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Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

bmfc1 Jan 13 2010 06:37 PM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Jan 14 2010 03:41 AM

Cancel your plans. Cerrone says to stay tuned for news. 1st, he tweeted: You might want to keep a close eye on MetsBlog.com tonight, as things are about to get interesting. The speculation was on B. Molina but that's expected so it must be something else. But then injury expert Will Carroll tweeted: Big news pending for Mets. Doesn't sound good.

metsmarathon Jan 13 2010 06:53 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

"not good" probably means molina. at least it pretty much does for me...

bmfc1 Jan 13 2010 07:14 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

I'm hoping that the bad news is limited to "Castillo will be the 2B next year."

Valadius Jan 13 2010 07:28 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

If it's bad news, it's probably Santana.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 13 2010 07:33 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Or Beltran. With the knees. Good gravy, this is fun, innit?

bmfc1 Jan 13 2010 07:42 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

SI.com: Mets center fielder Carlos Beltran underwent minor knee surgery Wednesday, sources connected to the Mets told SI.com. Beltran will need 8-12 weeks of rehab and is expected to be recovered at or around Opening Day. The Mets begin the season at home vs. the Marlins on April 5. Beltran missed significant time last season because of a bone bruise behind the right knee cap.

Kong76 Jan 13 2010 07:45 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Is there really such a thing as minor knee surgery for people with knee problems?

themetfairy Jan 13 2010 07:46 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

They couldn't have discovered this problem months ago?

bmfc1 Jan 13 2010 07:54 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

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

Valadius Jan 13 2010 07:58 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Here's my question - when did Carlos Beltran take the time to find a personal physician in Colorado?

metsmarathon Jan 13 2010 08:02 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

"J. Richard Steadman, M.D. is a specialist knee surgeon, practising in Vail, Colorado and a Clinical Professor at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. He is best known medically for his work in the area of Microfracture surgery, and publicly for treating injured sports stars from around the world."

metsmarathon Jan 13 2010 08:03 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

so, uh... lets bring back endy...

Kong76 Jan 13 2010 08:04 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

The internet is lighting up all over, I didn't actually check, but I can sense it. Osteoarthritis, cheap-ass Mets.

Edgy DC Jan 13 2010 08:07 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Steadman's cool. He sometimes takes jerseys and other memorobilia in lieu of payment. Apparently, in a pinch, he'll take gold records. Who knew L'il Jon had knee problems?

Edgy DC Jan 13 2010 08:14 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

[quote="metsmarathon":kvkgdn7l]so, uh... lets bring back endy...[/quote:kvkgdn7l] The main problem is that he's no good to the Mets if his legs aren't clicking on opening day. He's not playing the Liga Venezueala this winter, is he?

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 13 2010 08:27 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

OK, so Beltran's out till May. BFD.

Ashie62 Jan 13 2010 08:39 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Beltrans might be out for good..Unauthorized surgery and mets attempting to void beltrans entire contract Another year of this?

Ashie62 Jan 13 2010 08:42 PM Bye Bye Beltran

So, the Mets are blaming the permanent damage on Beltran's knee to unauthorized surgery performed by Beltrans personal Dr. The Mets may attempt to pro-rate or void Beltran's entire contract. That would likely end Beltran's career as a Met OK,,its' official, Citified is built on an Indian burial ground

Ashie62 Jan 13 2010 08:45 PM Re: Bye Bye Beltran

Sherman-Beltran out minimum of 4 months

metirish Jan 13 2010 08:53 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

With all the bitching that's goes on about the Mets doctors , real or imagined I have no problem with Beltran using his own doctor.

metsguyinmichigan Jan 13 2010 08:54 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Jan 13 2010 09:00 PM

Wait! What happened to minor surgery, knee getting scoped?

Edgy DC Jan 13 2010 08:56 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

That's Joel Sherman Ashie seems to be trying to summarize: #Mets are definitely claiming Beltran procedure done without their blessing, and are threatening some form of action 41 minutes ago from web nyp_joelsherman Joel Sherman

Edgy DC Jan 13 2010 08:57 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

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

metsguyinmichigan Jan 13 2010 09:05 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Do we install Angel Pagan as the temporary centerfielder, or do we assume that he's not coming back and get a centerfielder who can take over for good, and keep Pagan as the fourth guy?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 13 2010 09:06 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Kevin Burkhardt seconds Sherman's inklings, via Twitter and on-air report. http://twitter.com/KBurkhardtSNY/statuses/7734174646

Ashie62 Jan 13 2010 09:08 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Sorry for the confusion.. Internet aflame..Mets looking for full-time OF

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 13 2010 09:13 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Hey-- Bay used to play CF! With the slow trickle of Haiti news, today's already been bruising. This is just the fucking cherry.

batmagadanleadoff Jan 13 2010 09:13 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

From last June: Tue Jun 30, 2009 6:53 am EDT Mets' Beltran to see specialist, career in jeopardy? By Joe Zedalis The New York Mets confirmed Monday that outfielder Carlos Beltran(notes) was in Vail, Colo., for a second opinion on his ailing right knee, this one from noted orthopedic surgeon and microfracture surgery specialist Dr. Richard Steadman, according to a report in the New York Post. According to the Post, the serious aspect of for Beltran is that if microfracture surgery is necessary it would sideline him for the end of the season and potentially jeopardize his career. Beltran, 32, already has had arthroscopic surgery on both knees, doing so after the 2007 season. Steadman, who runs the clinic where Alex Rodriguez's(notes) hip surgery was performed this year, devised microfracture surgery in the 1990s to mimic missing cartilage in the patient's knee. The surgery, which involves drilling small holes so that blood and marrow clot to form a cartilage-like buffer between bones, has been done on numerous pro athletes. Beltran was steered to Steadman for a second opinion by his agent, Scott Boras, with no backlash from the Mets after the initial diagnosis by Dr. David Altchek of the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan. http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/rumors/post ... mlb,173718

metsguyinmichigan Jan 13 2010 09:15 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Meet the new season. Same as the old season. Dammit.

batmagadanleadoff Jan 13 2010 09:18 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

More from last Summer: It's never a good sign when you're batting leadoff in this column two weeks in a row. Unfortunately, such is the case for Carlos Beltran, who has been on the DL for more than a week now and does not appear to be coming off anytime soon. Last week in this space, we outlined the injury Beltran was dealing with and speculated that his time away would be extended beyond 15 days. Indeed, that appears to be the case. Beltran made a trek to Vail, Colo., this week to get a second opinion from Dr. Richard Steadman. The choice of Steadman as consultant raised some eyebrows, since his expertise is associated with microfracture surgery, a procedure that he helped pioneer. Although Beltran's agent, Scott Boras, claimed that seeking out Steadman simply represented seeking an independent opinion, you don't take your Ferrari to a Rolls-Royce dealer, even if the latter is accustomed to dealing with high-end automobiles. The Ferrari engine is entrusted to an expert in Ferraris. Beltran is dealing with a bone bruise, an injury often associated with cartilage damage. Microfracture procedures are performed to address cartilage defects. Evaluating cartilage injuries is a critical component of determining when microfracture surgery is indicated. It does not appear to be a coincidence that an athlete with a worsening bone bruise would seek an opinion from another orthopedist well versed in cartilage injuries, especially within the knee. (It should be noted that Mets team physician Dr. David Altchek is very experienced in managing cartilage injuries as well.) The good news? Steadman supported Beltran's original diagnosis of a bone bruise and recommended continued rest and rehabilitation. No microfracture surgery for Beltran (at least not now), which would have effectively ended his season. So why the cause for concern? It's the uncertainty around the resolution of Beltran's condition. How well will Beltran heal, and how long will it take? Just because he's not headed for the operating room doesn't mean we can be certain that he will recover to such a degree that he can play consistently and effectively this year. Although many bone bruises do heal with time and rest, it is not an absolute. The timetable can vary and in a situation like Beltran's, in which the condition has recently worsened, it becomes less predictable. Consider also that Beltran had arthroscopic surgery on both knees in 2007. Beltran underwent debridement of both patellar tendons, the large tendons that cross the kneecap and anchor the quadriceps muscle to the tibia (shinbone). While the two conditions could be independent, it is also possible that some of the biomechanical features of Beltran's knees that led to patellar tendon problems are at work here. The plan now is to keep Beltran moving at a gradual pace, with a target of returning at some point after the All-Star break. Fantasy owners need to bear in mind that this is primarily a symptom-based rehab progression, meaning Beltran's activity will largely be determined by how he feels (although subsequent imaging studies can also provide information as to how the bone bruise itself is progressing). The key for the Mets will be whether Beltran's symptoms can decrease enough and whether enough healing can occur to allow him to return successfully this season. If so, the team may still need to re-evaluate Beltran's status at the end of the season to determine what, if any, steps to take next. http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blog/ind ... _stephania

Ashie62 Jan 13 2010 09:19 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

[quote="metsguyinmichigan":3ivufm3p]Meet the new season. Same as the old season. Dammit.[/quote:3ivufm3p] And we will get fooled again

Edgy DC Jan 13 2010 09:20 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

[quote="LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr"]Hey-- Bay used to play CF! With the slow trickle of Haiti news, today's already been bruising. This is just the fucking cherry.

With Haiti on the horizon, this doesn't mean squat. Just something to make the season interesting.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 13 2010 09:27 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Jan 13 2010 09:35 PM

Didn't mean to equate the two... apologies for any accidental intimation. It's just stinky. And it seems like it's likely to get stinkier, both prognosis-wise and-- potentially-- in ways that involve lawyers. OE: As Sherman writesin greater detailat night's end. The Mets apparently knew of the diagnosis/planned remedy, but disagreed.

Nymr83 Jan 13 2010 09:29 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

where was Francessa on this??? clearly the surgery was conducted without the Mets' knowledge or Omar would have clued Fatso in on Monday.

batmagadanleadoff Jan 13 2010 09:34 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

[quote="LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr":d3dj2f5e]It's just stinky. And it seems like it's likely to get stinkier ... prognosis-wise....[/quote:d3dj2f5e] Over the years, I've developed my own personal and very informal and unscientific method for determining when a baseball player will return from an injury. I don't always get it right, but I think that more often than not, my method has been more accurate than the official PR. My method is simple: I assume that the player's recovery time will be 75% longer than whatever the team announces. So if the Mets say that Beltran will be back in 12 weeks, I assume 21 weeks -- or at about the end of June.

MFS62 Jan 13 2010 09:43 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

I'll try to spread some sunshine. I look at this as a great opportunity to see what Fernando Martinez can do. I'm thinking that he won't have to face many lefty pitchers with the rest of the lineup mostly right handed or switch hitters. Pagan would be an ok platoon against the occasional lefties they would have to face. Later

Edgy DC Jan 13 2010 09:46 PM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

Pagan is certainly first in line.

duan Jan 14 2010 02:33 AM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

[quote="metsmarathon":24epucdt]"J. Richard Steadman, M.D. is a specialist knee surgeon, practising in Vail, Colorado and a Clinical Professor at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. He is best known medically for his work in the area of Microfracture surgery, and publicly for treating injured sports stars from around the world."[/quote:24epucdt] i'm pretty sure this dude has dealt with quite a few footballers knee ligaments over the last few years. From memory Alan Shearer went to Colorado for his knees.

duan Jan 14 2010 02:53 AM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

"* Association Football - Giles Barnes, Craig Bellamy, Patrik Berger, Jimmy Bullard, Mark Delaney, Scott Dobie, Ian Durrant, Ricardo Gardner, Owen Hargreaves, Park Ji-Sung, Roy Keane, John Kennedy, Henrik Larsson, Martin Laursen, Joleon Lescott, Lothar Matthäus, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Michael Owen, Alessandro Del Piero, Linvoy Primus, Peter Ramage, Jamie Redknapp, Steven Reid, Ronaldo, Richard Rufus, Alan Shearer, James Vaughan, Lee Wilkie, Mark Wilson" loads of these guys have made very full recoveries. Knee injuries to footballers were like elbows to pitchers before tommy john surgery.

metirish Jan 14 2010 05:05 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

There's no doubt that Steadman is brilliant , I guess a rift may occur between Beltran and the Mets as they were not consulted on the surgery.

RealityChuck Jan 14 2010 06:51 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

The Mets may be pissed, but there's no way in hell their going to void his contract. They'll make noises, but will probably just let it slide. If they do anything at all, they may dock his salary (assuming they can).

Fman99 Jan 14 2010 06:58 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Fuck.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 14 2010 07:03 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Just to be a hater, seven-year contracts are just stoopit things to give out. And for fux sakes, we had a 30-home run centerfielder with a good glove when we went and got this mole-eared freak.

Centerfield Jan 14 2010 07:23 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

I think the biggest story here is not that Beltran will be out 8-12 weeks, but whether he will then be ok afterwards, or if this is all just a senseless waste of time before he will ultimately need microfracture surgery.

soupcan Jan 14 2010 07:47 AM Re: Cerrone says big news tonight

This: [quote="John Cougar Lunchbucket":f7pwhzqz]OK, so Beltran's out till May. BFD.[/quote:f7pwhzqz] This: [quote="metirish":f7pwhzqz]With all the bitching that's goes on about the Mets doctors , real or imagined I have no problem with Beltran using his own doctor.[/quote:f7pwhzqz] And this: [quote="Centerfield ":f7pwhzqz]I think the biggest story here is not that Beltran will be out 8-12 weeks, but whether he will then be ok afterwards, or if this is all just a senseless waste of time before he will ultimately need microfracture surgery[/quote:f7pwhzqz].

Benjamin Grimm Jan 14 2010 07:54 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Okay, so the fourth outfielder, Pagan, ascends to the starting three, most likely. That leaves two outfield roster spots to be filled for the Opening Day roster. Are they going to sign somebody? Who? Might Fernando make the roster? Or would he be better off playing every day in Buffalo?

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 08:13 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

I'm sure if he makes the roster, they'll find reps for him. Right now, the fourth and fifth outfielders would be him and Carter.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 14 2010 08:18 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

I think it would definitely make Endy more attractive to them but maybe the real upshot is they make a harder run at Brandon Phillips. You know, maybe this deserves its own thread but understanding that $6 mills is a lot to pay for one, Luis Castillo wouldn't be all that bad a type of guy to have on the bench. He knows how to reach base, he switch hits and he can run and let's not overlook how erect Jerry might be at the pros[pect of a guy whom he could count on to pinch-bunt. Only drawbacks are his salary and expectations, and a limited defensive profile.

Frayed Knot Jan 14 2010 08:23 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

It's stuff like this that adds credence to my theory that the whole mantra about 'playing in NYC being so much tougher than anywhere else' is vastly overblown at the least. Of the eight remaining cities with football teams still in the running do you suppose any of them, other than the Jets, got shoved off the back pages and away from the main topic on sports talk radio today?

metirish Jan 14 2010 08:27 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

I like Endy plenty but I have bad memories of him sucking with the bat big time, IIRC he was horrible.......I could be wrong though.

Frayed Knot Jan 14 2010 08:43 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Not having read every paper and internet site so far, is anyone, aside from Ashie, even mentioning drastic stuff like voiding the deal? from the NYPost (Sherman & Puma): This [sort of disagreement] is not a unique occurrence. Players and teams have disputes about the proper course of medical action all the time, and the two sides usually come to some kind of understanding without an attempt at legal actions or fines. And the likelihood is that there is not much the Mets could do for two reasons, a person who has worked on these kinds of issues said: 1. The Mets were not in the dark on any of this. According to a friend of Beltran, Beltran was under Altchek's care from October through December. It was only in December when he could not perform that Beltran went to see Steadman. And the friend said that Mets doctors and trainers were kept abreast of the diagnosis in Colorado, even if the Mets did not agree with the remedy. 2. Steadman is a reputable surgeon who has been involved for a long time in doing procedures on athletes across the sports spectrum. The Mets, according to one official, might have a greater case for a grievance if Beltran had gone to another country and/or to a less reputable doctor.

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 08:54 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Well, yeah, but you're not citing the reports from UltimateFanta$yTipsheet.com. Stop drinking the Kool-Aid!

attgig Jan 14 2010 08:57 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Beltran followed Altchek's diagnosis and recommendations since he got hurt and it was not working. he was going to go into a season where he would have to try to manage pain all year. I don't blame the dude for finding his own guy. makes no sense for him to keep on listening to some quack who hasn't made him feel better after 6+ months.

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 08:59 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

The inability to cure a degenerative knee doesn't = quack. Is perspective just desperately passe this offseason?

smg58 Jan 14 2010 09:02 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Randy Winn looks like a good buy-low candidate, assuming he's healthy (which of course, is always the issue no matter who the Mets get). I do think it looks as though Beltran doesn't trust the Mets' doctors. I guess it remains to be seen if that's good or bad.

sharpie Jan 14 2010 09:11 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

If his knee was going to act up isn't it better that he takes care of it now rather than, say, June. Yes, would've been better in November but missing the first month of the season, assuming that is all it is, isn't that big a deal.

metirish Jan 14 2010 09:12 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

From the NY Times But they did not hesitate to make their dissatisfaction known privately. High-ranking Mets officials contacted the commissioner’s office after they learned of the surgery, according to a person in baseball briefed on the matter. The Mets officials told the commissioner’s office that they were angry that Beltran had the surgery without their approval, the person said. The Mets wanted legal advice from the commissioner’s office regarding whether they could penalize Beltran for having the surgery without their approval. A part of me sees this all ending nastily, what happens if Beltran has further issues with the knee , what will the Mets do? Twill be interesting to say the least.

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 09:17 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

The Mets will likely move on. The rafters will shake on WFAN and back pages will burn in the Post, while they hurt themselves laughing in the News. In the end, the dogs will bark, but the caravan will pass. Guy hurt his knee and it's hard to heal. Happens every day.

themetfairy Jan 14 2010 09:49 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="sharpie":2b1ifkvr]If his knee was going to act up isn't it better that he takes care of it now rather than, say, June. Yes, would've been better in November but missing the first month of the season, assuming that is all it is, isn't that big a deal.[/quote:2b1ifkvr] You're definitely a glass-is-half-full kind of guy....

Ceetar Jan 14 2010 09:53 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

This is much less of a 'disaster' as it was orginally made out to be. The only issue is if this 'cures' him or if he'll ultimately need that microfracture surgery which if i recall means a long long recovery and possibly career ending anyway? He told Kevin Burkhardt in Nov that he had no pain. So it's not like doctor's have been just ignoring the issue. It sounds like the Mets/Beltran disconnect came from lack of decisiveness on actually getting the scope done immediately. Sounds like Beltran just wanted to hedge his bets, play it safe, have the surgery and not risk missing more time by waiting. Prognosis is still vague, 8-12 weeks could mean 8 weeks and rehabs most of spring and is healthy 4/5. or it could mean 12 weeks, extended spring training and not back until May. I imagine it depends how he feels in March. Obviously, we're all worried this could end up being a longer recovery time than reported. Let's hope not. Pagan for a month is not a big deal. Maybe Martinez lights it up and spring and is a pleasant surprise. Maybe Pelfrey Maine and Perez get off to hot starts and offense isn't as big an issue. It's no surprise he went to that doctor. He's "the best", and he's affiliated with Boras. No one criticized the Yankees for A-Rod going there, which was likely at Boras' suggestion as well. You go to the best, even if that's not your own team doctor. It sounds like the Mets doctor did give his approval of the surgery option, even if it wasn't the team's first choice. It just sounds like he went off and did it after that without telling them he was going to.

MFS62 Jan 14 2010 10:04 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Isn't Rick Ankiel still out there? Signing him to play center, then platooning him with Frenchy when Carlos gets back wouldn't be such a bad idea. Later

batmagadanleadoff Jan 14 2010 11:06 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

What's the deal with Chris Carter? Only 23 ML at-bats but he raked in the Minor Leagues.... hitting for power and getting on base at excellent rates.

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 11:11 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

I think we'll get some answers soon. In the meantime, I understand I'm supposed to be really really pissed that we got him for Wagner.

metirish Jan 14 2010 11:17 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="Edgy DC"]I think we'll get some answers soon. In the meantime, I understand I'm supposed to be really really pissed that we got him for Wagner.

You're still pissed about that, man you gotta move on, there is so much more to pissed about with the Mets right now......

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 11:20 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

It came up.

metirish Jan 14 2010 11:23 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="Edgy DC":osnieec1]It came up.[/quote:osnieec1] You're so upset about it you couldn't see I was taking the piss.

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 11:27 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

You're so smug and certain of that, you couldn't see I had taken it back. The piss is mine.

batmagadanleadoff Jan 14 2010 11:27 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="Edgy DC"]I think we'll get some answers soon. In the meantime, I understand I'm supposed to be really really pissed that we got him for Wagner.

Good bat, bad glove, slow, very smart guy, don't ever touch his bats, according to this ...

Traded to the NY Mets with Eddie Lora for Billy Wagner (October 2009) Scouting Report: Extremely intelligent, Carter is a real student of hitting, and has demonstrated success with the bat at every level. Excellent power with the potential for more. Hits for average and consistently gets on base at a very good clip. Hits lefties and righties well. Below average speed. In the field, Carter has spent much of his career at 1B but was moved to the outfield in 2008. He has always been known as a poor fielder, and still doesn't look particularly comfortable at any position. He has focused on his glove and footwork and has improved slightly, but still not enough.

http://www.soxprospects.com/players/carter-chris.htm

Tuesday, August 25, 2009 10 Things to Know About Chris Carter by Dave Singer Like you, I've been hunting around the Net for Chris Carter stuff....the guy is quirky to say the least! He can also hit and has power--we could see 100 at-bats for him the rest of the year as the Mets give him an extended big league look. Here is a smattering on Carter... * Went to Stanford * He is extremely intense, quirky, and he plays very, very hard * .301 lifetime BA in 6 minor league seasons with 124 homeruns * Seen as a "major league hitter that plays weak defense" * 2008 International League All-Star * Can play 1B and corner OF * Made the Red Sox out of spring training as the 5th outfielder * Listed as 6 feet tall and 230 Lbs and doesn't allow anyone to touch his bats * Red Sox acquired him as a PTBNL in the Willy Mo Pena deal * Uses Hulk Hogan music as his theme song before each at-bat

http://nysportsdog.blogspot.com/2009/08 ... arter.html


Here's a link to an interview with Carter:
http://news.soxprospects.com/2009/08/q- ... arter.html

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 11:31 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

What is "Hulk Hogan music"?

metirish Jan 14 2010 11:39 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Me smug?.. really?

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 14 2010 11:41 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="Edgy DC":4mp3h7h9]What is "Hulk Hogan music"?[/quote:4mp3h7h9] It's music that sucks. I am a real A-merrr-ii-can Anyway press conference on at 2. I am home sick -- again! -- and will tune this puppy in and give ya some blow by blow if I don't die first.

metirish Jan 14 2010 11:44 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Scott Boras says Carlos Beltran did not need NY Mets' permission to have surgery By Brian Costa/The Star-Ledger Beltran's decision to undergo arthroscopic surgery with his doctor in Colorado appeared to catch the Mets off guard. The New York Post, citing an unnamed source, reported that "the Mets are threatening to take some form of action." But Boras said Beltran's contract only requires him to receive advance written permission for elective procedures. "This was necessary surgery, necessary surgery to work," Boras said. This is not the first time a team has been in a dispute with Beltran over an injury and which side has the right to make the final decision on a course of treatment. The Royals suspended him for refusing to report to the team's complex in Florida for rehabilitation in 2000. The Mets are expected to address the Beltran situation later today on a conference call with reporters.

batmagadanleadoff Jan 14 2010 11:45 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="Edgy DC"]What is "Hulk Hogan music"?

I'd keep Carter on the bench if it's this:

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 11:46 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Well, um, first, knowhatImean, we, um, wanted to check if... you know, he was really hurt or, umm, it was just some shit Adam Rubin made up. No offense, Adam. Next question.

G-Fafif Jan 14 2010 12:00 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="John Cougar Lunchbucket":hlrku0vn]Just to be a hater, seven-year contracts are just stoopit things to give out.[/quote:hlrku0vn] Does a potential (and let's hope it's all theoretical after a successful recovery) washout in years six and seven make the Beltran contract a retroactive bad signing? After the first four years, even with the first year so disappointing, you could legitimately call Beltran's signing the best free agent deal the Mets ever made. Would the general greatness of 2006-2008 overshadow lousy 2005, injury-riddled 2009 and godknowswhat 2010-11...or vice-versa? Robin and Pedro were awesome in the early parts of their four-year deals, perceived burdens by the end (Ventura so much so that he was traded for Justice/Guthrie). Wagner more or less solved the closer problem in year one of a four-year deal, was on the shelf by the final third of the third year and was a cash vacuum in year four. So yeah, seven years is a tough sign. But boy did it feel great to sign him when we did. I wasn't asking any questions five years ago this week.

Benjamin Grimm Jan 14 2010 12:02 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

No regrets.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 14 2010 12:06 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Ricco Had 3 MRIs MRI dec. 10 -- showed some worsening oh arthritis condition --altchck said back off intense work, to alleviate symptoms --in a few weeks still pain, saw Steadman ----we allowed that for 2nd opinion Steadman recommended a procedure, underwent it --successful surgery, resting in Colo.

Vince Coleman Firecracker Jan 14 2010 12:08 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="G-Fafif"]Does a potential (and let's hope it's all theoretical after a successful recovery) washout in years six and seven make the Beltran contract a retroactive bad signing?

According to Fangraphs, Voltron's been worth 95.5 million to the team in the five years since his signing. Since he signed for 117 million, yeah- two years of no value whatsoever would make it a bad signing in retrospect.

Of course, Voltron will be back and he'll be as awesome as ever.



...I really, really hope.

metirish Jan 14 2010 12:08 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Rico was suave about it?

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 14 2010 12:10 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Q&A Q: Did Beltran do this without your permission? A: (Ricco) No, we had an issue with the process. --we told boras we wanted to discuss diagnosis and wanted oppotrtunity to get a 3rd opinion, never afforded opportunity to do that Q: Why would Beltran do that? "We can't speak for Carlos, we just wanted a chance to digest the information. We wanted a chance to discuss Steadman's diagnosis and get another opinion. Q: Open wound, legal ramificatyion? A: We alerted Boras to the fact that we weren't notified (as was required by contract).

Centerfield Jan 14 2010 12:14 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Fuck the legal. Will he have a clean bill of health in 12 weeks?

G-Fafif Jan 14 2010 12:18 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="John Cougar Lunchbucket":37r09b4f][quote="Edgy DC":37r09b4f]What is "Hulk Hogan music"?[/quote:37r09b4f] It's music that sucks.[/quote:37r09b4f] Unless you're FUCKING A AWESOME! Presumably...

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 14 2010 12:21 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Howard: Our issue was we were not afforded opportunity to digest info before surgery was performed. Q: Necessary or elective surgery? --This was ... I don't wanna be pressed on a legal term. ... Q: are offseason plans changing? --Carlos is one of the best 2 way players WE have to prepare for that, adjust accordingly Q: Is back and forth between doictors mandatory or a courtesy A: the contract requires written approval for surgery. But our view is that we have all the info we need to make the right decision Q: Is this a different injury than last year? A: osteoarthritis is a thing he;s had for a long time, bone bruise can be condition of it. This winter he developed other symptoms, that's what the doctor cleaned up. Q: Are you looking differently at roster than yesterday? Do you need to bring in someone? A: certainly in Beltran talking about better players in the game, we're discussing that right now. We have not made a determination Q: When did you find out surgery has been done? A: We found out Wednesday mid-day Q: Did you have any idea it was to happen A: No.t was our understanding we were still discussing it. Q: What;s the range of dates Beltran could be back? A: 12 weeks to begin bb activity Q: 3-4 weeks to majors after that? A: It varies, see how it goes --we don;t have crystal ball, in discussions, haven;t made a final decision Q: what was said before? A: Player and agent were told, before anything happens we look like time to digest information and get another opinion --We were clear with Scott we said before you do surgery we'd like to review the information

G-Fafif Jan 14 2010 12:21 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

The conf. call operator mispronounced "Klapisch" -- and didn't even mention soft rain.

Frayed Knot Jan 14 2010 12:23 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Sounds like the best news coming from this presser is that they've stopped letting Omar handle them.

metirish Jan 14 2010 12:59 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="Frayed Knot"]Sounds like the best news coming from this presser is that they've stopped letting Omar handle them.

This


Wright speaks up on this

David Wright was blindsided just like everyone else by Carlos Beltran's knee surgery. And just like the organization and its fans, the Mets' star player also is "interested" to hear Beltran's reasoning for having surgery. "Obviously, it's frustrating," Wright said Thursday. "My teammates along with the fans and I'm sure the front office, it's a frustrating process to have to go through with these injuries. "Hopefully we have some more details, exactly what happened, why, why now so we can make a decision and move forward." Wright made these comments after visiting a Ronald McDonald house in the Upper East Side to play with kids, in a visit set up by the Mets and the David Wright Foundation. It was just 24 hours earlier when at Citi Field for another charity function Wright spoke optimistically about having the whole team healthy for most of 2010. Now, in the wake of Beltran's surprise surgery, that doesn't look likely. And Wright wants answers. "I'm interested to see, along with I'm sure the fans and the organization, what exactly is going on," he said. "And, like I said, [why] the timing of it." As for Beltran choosing to have this surgery on his own without permission from the team, Wright disapproved. "I hope that's not the case," he said. "Obviously you want to keep the team in the loop with whatever you're doing. "But give Carlos a chance to give his side of the story then hear the Mets and their doctors' side of the story and then make a judgment. Until you hear all the sides there's nothing you can really get out of this. "But like I said, there's a lot of questions to be answered."

Benjamin Grimm Jan 14 2010 01:07 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

And Wright wants answers. He sounds like Valadius.

Ashie62 Jan 14 2010 01:14 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

It appears the Mets knew Carlos was not healing terribly well over the past couple of months.. Wouldn't it have been prudent to take a look at CF options like Juan Pierre, or maybe a Marlon Byrd? This marriage between the Mets & Beltran may be harmed beyond repair regardless of Beltran's recovery or lack thereof.

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 01:17 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

You certainly give the impression that you're rooting for that.

Benjamin Grimm Jan 14 2010 01:21 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

I'm also getting that impression.

Ashie62 Jan 14 2010 03:08 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

No, i'm just pissed the Mets have screwed the pooch again

Edgy DC Jan 14 2010 03:21 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Yes, of course. They should have locked Beltran in a cell during the offseason like all right-thinking organizations do. Perspective, NOW!!!!

Ashie62 Jan 14 2010 03:31 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

It's not that..it just seems anything bad that can happen in Flushing will. I never thought the "wounded will all be back to make things better" was a wise tactic, whether it be be Beltran injured or someone else. I do believe it is imperative to obtain a decent SP. To expect Santana, Maine and ollie to all come back and play well and be durable is unrealistic and overly risky.

Frayed Knot Jan 14 2010 04:59 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

"It's not that..it just seems anything bad that can happen in Flushing will." Which clearly has nothing to do with the Mets "screwing the pooch" "I never thought the "wounded will all be back to make things better" was a wise tactic, whether it be be Beltran injured or someone else." So they should have somehow snagged a different CFer in case Beltran got hurt - someone, presumably, who's better than Pagan but would be willing to sign here as a backup? "I do believe it is imperative to obtain a decent SP. To expect Santana, Maine and ollie to all come back and play well and be durable is unrealistic and overly risky. All of which has nothing to do with Beltran and his injury.

Ashie62 Jan 14 2010 06:53 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="Frayed Knot"]"It's not that..it just seems anything bad that can happen in Flushing will." Which clearly has nothing to do with the Mets "screwing the pooch" "I never thought the "wounded will all be back to make things better" was a wise tactic, whether it be be Beltran injured or someone else." So they should have somehow snagged a different CFer in case Beltran got hurt - someone, presumably, who's better than Pagan but would be willing to sign here as a backup? "I do believe it is imperative to obtain a decent SP. To expect Santana, Maine and ollie to all come back and play well and be durable is unrealistic and overly risky. All of which has nothing to do with Beltran and his injury.

grow up

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 14 2010 06:59 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Interesting. Verrrry interesting. However, this isn't the first time Beltran and Boras went to bat against a team's medical advice. While playing for the Kansas City Royals in 2000, Beltran bruised the very same right knee that underwent the knife recently. The Royals felt the obvious course for Beltran's rehab involved rest, then a rehab assignment before returning to action... Beltran earned a suspension from the Royals for declining his rehab assignment in favor of staying with the Major League club and its doctors.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 14 2010 07:09 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Yeah I'm getting the impression that the worry over this thing beyond the obvious is that it may be interpreted as a betrayal of the team.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 14 2010 08:45 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Beltran's statement, released tonight. Clears things right up. Wait, no... it does the exact OPPOSITE of that, it does. “I am totally surprised by the reaction to my recent knee surgery. Any accusations that I ignored or defied the team’s wishes are simply false. I also spoke to Omar Minaya about the surgery on Tuesday. He did not ask me to wait, or to get another doctor’s opinion. He just wished me well. No one from team raised any issue until Wednesday, after I was already in surgery. I do not know what else I could have done. The most important thing here is that the surgery was a total success and I expect to be back on the field playing the game I love sooner rather than later.”

themetfairy Jan 14 2010 08:55 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr"]Beltran's statement, released tonight. Clears things right up. Wait, no... it does the exact OPPOSITE of that, it does. “I am totally surprised by the reaction to my recent knee surgery. Any accusations that I ignored or defied the team’s wishes are simply false. I also spoke to Omar Minaya about the surgery on Tuesday. He did not ask me to wait, or to get another doctor’s opinion. He just wished me well. No one from team raised any issue until Wednesday, after I was already in surgery. I do not know what else I could have done. The most important thing here is that the surgery was a total success and I expect to be back on the field playing the game I love sooner rather than later.”

Incredible. Even for this ship of fools.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 14 2010 09:22 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

It gets better. Or... wait... what's the opposite of "better," again? Boras said he was in Colorado with Beltran on Tuesday, left at 4:30 p.m. to fly back to California, and never heard from the Mets again until Wednesday morning, when they asked that Beltran get a third opinion before any surgery. By then, the surgery had already started. Boras cited a letter from Steadman in which the physician said he had consulted with Altchek about the surgery and had been given approval and that he had also received necessary paperwork and approval from the Mets trainer Ray Ramirez to facilitate payment for the operation. “Dr. Altchek verbally agreed with my assessment, along with the treatment options of doing an arthroscopic procedure on Mr. Beltran’s right knee,” Boras said, reading from the letter from Steadman. “Dr. Altchek then informed me he would inform the Mets’ organization of his approval for me to perform the surgery.” Discussing the Mets’ claims about not knowing the surgery was going to occur, Boras added, “Either Altchek didn’t tell the Mets, or someone is lying.” 2009 is apparently harder to kill than herpes.

metsmarathon Jan 14 2010 09:45 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

this does not reflect well upon the mets. ugh. it sounds like boras/beltran might not've gotten express written permision from the mets to go ahead with the surgery, while everyone from minaya down to ray ramirez was acting like it was porbably ok to have the surgery. now, its also entirely possible that altchek talked to steadman, agreed that the surgery was needed, and his agreement was misunderstood as tantamount to the mets officially sanctioning the surgery. ditto the forwarding of the workmans comp paperwork. that minaya said good luck only indicates that he knew beltran was injured, and was considering surgery. wishing a player good luck doesn't equate to sanctioning his surgery, especially when its unclear that minaya was told that the surgery was to take place wednesday morning. unfortunately, since so much is unknown about the timeline, and since there's so much confusion in what was said and when by whom to whom, it makes the team look liek its in disarray - which it may well be. and even if the mets are in the wrong, and boras/beltran did not adequately communicate that the surgery was indeed scheduled to take place wednesday morning, the mets come off as petty by holding that conference call. tehy would have been better off saying nothing, putting out a tersely written press release acknowledging that beltran had the surgery, and taking the time to look into the timelines out of the public eye, while realizing that leaking any of their displeasure would not at all reflect well on them, no matter if beltran really did do this without their permission/knowledge.

G-Fafif Jan 15 2010 05:59 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Mets Merized Online does its best to put the pieces together here. Key passage here: It was quite obvious that Omar Minaya was not in the loop while Wilpon, Howard and Ricco were scurrying around trying to delay the surgery. While they frantically attempted to find a doctor to get a third opinion, their GM (in name only) Omar Minaya was on the phone wishing Carlos Beltran good luck with his knee surgery in the morning. Can you believe that? How in God’s name was Minaya left out of the loop? He was absolutely oblivious to the fact the rest of the front office was trying to put the brakes on the procedure. On the morning of the surgery, Mets Trainer, Ray Ramirez signed and faxed all the necessary forms to Colorado for the surgery to go forward that morning at 7:00 AM. Without these signed insurance forms the surgery could not take place that morning. Not only was the surgery done with the signature and approval of a Mets employee, but the entire procedure was approved and paid for by the Mets insurance company. According to Dr. Steadman who performed the surgery, he was in constant communication with the Mets medical director David Altchek, who agreed with Steadman’s recommendation that he have surgery. Altchek left off with Dr. Steadman that he would relay the information to the Mets that Beltran would be having surgery in the morning. The Mets say they never knew, but that doesn’t ring true. They had to know. Why would they later mention that they wanted to get a third opinion, unless they already had the opinions of both their Medical Director and Dr. Steadman? During the conference call, Assistant GM John Ricco, refused to elaborate on the discussions both Jeff Wilpon and Omar Minaya had with Scott Boras in the 24 hours preceding the surgery. He would only acknowledge that there were phone calls made, but that he wasn’t on those calls. So why not wait until Omar Minaya was available to have the conference call? And even though both Minaya and Wilpon were In Arizona, why couldn’t they participate from there? It was reported that they were on a plane during the 2:00 PM conference call, but it was later revealed that they did not board their plane until four hours later at 6:00 PM. If they were going to levy these unsubstantiated charges against their star centerfielder, and if they are as committed to better communication as they said they would be, why weren’t the principal parties in those phone calls on that conference call to answer the important questions? Why did the Mets go out of their way to make such a public spectacle of this even going so far as to simulcast the conference call live on SNY to gain the widest possible reach they could? The conference call answered no questions and raised hundreds more. Not only were we not able to get the details of the phone calls between Minaya, Wilpon, Boras and Beltran, but John Ricco refused to elaborate on the legal aspects that the entire call was centered around. They wanted the world to know that they were invoking their legal rights under the terms of the contract, but they refused to tell us the whos, whats, wheres and whens. Is this the better communication they spoke of? And here: On December 3rd, Carlos Beltran was in New York to get an MRI on his ailing knee again. It was immediately discovered that there was loose cartilage and bone fragments caused by a degenerative disease known as osteo-arthritis. On December 13th the pain worsened and another MRI showed even more deterioration in the knee. He was told to “ramp down” his workouts. Beltran instead wanted a second opinion and he got permission to see Dr. Steadman who had treated him last season. It was determined that he would most likely need surgery to clean it up. Almost a month laster, a subsequent trip to Colorado this past Tuesday, only confirmed that original diagnosis which was also echoed by the Mets Medical Director. To answer David Wright’s question “why now?”, the Mets already knew of this serious condition on December 3rd and yet their plan was to wait. It was a plan that was doomed to failure. Bone fragments, bone spurs and torn cartilage does not go away with “ramping down your workouts” as the Mets advised him. If his knee got this bad due to some light pre spring training workout regimen, what did they expect would happen with the full throttle rigors of spring training? Is this the better way of handling medical information that they promised back in October? Could it be that the Mets suppressed that information for over a month so that they could sign Jason Bay without giving the player any further leverage in the negotiations? In the meantime they withheld the staggering news that their centerfielder’s knee was deteriorating rapidly. Is this their improved way of communicating player injury updates to the media as they promised in October?

metirish Jan 15 2010 06:40 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Who's runnning this place?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 15 2010 07:11 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Team Beltran.

Edgy DC Jan 15 2010 07:15 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

You know, whatever communications were dropped, if they weren't we'd likely still be in the same place this morning, and it would likely still be the best of a varying bunch of not-so-good-to-terrible scenarios, so I'm am totally not going to sweat it.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 15 2010 07:19 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

Fair enough. It's just a bit frustrating. On the lighter side... picturing the old knee speaking street Spanish to Carlos Delgado and screaming obscenities at minor-leaguers provides a needed giggle. Courtesy of Amazin' Avenue's fxcarden: Omar Minaya: Once the reports came out, you know, of course we had to expedite more the investigation on Beltran's knee. Early in the process, early in the process, when the reports came out, I had to kind of tell myself, "Wow, these things are coming out." And I say this because coming from Beltran, okay, and Beltran, you gotta understand this, Beltran, for the past couple of years, has lobby for a new knee . He has lobby myself, he has lobby Jeff. So when these things came out I was kind of a little bit, I had to think about it. And I was a little bit, you know, somewhat, kind of, we gotta find out about this. We really have to do a thorough investigation of this. Beltran: Is what you're alleging that I tried to tear my own knee down so I could have a new one ? Is that what you're saying? Omar Minaya: No, no, I'm not saying that. All I'm saying was, that I know that when you got hurt, but I am saying, that in the past, you have, have lobby for a new knee.... Beltran: If I were interested in a new knee, I'd go to Colorado and get a new one. It's not like I can't afford it. Omar Minaya: I said, because, when the reports came out a lot of these things were cross... I said "Who's writing these reports?" and I said well okay who's writing the reports and in the back of my mind, Carlos, you have told me you have told other people in the front office that you want a new knee Beltran: So what you're alleging is that.. the only conclusion I can draw from that is that you're trying to allege that I tried to tear my own knee so I could have a new one. Is that what you're saying? Omar Minaya: Carlos...... Beltran: It seems pretty despicable to say that. Omar Minaya: Look, was a new knee really necessary ? No, it wasn't. We know that. And Carlos, and you've been around baseball a long time, and there's a lot of injuries we don't like, ahh, and, you know, and they're, we just deal with it. But, you know, the other Carlos sucked it up with his hip....you know what I'm sayin'.......

smg58 Jan 15 2010 08:14 AM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

[quote="metsmarathon":zb0ekba7]and even if the mets are in the wrong, and boras/beltran did not adequately communicate that the surgery was indeed scheduled to take place wednesday morning, the mets come off as petty by holding that conference call. tehy would have been better off saying nothing, putting out a tersely written press release acknowledging that beltran had the surgery, and taking the time to look into the timelines out of the public eye, while realizing that leaking any of their displeasure would not at all reflect well on them, no matter if beltran really did do this without their permission/knowledge.[/quote:zb0ekba7] I absolutely agree. There's no intelligent reason to make a public issue out of a private one. It hurts the team's public image, and it hurts their relationship with one of their star players. And for what benefit?

attgig Jan 15 2010 01:07 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

from fangraphs A year ago, I placed the Mets at #5 on my list of the healthiest organizations in baseball. My bad. Yesterday’s he said-he said recounting of the events surrounding Carlos Beltran’s surgery are just the latest sign that the organization is a ship without a captain. Even the most conservative reading of the events looks really bad for the Mets – at best, their front office lacks the ability to communicate their desires to their team’s best player, at worst the player has reached the point where he simply doesn’t care what they say. And then there’s the handling of the news. Word began to leak out on Wednesday that Beltran had surgery and that the Mets front office was extremely angry about it. It’s one thing to do a controlled leak of news that will come out eventually, as most teams in baseball do – it is entirely another to bring reporters into what should have been an internal issue. Then, to cap it off, the Mets held a conference call (necessitated by the leaks) that was run by Assistant GM John Ricco, ostensibly because Omar Minaya wasn’t able to find a working phone in the rural back-country known as Phoenix, Arizona. More likely is that the Mets just didn’t want Minaya on that call for fear of what he might say. Say what you will about Minaya’s roster construction (and I have), but when you don’t trust your GM to meet with the press, you need a new GM. A significant part of the General Manager job is to handle the relationship with the press about the affairs of the team. The Mets apparently do not believe Minaya is fit to fill that role any longer. Ricco’s handling of the conference call only goes to further confuse the chain of authority in Queens. Minaya is clearly not in charge, as the Wilpons continue to exercise more than a usual amount of influence on the front office. But they won’t willingly admit to running things either, leading to a nebulous power situation where there is simply no clear leader. This is dysfunction on a large stage. Much like the last days of Jim Bowden’s reign in Washington, you have to wonder whether they’ll be able to escape growing evidence of a lack of control in the front office – never mind the questionable decisions Minaya has made spending the Wilpons money. At this point, they just need to start over. The current situation isn’t working and it’s getting worse, not better. The team has a new ballpark in a huge metropolitan area and some terrific pieces to build around – they should be contenders. They should be well run. But they aren’t. It’s time for some wholesale changes before things get any worse, if that’s possible.

Edgy DC Jan 15 2010 01:12 PM Re: Beltran Out "8 to 12 weeks"

There's a lot to digest and all but I don't find... but when you don’t trust your GM to meet with the press, you need a new GM. to be true.