rise, but I'm so excited baseball is finally here. I'll be heading over to Port St. Lucie and will be there by 8 AM to watch the pitchers and catchers workout.

Expect a big post later today/tonight (after the beach of course). Really looking forward to seeing the pitchers throw and what they are working on this early in camp.

Yesterday at Port St. Lucie

I did sneak down there for a few minutes, but there was nothing to see, as all the fields were closed down to the public. The only people we saw were spectators waiting for them to leave to try to get autographs.

I should've gotten that press pass!

Tomorrow's workout should be open to the public.

Happy Friday, and thank goodness Spring Training has finally arrived! Enough talking about the off-season, let's play ball!

Travel day/ misc thoughts

So yesterday was a travel day down to Florida, and the weather wasn't quite as nice as we were expecting. It is currently 46 degrees and windy. Not ideal baseball conditions, but still warmer than the tri-state area, barely.

K Escobar has shoulder discomfort; this is almost as shocking as Rich Harden having shoulder discomfort. Glad this was a guaranteed contract...

Mets are considering signing Rod Barajas, yet another catcher. Not much else I could say about that.


I probably won't head to mets camp til Saturday for the 1st official pitchers and catchers workout.

Happy Thursday

Wang signs with the Nats

It seems to be the place where players who wanted to pitch for the Mets but didn't get an offer go (Marquis I'm looking at you also).

So the Mets really are going into the season with a rotation of Johan, Big Pelf, Ollie P, J Maine and ______

Let's hope we are all wrong and we have enough pitching; but don't bet on it.

Again, Wang wasn't the complete answer for the Mets, especially since his return date is highly questionable, but it couldn't have hurt to sign him to a deal similar to Alex Cora, but let's stop beating a dead horse.


In other news, the Mets may be a front runner to a Cuban pitcher, Yuniesky Maya, who defected last year, and it's being described as a race between the Mets and Red Sox. Jorge Arangure of ESPN.com quotes a scout who watched Maya as saying he threw in the 88–92 mph range, while sporting a fastball, two-seamer, a slider, curveball and a changeup.

He is 27 years old, and is looking to go to a team where he can start right away.

That sounds like a good fit for the Mets, and maybe this is the ace up their sleeve...even though I do not believe he has officially been declared a free agent yet.

Adam Rubin's pictures from Today

Good old Sandy Koufax is at camp, as well as D Wright, D Murph (does he ever leave?), M Jacobs, the 2 Japenese imports, J Maine.


Nice work Adam, although this is still all your fault.

http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/mets/2010/02/monday-is-work-day.html

48 hours until I'm down in Mets country...

5 days until Mets pitchers and catchers report

and a week from today will be the first organized workout. Counting down the days/hours to get out of this cold and snow, and be reporting live from Port St. Lucie.

Here is a couple of pictures from last year's disaster of a team.

 

Can't wait to see Carlos back, HEALTHY, this year.

Will he regain his confidence/mechanics to hit 25 HRs + again this year?

So thrilled we don't have to see any of those awful swings any more (although I should never say never with Omar).....

Hopefully he continues to develop as a professional hitter that he is; he certainly works hard enough.

And last but not least, one the keys to the season...

Can't wait to see a healthy AND happy Jose Reyes.

Let's play ball!

Mets sign ANOTHER catcher

Shawn Riggans, formerly of the Tampa Bay Rays, has been signed to a minor league deal. He has hit .202 over the past 3 years, and had 0 walks last year (in 14 plate appearances).

I'm overwhelmed with joy (insert eye roll here).

Yes its a slow day today.

Bill James projections for The Mets Starting Rotation

Oliver Perez 8-11, 4.73 ERA
Mike Pelfrey 9-12, 4.45 ERA
John Maine 9-9 3.86 ERA

All I know is that that doesn't look too good, and Bill James is a lot smarter than me.

But I would take the over on Maine's ERA, and under on both Pelfrey and Perez's ERA.

Need for 2nd lefty out of the bullpen?

A lot of fans have been glamoring for the Mets to get a 2nd lefty out of the bullpen, and according to reports out of Japan, the Mets may be signing 34 year-old Japanese free-agent LHP Hisanori Takahashi to a minor league deal. 


All of that sounds good and dandy until you realize that lefties hit .300 off of him last year; so much for being a lefty specialist.


The Dodgers are also in the running to sign Takahashi

New poll

Who is our #2 starter? Vote now.

8 days

Right now I look out my door and see this...
















But in 8 days We will be seeing this:

 

He's auditioning for the 5th starter spot I hear... (picture taken from newsday archives)

Mike Jacobs close/done deal with Mets- Minor League deal?

From Buster Olney today:

The Mets signed Mike Jacobs, colleague Jerry Crasnick reported, and the most ardent Mets fan at ESPN, Mark Simon, sent me a note on this signing. Mark, the floor is yours: "Mike Jacobs is an ideal (sarcasm intended) fit for the Mets. He had the 2nd-lowest OPS in 2009 (.698) among players whose primary position was DH. No player with as many home runs as he hit last year (19) had a lower slugging percentage than Jacobs' .401. And over the past three seasons, Jacobs ranks last among first baseman in the defensive stat 'Runs Saved' (similar to UZR; measures many aspects of a defender's ability, via the company Baseball Info Solutions). This despite his starting only 13 games at first base in 2009 (which tells you how bad he was in 2007 and 2008). That should work out especially well, considering that over the past three years, their second baseman -- Luis Castillo -- ranks LAST in MLB in runs saved for second baseman."


My take:
Before every one kills Omar, this is a low risk, probably low reward move, but it can't hurt and won't break the bank. No, he isn't a good baseball player, but does have some pop IF he ever can cut down on his swings and misses and thus not strike out every 3 at bats. I'm not counting on that happening, but stranger things have happened.

Spring Training Is Almost Here

Equipment bus packs up tomorrow and leaves for Port St. Lucie at 11 AM. Hopefully it doesn't get derailed due to the impending snow storm. That would just be a fitting continuation of last season and this off-season...

I will be reporting live from Spring Training the 1st 2 days of pitchers and catchers workouts (Saturday February 20th and Sunday the 21st), and will be posting pictures and videos, to make all you guys from the northeast jealous.

Poll closed

88% of the readers think the Mets will end up between 82-87 wins, which shows an educated fan base.

The blog/baseball world has been quiet the last few days (outside of a pair of 2nd baseman signings and Bedard re-upping with Seattle).

I will begin a countdown to spring training previewing position by position as the Mets currently stand, give some projections for the players stats, and ask for your opinions of over/under on a category or two on each player.

Is anyone else keeping an eye on the Caribbean series and "F-Mart"? I saw him hang in nicely against a tough southpaw throwing curve after curve last night; I am still optimistic he can be a solid major league player in his future

Meet the Mess

http://www.murraychass.com/?p=1503

Just another article echoing what Ken Rosenthal and Buster Olney reported last week.


The only thing that will cure this is playing and winning baseball games. Other than that, this will continue to be written and talked about because everything else is quiet over the next 2 weeks until pitchers and catchers report.

(Hat tip to Kevin for sending the article)

Mets go back and offer 6 pack of tickets

At least the Mets realized they shouldn't force fans to buy 15 games in order to get premium games, and have gone back to offering 6 game packs, including an opener pack.

http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/nym/ticketing/six_packs.jsp

Nice work finally listening to your fans Mets, although I find it hard to believe that the best seats available for the opening pack is only promenade reserved (left/right field upper deck) and I would love to find out what the $35 order fee is for.

Another Mets fans top 10 moments at Shea

Anyone that takes the time to write out their top 10 memories deserves to get a blog post, so here is John Scat's top 10 moments at Shea.

Nice work Scat, good list.

10. Date unknown, 2000: It was a Sunday day game and I have no idea who the Mets were playing but it must have been of relative importance because Christopher Russo was broadcasting from the WFAN box. On the way to my concession stand I decided to walk inside the stadium along the Loge level to get a glimpse of batting practice. As I walked below the WFAN booth I stopped to listen. When I heard it go to commercial I shouted out, “Hey Mad Dog!” Russo stuck his head outside the booth, waived and shouted back “How ya doing buddy!!!” 9. July 11th 1999: Another Sunday day game and the Mets were going for a series sweep against the Yankees. I was working concessions for the game at the Kosher stand in the right field corner on field level. I don’t remember much about the game but we were required to get to the stadium extra early for the Yankees games. Waiting for the stadium to open I took a seat in right field and watched John Franco throw batting practice to his son, who was using the right field corner as the backstop. His son fouled one off into the stands not too far from me. Faced with the decision of keeping a batting practice ball or giving it back I decided to throw it back to Franco. I threw a perfect strike to Johnny. He thanked me. Unfortunately, Mets lost 6-3. 8. July 16th 2008: Billy Joel’s Last Play at Shea…almost. Only the second time I felt the Upper Deck rock. The national anthem and Take Me Out to the Ballgame never sounded so good. It was a great night that couldn’t be spoiled by a Mets loss. 7. May 19th, 2006: I had never been so unexcited to go to a Subway Series game. It was a Friday night and the pitching matchup of Geremi Gonzalez vs. Randy Johnson really made me wish I was home watching the game on the couch with some pizza. It started as anticipated with the Yankees scoring 4 runs in the top of the first. Delightfully, the Mets responded in the bottom half with 3 runs and later tied it at 6 in the bottom of the 5th. Darren Oliver and Aaron Heilman combined for 5 scoreless innings of relief and Billy Wagner struck out the side in the 9th. The great Mariano Rivera came in to pitch the bottom of the ninth. With two outs and two on David Wright hit a drive to deep center well over Johnny Damon’s head for the walk off victory. 6. October 4th 2006 NLDS Game 1: Got to the ballpark for my first ever playoff game expecting to see Orlando Hernandez pitch. Amazingly he hurt himself in warm-ups and John Maine took the mound. My biggest memory from the game was Jeff Kent and JD Drew being tagged out by Paul Lo Duca at home plate on the same relay throw. After Mota blew the game by giving up 3 runs in the 7th, the Mets took the lead back in the bottom half. Wagner tried to blow it the 9th but the Mets held on 6-5. 5. April 11th 2005: Unlike some people, I didn’t get to cut school to go to Opening Day back in high school and Michigan was a little too far to come home during college so this was my first chance to go to a Home Opener. It was also the first time Mets fans got to greet Pedro Martinez and Carlos Beltran. Pedro got the loudest pre-game cheer I had ever heard and was winning over the crowd with his dugout antics. The pregame excitement ended early as the Astros scored in the top of the first. That would be all Glavine would allow over 6 innings and the Mets took a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the 6th. But the Astros scored one in the 7th and took the lead with two more in the 8th. The day became memorable as the Mets scored 5 runs in the bottom of the 8th. John Franco gave up runs 4 and 5 in that inning on a single by Cliff Floyd. It was the only batter he faced in his first return to Shea. The scoring ended there as the Mets won 8-4.

 

4. June 11th 2005: Down from my usual bird’s eye view in the Upper Deck I got to watch this one from Field Level. Mets were trailing 2-1 with 1 out in the bottom of the 9th when Marlon Anderson tied it on a thrilling pinch-hit Inside-the-park Home Run. It appeared to be for nothing when the Angels scored an unearned run in the 10th thanks to an error by Doug Mientkiewicz. But the bottom of the 10th proved to be more exciting than the 9th. Reyes led off with a single and Mike Cameron followed with a walk that put the tying run in scoring position and the winning run on with Beltran and Piazza coming up. Carlos and Mike both struck out swinging leaving it up to Cliff. Floyd hit a bomb over the right center field wall creating a great scene at Shea. 3. September 28, 2008: To add my own personal experience from the last game at Shea, I was sitting way up in the Upper Deck all the way out in right field. I couldn’t see the scoreboard and therefore couldn’t see the score of the Brewer’s game. I could only judge by the reaction of the crowd. Not being used to the view from my seat combined with the desire I had for Church to hit a home run I thought he got enough of it to drive it out. Instead, I had a perfect view of the last out in Shea Stadium history. 2. June 30th 2000: Trailing the hated Braves 8-1 heading into the bottom of the 8th inning they closed my concession stand in the Upper Deck. That allowed me to stand inside Section 11 to witness the greatest comeback I’ve ever seen. Single, fly out, single, ground out, single, single, walk, walk, walk, walk, single and the game is tied 8-8. Up steps Mike Piazza for the second time in the inning. He hits a laser beam down the left field line that bounces off the retired numbers. I am jumping up and down high-fiving complete strangers. And to think I was being paid to watch that. 1. October 19th 2006 NLCS Game 7: I don’t have to tell you the details of this game but sitting in the Upper Deck out in left field I actually saw the ball going into Endy’s glove, and I’ll never forget how the Upper Deck shook afterwards. There is no way they would lose now, right? Endy would add to the legend when he came up with men on in the bottom half of that inning, right? Cliff Floyd was going to do his best Kirk Gibson impersonation, no? But when Carlos left the bat on his shoulders I learned how quiet 56,000 people really could be. Everyone filed down the ramp in silence and disbelief. I took the train to Port Washington. When I got into my car at the train station I couldn’t stand to listen to WFAN. So I switched from AM to CD and the first song that just happened to play was “Bitter End” by the Dixie Chicks. And it goes “It’s not alright, I can’t sleep tonight, Knowing you should have played on, On and on.”

Jose Reyes

So at least the Mets and their fans got some positive news last night/today, with video showing Jose Reyes running and working out at full speed, and best of all, "smiling".

He has been working out at probably the best rehab facility on Long Island, Professional Athletic Performance Center in Garden City, attached to Professional Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy.  They have a great staff and a great facility, and are turning into a professional training haven for most long island based athletes. Rob Panariello (director of the Performance Center), and Tim Mauro (director of the PT facility), have done an outstanding job; keep up the good work guys.


http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/mets/rehabbing_reyes_bfTj46yTKBKIuxSlp1f51H



I am very excited and anxiously awaiting seeing a happy Jose and helping the Mets become a fun team to watch this season.

As Jose goes, so do the Mets.

JJ Putz

I'm not sure what happened, but JJ Putz is claiming he knew he had bone spurs in his elbow before he was traded to the Mets, but he didn't really have a physical, and was told by the Mets to not talk about the injury to reporters.

http://www.csnchicago.com/01/22/10/Sox-Drawer-The-Truth-About-JJ-Putz/landing.html?blockID=167614&feedID=665



When it rains, it pours.....

New Poll

Since the Mets are done making moves for the pre-season according to Buster Olney, I have added a poll on the side to gauge the fans expectations for the upcoming season.

$550,000

Ryan Garko signed with the Seattle Mariners for $550,000, or 1.15 million LESS than the Mets signed Fernando Tatis.

By no means is Ryan Garko an all-star, but could he have had a positive impact and been a good Right Handed bat/platoon vs lefties? The answer is a resounding yes.

Why are the Mets cheap in some areas, but sign someone who is good in the clubhouse but just a replacement infielder for 2 million, a good reclamation product 2 YEARS AGO but now just a declining skill player at 35 years old for 1.7 million, but then won't sign a 29 year old who hits lefties better than the aforementioned player for $550,000.


I believe if you continue to make the same mistakes over and over again, yet expect different results, is Einstein's definition of insanity.

Frankie C from Long Island

no, thats not a new caller to Mike Francesa, it's our new utility, spring training invite, Frank Catalanotto. The Long Island product barely got into games last year with the Brewers and is on the down side of his career (he's 35), but supposedly a good clubhouse guy and hitting coach. Looks like the Mets will be a-ok if Alex Cora gets hurt; we got his clone.

C M Wang

Some fans on another site want the Mets to sign C M Wang, and says he could potentially be the #2 starter the Mets need.

When has Wang shown that he is capable of being a #2 starter? If you ignore his win totals (as a result of a very, very good Yankee offense, not a direct measure of his performance), and his pitching stats do not look like a #2 starter. He doesn’t miss bats and pitches to the defense, has only made 24 starts in the past 2 years combined, and only broke 200 innings once in his career (another year he was 199).

His FIP (fielding independent pitching ERA)                          
2006 3.91,                                                                              
2007 3.79,                                                                           
2008 3.74 (15 starts)                                                         
2009 5.38 (9 starts)                                                             
Career 3.99                                                                                            

Compare that to a true #2 starter, Ben Sheets
2006 2.43
2007 4.11
2008 3.38  
Career 3.56

Erik Bedard Career FIP 3.66, with only 1 of the past 5 years above 3.60

J Vasquez (just as a comparison)
2006 3.86
2007 3.80
2008 3.74
2009 2.77


I do advocate taking a chance on signing Wang, but to think he would be our #2 is a stretch (Javy will be the Yankees #4 starter). I wouldn't mind Wang as a #4/5, but don't expect him to be a huge contributor, but more as an insurance policy if Ollie or Big Pelf or Maine get hurt/sh*t the bed.

Another baseball standing projection

I know it's the end of January and projected standings mean nothing, but since I posted Baseball Prospectus standings earlier in the week, I figured I would post the other projection system that is available right now. He gives his methodology and how he played the season 1000 times etc.
http://rlyw.blogspot.com/2010/01/extremely-early-2010-mlb-projected.html

He has the Mets at 82 wins, which is a lot more realistic than the 78 Baseball Prospectus currently has the Mets at, and just 2 games off my projection of 84-86 wins with the current Mets roster.


Hopefully we are all wrong and the Mets will magically jump up to the 90 win mark some how (anyone have the smoke and mirrors that worked for the '86 Mets, or the PEDs that worked for the 2000 Mets)?

Friday Recap in the world of the Mets

so we sign Josh Fogg to a minor league deal; nothing to write home about. He doesn't miss many bats, but was effective vs righties last year, as they hit under the mendoza line vs him. Whether that was just a product of good defense or not we shall see.

The other report is the Mets are pursuing Long Island product Frank Catalanotto. He is another veteran that won't add much talent, but is supposedly a like-able guy, so why not give him the Alex Cora deal of 2 million dollars just to shut up and not create problems...that is what good gm's do, right?


Less than 3 weeks away from Spring Training, and the Mets 2nd biggest move this off-season, after winning 72 games last year, was trading for a guy who would've been released during spring training (Gary Matthews).

Happy weekend.

Cross another potential spring training invite off the list

Timo Perez signed a minor league deal with the Los Angelos Dodgers. Although he was/is a fan favorite, will he ever be forgiven for not scoring in game 1 of the World Series?

Baseball Prospectus Projected Standings

Yesterday Baseball Prospectus released their preliminary projected baseball standings, and there was a collection groan/"oh ----" heard coming from the NY area. The Mets were projected for 77 wins, just one win better than the last place Marlins.

I had been saying this was an 84-86 win team with it's current players, so maybe I'm a little bit optimistic, although the readers would definitely disagree with that.

These standings do change on almost a daily basis as spring training is underway, as it becomes clear the different platoons/playing time battles are settled, or if the Mets ever sign a free agent pitcher.

Here are the current division winners: TB Rays (Yankees in 3rd with 93 wins), Minnesota, Oakland, Philadelphia, St. Louis, LA Dodgers. Wild Card winners: Boston and a tie between Atlanta and Arizona.


Happy Friday

Fernando Tatis vs Ryan Garko

I really would love to hear The Mets Front Office on why they prefer Fernando Tatis over Ryan Garko.

Fernando Tatis is a below average defender, is 35 years old, and hits .293/.377/.439 versus lefties, with 4 HRs in 239 at bats over the past 2 years, which is 1 HR every 59.75 at bats (he was out of MLB for the 3-4 years before that).

Ryan Garko is 29 years old (peak of his career), is a slightly below average defender, and hits .311/.391/.491 versus lefties, with 15 HRs in 383 at bats over the past 3 years (1 HR per 25 at bats).


Yet again the Mets appear set on resigning another one of Omar's guys (for around 1.7 million), versus someone who can make the team better and most likely cost less.

Mets minor league system ranks

Keith Law ranked the Mets #15 in his rankings, while John Sickels was a little bit nicer, ranking the Mets system as 13th (based on a valuation system set up from Beyond the Box Score).

Mediocre, seems to sum up the Mets these days.

Just got a list of the Mets Spring Training Invitees

I'm a little surprised at a few of these names, but I guess the Mets are counting on recapturing some of the old magic.

Spring Training Invites:
Tom Glavine
John Smoltz
Pedro Martinez
Mike Hampton
Kris Benson
Shawn Estes
Livan Hernandez
Tim Redding
Glendon Rusch
Jason Isringhausen
Guillermo Mota
Duaner Sanchez

Omar Minaya "We feel very comfortable and excited that we have the opportunity to bring in a lot of veterans who have been around the block and have a lot to teach our younger pitchers. We are really looking forward to holding an open competition for our 4 starters after Johan, and feel that from this field of 25, we can find some real bargains and help our fans forget that we didn't put an offer in for Ben Sheets, Jon Garland or John Lackey, nor that we had an substantial conversations for any of the pitchers traded this off-season."


(As of now, this post is completely fictional, but I won't put it past the Mets anymore)

And now Ken Rosenthal and Buster Olney

They both basically rip the Mets apart and say their organization, from top to bottom is a joke, and too many people are involved with every decision (Steve Phillips had been saying this for years on baseball tonight), yet nothing has changed.

They also both believe the Mets don't have a set budget, and if that's the case, that is a bigger issue.

Here is the link to Rosenthal's article.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/rosenthal-on-new-york-mets-omar-minaya-012610?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter


Happy Wednesday morning. Just as I was getting excited for spring training in 3 weeks, now I'm back to being depressed about the prospects of this season.

Some things never change. Jets fans use the moniker "same ol Jets" it needs to be 'same OLD Mets'

So

At the beginning of the off-season, we were under the assumption that the Mets had approximately 20 million to spend this off-season. And under those assumptions, I had been calling to not sign Jason Bay or Matt Holliday, as they would take up too much of that 20 million dollar pie, and that this team had too many holes to fill. Instead, I recommended signing Ben Sheets and Rich Harden for between 14-16 million (actual costs would've been 16.5), and then use the remaining couple million for complimentary players to fill the other holes.

But the Mets showed they did have money to spend by overpaying for Alex Cora (because they like his attitude), then guaranteeing a contract to K Escobar (when no one else appears to have been willing to do that), then bidding against themselves for Jason Bay, leaving them without enough money to adequately address their desperate need for starting pitching. Jon Garland signed with the Padres, who will be lucky to win 75 games this year, for 5.3 million. And it is being reported the Mets didn't make an offer.

I completely understand that every one has a budget, every small business in the world up to every major league team, including the Mets, Red Sox and Yankees. But I just hope the Mets (Omar and the rest of the front office) knew how much they could spend from the beginning of the off-season and developed the plan accordingly, because right now, they have pie all over their face.

and FYI Omar, John Smoltz is not the answer to our starting pitching woes.

At least Johan didn't have surgery after his mound session yesterday, well at least it hasn't been reported yet.

more thorough post

I need to gather my thoughts and try to figure out Omar/Mets reasoning on their not making an offer for Sheets or Garland.

so don't wait up for anything more from me tonight.

Good night Mets fans, good night Mets season before spring training even begins. But at least we don't have Bengie Molina.

Um.......

So Ben Sheets is signed by the Oakland A's. So that leaves the Mets needing to sign J Garland right? no, he signs with the Padres.


there isn't much for me to say.



i'm speechless.

Mets Team as of January 24th

So in the beginning/middle of the off-season, I said, let's wait until beginning of spring training to judge the Mets off-season. Well we are 3 weeks away from pitchers and catchers reporting, so let's take a look at where we currently stand.

Line up:
J Reyes SS
L Castillo 2B
D Wright 3B
C Beltran CF (from May fwd)
J Bay LF
J Francoeur RF
D Murphy 1B
O Santos C

With Beltran out for April, I would slide A Pagan into either the 2 spot and drop Castillo down to the 8th spot, or bat Pagan 6/7th depending a right vs left pitcher.

We aren't going to see much else added to change that starting line up, but may tweak the bench with either Delgado (who is sounding like he's strictly a DH right now), or R Garko to platoon with D Murphy.

Bench:
J Thole/Blanco/Coste knowing the Mets, it prob will be 2 of these 3, but it should be just 1 of them (another poor use of resources by the Mets, but I will wait until they make the mistake until I kill them on it).
G Matthews- 4/5th OF
A Pagan- 4/5th OF
A Cora- Utility IF
N Evans- Platoon PH/1b??  Battling for a roster spot, prob won't make it due to the Mets insistence on carrying 3 catchers.

Pitching Rotation. I'm assuming we are still getting another starting pitcher (Sheets or Garland). Sheets would slide into #2, Garland into the 3/4.

1) Johan
2) M Pelfrey
3) J Maine
4) O Perez
5) J Niese

Bullpen:
K-Rod. closer
R Igarashi 8th inning guy
S Green- situational righty
P Feliciano- situational lefty
B Parnell-7th/8th inning guy
K Escobar- If healthy.
N Figueroa- long man/spot starter. Battling for last spot on roster.
P Misch- 2nd lefty out of the pen. Battling for last spot on roster.

So looking at the bullpen as it is now, it seems like B Stokes really was expendable (sorry Cotter).

With that team as is right now, I'd put the Mets around an 84-87 win team. If the Mets are able to sign Ben Sheets and R Garko as a RH platoon 1B/PH, I think the Mets are then an 87-90 win team.

24 days until pitchers and catchers report! I will be reporting to Port St. Lucie in 23 days...

Gary Matthews Jr.

meet the newest member of the NY Mets. 35 year old outfielder who had 1 good year and was subsequently linked to PEDs. Has battled injuries and actually is a worse contract than Luis Castillo.

I'm assuming this is not the only move the Mets are making, so I will withhold judgment until other pieces fall into place.

Rumors are swirling it could be a stepping stone to a trade with the Reds and the names being floated of B Phillips, B Arroyo or A Harang potentially being involved. Again, these are all rumors, no facts.

I have no idea why the Mets would want to take on Arroyo's or Harang's contracts as they are both due over 10 million next year and are both average to slightly above average (and Harang had shoulder issues last year, surprise surprise, another pitcher under Dusty Baker's watch with shoulder problems...)

If you are going to spend 10 million, spend it on Ben Sheets who is definitely an above average to all-star caliber pitcher.


UPDATE: It is now being reported the Angels will pay 21.5 out of the remaining 23.5 million, so Gary Matthews is going to be a 4th/5th outfielder for the Mets making around 1 million a year. Mets gave up Brian Stokes from the bullpen.  Matthews used to be regarded as a great defensive centerfielder, but that has steadily dropped over the past 4 years, and now he isn't even an average fielder.

New updated opinion: Shoulder shrug. This isn't going to make a difference for the better over the course of the season, but gives the mets some outfield depth, and traded a bullpen arm which we needed. The Japanese import, Ryota Igarashi, better be able to set right in and be a valuable part of the bullpen, or else this could be another bad move by Omar. But again, it's not going to be a season-altering trade most likely.

Joel Pineiro

Has signed a 2 year deal with the Angels for 16 million. The Mets reportedly had a 2 year-15 million dollar contract on the table. It is clear he preferred the Angels, which is fine, as I'm not sold he's a great pitcher. I think he is an average pitcher that had a very good year last year, a lot of which may be contributed to Dave Duncan.

Yesterday, Doug Davis (who I had no interest in from the beginning), signed with the Brewers. That's fine by me.

So the remaining free agents of note are Ben Sheets, whom we've discussed numerous times, and Jon Garland, whom I view as an innings eater who will be league average to slightly above average. C Wang and E Bedard are two other pitchers available, but neither will be available to start the season until May at the earliest, so the market has not developed for them as of yet.

John Smoltz has been mentioned/linked to the Mets recently, but I don't think he has the stamina/endurance to last a full season as a starter, so he doesn't have much appeal if he is our 2nd biggest signing of the off-season behind Bay. I love his competitiveness, but how many bullets does that arm have left?

San Fran Giants bloggers re: to Molina

Some people wanted to know why I was happy that the Mets didn't sign Molina. Rather than write a sarcastic post, I will send you to a fictional press conference introducing Bengie Molina to the San Fran media with the Giants GM Brian Sabean (who is in the contest for bottom 5 GMs in baseball with Omar and D Moore of the Royals).

Enjoy

http://www.mccoveychronicles.com/2010/1/19/1260768/bengie-molina-back-on-the-giants#storyjump

Molina to the Giants

WOW! 2 good moves by the Mets today!!! 1) no long term deal for Frenchy, and 2) We didn't sign Molina!

Is someone else making decisions for the Mets these days???

Now sign Ben Sheets and it would be a trifecta

Ben Sheets audition

According to tweets from Trenni Kusnierek from MLB Network, Ben Sheets topped out at 91 mph, and had a good curveball which ranged from high 60s-low 70s. He appears in great shape and it's the only the 4th time he's thrown off a mound.

Mets were one of the teams represented, and hopefully some teams will be concerned with his appeared lack of velocity (which really isn't a concern, it's the middle of January and he will continue to get stronger), which will allow the mets to come away with a top 2 starter, but obviously he is a higher injury risk.

get 'er done Omar.

Jeff Francoeur

Frenchy fans cry out, he did not get the multi-year deal that was rumored (THANK GOODNESS), instead signed a 1 year 5 million dollar deal. So once he shows that he isn't any good once again, we can let him walk. If by something close to a miracle, he proves worthy of being a major league baseball player, then we finally get a good value.

Poor Omar

Also wanted to touch on the report on Baseball Prospectus that this Beltran situation may have been the last straw on Omar's tenure and that the Mets are one losing streak away from Omar being fired.

And when I was asked if I was happy with the report, and I responded  "well I won't lose any sleep on it." But no, I don't want Omar to be fired in the middle of the year. If you are going to fire him, fire him now. The general manager does not have an impact on a in-season losing streak. If you've lost confidence in him, fire him now, don't wait.

Ben Sheets

Mets are going to be watching Ben Sheets audition today in Louisiana.

Looking forward to hearing the scouting reports and if the Mets possibly have the money to get this done.

Poll Results

So for catcher, 60% of those voted for either 1) Omir Santos, or 2) Anyone but Bengie. FYI, 20% voted for Bengie Molina

In regards to the pitching situation, it was closer than I thought, with 50% wanting Ben Sheets, but my biggest surprise was 40% wanted Garland. I thought people would've rather had Pineiro instead of Garland.

The perception of the Mets

So as we get further away from the originiating "tweets" of impending doom, to the official press release, to the initial reaction that the Mets didn't know he was having the surgery, the Mets once again look like they are a lost puppy without a united system of communication.

The facts are now that Carlos Beltran and/or Scott Boras, spoke with Jeff Wilpon and Ray Rameriz (Mets head ATC), as well as Dr. David Altchek on Tuesday. I understand the Mets point of view that although Dr. Altchek is the team physician, he is not a part of the Mets organization and should not be the only person of contact, but as its being reported now, that was not the case, as Jeff Wilpon (COO) and the head ATC were both contacted. If they did not communicate with Omar then it's another sign of disorganization, not Carlos' problem.

So then it gets out that the Mets aren't happy with the situation and the media takes off with it and runs to the hills. The Mets have no sense or ability of damage control. Even if they wanted to have Beltran get a 3rd opinion, they could've crafted that in a lot more positive light.

Even a positive of having John Ricco doing the press conference, who is a more polished public speaker than Minaya, gets negative press because the Mets say Omar and Jeff Wilpon are unavailable because they are driving. Do they not have cell phones? Verizon is a sponser, why don't they donate them cell phones? Just announce John Ricco will be handling the press conferences this year. Simple. Don't make excuses, Mets.

We can handle losing Carlos Beltran the player for April and possibly May, but I hope we don't lose his personality/desire for the rest of the year over how the Mets handled this situation.

Beltran fall out

And the same b.s. from the Mets continues.

Last year was obviously a medical disaster, and I'm not going to blame the athletic training staff, or the team MDs for the myriad of injuries. I chalk it up to bad luck. We can't dismiss that this happened however.

Now, instead of going to "The Best Doctors in the City and the World" (and I believe it, but saying it in quotations because people will/do joke about it), the Mets players are going to other specialists.

If the Mets players (starting with Beltran and we have to see if anyone else goes outside to get other opinions), do not have confidence in the team physicians, then the Mets need to make a change.


Let's see if the 2 pm conference call (done by John Ricci, not Omar thank goodness), sheds any additional light on this situation.


Also, I seem to remember someone clammering to give Beltran "whatever contract extension he wants, because he deserves it." Anyone willing to still do that now?

Carlos Beltran

It's being reported Carlos Beltran had knee surgery today. More details as it becomes available tonight/tomorrow..

Here is the official Mets release:
“Carlos Beltran had worsening of osteoarthritis of the right knee during the offseason.  He had not been experiencing pain following the conclusion of the season and into his early offseason conditioning. The symptoms returned to the point where pre-spring training conditioning became too painful.  He elected to undergo arthroscopic clean out of the arthritic area of his knee by Beltran”s personal physician Dr. Richard Steadman today in Colorado.  He is anticipated to return to baseball activities in 12 weeks.




5 weeks until pitchers and catchers report, yet it seems like it's getting off to the same way last year started.

no good (just a little understated I know)

Polls

I set up 2 posts on the right side of the page to gather your opinions on what should the Mets and Omar do in regards to our pitching staff and his perceived weakness at catcher.

Polls will be open for 2 days.

Joel Piniero

Word on the street is the Mets think they can get Piniero for 2 years, 15 million dollars, which is a pretty low risk move. I'd still rather have Ben Sheets, but if Ben thinks he can get a 1 year deal for 12 million, and a player option for the 2nd year, let someone else give it to him, and wish them luck.

My 1st preference is still sign Sheets to a 1-2 year deal for 7-10 million/per year, but if that isn't possible, then Piniero for 2/15 is a decent fall back. It won't vault the Mets into a debate with the Phillies for best team in the division, but the Mets would be a respectable team, capable of winning 86-89 games. I think Sheets would put them into the 88-91 win territory.

Mark McGwire

yawn

and in other news, the sun rose in the east today

In Honor of Shea Stadium

In order to properly honor Shea Stadium, to whom this blog is dedicated, I will list my 9 most memorable games at the well-storied stadium. Feel free to post your favorite moments in the comments section.

9) April 3, 2006 Home Opener. Mets open up versus the Washington Nationals, Tom Glavine pitches a swift 6 innings and leaves leading 3-1. Heilman throws 2 innings, lets up 5 hits, and only 1 run. But the big memory is Billy Wagner making his Mets debut, and on the ride home to CT, we some how cross 3 bridges (thanks GPS; it was set to avoid tolls, that didn't work), and got to listen to Mike and the Mad Dog talk about Wagner's entrance song "Enter Sandman". "Mike, he can't play that song, he just can't do it. not in this town Mike, he can't do it. thats Mariano's song. Not in this town." Oh how I never thought I'd miss those 2 working together. That was the 8th opening day in a row I had attended, a streak that ended last year. Went to the game with Mike Medina

8) 2007 Home Opener, April 10, Mets vs Phillies. After Jimmy Rollins opened his big mouth the prior off-season and said the Phillies were the team to beat (although they hadn't won a darn thing at that point), this turned into the rivalry it is today. Mets scored 7 runs in the 8th inning, highlighted by a J-Roll error, and he was then serenaded for 8 straight batters with "Jimmy Rollins, Jimmy Rollins, Jimmy Rollins". David Wright broke the game open with a bases clearing double during the 8th. Mets win 11-5. Went to the game with Rory

7) April 17, 2006, Pedro wins his 200th career game. Pedro was the 2nd pitcher in the history of the Mets to accomplish the feat as a member of the Mets (Orel Hershiser was the 1st). Delgado hit a HR (off of Jorge Sosa), and Pedro pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowed 3 runs, but Duaner Sanchez and B Wagner came in to close out the game. Mets win 4-3. Pedro comes out of the dugout and gets a standing ovation from those remaining in the crowd. Went with my brother, Stonaha, and Leandra.

6)September 22, 2001. 2nd game in New York after 9/11. Had goosebumps head to toes entering the stadium, with the star spangled banner and God Bless America. Mets won 7-3, but the game didn't mean much. Have never seen/felt the country as united as it was on that day. Mets moved to 3 1/2 games back after this win, but never got closer than that. Steve Traschel got the win and Benitez the save. Went with Amy.

5) Saturday June 15, 2002. Mets vs Yankees, but this was the 1st time Roger Clemens would pitch/hit at Shea Stadium after the Piazza fiasco. It was one of the most highly anticipated pitches and Estes threw it behind Clemens; he sent a message (even tho he wasn't on the team in 2000), and both benches were warned. Clemens got roughed up on the mound, as both Estes and Piazza took him deep, and Mets win 8-0. Went with Katie, Tim and Jess.

4) May 29, 2007. First opportunity to see the phenomn Tim Lincecum. He was unhittable for the 1st time through the line up, striking out Beltran on 99 mph fastball. I truly thought the Mets were going to get no hit. Delgado hit 2 bombs (1st hit was in 4th inning), including walk off HR in the 12th inning. Benitez was booed as he trotted in from the bullpen, yet I stood up and cheered, realizing he was going to allow us to win the game. Benitez balked in Reyes (who ran home with his hands waving in the air like a small little leaguer), the 2nd balk of the inning. Willie still hadn’t learned Shoenweis can’t get righties out and almost lost the game in the 10th. Bonds pinch hit in top of the 10th, and he got booed so viciously I was scared for his life. He walked on 5 pitches. Went with Scat and Rory.

3) Mets vs Phillies June 7, 2007. Mets were down 2-0 going into the bottom of the 6th, and Cole Hamels was dominating the Mets. With 2 outs in the 6th, C Delgado breaks through with a HR, followed by a controversial HR by D Wright, and then Pauly Lo Duca completes the BACK-BACK-BACK HRs, (1st time since D Strawberry, K McReynolds and K Hernandez did it also vs the Phillies), led to one of my favorite text messages "PROTEST THAT" (Charlie Manuel was tossed on the D Wright HR call and played the game under protest). All this was for naught, as we lost 6-3 in extra innings (Pat the Bat owned B Wagner and hit a HR to lead off the 9th inning, amd then Schoenweis lets up 3 er in the 10th). Went with Medina.


Although the final 2 memories have negative feelings associated with it, they are and always will be fresh in my memory.

2) Game 5, 2000 World Series, October 26, 2000. Bernie Williams hit a HR in the 2nd inning for the first hit of his World Series (off Al Leiter), and the Mets responded with 2 unearned runs in the 2nd to take the lead. Mets held the lead until the 6th when Jeter took Leiter deep. Remained tied until the 9th inning with 2 outs, Posada walks, Brosius singles, and Luis Sojo singles to center, both runs score as the ball his Posada as he slid home and the ball went into the dugout. Mets have a chance to tie the game in the bottom of the 9th after Benny Agbayani walks, and I'm still convinced Mike Piazza got all of the ball to send the game to extra innings, but it was too high or something, and the ball easily falls into Bernie Williams glove. Will never forget having to watch the Yankees celebrate on our field. bad day to be a Mets fan. Went with my sister.

1) Sunday Sept 28, 2008. Last game ever at Shea. Went with my brother, and met up with Scat, his dad, and Medina and his brother before the game. Brutal loss. The Mets entered the game tied for the wild card with Milw. and had a 50 min rain delay to start the game, so the game started at the same time as Milw and Cubs. Cubs jumped out to an early 1-0 lead and the place was as loud as if the mets scored. It was scoreless until the 6th, when Ollie Perez let up 2 runs and left with the bases loaded. Beltran hits the biggest HR in his Mets career and ties the game at 2. In the 8th inning of the Brewers game (scoreboard watching), Braun drives in 2 runs and makes it 3-1. Mets crowd goes silent, knowing the mets need to win to force 1 game playoff. Jerry Manuel gets outmanaged by bringing in Schoenweis to start an inning, which allows Wes Helms to pinch hit for Mike Jacobs and Helms greets him with a HR. Manuel comes out, makes a double switch, and Schoenweis gets booed out of the stadium (Schoenweis was crying and needed to be consoled after the game). Luis Ayala then comes in and promptly lets up another HR, this one to Uggla. Church had a chance to tie the game in the 9th, but fell about 30 feet short of the fence. Loss 4-2. Post game ceremony was very nice, with the marlins celebrating on the field and fans yelling “off the field! Off the field” Very emotional and they did a nice job, although Seaver bounced the last pitch in shea to Piazza. Good bye Shea, you will always be home.


Hope you guys have as good of memories as I have of that stadium. Feel free to post your favorites that you went to.

Slow winter times

I know I have been slacking a bit, but I will have a big post/discussion tomorrow.

But I do want to announce that I will be reporting live from Port St. Lucie as pitchers and catchers report February 18th.

Enjoy the 20 degree weather, and know 38 days until spring training begins.