Oh Happy Day! Coming into this season, little was expected of the Jets. Chad was coming off his second shoulder suregery, Curtis was not playing, 2 rookies were anchoring the Offensive Line, John Abraham had been traded, and the coach was a novice. Little notice was paid as they started to win games, since they defeated teams with losing records. The kept it close against the Colts, nearly came back against the Patriots, then got shelled by the Jaguars, then were robbed against the Browns. Yesterday, coming off the bye week, all anyone was talking about was how the Patriots had not lost 2 in a row in 57 games, and Tom Brady was going to come out firing. And of course, the greatest coach who ever lived, Bill Belichicken, was going to take "the other guy" to the woodshed.
So what happened? Instead of being Belichickens bitch, Mangini decided "Screw the other guy" and let loose the defense. Blitzes everywhere. Brady running for cover all game long. They even sorta stopped the run. The Pats did little on third down, though they did well on 4th. Brady threw a pick, and had a second called back on a BS roughing the passer call. The defense took Belichickens little verbal shots at Mangini ("aka "The other guy") a little personally, and made the Patriots pay.
On the offensive side of the ball, Chad wasn't perfect (that INT was brutal), but he did enough to win. Kevin (call me KB) Barlow showed up for the first time, with 75 hard fought yards. Jerricho Cotchery made a fantastic TD grab for the Jets final score. The Offensive Line kept Chad in one piece, allowing only 1 sack all day.
Special teams were huge, as the Jets did not allow any big returns, and Justin Miller (who I killed last year for being fumble prone) continued his surge, with a long return of 62 yards. All in all, a nice win for the Jets. To quote the Patriots Richard Seymour, the Patriots were "Outplayed AND outcoached."
The look on Mangini's face when he came into the press room after the game was priceless. Here was a guy who had gotten disrespected by Belichicken all season long, and Eric won. His guys played their hearts out for him. Belichicken seemed to channel Herm Edwards on the Jets last drive, using all 3 time outs prior to the 2 minute warning. You think maybe he wished he had one of those back.
I just don't get Belichicken here. He raves about Saban, Weiss and other former coaches, but he pisses on Mangini? What, Eric didn't listen to him, so now he isn't going to talk to him or give him any respect. Belichicken comes up small here. I know, they are opponents, but if he can say nice things about other former protoge's he should be able to say womething nice here.
Next up for the Jets, the Bears, who demolished the (not so)Giants last night. Wow, a 108 yard return of a missed field goal? With a bunch of Giants running off the field at the time? Methinks Tommy Taskmaster is going to be a might pissed about that one. Eli had 121 yards passing and 2 INT's. Think about that, 121 yards, when half of the Bears defensive backs were out or hurt. This against the same corners who Plaxico Burress said could be beaten. Memo to Plax, shut up, OK? The Giants on the other hand gave up 246 passing yards to Rex Grossman, who had been awful in 2 of his last 3 starts, with numerous turnovers.
I know the Bears are the Beasts of the NFC, but I kinda like the Jets chances. If they can confuse the Great Tom Brady, they should be able to do the same to Grossman.
In Mets news, 'Stache is back! One year deal for $3 milion. This is a nice $2 million raise over last season. It still does not guarantee that he will be the starter, but it does guarantee that the best pron stache in baseball stays in NY for another year.
Now about that pitching staff Omar...
Monday, November 13, 2006
Friday, November 10, 2006
Mosh Pit of News
A lot of sports news going on the past few days, not too much present day Met related, but interesting nonetheless.
First, Dco Gooden was released from Jail yesterday. Here's hoping that Doc can stay clean this time. So much talent wasted. I wish young kids would look at him and see what not to do.
Rutgers pulled it out last night against Louisville. It looked bad early for the Scarlet Knights, but then the defense held, forcing the Cardinals into 6 straight punts at one point, and came back to win on a last 13 seconds field goal. Nice win for them. They will not get a shot at the title, but it is nice to have a local college football team to root for.
Prior to the Rutgers game, His Pompousness and the Hyena were on location. All the hyena kept saying was that it was OK for Rutgers to lose, so long as it was not a blowout. During an interview with the AD for Rutgers, they spoke about how the school had to cut 6 sports. Hyena of course asked why tennis was cut, saying it could not cost that much to run the team. The AD responded that Title IX requires a near 50/50 split in mens and womens programs, so they had to cut a few teams. More mens teams were cut. Also, he noted that the school had 30 teams, with a $30 million budget, whereas a couple of other schools that had 30 teams, had budgets 2 to 3 times the size. Hyena of course missed all the Title IX stuff, and focused on the cost of tenis again. This guy really needs to learn a bit more.
Later, they had Chris Carlin, who used to work with them and now does Rutgers games on radio on. His Pompousness kept egging Carlin on, saying he should let the two of them have it for bashing Rutgers for all those years. Carlin to his credit did not, and told them the he knew if he did, and Ritgers lost, they would belittle him for it. Good for him standing his ground and letting those two fools know why.
Jose Reyes hit a game winning Home Run the other night, allowing the MLB team to sweep the 5 game series in Japan. Jose did not have a great series, but the GW HR brought out chants of Jose Jose Jose in the stadium. Wow, even in Japan they like this guy. No truth to the rumor that Braden Looper led the chant.
Gary Sheffield is still mouthing off, claiming that "middlemen" are keeping him from speaking to the Boss, while also saying that if The Boss was healthy, he would not be getting traded. He also bashed Bobby Abreu as not as good a ballplayer as Sheff. Well, that last part might be true. Sheff at least (usually) tries to catch balls at the wall, unlike Abreu.
The baseball world awaits the winner of the D-Mat sweepstakes. I wonder if the Boss was too sick to make sure that the Yanks bid? The winning bid get the luck of negotiating a contract with Scott Boras. Have fun guys.
J.D. Drew opted out of the last 3 years of his contract with the Didgers, foregoing $11 m per year. Let me get this straight, a guy who has never been healthy for a full season wants more than $11 m? Who is this guys agent? Oh, Scott Boras, that explains it. Stay away from this one Omar, mmkay?
The Isles won last night, 3-1, one day after goalie Rick DiPietro mixed it up with Isles tough guy Aaron Asham in practice. Newsday said Rick showed a little Billy Smith. Heck, at this point, I'd settle for a little Tommy Salo.
I leave you with this non sports related note from England:
A 22-year-old man suffered internal injuries after lighting a small firecracker he had inserted into his buttocks, paramedics said Thursday. He suffered burns and other unspecified internal injuries. Several of his friends recorded the event on their cell phone cameras.
With friends like those, who needs enemas.
First, Dco Gooden was released from Jail yesterday. Here's hoping that Doc can stay clean this time. So much talent wasted. I wish young kids would look at him and see what not to do.
Rutgers pulled it out last night against Louisville. It looked bad early for the Scarlet Knights, but then the defense held, forcing the Cardinals into 6 straight punts at one point, and came back to win on a last 13 seconds field goal. Nice win for them. They will not get a shot at the title, but it is nice to have a local college football team to root for.
Prior to the Rutgers game, His Pompousness and the Hyena were on location. All the hyena kept saying was that it was OK for Rutgers to lose, so long as it was not a blowout. During an interview with the AD for Rutgers, they spoke about how the school had to cut 6 sports. Hyena of course asked why tennis was cut, saying it could not cost that much to run the team. The AD responded that Title IX requires a near 50/50 split in mens and womens programs, so they had to cut a few teams. More mens teams were cut. Also, he noted that the school had 30 teams, with a $30 million budget, whereas a couple of other schools that had 30 teams, had budgets 2 to 3 times the size. Hyena of course missed all the Title IX stuff, and focused on the cost of tenis again. This guy really needs to learn a bit more.
Later, they had Chris Carlin, who used to work with them and now does Rutgers games on radio on. His Pompousness kept egging Carlin on, saying he should let the two of them have it for bashing Rutgers for all those years. Carlin to his credit did not, and told them the he knew if he did, and Ritgers lost, they would belittle him for it. Good for him standing his ground and letting those two fools know why.
Jose Reyes hit a game winning Home Run the other night, allowing the MLB team to sweep the 5 game series in Japan. Jose did not have a great series, but the GW HR brought out chants of Jose Jose Jose in the stadium. Wow, even in Japan they like this guy. No truth to the rumor that Braden Looper led the chant.
Gary Sheffield is still mouthing off, claiming that "middlemen" are keeping him from speaking to the Boss, while also saying that if The Boss was healthy, he would not be getting traded. He also bashed Bobby Abreu as not as good a ballplayer as Sheff. Well, that last part might be true. Sheff at least (usually) tries to catch balls at the wall, unlike Abreu.
The baseball world awaits the winner of the D-Mat sweepstakes. I wonder if the Boss was too sick to make sure that the Yanks bid? The winning bid get the luck of negotiating a contract with Scott Boras. Have fun guys.
J.D. Drew opted out of the last 3 years of his contract with the Didgers, foregoing $11 m per year. Let me get this straight, a guy who has never been healthy for a full season wants more than $11 m? Who is this guys agent? Oh, Scott Boras, that explains it. Stay away from this one Omar, mmkay?
The Isles won last night, 3-1, one day after goalie Rick DiPietro mixed it up with Isles tough guy Aaron Asham in practice. Newsday said Rick showed a little Billy Smith. Heck, at this point, I'd settle for a little Tommy Salo.
I leave you with this non sports related note from England:
A 22-year-old man suffered internal injuries after lighting a small firecracker he had inserted into his buttocks, paramedics said Thursday. He suffered burns and other unspecified internal injuries. Several of his friends recorded the event on their cell phone cameras.
With friends like those, who needs enemas.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
More Observations
1. Big news, Britney Spears has filed for divorce from her husband, citing irreconcilable differences. The difference was in their feelings towards each other. It seems K-Fed thought he was a good rapper, while Britney felt he was a no-talent hack.
2. In politics, the Democrats won control of the House. You could tell this was the case by the audible "Hoo Yah" from Howard Dean.
3. The Senate is still up for grabs. It looks like this will end up in the courts. In other words, expect the Republicans to stay in control.
4. Today is the deadline to bid on D-Mat. In other words, today is the day the Yanks get to negotiate with him.
5. The Red Sox have declined the option on closer Keith Foulke, who was key to their winning the WS in 2004. Way to keep that winning team together there Theo. How long till you lose Big Papi?
6. More on K-Fed. Seems he had to beg to not have a concert at Webster Hall cancelled due to lackluster ticket sales. Then, he waited 3 hours to go on stage, hoping more than 200 people out of 1,500 would show up. Mercifully, he "rapped" for only 1/2 hour. Of course, by that time, the audience was so drunk they didn't even have the ability to boo him off the stage.
7. The Knicks have gotten off to a 1-3 start. Like last season, the coach is benching starters, and using weird substitutions. Perhaps Larry Brown has used the old Jedi Mind trick on Zeke?
8 Hey Falcons fans, how's John Abraham doing for you? What's that, he's injured? Wow, that never happened in NY.
9. The Raiders were shut out on Monday. The joke is the Raiders themselves.
10. Jets Patriots this weekend is the second meeting of Bill Belichicken and Eric Boygini. If the Jets should somehow win, Belichicken will give Boygini the silent treatment. Oh, wait, he's already doing that.
11. Belichicken's son was busted for pot possession. No word on whether Bill is making his son run extra laps as punishment.
12. Actor Neil Patrick Harris announced he was gay. This comes after Lance Bass and an actor from Grey's Anatomy announced the same. I knew celebrity deaths came in 3's, but not career suicide.
13. Kirstie Alley appeared on Oprhah in a bikini. Thankfully, the special material prevented a wardrobe malfunction.
14. This just in, Pedro Martinez still may retire at some point in the future.
15. George Steinbrenner fainted at a performance of Caberet in which a relative was performing. Apparently, George was disappointed the show did not last longer than his Crack Broadway Advisors told him it would.
That's all for now.
2. In politics, the Democrats won control of the House. You could tell this was the case by the audible "Hoo Yah" from Howard Dean.
3. The Senate is still up for grabs. It looks like this will end up in the courts. In other words, expect the Republicans to stay in control.
4. Today is the deadline to bid on D-Mat. In other words, today is the day the Yanks get to negotiate with him.
5. The Red Sox have declined the option on closer Keith Foulke, who was key to their winning the WS in 2004. Way to keep that winning team together there Theo. How long till you lose Big Papi?
6. More on K-Fed. Seems he had to beg to not have a concert at Webster Hall cancelled due to lackluster ticket sales. Then, he waited 3 hours to go on stage, hoping more than 200 people out of 1,500 would show up. Mercifully, he "rapped" for only 1/2 hour. Of course, by that time, the audience was so drunk they didn't even have the ability to boo him off the stage.
7. The Knicks have gotten off to a 1-3 start. Like last season, the coach is benching starters, and using weird substitutions. Perhaps Larry Brown has used the old Jedi Mind trick on Zeke?
8 Hey Falcons fans, how's John Abraham doing for you? What's that, he's injured? Wow, that never happened in NY.
9. The Raiders were shut out on Monday. The joke is the Raiders themselves.
10. Jets Patriots this weekend is the second meeting of Bill Belichicken and Eric Boygini. If the Jets should somehow win, Belichicken will give Boygini the silent treatment. Oh, wait, he's already doing that.
11. Belichicken's son was busted for pot possession. No word on whether Bill is making his son run extra laps as punishment.
12. Actor Neil Patrick Harris announced he was gay. This comes after Lance Bass and an actor from Grey's Anatomy announced the same. I knew celebrity deaths came in 3's, but not career suicide.
13. Kirstie Alley appeared on Oprhah in a bikini. Thankfully, the special material prevented a wardrobe malfunction.
14. This just in, Pedro Martinez still may retire at some point in the future.
15. George Steinbrenner fainted at a performance of Caberet in which a relative was performing. Apparently, George was disappointed the show did not last longer than his Crack Broadway Advisors told him it would.
That's all for now.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
I hate this time of Year
Why, because there is not much going on. The Hot Stove is barely starting to warm up (though, we did get good Mets news today, as Carlos Delgado is NOT going to exercise his right and demand a trade.) Football is in the middle of the season, and, well, let's just say the Jets aren't that good. Hockey is still early, and as for basketball, well, I don't particularly care for that sport.
Why do I not like basketball? I mean, you would think the Blue & Orange of the Kicks would make for a natural fit right? Is it the fact that the Knicks stink? No. Is it the slow pace of the games in recent years? Nope. Is it because I am not exactly tall and skilled enough to have played the sport? Ding ding ding. We have a winner. Now, I'm not going to pretend that I was a skilled baseball player (I was good with the glove, not so much with the bat, think slappy), and my football consisted mostly of flag football and tackle with friends in high school, as for hockey, well, I don't skate real well, but I played quite a bit of deck hockey, and was kinda good.
You see, my feeling is that you get interested in the sports you not only watched, but the ones you played. We did not watch much basketball, outside of some college hoops, but we watched an awful lot of football, baseball and hockey growing up. I've tried to get into basketball, really, but it holds no interest for me. Perhpas if I had gone to a college with a D-1 program my feeling woudl be different, but Albany was D-3 at the time I was there, and only moved to D-1 a couple of years ago. Besides, how can you root for a team called "The Great Danes"?
So where was I. Oh, yes, why I hate this time of year. Free Agency starts in earnest on Sunday, the first day teams are able to sign players. Of course, with the GM meetings next week, and the arbitration deadline shortly thereafter, the only guys who are going to sign right out of the gate are on the par with Lima Time!. Until then, all we get are stories about what agents are claiming their players are interested in playing for the Mets, the better to juice up their contracts. Or the latest speculation on D-Mat, or stories on Pedro saying he might take a dump today if the feeling moves him. Basically, crap. By the way, all those calling for Mark Mulder to sign with the Mets, he is out as long as Pedro, so he is not an answer for 2007. There was an interesting story in a Detroit paper that stated the Tigers may trade Bonderman for some offense. Not sure if the Mets can pull it off, but it would be nice. But it's stories like these that make for slow news. Though I must congratulate Carlos Beltran on his Gold Glove Award, and Carlos Delgado on his Roberto Clemente Award. Good for both of them.
As for football, the Jets have the Patriots this Sunday, in Foxboro. Yeah, this is gonna be good. The Pats get slammed on Sunday Night, and now they get the Jets. It is games like this that have Curtis Martin thanking his knees for not healing well. It is not going to be pretty. Much like the entire season. I just hope they can get a good running back with their top 10 pick this year.
The Giants get to play the Bears. Half of the Giants D-Line is hurt, but that should not matter, as Rex Grossman appears to be the second coming of Browning Nagle. Tiki is happy Urlacher is out. Oh, and can we stop with the adoration of Brandon Jacobs people? Let's see him get a little consistency before we annoint him as the next Tiki, OK? He did not look that impressive this past week. As for Eli, let's just say he ain't Peyton yet.
Now, my Islanders. The happiness that was spreading amongst the 15 or so fans appears to be cooling. After dismantling the Devils (the only team Ricky D seems to own), they laid two clunkers in a row. First, Atlanta, where Rick played awful in a 4-1 loss. He needs to stop roaming so much. Let his defense clear the puck. Last night, Mike Dunham played (as a lot of pundits, OK, only Stan Fischler were saying) and he stunk as well, in a 5-1 loss to the Lightning. Next up, Philly on Thursday, in Philly, followed by stops in Dallas, Tampa, Florida and Toronto. Not an easy stretch. Ted needs to get a second line scoring, or else teams are going to be able to key on Yashin. It is early, so I'm not going to get too upset, but then again, points won now count as much as those won later, so giving them up now hurts.
Why do I not like basketball? I mean, you would think the Blue & Orange of the Kicks would make for a natural fit right? Is it the fact that the Knicks stink? No. Is it the slow pace of the games in recent years? Nope. Is it because I am not exactly tall and skilled enough to have played the sport? Ding ding ding. We have a winner. Now, I'm not going to pretend that I was a skilled baseball player (I was good with the glove, not so much with the bat, think slappy), and my football consisted mostly of flag football and tackle with friends in high school, as for hockey, well, I don't skate real well, but I played quite a bit of deck hockey, and was kinda good.
You see, my feeling is that you get interested in the sports you not only watched, but the ones you played. We did not watch much basketball, outside of some college hoops, but we watched an awful lot of football, baseball and hockey growing up. I've tried to get into basketball, really, but it holds no interest for me. Perhpas if I had gone to a college with a D-1 program my feeling woudl be different, but Albany was D-3 at the time I was there, and only moved to D-1 a couple of years ago. Besides, how can you root for a team called "The Great Danes"?
So where was I. Oh, yes, why I hate this time of year. Free Agency starts in earnest on Sunday, the first day teams are able to sign players. Of course, with the GM meetings next week, and the arbitration deadline shortly thereafter, the only guys who are going to sign right out of the gate are on the par with Lima Time!. Until then, all we get are stories about what agents are claiming their players are interested in playing for the Mets, the better to juice up their contracts. Or the latest speculation on D-Mat, or stories on Pedro saying he might take a dump today if the feeling moves him. Basically, crap. By the way, all those calling for Mark Mulder to sign with the Mets, he is out as long as Pedro, so he is not an answer for 2007. There was an interesting story in a Detroit paper that stated the Tigers may trade Bonderman for some offense. Not sure if the Mets can pull it off, but it would be nice. But it's stories like these that make for slow news. Though I must congratulate Carlos Beltran on his Gold Glove Award, and Carlos Delgado on his Roberto Clemente Award. Good for both of them.
As for football, the Jets have the Patriots this Sunday, in Foxboro. Yeah, this is gonna be good. The Pats get slammed on Sunday Night, and now they get the Jets. It is games like this that have Curtis Martin thanking his knees for not healing well. It is not going to be pretty. Much like the entire season. I just hope they can get a good running back with their top 10 pick this year.
The Giants get to play the Bears. Half of the Giants D-Line is hurt, but that should not matter, as Rex Grossman appears to be the second coming of Browning Nagle. Tiki is happy Urlacher is out. Oh, and can we stop with the adoration of Brandon Jacobs people? Let's see him get a little consistency before we annoint him as the next Tiki, OK? He did not look that impressive this past week. As for Eli, let's just say he ain't Peyton yet.
Now, my Islanders. The happiness that was spreading amongst the 15 or so fans appears to be cooling. After dismantling the Devils (the only team Ricky D seems to own), they laid two clunkers in a row. First, Atlanta, where Rick played awful in a 4-1 loss. He needs to stop roaming so much. Let his defense clear the puck. Last night, Mike Dunham played (as a lot of pundits, OK, only Stan Fischler were saying) and he stunk as well, in a 5-1 loss to the Lightning. Next up, Philly on Thursday, in Philly, followed by stops in Dallas, Tampa, Florida and Toronto. Not an easy stretch. Ted needs to get a second line scoring, or else teams are going to be able to key on Yashin. It is early, so I'm not going to get too upset, but then again, points won now count as much as those won later, so giving them up now hurts.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Observations
Before I post my observations from the past few days of sport, I want to welcome "Hall of Famer Joe Morgan" to blogdom. Check out Joe at Blogging Ain't Easy.
Now, the observations:
1. Well, Ben Rothleisberger's honeymoon is over kinda quick eh?
2. You know, I really hope the Colts go undefeated, so those idiots from the 72 Dolphins can find something productive to do with their lives, as opposed to being bitter old men who try to put the "whammy" on teams challenging their record.
3. Eli Manning cannot throw an out pattern for his life. I watched about 40 minutes of the Giant game yesterday, and he had 3 balls he threw to receivers on the sideline that were behind them by 5 yards.
4. Ted Nolan needs to put a tether on Rick DiPietro. The guy needs to stop trying to play the puck.
5. First "Torre to be Fired" now, "Glavine close to 2 year $25 million deal". Safe to say I am not counting on the Daily News for any scoops for quite a while.
6. The San Francisco Giants want better behavior out of Barry Bonds. They apparently want Barry to "share" with teammates a little more.
7. The Yankees picked up Gary Sheffield's option. This is the only "scoop" the News has had right in about 2 months.
8. Oh, like I'm supposed to be shocked that Pedro would retire if his arm does not respond to the surgery?
9. At least the Jets did not lose this weekend.
10. The Chiefs are 5-3. Herm Edwards has them the same place he usually had the Jets, barely breathing.
11. T.O. used the football as a pillow after scoring a 4 yd touchdown yesterday. This was followed by a nightmare later when he dropped a sure 72 yd TD pass. Apparently, he was asleep at the catch.
12. Wally Matthews says Omar should target Alfonso Soriano. Omar of course realizes that the best thing for him to do is the opposite of whatever Wally writes.
13. Sammy Sosa is looking to comeback this season. Omar - please make sure your caller ID is working so you can avoid his calls. Thanks.
14. David Wright has found his HR stroke, in Japan. Hopefully he can use some of his new contract money to pay the import tarriffs to bring it back home.
15. David also noted that he ordered in a pizza the other night. When asked why he had not tried sushi, David responded - "The only sushi place was a cab ride away from my hotel, and I'm not allowed to take cabs under my new contract."
Now, the observations:
1. Well, Ben Rothleisberger's honeymoon is over kinda quick eh?
2. You know, I really hope the Colts go undefeated, so those idiots from the 72 Dolphins can find something productive to do with their lives, as opposed to being bitter old men who try to put the "whammy" on teams challenging their record.
3. Eli Manning cannot throw an out pattern for his life. I watched about 40 minutes of the Giant game yesterday, and he had 3 balls he threw to receivers on the sideline that were behind them by 5 yards.
4. Ted Nolan needs to put a tether on Rick DiPietro. The guy needs to stop trying to play the puck.
5. First "Torre to be Fired" now, "Glavine close to 2 year $25 million deal". Safe to say I am not counting on the Daily News for any scoops for quite a while.
6. The San Francisco Giants want better behavior out of Barry Bonds. They apparently want Barry to "share" with teammates a little more.
7. The Yankees picked up Gary Sheffield's option. This is the only "scoop" the News has had right in about 2 months.
8. Oh, like I'm supposed to be shocked that Pedro would retire if his arm does not respond to the surgery?
9. At least the Jets did not lose this weekend.
10. The Chiefs are 5-3. Herm Edwards has them the same place he usually had the Jets, barely breathing.
11. T.O. used the football as a pillow after scoring a 4 yd touchdown yesterday. This was followed by a nightmare later when he dropped a sure 72 yd TD pass. Apparently, he was asleep at the catch.
12. Wally Matthews says Omar should target Alfonso Soriano. Omar of course realizes that the best thing for him to do is the opposite of whatever Wally writes.
13. Sammy Sosa is looking to comeback this season. Omar - please make sure your caller ID is working so you can avoid his calls. Thanks.
14. David Wright has found his HR stroke, in Japan. Hopefully he can use some of his new contract money to pay the import tarriffs to bring it back home.
15. David also noted that he ordered in a pizza the other night. When asked why he had not tried sushi, David responded - "The only sushi place was a cab ride away from my hotel, and I'm not allowed to take cabs under my new contract."
Friday, November 03, 2006
Hot Stove Musings
Well, the hot stove is starting to heat up. Today, the Post mentions Mike Mussina would be interested in signing with the Mets. Wow, there's a shock, a Free Agent stating he would sign with the Mets. You think maybe he said this to get the Yanks to work a little more quickly?
Beyond that, we have D-Mat, (the "American Nickname" given to Daisuke Matsuzaka by agent Scott (money money money) Boras). Bidding started yesterday, and goes until the middle of next week. Then, the high bid is given to the Japanese league. Four days later, they can accept or decline the bid. If accepted, the winning team will be announced, and they have 30 days to negotiate. If that fails, he goes back to Japan. It will be interesting to see who bids and who wins.
Of course, the Mota issue is looming. Odds are, the Mets would have liked him back, thereby allowing them to deal Heilman. Now, they need to find a replacement for Mota. Oh, they could sign him, but he will mis 50 games once under contract, so someone would have to fill that role.
The thing that is concerning me about the media and fellow Mets fans is the trade proposals I am reading and hearing. Seems many deals are including the young pitchers, Pelfrey and Humber, with some mentioning Maine and Perez. Now, I would not be all that upset if Perez were traded, assuming good value comes back. It is the naming of Pelfrey and Humber as trade bait that concerns me.
Some of us seem to have forgotten about deals from the past. Lets put on the wayback glasses and look back to 2004. At that time, GM Jim Duquette traded a highly touted pitcher for another young arm. That trade has not worked out too well. And fans were, and remain quite pissed about it. So someone please explain to me why the Mets should now trade Pelfrey or Humber? Have we forgotten what happens when we trade young pitchers?
The ONLY way one of those two should be traded is for a #1 starter. No outfielders, no 2nd baseman, no relievers. Even then, I would not be pleased. You see, there is a bit of age in the rotation, next season and in 2008. We are going to need young guys to step in. Plus, they come cheap, allowing Omar to spend money elsewhere, like on a bat for 2nd or left (or even right, considering Green only has 1 year left). Omar should take care to not trade the young arms in the hope of a quick WS win next year. I would think that Mets fans, while they would enjoy 1 win, would enjoy multiple wins even more. Going to age heavy, and not having young guys able to step in, is a recipe for one and done. There is enough youth on the team where multiple wins are possible, so long as the recipe is followed. Take a look at the Braves, one of the reasons they did so well for so long was the ability to sprinkle in youth. Same goes for the Yankees of the 90's, they had good veterans, and brought in young guys to complement them. The Mets need to follow a similar formula. Build from within, and use trades and key FA signings to fill the gaps. But by all means, be careful what chips you choose to trade.
In a couple of weeks, the FA negotiating period will start. Then the fun begins.
Hey, look who's in first place (albiet a 3 way tie). Who woulda thunk it?
Beyond that, we have D-Mat, (the "American Nickname" given to Daisuke Matsuzaka by agent Scott (money money money) Boras). Bidding started yesterday, and goes until the middle of next week. Then, the high bid is given to the Japanese league. Four days later, they can accept or decline the bid. If accepted, the winning team will be announced, and they have 30 days to negotiate. If that fails, he goes back to Japan. It will be interesting to see who bids and who wins.
Of course, the Mota issue is looming. Odds are, the Mets would have liked him back, thereby allowing them to deal Heilman. Now, they need to find a replacement for Mota. Oh, they could sign him, but he will mis 50 games once under contract, so someone would have to fill that role.
The thing that is concerning me about the media and fellow Mets fans is the trade proposals I am reading and hearing. Seems many deals are including the young pitchers, Pelfrey and Humber, with some mentioning Maine and Perez. Now, I would not be all that upset if Perez were traded, assuming good value comes back. It is the naming of Pelfrey and Humber as trade bait that concerns me.
Some of us seem to have forgotten about deals from the past. Lets put on the wayback glasses and look back to 2004. At that time, GM Jim Duquette traded a highly touted pitcher for another young arm. That trade has not worked out too well. And fans were, and remain quite pissed about it. So someone please explain to me why the Mets should now trade Pelfrey or Humber? Have we forgotten what happens when we trade young pitchers?
The ONLY way one of those two should be traded is for a #1 starter. No outfielders, no 2nd baseman, no relievers. Even then, I would not be pleased. You see, there is a bit of age in the rotation, next season and in 2008. We are going to need young guys to step in. Plus, they come cheap, allowing Omar to spend money elsewhere, like on a bat for 2nd or left (or even right, considering Green only has 1 year left). Omar should take care to not trade the young arms in the hope of a quick WS win next year. I would think that Mets fans, while they would enjoy 1 win, would enjoy multiple wins even more. Going to age heavy, and not having young guys able to step in, is a recipe for one and done. There is enough youth on the team where multiple wins are possible, so long as the recipe is followed. Take a look at the Braves, one of the reasons they did so well for so long was the ability to sprinkle in youth. Same goes for the Yankees of the 90's, they had good veterans, and brought in young guys to complement them. The Mets need to follow a similar formula. Build from within, and use trades and key FA signings to fill the gaps. But by all means, be careful what chips you choose to trade.
In a couple of weeks, the FA negotiating period will start. Then the fun begins.
Hey, look who's in first place (albiet a 3 way tie). Who woulda thunk it?
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
This is NOT Good
Guillermo Mota has been suspended 50 games for violating MLB drug policy.
So, a guy who would have allowed for the trading of Aaron Heilman is out.
OK Omar, what's next?
So, a guy who would have allowed for the trading of Aaron Heilman is out.
OK Omar, what's next?
Turnaround on LI?
After opening the season with a 1-3 roadtrip out west, the Isles compelted a 7 game homestand last night. In that stretch, they took at least a point in all but 1 of the games (a 3-0 loss to the Sabres). The team has 12 points, and is 1 game above 500. Nice way to finish October.
So why the sudden change? This team, that all of the experts picked to finish last or near last in the conference is actually holding their own right now, tied for 6th in the conference. What is it that has caused such solid play after an awful opening.
Well, part of it could be tied to the opening trip being on the West Coast, basically playing the home opener for each of those teams. Home teams are usually pumped up by the big crowds at the opener, making it hard for a visitor to do well. Add to that the fact that Rick DiPietro played the first few games with a groin injury before sitting in favor of Mike Dunham, and you have a recipe for a poor start.
Dunham played real well once he stepped in, with the team capping the road trip with SO win versus the Ducks (who should be a Stanley Cup contender this season, so no easy points there.) He then won the home opener, lost in a SO and lost in OT. This allowed the team to get some points, and allowed Rick the time to heal. Since returning, DiPietro is 3-1, the only loss to Buffalo, when the team no-showed in front of him. Rick seems to be keeping within himself. The key for him is to not try to do too much. The defense in front of him is adequate, but they cannot compensate for his excursions out of the crease to play the puck. Stick to the blue space Rick, and you'll be fine.
On the offense, Alexei Yashin has been good. Real good. He leads the team with 13 pts, on 5 goals and 8 assists. He is playing hard, not taking any shifts off. This is the guy we had the first season, who has been missing since. I don't know if Nolan has found the switch, or if Wang told him to shape up of be bought out or what, but he is playing real well. Jason Blake is leading the team with 6 goals, but we cannot rely on him to be the scorer, Satan needs to pick it up, only 1 goal (though he does have 7 assists) as does Kozlov (3 goals, his 1 last night was the fist since the road trip). Mike Sillinger has been great, with 5 goals, picking up where he ended last season. He is turning out to be a nice signing. Good leader, and playing hard. This team has 7 guys who could score at least 20 goals, with three of them having the talent to top 30 at least.
The defense, as noted above, is adequate. Tom Poti has played well, to the surprise of everyone. Sean Hill on the other hand, cannot keep up with faster skaters. Once Chris Campoli is done with rehab in Bridgeport, he should be called up. Brendan Witt has done as advertised, taking a lot of penalties. He needs to be more of a legal physical presence in front of Rick. Zhitnick and Martinek have been steady, and Gervais has done fine for a rookie.
It is early fans, but there is a hint of a turnaround on the Isle. Keep watching. Hey, if they keep this up, maybe we can get some more fans in all those empty seats.
So why the sudden change? This team, that all of the experts picked to finish last or near last in the conference is actually holding their own right now, tied for 6th in the conference. What is it that has caused such solid play after an awful opening.
Well, part of it could be tied to the opening trip being on the West Coast, basically playing the home opener for each of those teams. Home teams are usually pumped up by the big crowds at the opener, making it hard for a visitor to do well. Add to that the fact that Rick DiPietro played the first few games with a groin injury before sitting in favor of Mike Dunham, and you have a recipe for a poor start.
Dunham played real well once he stepped in, with the team capping the road trip with SO win versus the Ducks (who should be a Stanley Cup contender this season, so no easy points there.) He then won the home opener, lost in a SO and lost in OT. This allowed the team to get some points, and allowed Rick the time to heal. Since returning, DiPietro is 3-1, the only loss to Buffalo, when the team no-showed in front of him. Rick seems to be keeping within himself. The key for him is to not try to do too much. The defense in front of him is adequate, but they cannot compensate for his excursions out of the crease to play the puck. Stick to the blue space Rick, and you'll be fine.
On the offense, Alexei Yashin has been good. Real good. He leads the team with 13 pts, on 5 goals and 8 assists. He is playing hard, not taking any shifts off. This is the guy we had the first season, who has been missing since. I don't know if Nolan has found the switch, or if Wang told him to shape up of be bought out or what, but he is playing real well. Jason Blake is leading the team with 6 goals, but we cannot rely on him to be the scorer, Satan needs to pick it up, only 1 goal (though he does have 7 assists) as does Kozlov (3 goals, his 1 last night was the fist since the road trip). Mike Sillinger has been great, with 5 goals, picking up where he ended last season. He is turning out to be a nice signing. Good leader, and playing hard. This team has 7 guys who could score at least 20 goals, with three of them having the talent to top 30 at least.
The defense, as noted above, is adequate. Tom Poti has played well, to the surprise of everyone. Sean Hill on the other hand, cannot keep up with faster skaters. Once Chris Campoli is done with rehab in Bridgeport, he should be called up. Brendan Witt has done as advertised, taking a lot of penalties. He needs to be more of a legal physical presence in front of Rick. Zhitnick and Martinek have been steady, and Gervais has done fine for a rookie.
It is early fans, but there is a hint of a turnaround on the Isle. Keep watching. Hey, if they keep this up, maybe we can get some more fans in all those empty seats.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Get Glasses Alice
The title today was/is a favorite saying of my dad. I recall hearing it countless times during Jet games growing up. When I saw the end of the game yesterday, no surprise that it was the first thing to pop into my head. For as long as I can remember, when a guy made a catch inbounds while in the air, and was forced out by an opposing player, it was a catch. I don't know what rulebook the ref's and field judges were looking at yesterday, or what play, but that was a catch, pure and simple.
The phrase actually fits for the Jets as a whole this season. Looking at a 4-3 team before yesterday, you would think they were pretty good. But donning the glasses would allow you to uncover the issues. While this team is better than last year (not really hard to do when you compare Chad to Brooks Bollinger and Vinny), it has a long way to go to be a contender. The defense has holes. They cannot stop the run, a problem for a few years now. They get soft at the end of close games (yesterday they actually toughened up at the end, but that was an anomoly.) They cannot pressure the QB. Problems all around.
On the other side of the ball, Leon Washington had a couple of good games, but was missing yesterday. Chad has not thrown for a lot of yards since week 2, and had an absolute stinker yesterday. For all that has been written about the no-huddle offense of Brian Schottenheimer, they still struggle to put points on the board. This bye week comes at a good time. They need to work on the defense, and give Chad a little rest. Perhaps he is a tad tired coming off the surgery.
But I'm not going to put the blame on the offense or defense of the officials for yesterday. I blame the Browns. Not for playing better, but for throwing the Jets past in their faces. For yesterday, they inducted former Browns linebacker and Jet coach Walt Michaels into the Cleveland Browns Legends. So of course, the Jets reverted to poor offense and defense. The aura of the past infused them, and they reverted. Now, I know Michaels was an assistant in SB III, and head coach when they returned to the AFC Title game in 1982. But if you remember, they lost to AJ Duhe that day, behind a poor offense. Shortly after, he resigned, and left us the present of Joe Walton. So I blame Walt Michaels for yesterday.
Also needing glasses is Murray Chass of the NY Times. Murray had a story on free agnecy yesterday, listing a few guys. Jermaine Dye was one. Now, Murray should realize that the White Sox have an option on Dye, and wouold be monumentally stupid to not exercise it on the heels of an MVP caliber season. Murray also said Torii Hunter is a free agent, despite the Twins having picked up his option a few weeks ago. Go to LensCrafters Murray. They are waiting.
The phrase actually fits for the Jets as a whole this season. Looking at a 4-3 team before yesterday, you would think they were pretty good. But donning the glasses would allow you to uncover the issues. While this team is better than last year (not really hard to do when you compare Chad to Brooks Bollinger and Vinny), it has a long way to go to be a contender. The defense has holes. They cannot stop the run, a problem for a few years now. They get soft at the end of close games (yesterday they actually toughened up at the end, but that was an anomoly.) They cannot pressure the QB. Problems all around.
On the other side of the ball, Leon Washington had a couple of good games, but was missing yesterday. Chad has not thrown for a lot of yards since week 2, and had an absolute stinker yesterday. For all that has been written about the no-huddle offense of Brian Schottenheimer, they still struggle to put points on the board. This bye week comes at a good time. They need to work on the defense, and give Chad a little rest. Perhaps he is a tad tired coming off the surgery.
But I'm not going to put the blame on the offense or defense of the officials for yesterday. I blame the Browns. Not for playing better, but for throwing the Jets past in their faces. For yesterday, they inducted former Browns linebacker and Jet coach Walt Michaels into the Cleveland Browns Legends. So of course, the Jets reverted to poor offense and defense. The aura of the past infused them, and they reverted. Now, I know Michaels was an assistant in SB III, and head coach when they returned to the AFC Title game in 1982. But if you remember, they lost to AJ Duhe that day, behind a poor offense. Shortly after, he resigned, and left us the present of Joe Walton. So I blame Walt Michaels for yesterday.
Also needing glasses is Murray Chass of the NY Times. Murray had a story on free agnecy yesterday, listing a few guys. Jermaine Dye was one. Now, Murray should realize that the White Sox have an option on Dye, and wouold be monumentally stupid to not exercise it on the heels of an MVP caliber season. Murray also said Torii Hunter is a free agent, despite the Twins having picked up his option a few weeks ago. Go to LensCrafters Murray. They are waiting.
Friday, October 27, 2006
(not so) Deep Thoughts 10/27/06
Well, any hopes the Islanders had of stopping the Sabres were put to bed early, as they lost 3-0. They played OK, but once again, penalties killed them, taking 7 in all. First goal was scored on a 5-3 power play for the Sabres. Rick DP did not play poorly, considering that goal and then the last one which deflected in off of Radek Martinek. However, when the other team scores 3 goals whilst you score none, you are not going to win very often.
I see Gary Sheffield is annoyed that the Yankees might pick up his option. This differs from earlier in the season when Gary was annoyed because they had not picked up his option. Gary flip-flops more than John Kerry.
Sheff has threatened to retire if he is traded to un-named certain teams. Or, if he does report, he will just throw balls away like he did as a Brewer.
Islander Brendan Witt just took another penalty.
Tiki Barber is feuding with various media members for bashing him over his decision to retire. I'm not a Giants fan, but I love Tiki for this, as well as calling the critics "idiots". Among the people bashing Tiki saying he "quit" on the team is Michael Irvin. Irvin claims teammates are not going to listen to Tiki since he is retiring, since he would not have. If I am a Giant player, I am offended that Irvin would compare me to him. This is the same guy who was locked up for drugs how many times? And he says Barber is a distraction?
Jaromir Jagr is having a poor start to the season. Wow, it took a whole year for him to fall back into his old sulking persona.
Kevin Barlow is happy for Leon Washington (thanks Herm!) having the chance to shine. Barlow said that KB will have his chance to shine. At which point, he took out some polish and got to work on Leon's oxfords, like a good back-up should.
SI is supposed to be a serious sports publication. That being the case, why must we be subjected to weekly mails bags (blatant Sports Guy rip-off) from Jenn Sterger (noted for nothing more than a rack a stripper would be proud of). This weeks deep probes included someone asking about Halloween costumes (cause nothing is more sports oriented) and fight songs. Wow, tough topics there for Jenn. Hope she didn't strain herself there.
Stan "The Maven" Fischler has a blog. Earlier this week, he wondered how Alexei Yashin would do against the Florida Panthers last night. He did quite well, beating them on his X-Box. As for on the ice, the Isles played the Sabres. Quoth the Maven, "Oh Shit".
Islander Sean Hill just took another penalty.
Derek Jeter stated earlier this week that all is fine and dandy in the Yankee clubhouse between him and A-Rod. He also refused to confirm that he spoke to The Boss about Torre. Yep, that's leadership by The Captain, refuse to stick up for a teammate or your manager in public.
Braden Looper led "Jose Jose Jose" chants in the Cards locker room after Game 7. When asked about it the other day, he claimed they always do that. Yep, except that was usually after Reyes got a few hits helping out their fantasy baseball teams. I have a couple of words of advise for Mr. Looper. Next time the Cards visit NY, it might be wise to be "ill". If you think the booing was bad in 2005 and during the playoffs, you ain't seen nothing yet.
A few writers have opined that Jim Leyland should remove Todd Jones as closer and replace him with Joel Zumaya. Yep, that would work well.
Dirty Kenny Rogers is slated to pitch Game 6 (if necessary). Tony LaRussa will be overseeing the washing of his hands.
Breaking news, Gary Sheffield is still pissed.
When is someone going to drill David Eckstein?
I see Gary Sheffield is annoyed that the Yankees might pick up his option. This differs from earlier in the season when Gary was annoyed because they had not picked up his option. Gary flip-flops more than John Kerry.
Sheff has threatened to retire if he is traded to un-named certain teams. Or, if he does report, he will just throw balls away like he did as a Brewer.
Islander Brendan Witt just took another penalty.
Tiki Barber is feuding with various media members for bashing him over his decision to retire. I'm not a Giants fan, but I love Tiki for this, as well as calling the critics "idiots". Among the people bashing Tiki saying he "quit" on the team is Michael Irvin. Irvin claims teammates are not going to listen to Tiki since he is retiring, since he would not have. If I am a Giant player, I am offended that Irvin would compare me to him. This is the same guy who was locked up for drugs how many times? And he says Barber is a distraction?
Jaromir Jagr is having a poor start to the season. Wow, it took a whole year for him to fall back into his old sulking persona.
Kevin Barlow is happy for Leon Washington (thanks Herm!) having the chance to shine. Barlow said that KB will have his chance to shine. At which point, he took out some polish and got to work on Leon's oxfords, like a good back-up should.
SI is supposed to be a serious sports publication. That being the case, why must we be subjected to weekly mails bags (blatant Sports Guy rip-off) from Jenn Sterger (noted for nothing more than a rack a stripper would be proud of). This weeks deep probes included someone asking about Halloween costumes (cause nothing is more sports oriented) and fight songs. Wow, tough topics there for Jenn. Hope she didn't strain herself there.
Stan "The Maven" Fischler has a blog. Earlier this week, he wondered how Alexei Yashin would do against the Florida Panthers last night. He did quite well, beating them on his X-Box. As for on the ice, the Isles played the Sabres. Quoth the Maven, "Oh Shit".
Islander Sean Hill just took another penalty.
Derek Jeter stated earlier this week that all is fine and dandy in the Yankee clubhouse between him and A-Rod. He also refused to confirm that he spoke to The Boss about Torre. Yep, that's leadership by The Captain, refuse to stick up for a teammate or your manager in public.
Braden Looper led "Jose Jose Jose" chants in the Cards locker room after Game 7. When asked about it the other day, he claimed they always do that. Yep, except that was usually after Reyes got a few hits helping out their fantasy baseball teams. I have a couple of words of advise for Mr. Looper. Next time the Cards visit NY, it might be wise to be "ill". If you think the booing was bad in 2005 and during the playoffs, you ain't seen nothing yet.
A few writers have opined that Jim Leyland should remove Todd Jones as closer and replace him with Joel Zumaya. Yep, that would work well.
Dirty Kenny Rogers is slated to pitch Game 6 (if necessary). Tony LaRussa will be overseeing the washing of his hands.
Breaking news, Gary Sheffield is still pissed.
When is someone going to drill David Eckstein?
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Hot Stove - Lineup
As threatened, here is my Hot Stove report for the lineup. While there will be changes, we should not see the wholesale changes that will impact the pitching staff.
The two obvious places for change are 2nd Base and Left Field. Starting with 2nd Base, 'Stache, you did yeomans work there this year, but the slump at the end of the year could not have happened at a worse time. While his coming back in a backup role is possible, I am not comfortable with him being the everyday 2nd baseman next season. Call me fatalistic, but I kept waiting for him to slump, and he did so, and it hurt the team. So what are the options? Anderson Hernandez? No thanks, he can't hit. Chris Woodward? Um, no. There are a few free agents out there:
Ray Durham - possible. Decent though not great glove. 35 years old. Hit 293 with 26 HR, 93 RBI, 360 OBP and 538 SLG. Struck out 61 times in 498 AB. Made 11 Errors.
Scott Spezio - aw, I'm just messing with you.
Julio Lugo - interesting. Omar has long coveted him. 30 years old. 278 ba, 12 hr, 22 doubles, 341 OBP. The doubles were down from 41 in 2004 and 36 in 2005, so he has some extra-base power, which would be nice to have in the 6, 7 or 8 slot. Maybe even in the #2 slot from time to time, though he did have 76 k's last year. Lugo was quoted earlier in the year as saying NY is intriguing, and he would be willing to play 2nd base here. Made 2 errors in 29 games at 2nd. Will be pricey.
Rich Aurilia - subject to a mutual option with the Reds, he has been mentioned in some reports linking him to the Mets. Also 35. Hit 300 in 122 games, 23 HR, 70 RBI, 349 OBP and 518 SLG. 51 k's in 440 at-bats. Drew 34 walks. Made no errors in 10 games at 2nd. Played 78 games at SS and 3rd, with 5 errors.
To me, Lugo is the best option. I like the bat, and the glove should be OK. He is not going to be cheap, but with other money coming off the books, he can be afforded.
Now, we turn our attention to Left Field, formerly patrolled by Uncle Cliffy. Cliff underwent the achilles surgery yesterday, and will be in a boot for 2 months, followed by 2 months of rehab. It is possible that he could be invited to spring training, and try to make the team from there. He would come quite cheap, and probably wind up in a platoon situation. Now, I love Cliff, I know he is a good clubhouse guy, but frankly, if he is anything more than that, I will not be happy. I would prefer a full-time replacement, or a different platoon. The age and injuries are just too much at this point.
So who can replace him. Endy Chavez? Frankly, he is best suited as a 4th outfielder. Lastings Milledge? I think he needs a tad more seasoning, and in any event, if the right deal for a starting pitcher comes up, he could go.
Free Agents are not that many. Moises Alou brings a nice bat, but is 40. He could be brought in to mentor Milledge it was reported, or even Carlos Gomez (as a late season call-up). Cliff Lee is another option, but he is reported to be going to Houston. That leaves either a trade, or the big name - Alfonso Soriano.
Now Soriano could fill either the left field or 2nd base spots. I would prefer left, as he did a good job there last year, and was never really a great 2nd baseman. We all know about the 46/41/41 (HR/doubles/steals) season. The downside is he stikes out a lot. However, him in the #6 slot behind Wright would be unbelievable. The fear is that a long term deal would lead him to be complacent. Frankly, with the other guys in the locker room, I don't see that happening. He also shares a past with Willie. Now, had you asked me a year ago, I wouldhave said no, but now, I'm saying this is a guy I would like targeted.
Some concerns exist about Carlos Delgado, as he could request a trade after being moved in a the middle of a long term deal. More than likely, he just wants his option picked up. Do it Omar. Remove the distraction.
The bench will see some changes. Chris Woodward could go, coming off labrum surgery. Castro is a FA. Anderson Hernandez could be the infielder on the bench. A 5th outfielder will be needed, and Castro may need to be replaced as well. Omar has his work cut out for him here. I expect him to do as well as he has done the last couple of years.
Feel free to share your thoughts. I'll be taking a break from the Mets for a little while. Time to focus on the Jets and Islanders (big test for them tonight against the 9-0 Sabres), so there will be more posts focused on them in the coming weeks. Once the Hot Stove really starts up, I'll be sure to post some Mets stuff.
The two obvious places for change are 2nd Base and Left Field. Starting with 2nd Base, 'Stache, you did yeomans work there this year, but the slump at the end of the year could not have happened at a worse time. While his coming back in a backup role is possible, I am not comfortable with him being the everyday 2nd baseman next season. Call me fatalistic, but I kept waiting for him to slump, and he did so, and it hurt the team. So what are the options? Anderson Hernandez? No thanks, he can't hit. Chris Woodward? Um, no. There are a few free agents out there:
Ray Durham - possible. Decent though not great glove. 35 years old. Hit 293 with 26 HR, 93 RBI, 360 OBP and 538 SLG. Struck out 61 times in 498 AB. Made 11 Errors.
Scott Spezio - aw, I'm just messing with you.
Julio Lugo - interesting. Omar has long coveted him. 30 years old. 278 ba, 12 hr, 22 doubles, 341 OBP. The doubles were down from 41 in 2004 and 36 in 2005, so he has some extra-base power, which would be nice to have in the 6, 7 or 8 slot. Maybe even in the #2 slot from time to time, though he did have 76 k's last year. Lugo was quoted earlier in the year as saying NY is intriguing, and he would be willing to play 2nd base here. Made 2 errors in 29 games at 2nd. Will be pricey.
Rich Aurilia - subject to a mutual option with the Reds, he has been mentioned in some reports linking him to the Mets. Also 35. Hit 300 in 122 games, 23 HR, 70 RBI, 349 OBP and 518 SLG. 51 k's in 440 at-bats. Drew 34 walks. Made no errors in 10 games at 2nd. Played 78 games at SS and 3rd, with 5 errors.
To me, Lugo is the best option. I like the bat, and the glove should be OK. He is not going to be cheap, but with other money coming off the books, he can be afforded.
Now, we turn our attention to Left Field, formerly patrolled by Uncle Cliffy. Cliff underwent the achilles surgery yesterday, and will be in a boot for 2 months, followed by 2 months of rehab. It is possible that he could be invited to spring training, and try to make the team from there. He would come quite cheap, and probably wind up in a platoon situation. Now, I love Cliff, I know he is a good clubhouse guy, but frankly, if he is anything more than that, I will not be happy. I would prefer a full-time replacement, or a different platoon. The age and injuries are just too much at this point.
So who can replace him. Endy Chavez? Frankly, he is best suited as a 4th outfielder. Lastings Milledge? I think he needs a tad more seasoning, and in any event, if the right deal for a starting pitcher comes up, he could go.
Free Agents are not that many. Moises Alou brings a nice bat, but is 40. He could be brought in to mentor Milledge it was reported, or even Carlos Gomez (as a late season call-up). Cliff Lee is another option, but he is reported to be going to Houston. That leaves either a trade, or the big name - Alfonso Soriano.
Now Soriano could fill either the left field or 2nd base spots. I would prefer left, as he did a good job there last year, and was never really a great 2nd baseman. We all know about the 46/41/41 (HR/doubles/steals) season. The downside is he stikes out a lot. However, him in the #6 slot behind Wright would be unbelievable. The fear is that a long term deal would lead him to be complacent. Frankly, with the other guys in the locker room, I don't see that happening. He also shares a past with Willie. Now, had you asked me a year ago, I wouldhave said no, but now, I'm saying this is a guy I would like targeted.
Some concerns exist about Carlos Delgado, as he could request a trade after being moved in a the middle of a long term deal. More than likely, he just wants his option picked up. Do it Omar. Remove the distraction.
The bench will see some changes. Chris Woodward could go, coming off labrum surgery. Castro is a FA. Anderson Hernandez could be the infielder on the bench. A 5th outfielder will be needed, and Castro may need to be replaced as well. Omar has his work cut out for him here. I expect him to do as well as he has done the last couple of years.
Feel free to share your thoughts. I'll be taking a break from the Mets for a little while. Time to focus on the Jets and Islanders (big test for them tonight against the 9-0 Sabres), so there will be more posts focused on them in the coming weeks. Once the Hot Stove really starts up, I'll be sure to post some Mets stuff.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Pitching Hot Stove
Well, certain writers apparently think that the Mets are one and done. Personally, I hope this guy likes ketchup with his words, when this team makes him eat them next year.
Now, I am not naive enough to believe that it will be easy next year. The other teams will get stronger, and the Mets have pitching issues as we enter the offseason. So, as promised last week here is my take on next steps. I will start my “who should stay, who should go, who should join” series with the pitching staff. Needless to say, Steve Trachsel, need not apply.
Starters – Despite what Wally thinks, no Mets fan is thinking Oliver Perez will be the #1 starter, or should be. However, between Perez and John Maine, we have #3 and #4 starter slots filled. I for one am looking forward to seeing what Perez can do with more quality time with The Jacket. Maine gained valuable experience this year, and did quite well. I see good things from both of them going forward. Needless to say, Perez, who is arbitration eligible, should be brought back.
So, that leaves #1, #2 and #5 open. Starting with #5, we have a choice from among Pelfrey, Humber (who was just shut down for “tired arm” in winter ball), Bannister, Soler, Dave Williams (arb eligible), and perhaps Heilman, depending on how the pen shakes out. These guys are going to get shots to make the team in the spring. As #5, they will have the chance to learn on the fly, with low expectations. Personally, I think Soler should go. I did not like a lot of what I saw last season, and think there are other options. Williams should be back, but he may wind up filling Darren Oliver’s long man role, as Oliver is a FA, and odds are someone is going to offer him a nice fat deal, perhaps to start. Heilman could go in the right deal, but it is going to have to be a good one.
As for #1 and #2, well, Pedro is done until July at the earliest, so let’s not count on him. Glavine could go, though Omar is saying all the right things, and odds are Atlanta is not going to want to pay him $11 million, given their budget issues, and his age. Tom will hopefully be back, leaving #1 as the open item.
Lot’s of names for #1. Zito. Schmidt, Matsuzaka. Lets go over each.
Schmidt is 33, went 11-9 with an ERA over 3.5. He will be looking for a 4 year deal. Given his age, and drop off in the speed of his fastball, I’ll pass. I do not want to be paying him $10 m at age 37.
Matsuzaka is 26, went 17-5 with a 2.13 ERA and 200 strikeouts in Japan. Now, I know all about the Mets history with Japanese players. I do not care. Poster child Kaz Matsui would belived by many in baseball to have great talent. It just did not work. Using him as an excuse to not bid on Matsuzaka is stupid. That being said, my reason for not wanting him is money. It is estimated that in order to be able to talk contract with him, a team is going to have to pay $30 million in the posting process. Then you get to sign him. His agent is Scott Boras, so count on $7 - $10 million a year. For a Major League Rookie. If he gets the low end, you are talking about $58 million over 4 years. Just a tad too high for my liking.
We turn our sights to Barry Zito. Barry is 28. Worked with The Jacket in the past and won the CY Young award. Went 16-10 with a 3.83 ERA and 1.40 WHIP in the AL. Given the recent success of pitcher moving from the AL to the NL, this is the guy I want. He is young. He is a winner. He works well with Peterson. He could easily win 20 games with the Mets next year. Now, he is probably looking at a 4 year deal at $15+ m a year. I say $16 m and 4 years. That is $64 m, only $6 m more than Matsuzaka, and he is no rookie. Get it done Omar. I know a lot of people are down on Barry, but considering the top line alternatives, this is the guy.
As we learned this season, you can never have too many starters. We used 13 this year. So, we should add some depth. Take a look at Mark Mulder, maybe he will sign a cheap 1 year deal in the hope of a WS win and the chance to earn more with a big season coming off surgery. Look into trading for a middle of the rotation guy. If that can be done, then Maine and Perez are now 4 and 5, and the pool of #5 guys gets more seasoning in the pen or the minors. Oh, Dontrelle Willis, ain’t coming. Other teams have more chips to send Fla. way. If Omar can pull that off without giving up the entire farm, I will be stunned, and he will win Exec of the Decade. Wild Card – Victor Zambrano. It will be interesting to see if they offer arb, or non-tender him and resign him cheaper. Part of me would like to see what he can do when healthy, he had spurts where he did well. Maybe the elbow caused him to tire quickly. As for El Duque, I think he will be back, especially if Glavine does not reutrn. He did quite well after coming over from Arizona. I do worry about his age and the # of innings he could give, but he could be a good #3 alternative, or lower, and then slot as the long man in the playoffs.
The bullpen has a few guys who are free or arb eligible. Sanchez, Mota, Oliver, Feliciano, Bradford. Sanchez will be back, so will Bradford more than likely. As noted above, Oliver is probably gone. It is important that Mota be resigned, as well as Feliciano. We could see Henry Owens and Juan Padilla (coming off surgery) get long looks in the spring. We saw how important a strong pen was this year. We need it again next year, with the rotation questions.
Let me know your thoughts. I’m sure other names will pop up as the offseason silliness kicks into high gear once the World Series is over.
Later in the week – fielders and lineup next steps. It does not look good for Uncle Cliffy, sad to say.
Now, I am not naive enough to believe that it will be easy next year. The other teams will get stronger, and the Mets have pitching issues as we enter the offseason. So, as promised last week here is my take on next steps. I will start my “who should stay, who should go, who should join” series with the pitching staff. Needless to say, Steve Trachsel, need not apply.
Starters – Despite what Wally thinks, no Mets fan is thinking Oliver Perez will be the #1 starter, or should be. However, between Perez and John Maine, we have #3 and #4 starter slots filled. I for one am looking forward to seeing what Perez can do with more quality time with The Jacket. Maine gained valuable experience this year, and did quite well. I see good things from both of them going forward. Needless to say, Perez, who is arbitration eligible, should be brought back.
So, that leaves #1, #2 and #5 open. Starting with #5, we have a choice from among Pelfrey, Humber (who was just shut down for “tired arm” in winter ball), Bannister, Soler, Dave Williams (arb eligible), and perhaps Heilman, depending on how the pen shakes out. These guys are going to get shots to make the team in the spring. As #5, they will have the chance to learn on the fly, with low expectations. Personally, I think Soler should go. I did not like a lot of what I saw last season, and think there are other options. Williams should be back, but he may wind up filling Darren Oliver’s long man role, as Oliver is a FA, and odds are someone is going to offer him a nice fat deal, perhaps to start. Heilman could go in the right deal, but it is going to have to be a good one.
As for #1 and #2, well, Pedro is done until July at the earliest, so let’s not count on him. Glavine could go, though Omar is saying all the right things, and odds are Atlanta is not going to want to pay him $11 million, given their budget issues, and his age. Tom will hopefully be back, leaving #1 as the open item.
Lot’s of names for #1. Zito. Schmidt, Matsuzaka. Lets go over each.
Schmidt is 33, went 11-9 with an ERA over 3.5. He will be looking for a 4 year deal. Given his age, and drop off in the speed of his fastball, I’ll pass. I do not want to be paying him $10 m at age 37.
Matsuzaka is 26, went 17-5 with a 2.13 ERA and 200 strikeouts in Japan. Now, I know all about the Mets history with Japanese players. I do not care. Poster child Kaz Matsui would belived by many in baseball to have great talent. It just did not work. Using him as an excuse to not bid on Matsuzaka is stupid. That being said, my reason for not wanting him is money. It is estimated that in order to be able to talk contract with him, a team is going to have to pay $30 million in the posting process. Then you get to sign him. His agent is Scott Boras, so count on $7 - $10 million a year. For a Major League Rookie. If he gets the low end, you are talking about $58 million over 4 years. Just a tad too high for my liking.
We turn our sights to Barry Zito. Barry is 28. Worked with The Jacket in the past and won the CY Young award. Went 16-10 with a 3.83 ERA and 1.40 WHIP in the AL. Given the recent success of pitcher moving from the AL to the NL, this is the guy I want. He is young. He is a winner. He works well with Peterson. He could easily win 20 games with the Mets next year. Now, he is probably looking at a 4 year deal at $15+ m a year. I say $16 m and 4 years. That is $64 m, only $6 m more than Matsuzaka, and he is no rookie. Get it done Omar. I know a lot of people are down on Barry, but considering the top line alternatives, this is the guy.
As we learned this season, you can never have too many starters. We used 13 this year. So, we should add some depth. Take a look at Mark Mulder, maybe he will sign a cheap 1 year deal in the hope of a WS win and the chance to earn more with a big season coming off surgery. Look into trading for a middle of the rotation guy. If that can be done, then Maine and Perez are now 4 and 5, and the pool of #5 guys gets more seasoning in the pen or the minors. Oh, Dontrelle Willis, ain’t coming. Other teams have more chips to send Fla. way. If Omar can pull that off without giving up the entire farm, I will be stunned, and he will win Exec of the Decade. Wild Card – Victor Zambrano. It will be interesting to see if they offer arb, or non-tender him and resign him cheaper. Part of me would like to see what he can do when healthy, he had spurts where he did well. Maybe the elbow caused him to tire quickly. As for El Duque, I think he will be back, especially if Glavine does not reutrn. He did quite well after coming over from Arizona. I do worry about his age and the # of innings he could give, but he could be a good #3 alternative, or lower, and then slot as the long man in the playoffs.
The bullpen has a few guys who are free or arb eligible. Sanchez, Mota, Oliver, Feliciano, Bradford. Sanchez will be back, so will Bradford more than likely. As noted above, Oliver is probably gone. It is important that Mota be resigned, as well as Feliciano. We could see Henry Owens and Juan Padilla (coming off surgery) get long looks in the spring. We saw how important a strong pen was this year. We need it again next year, with the rotation questions.
Let me know your thoughts. I’m sure other names will pop up as the offseason silliness kicks into high gear once the World Series is over.
Later in the week – fielders and lineup next steps. It does not look good for Uncle Cliffy, sad to say.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Is there Hope in NJ and on LI?
Probably the only good thing about being an Isles fan in addition to a Met fan is that I get to hear Howie Rose during the Winter. The team last year was not good. Period. There was hope, with a few new signings, but they did not work out. Since the start of this season coincided with the Mets in the playoffs, I had not watched much hockey. The couple of times I turned it on, Jiggs MacDonald was calling the games on TV, since Howie was doing the Mets games on WFAN. Jiggs has not lost it, still calls a good game. It was nice to hear his voice, and it took me back 20 years or so, to when the Isles were a good team, year in , year out.
So far this season, things had not looked good, even with a new coach. The west coast swing to start the season bore no resemblance to the Mets west coast swing, as the Isles were awful. Then, Rick DiPietro is injured, thrusting Mike Dunham into the nets. Well, he played well in his first couple of starts, as they rebounded from a 3 game losing streak to start the season, to win against the Ducks (a favorite this season) in OT, then beating Boston at home in the opener. Then, a shootout loss to Nashville and a OT loss to Pitt. Last night, they played the Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes, and won in OT. Rick returned to the lineup, stopping 37 of 40 shots. Alexei Yashin continued his early strong play with 4 assists. Free Agent signing Mike Sillinger scored, as did Tom Poti (the skate off goal). Yashin has 11 points in 8 games, Sillinger has 4 goals, as does Jason Blake. However, penalties continue to plague the team. This is something that Nolan will be sure to focus on, as the kill has been poor to date. This team is continually being outshot, no goalie is going to last long facing 40 shots a night. I am pleased with the fact they have at least 1 point in the last 5 games, but they need to take advantage of home ice, as they are in the midst of a 7 game homestand, with 3 games left (Buffalo, which has yet to lose, Florida and Chicago). I'll be watching a bit more, now that baseball is over. Could this team, that everyone picked to finish last in the conference, gel and contend? Hey, the Rangers did last year, and they were picked last as well.
As for the Jets, again, I have not watched a lot of late. I caught a good portion of the 1st quarter today, and was very impressed with what I saw. After going 21 games without a 1st quarter TD, they put up 2. The running game was on track the first drive, behind Leon Washington (who finished with 129 yards on 20 carries). The second drive highlight was a 44 yard (40 in the air) TD pass from Chad to Justin McCareins. I think we can stop with the "Noodle Arm" Chas shit now. He may not throw the ball long on every drive, but he can do it when the play is called.
Chad did have 2 INT's today, not a great thing (one was near the end of the first half), but they won, and the running game seems to be on track, which is vital.
The concern today was the late scores the defense allowed, which follows the pattern established this season. Thankfully, it did not hurt them this time, but it did against the Colts. They need to tighten up the D late in the game, no matter how big the lead. Keep the foot on the neck.
So the Jets have a chance to be 5-3 at the bye week, as they face the Browns next week. Considering they already have tied last season's win total, that is quite a feat. Part of me is annoyed, as they lose a high draft pick, but the other part of me wants to see them surprise some people. And give the fans a nice ride, after last season's debacle.
I'll have a Mets post up later in the week, discussing who should stay, go, and join.
Feel free to comment with your thoughts.
So far this season, things had not looked good, even with a new coach. The west coast swing to start the season bore no resemblance to the Mets west coast swing, as the Isles were awful. Then, Rick DiPietro is injured, thrusting Mike Dunham into the nets. Well, he played well in his first couple of starts, as they rebounded from a 3 game losing streak to start the season, to win against the Ducks (a favorite this season) in OT, then beating Boston at home in the opener. Then, a shootout loss to Nashville and a OT loss to Pitt. Last night, they played the Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes, and won in OT. Rick returned to the lineup, stopping 37 of 40 shots. Alexei Yashin continued his early strong play with 4 assists. Free Agent signing Mike Sillinger scored, as did Tom Poti (the skate off goal). Yashin has 11 points in 8 games, Sillinger has 4 goals, as does Jason Blake. However, penalties continue to plague the team. This is something that Nolan will be sure to focus on, as the kill has been poor to date. This team is continually being outshot, no goalie is going to last long facing 40 shots a night. I am pleased with the fact they have at least 1 point in the last 5 games, but they need to take advantage of home ice, as they are in the midst of a 7 game homestand, with 3 games left (Buffalo, which has yet to lose, Florida and Chicago). I'll be watching a bit more, now that baseball is over. Could this team, that everyone picked to finish last in the conference, gel and contend? Hey, the Rangers did last year, and they were picked last as well.
As for the Jets, again, I have not watched a lot of late. I caught a good portion of the 1st quarter today, and was very impressed with what I saw. After going 21 games without a 1st quarter TD, they put up 2. The running game was on track the first drive, behind Leon Washington (who finished with 129 yards on 20 carries). The second drive highlight was a 44 yard (40 in the air) TD pass from Chad to Justin McCareins. I think we can stop with the "Noodle Arm" Chas shit now. He may not throw the ball long on every drive, but he can do it when the play is called.
Chad did have 2 INT's today, not a great thing (one was near the end of the first half), but they won, and the running game seems to be on track, which is vital.
The concern today was the late scores the defense allowed, which follows the pattern established this season. Thankfully, it did not hurt them this time, but it did against the Colts. They need to tighten up the D late in the game, no matter how big the lead. Keep the foot on the neck.
So the Jets have a chance to be 5-3 at the bye week, as they face the Browns next week. Considering they already have tied last season's win total, that is quite a feat. Part of me is annoyed, as they lose a high draft pick, but the other part of me wants to see them surprise some people. And give the fans a nice ride, after last season's debacle.
I'll have a Mets post up later in the week, discussing who should stay, go, and join.
Feel free to comment with your thoughts.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Not What I Hoped to be Writing Today...
I wasn’t prepared to write this today. Oh, there were fleeting thoughts that they could lose, but I pushed them to the dark recesses of my mind. After seeing the rebound in Game 6, I believed we would win. I knew it. Alas, it was not meant to be.
For all the concern from all corners about the starters for Game 6 and Game 7, both young men acquitted themselves quite well. Oliver Perez was dealing last night. I think we saw the birth of our #4 or #5 starter for next season. He got in trouble, but worked out of it. Big scare in the 6th after Willie visited the mound with a runner on and Scott Rolen at the plate. Rolen, who had been getting killed by Buck and McCarver all night for not being able to turn on a fastball, turned on one, sending it towards the Cardinal Bullpen. A gasp, and then a ray of hope as Endy Chavez lept and made the Best.Catch.Ever., and then proceeded to double up Jim Edmonds. The break we had been looking for had arrived.
Then another, in the bottom of the sixth Rolen threw a ball away. The Mets would load the bases with 1 out. Things looked good. But Suppan, who pitched well again, worked out of it, getting Stache and Endy to work out of trouble.
ChadBrad worked the 7th. Aaron worked the eighth, and came back out for the ninth, Then, Yadier Molina takes Aaron deep, and it is 3-1 Cards. The Mets get runners on in the 9th. Uncle Cliffy would stride to the plate as the tying run. I had stated that he would do something positive this series. Alas, there would be no Kirk Gibson like heroics. Beltran would come up with the bases loaded. He owns Cardinal pitching. The good feeling was still there. Then, he looks at a sick curveball, going down without a swing. Game and Season of such promise, over.
Now, I’m not going to sit here and name individual scapegoats. I’m not going to kill Aaron. I’m not going to kill Billy, or David. This team wins as a team, and loses as a team. The vaunted lineup is what failed them. Allowing Jeff Weaver and Jeff Suppan to dominate you twice each in the same series is not the way to win. They hit Carpenter well, but lose to two guys who are hardly great. A young Cardinal bullpen is battered once. There is no single goat. The lost together. Nobody hit last night, or for most of the series. Guys would have one great game, or two, but there was no consistency. They failed to execute. Coming into the NLDS, few experts thought the team would get past the Dodgers, considering how hot they were coming in, and the state of the Mets rotation. They swept them. Then, the same pitching issues were there for the NLCS, but save for blowing game 2, and a poor start in game 3, the pitching did well. The bats did not come through, that is the fact. None of the big bats came through, but we also lacked an unsung hero. Where was our counter to So Taguchi, or Yadier Molina (a 216 hitter in the regular season)?
This team is set for a number of years. The young guys, Reyes and Wright, have there first playoffs under their belts. We have found two starters for next year in Perez and Maine. Filthy Sanchez will be back (arbitration eligible). Endy is arb eligible as well. Delgado will want to get back to October, Beltran will want to wash it away as well. I have faith that Omar will do what he can to get a top starter, either through Free Agency or a trade. This is not 1986, with a lot of veterans and problem children. This team will be back next year. The problems will be fixed.
I’m tired. I’m sad. I’m left with the Jets and Islanders for the next several months until pitchers and catcher report. (Now I am even sadder thinking about that.)
Next week, I’ll have thoughts on next steps. Who should be back (hint, Steve Trachsel is NOT on that list)? Who should be a trade target, or Free Agency target? For now, I want to thank the team for a great ride. It was bumpy, yes. But it was fun, the first time in 6 years I can say that. I want to thank those of you who read and comment, and those who do not comment but just read. I want to thank other bloggers, Metstradamus, Toasty Joe, the guys at Faith & Fear, Metsgeek.com, and others for making this season even more enjoyable.
I’ll post Mets thoughts throughout the off-season. I’ll also post Jets and Islanders stuff, so stop by every once in a while. I might not have something every day, but I’ll still be here.
For all the concern from all corners about the starters for Game 6 and Game 7, both young men acquitted themselves quite well. Oliver Perez was dealing last night. I think we saw the birth of our #4 or #5 starter for next season. He got in trouble, but worked out of it. Big scare in the 6th after Willie visited the mound with a runner on and Scott Rolen at the plate. Rolen, who had been getting killed by Buck and McCarver all night for not being able to turn on a fastball, turned on one, sending it towards the Cardinal Bullpen. A gasp, and then a ray of hope as Endy Chavez lept and made the Best.Catch.Ever., and then proceeded to double up Jim Edmonds. The break we had been looking for had arrived.
Then another, in the bottom of the sixth Rolen threw a ball away. The Mets would load the bases with 1 out. Things looked good. But Suppan, who pitched well again, worked out of it, getting Stache and Endy to work out of trouble.
ChadBrad worked the 7th. Aaron worked the eighth, and came back out for the ninth, Then, Yadier Molina takes Aaron deep, and it is 3-1 Cards. The Mets get runners on in the 9th. Uncle Cliffy would stride to the plate as the tying run. I had stated that he would do something positive this series. Alas, there would be no Kirk Gibson like heroics. Beltran would come up with the bases loaded. He owns Cardinal pitching. The good feeling was still there. Then, he looks at a sick curveball, going down without a swing. Game and Season of such promise, over.
Now, I’m not going to sit here and name individual scapegoats. I’m not going to kill Aaron. I’m not going to kill Billy, or David. This team wins as a team, and loses as a team. The vaunted lineup is what failed them. Allowing Jeff Weaver and Jeff Suppan to dominate you twice each in the same series is not the way to win. They hit Carpenter well, but lose to two guys who are hardly great. A young Cardinal bullpen is battered once. There is no single goat. The lost together. Nobody hit last night, or for most of the series. Guys would have one great game, or two, but there was no consistency. They failed to execute. Coming into the NLDS, few experts thought the team would get past the Dodgers, considering how hot they were coming in, and the state of the Mets rotation. They swept them. Then, the same pitching issues were there for the NLCS, but save for blowing game 2, and a poor start in game 3, the pitching did well. The bats did not come through, that is the fact. None of the big bats came through, but we also lacked an unsung hero. Where was our counter to So Taguchi, or Yadier Molina (a 216 hitter in the regular season)?
This team is set for a number of years. The young guys, Reyes and Wright, have there first playoffs under their belts. We have found two starters for next year in Perez and Maine. Filthy Sanchez will be back (arbitration eligible). Endy is arb eligible as well. Delgado will want to get back to October, Beltran will want to wash it away as well. I have faith that Omar will do what he can to get a top starter, either through Free Agency or a trade. This is not 1986, with a lot of veterans and problem children. This team will be back next year. The problems will be fixed.
I’m tired. I’m sad. I’m left with the Jets and Islanders for the next several months until pitchers and catcher report. (Now I am even sadder thinking about that.)
Next week, I’ll have thoughts on next steps. Who should be back (hint, Steve Trachsel is NOT on that list)? Who should be a trade target, or Free Agency target? For now, I want to thank the team for a great ride. It was bumpy, yes. But it was fun, the first time in 6 years I can say that. I want to thank those of you who read and comment, and those who do not comment but just read. I want to thank other bloggers, Metstradamus, Toasty Joe, the guys at Faith & Fear, Metsgeek.com, and others for making this season even more enjoyable.
I’ll post Mets thoughts throughout the off-season. I’ll also post Jets and Islanders stuff, so stop by every once in a while. I might not have something every day, but I’ll still be here.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Necessary!
As if there was ever any doubt?
Yeah, it looked scary in the top of the first. Johnny Maine loaded 'em up, but got out of it. Then, the good vibes began.
Lenny Dykstra, er Jose Reyes led off with a Home Run. The place began to rock. Like in Rocky 4 (thanks Danny :) ), Carpenter was shown to be a man, not a machine. He could bleed. Later, Shawn Green would add another run, and PLD would drive in 2 to make the final difference.
Was Maine perfect, no. But he got the job done. Biggest start of his career, and he came through. Made Pujols look silly. Kept Spiezio in check. Kept Eckstein in check. ChadBrad helped him out, getting a DP in the 6th to end a threat. Mota redeemed himself. Aaron pitched well. If not for Billy making things interesting, it would have been a whitewash. (note to Billy and PLD, lets call the slider a little less often, shall we?)
Tonight, the best thing in baseball, a Game 7, with the WS appearance on the line. It ain't going to be easy. Pitching for the Cards is Jeff Suppan, who shut the Mets out on Saturday. Pitching for the Mets - Everyone with a pulse. Oliver Perez, just go three, four at most and keep them close. Darren Oliver, do what you have done all year. Then, Robo, Mota, Aaron, Pedro Dos, ChadBrad, Billy. Everyone.
Bring the bats boys, we're gonna need some runs possibly. Let's put a nice number up in the bottom of the first.
BELIEVE
Yeah, it looked scary in the top of the first. Johnny Maine loaded 'em up, but got out of it. Then, the good vibes began.
Lenny Dykstra, er Jose Reyes led off with a Home Run. The place began to rock. Like in Rocky 4 (thanks Danny :) ), Carpenter was shown to be a man, not a machine. He could bleed. Later, Shawn Green would add another run, and PLD would drive in 2 to make the final difference.
Was Maine perfect, no. But he got the job done. Biggest start of his career, and he came through. Made Pujols look silly. Kept Spiezio in check. Kept Eckstein in check. ChadBrad helped him out, getting a DP in the 6th to end a threat. Mota redeemed himself. Aaron pitched well. If not for Billy making things interesting, it would have been a whitewash. (note to Billy and PLD, lets call the slider a little less often, shall we?)
Tonight, the best thing in baseball, a Game 7, with the WS appearance on the line. It ain't going to be easy. Pitching for the Cards is Jeff Suppan, who shut the Mets out on Saturday. Pitching for the Mets - Everyone with a pulse. Oliver Perez, just go three, four at most and keep them close. Darren Oliver, do what you have done all year. Then, Robo, Mota, Aaron, Pedro Dos, ChadBrad, Billy. Everyone.
Bring the bats boys, we're gonna need some runs possibly. Let's put a nice number up in the bottom of the first.
BELIEVE
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Who Shows Up Tonight?
This has been a season of highs (a 9-1 road trip, leading the division since game 3) and lows (insert Jose Lima start here). Last night's game was a microcosm of the season. The high came when the Mets went up 2-0 in the fourth behind Delgado, Green and 'Stache. The low started in the bottom of the fourth, as the Cards tied it when Albert Pujols woke up and hit one out, followed by Belliard driving in the tying run. Then in the bottom of the fifth, the Cards took the lead for good. Tommy Glavine just did not have his best stuff last night. He was far from awful, but he was not nearly the pitcher he had been his first two post-season starts.
Many feelings are running through my head. Anger, over the inability to hit Jeff Weaver for the second game. Sadness, that this season of promise could be over tonight. And hope.
Yes, Hope, and no, I am not off my meds. Hope because the boys are coming home. Hope because I know the fans will be behind them, giving all they have to urge the guys to give all they have. Hope because we have seen John Maine dominate at times this season, why could he not be able to do it again? Hope because the Pen is ready. Hope because I know this team is not going to go down without a fight. Hope because I know David Wright cannot continue his slump another day. Hope because I remember 1986, Mets down 3-2 to the Sox, and it did not matter.
John Maine has a chance here to be forever loved. I know, I wrote something similar prior to game 1 of the NLDS, but it holds true again. If he can give his all, and keep this team in the game, the fans will feed off of it, the players will feed off of it. David has a chance to wipe away the first 5 games of futility with a good game. These guys all know that there are no guarantees in baseball, just because they ran away with it this year does not mean it can happen again next year (ask the 87 team, or the 89 team).
Yes, you worry about the pressure getting to the young guys, and even some of the older guys. But there has been pressure for a good part of the season. Too many starting pitchers to count. The sweep in Boston. The loss of Pedro and El Duque. Tonight is a chance for the team to show the pressure means nothing. To show the pundits who are calling them dead that they are not quite dead yet. To show off that AL like lineup against Chris Carpenter. And then to show it to Jeff Suppan tomorrow.
It is OK to be worried this morning fans. But it is OK to have hope. That is the feeling I will be carrying with me today and tonight.
Many feelings are running through my head. Anger, over the inability to hit Jeff Weaver for the second game. Sadness, that this season of promise could be over tonight. And hope.
Yes, Hope, and no, I am not off my meds. Hope because the boys are coming home. Hope because I know the fans will be behind them, giving all they have to urge the guys to give all they have. Hope because we have seen John Maine dominate at times this season, why could he not be able to do it again? Hope because the Pen is ready. Hope because I know this team is not going to go down without a fight. Hope because I know David Wright cannot continue his slump another day. Hope because I remember 1986, Mets down 3-2 to the Sox, and it did not matter.
John Maine has a chance here to be forever loved. I know, I wrote something similar prior to game 1 of the NLDS, but it holds true again. If he can give his all, and keep this team in the game, the fans will feed off of it, the players will feed off of it. David has a chance to wipe away the first 5 games of futility with a good game. These guys all know that there are no guarantees in baseball, just because they ran away with it this year does not mean it can happen again next year (ask the 87 team, or the 89 team).
Yes, you worry about the pressure getting to the young guys, and even some of the older guys. But there has been pressure for a good part of the season. Too many starting pitchers to count. The sweep in Boston. The loss of Pedro and El Duque. Tonight is a chance for the team to show the pressure means nothing. To show the pundits who are calling them dead that they are not quite dead yet. To show off that AL like lineup against Chris Carpenter. And then to show it to Jeff Suppan tomorrow.
It is OK to be worried this morning fans. But it is OK to have hope. That is the feeling I will be carrying with me today and tonight.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
(not so) Deep Thoughts
With a rainout last night, we fans get to recharge a bit after three hectic days. Lot's of questions as we go into game 5 this evening, covering all sports in NY.
1. Can Glavine pitch as well as he did the last time out, given that the Cards have seen his stuff recently?
2. Can Jeff Weaver do the same?
3. Is David Wright waking up?
4. Why does Scott Spiezio have a "happy trail" on his chin?
5. Will Steve Trachsel even get a contract offer this offseason?
6. Who the hell is Jeff Brantley to call out Trax? A career 43-46 with a 3.39 ERA and 1.3 WHIP. I could care less that he won the Rolaids award. He won it once, and was mediocre the rest of his career.
7. Steve Lyons - idiot.
8. Miami football - awful weekend for both pro teams.
9. Why the hell are St. Louis fans imitating Spiezio's happy trail? Do they really think it looks good?
10. Who will pitch game 7 for the Mets.
11. Whatever happened to "King Henrik"?
12. For that matter, whatever happened to Rick DiPietro? Oh Rick, better heal fast, Dunham is outplaying your ass.
13. Can Curtis Martin come back and make a difference for the Jets?
14. Did the Yankees play yesterday? Golf I mean.
15. Good luck in Chicago Sweet Lou. You'll need it.
16. Has the real Alexei Yashin finally shown up?
17. Seriously, what the hell is that on Spiezio's chin?
18. Why is it the Mets get victimized by the likes of Eckstein, Suppan and Taguchi?
19. Can the Mets get a Kirk Gibson moment from Uncle Cliffy?
20. Who replaces Trax in the rotation if the Mets make the World Series?
21. Let me get this straight, some people got on Met fans for leaving Friday night after Billy gave up 3 runs, but no one says boo about the "Best fans in Baseball" clearing out in the 6th on Sunday?
22. Fun Fact - the spell check on Blogger gives "tragically" as the alternative to Trachsel.
Big game tonight. If the Mets can win, a huge amount of momentum going into Shea tomorrow. The fans, already pumped for the postseason will be in full throat. No silly bats to slam against each other to make noise. We do it with our voices, hands (and the occasional Jet overhead).
As loud as Shea has been in the past, you ain't seen nothing yet.
Oh, and if you happen to be at Game 6, please refrain form booing the boys. It ain't like they are losing on purpose. Yes, Wags blew it, but it happens. All the great ones do it. It was his turn. That being said, no more Billy, OK? Thanks.
1. Can Glavine pitch as well as he did the last time out, given that the Cards have seen his stuff recently?
2. Can Jeff Weaver do the same?
3. Is David Wright waking up?
4. Why does Scott Spiezio have a "happy trail" on his chin?
5. Will Steve Trachsel even get a contract offer this offseason?
6. Who the hell is Jeff Brantley to call out Trax? A career 43-46 with a 3.39 ERA and 1.3 WHIP. I could care less that he won the Rolaids award. He won it once, and was mediocre the rest of his career.
7. Steve Lyons - idiot.
8. Miami football - awful weekend for both pro teams.
9. Why the hell are St. Louis fans imitating Spiezio's happy trail? Do they really think it looks good?
10. Who will pitch game 7 for the Mets.
11. Whatever happened to "King Henrik"?
12. For that matter, whatever happened to Rick DiPietro? Oh Rick, better heal fast, Dunham is outplaying your ass.
13. Can Curtis Martin come back and make a difference for the Jets?
14. Did the Yankees play yesterday? Golf I mean.
15. Good luck in Chicago Sweet Lou. You'll need it.
16. Has the real Alexei Yashin finally shown up?
17. Seriously, what the hell is that on Spiezio's chin?
18. Why is it the Mets get victimized by the likes of Eckstein, Suppan and Taguchi?
19. Can the Mets get a Kirk Gibson moment from Uncle Cliffy?
20. Who replaces Trax in the rotation if the Mets make the World Series?
21. Let me get this straight, some people got on Met fans for leaving Friday night after Billy gave up 3 runs, but no one says boo about the "Best fans in Baseball" clearing out in the 6th on Sunday?
22. Fun Fact - the spell check on Blogger gives "tragically" as the alternative to Trachsel.
Big game tonight. If the Mets can win, a huge amount of momentum going into Shea tomorrow. The fans, already pumped for the postseason will be in full throat. No silly bats to slam against each other to make noise. We do it with our voices, hands (and the occasional Jet overhead).
As loud as Shea has been in the past, you ain't seen nothing yet.
Oh, and if you happen to be at Game 6, please refrain form booing the boys. It ain't like they are losing on purpose. Yes, Wags blew it, but it happens. All the great ones do it. It was his turn. That being said, no more Billy, OK? Thanks.
Monday, October 16, 2006
That'll Do Ollie, That'll Do...
Facing a 2-1 series deficit, thanks to poor pitching and a day off from the lineup, the Mets threw Ollie Perez last night, in the hopes of getting something resembling a quality start, while praying that the lumber would awaken and do some damage. The hopes and prayers were answered.
Now, Ollie wasn't great, allowing 3 home runs (can someone explain to me why it is that Taguchi, Suppan and Eckstein can go yard?) in 5 2/3. However, he did limit the damage, allowing the bats to wake up and pound on the Cards. Chad Bradford, Pedro Dos and Mota finished it up, allowing no further damage. So the pen should be in good shape for Glavine's start, either tonight or tomorrow (it is already raining in STL, so we may have another rainout today.) After the pen spit the bit on Friday, it was nice to see Darren Oliver do a fantastic job Saturday, and the aforementioned trio get it done last night. Rehab is complete (speaking of rehab, El Duque had a promising side session yesterday. If we can make the WS, perhaps he can go?)
But the story of the night was the bats. After suffering some A-Rod comparisons, The Prince went yard, giving the Mets a 2-1 lead. His home run came one out after Beltran hit the first of 2 for the night (boy, does he own the Cards or what?) Beltran went 3-3 with 2 walks, getting on base all 5 times at bat. 'Stache got into it with a triple, scoring 3, Green had 2 hits. Everybody Hits was the rallying cry it appears.
But the story is the NY corner infielder who actually performs come playoff time. Carlos Delgado (is there anyone left who really wants Mike Jacobs back?) was huge, again. Delgado went 2-4 with 5 RBI. A three run HR, a ground rule double (oh, and both went to left field). Fire seemed to ooze out of him. The man is on a mission to carry this team. Should he keep it up, we could be playing Saturday.
On the other side, Larussa went to the pen early, and it cost him. They had done a great job in the playoffs until last night, when they imploded. The only guy who looked good was Looper, who went 3, giving up only a Beltran blast. Otherwise, the Card pen was treated like rented mules.
Next up, Glavine vs Weaver. Over on cardinalsdiaspora, a commenter noted that Larussa will figure out Glavine. Well, he might, but here is the question, will the Cards lineup? Oh, and do you really think the Mets lineup won't figure out Weaver? Cuts both ways guys. Of course, rain today could cause Larussa to bring Carpenter back tomorrow on short rest. Then again, he is not Mike (Scuffy) Scott.
Best of 3. I'm sticking to my 6 game Met win.
Let's get it on!
Now, Ollie wasn't great, allowing 3 home runs (can someone explain to me why it is that Taguchi, Suppan and Eckstein can go yard?) in 5 2/3. However, he did limit the damage, allowing the bats to wake up and pound on the Cards. Chad Bradford, Pedro Dos and Mota finished it up, allowing no further damage. So the pen should be in good shape for Glavine's start, either tonight or tomorrow (it is already raining in STL, so we may have another rainout today.) After the pen spit the bit on Friday, it was nice to see Darren Oliver do a fantastic job Saturday, and the aforementioned trio get it done last night. Rehab is complete (speaking of rehab, El Duque had a promising side session yesterday. If we can make the WS, perhaps he can go?)
But the story of the night was the bats. After suffering some A-Rod comparisons, The Prince went yard, giving the Mets a 2-1 lead. His home run came one out after Beltran hit the first of 2 for the night (boy, does he own the Cards or what?) Beltran went 3-3 with 2 walks, getting on base all 5 times at bat. 'Stache got into it with a triple, scoring 3, Green had 2 hits. Everybody Hits was the rallying cry it appears.
But the story is the NY corner infielder who actually performs come playoff time. Carlos Delgado (is there anyone left who really wants Mike Jacobs back?) was huge, again. Delgado went 2-4 with 5 RBI. A three run HR, a ground rule double (oh, and both went to left field). Fire seemed to ooze out of him. The man is on a mission to carry this team. Should he keep it up, we could be playing Saturday.
On the other side, Larussa went to the pen early, and it cost him. They had done a great job in the playoffs until last night, when they imploded. The only guy who looked good was Looper, who went 3, giving up only a Beltran blast. Otherwise, the Card pen was treated like rented mules.
Next up, Glavine vs Weaver. Over on cardinalsdiaspora, a commenter noted that Larussa will figure out Glavine. Well, he might, but here is the question, will the Cards lineup? Oh, and do you really think the Mets lineup won't figure out Weaver? Cuts both ways guys. Of course, rain today could cause Larussa to bring Carpenter back tomorrow on short rest. Then again, he is not Mike (Scuffy) Scott.
Best of 3. I'm sticking to my 6 game Met win.
Let's get it on!
Sunday, October 15, 2006
I can sum up the last 2 games in 1 word...
SHIT.
The pen shit the bed Friday. Trax and the offense shit it (shat it?) last night.
Tonight, Ollie Perez v Reyes. Let's hope our Reyes stays hot, and that it rubs off on the 3rd baseman.
I want runs galore put up by the Mets. I want a bunch in the first, and no let up. Burn out their pen, so Monday, once we smack Weaver around, there is nothing to replace him.
I'm not gonna sit here and say they are done, unlike those on ESPN and WFAN. There is way too much talent in the lineup. There is way too much hunger. Too many guys who have not been there, and a couple who have yet did not get the ring. Ian O'conner in the Journal News said they look like the Yanks. That insult should be in the locker room today.
Show the testicular fortitude guys. Show up tonight, early. Remind people who the beast's of the NL were this year.
"It ain't over til its over." - Yogi
Kick some ass boys. This series will be back at Shea.
The pen shit the bed Friday. Trax and the offense shit it (shat it?) last night.
Tonight, Ollie Perez v Reyes. Let's hope our Reyes stays hot, and that it rubs off on the 3rd baseman.
I want runs galore put up by the Mets. I want a bunch in the first, and no let up. Burn out their pen, so Monday, once we smack Weaver around, there is nothing to replace him.
I'm not gonna sit here and say they are done, unlike those on ESPN and WFAN. There is way too much talent in the lineup. There is way too much hunger. Too many guys who have not been there, and a couple who have yet did not get the ring. Ian O'conner in the Journal News said they look like the Yanks. That insult should be in the locker room today.
Show the testicular fortitude guys. Show up tonight, early. Remind people who the beast's of the NL were this year.
"It ain't over til its over." - Yogi
Kick some ass boys. This series will be back at Shea.
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