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Trade Deadline 2010

Centerfield Jul 12 2010 10:04 AM

Beltran coming back should be a nice addition to the lineup. But if I could add only one player, I'd add a bat instead of a pitcher. The Mets are 6th in the bigs in team ERA. They are 21st in OPS. Some of it has to do with the ballpark, but not all. They scored 5 runs this weekend against the Braves. I'd like to be able to win without our starter having to shut out the opposition.

MFS62 Jul 12 2010 10:21 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I vote for the bat, too. And it seems that the only place for it is second base. (Assuming Reyes will be healthy pretty soon.) Like Edgy, I'd like to see the Mets go for Dan Uggla. He may not be a Bill Mazeroski with the glove, but based on his track record, I'd think he'd drive in more runs than he lets in. And he'd add real depth to the every day lineup. But whoever they go for, Alex Cora has to be part of the deal. He is getting scarilly close to getting enough PT to earn another year on his contract. He may be "great in the clubhouse" but he isn't doing very much when he gets on the field. Later

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jul 12 2010 10:28 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Cora's done fine given his role and fans would do well to stop pretending that his vesting contract is all that big of a deal. If he's truly horrible they will release him. And demanding his trade is silly too.

MFS62 Jul 12 2010 10:29 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: Cora's done fine given his role and fans would do well to stop pretending that his vesting contract is all that big of a deal. If he's truly horrible they will release him. And demanding his trade is silly too. That said, what would you like to see the Mets add at/ before the deadline? Later

TransMonk Jul 12 2010 10:35 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I'd bet that if the Mets were to stand pat over the deadline, the team OPS ranking would rise over the second half while the team ERA ranking would fall. For that reason, I desire another arm. Beltran is the bat.

Gwreck Jul 12 2010 10:41 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I only see a need to add bat if we are trading away a regular position player in order to get a pitcher, or a regular player (Reyes or Pagan) is going to be hurt for an extended period of time. Sure, in theory I'd like to get more offense out of catcher and second base but I don't see a lot of good options out there. What I would really like to see is another top-of-the-line starting pitcher (ie. Cliff Lee). That ship's already sailed, so I guess we settle for something lesser, but pitching should still be the priority.

metirish Jul 12 2010 10:45 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Gwreck wrote: I only see a need to add bat if we are trading away a regular position player in order to get a pitcher, or a regular player (Reyes or Pagan) is going to be hurt for an extended period of time. Sure, in theory I'd like to get more offense out of catcher and second base but I don't see a lot of good options out there. What I would really like to see is another top-of-the-line starting pitcher (ie. Cliff Lee). That ship's already sailed, so I guess we settle for something lesser, but pitching should still be the priority. Agree , a lot of talk about Lilly, having a miserable time of it in Chicago, but who isn't? I think a pitcher of his ilk is not a difference maker, Takahashi is close to him right? Oswalt makes a difference I think, you see his name penciled in and I go wow,nice staff right there.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jul 12 2010 10:47 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I think they could use more O too, but suspect they will count on it coming from the return of Beltran, more of Reyes, better Bay, less Frenchie/Barajas/Blanco and even the return of Castillo who is a slight offensive upgrade over Tejada at this point. I don't think they'll go add another 2B to the mix unless they somehow unload Castillo which is hard to imagine. If they did I don't think the Mets would add Uggla, not given their stated attitudes on defense up the middle. The catchers are turning out to be lousy offensive players but there's a chance that Thole continues to provide a lift in the mix, and there won't be many offensive-minded catchers out there anyhow. So all that said I think they will look for bullpen guys to provide an upgrade over Dessens/Valdes and allow them to deploy Feliciano with more precision; and I'd like to see a starter come in such as Lilly so as to plug up the butt-end of the rotation. A right-handed bench masher with versatility would also be welcome and pursued, I hope.

Edgy DC Jul 12 2010 10:55 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

MFS62 wrote: Like Edgy, I'd like to see the Mets go for Dan Uggla. Did I really advocate this? When?

smg58 Jul 12 2010 11:44 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I'd like to see who we could get at what price before singling anybody out. Beltran might turn out to be as good a pickup as anybody else can make, so I don't think we need to make a panic move. I think we're hurting more at second base than at fifth starter, but I'm open to upgrades at either spot.

smg58 Jul 12 2010 12:59 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Brian Roberts is set to begin a rehab assignment today. There might be a buy low opportunity there.

TransMonk Jul 12 2010 01:27 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

We would be buying, but I don't know about low. From Cot's for Brian Roberts: 4 years/$40M (2010-13) signed extension with Baltimore 2/20/09 10:$10M, 11:$10M, 12:$10M, 13:$10M limited no-trade protection: Roberts may block deals to 8 clubs in 2010, 12 clubs in 2011 full no-trade protection in 2012 award bonuses YIKES! 30 million over the next 3 years for a 32 year old sounds like Castillo all over again.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 12 2010 01:34 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Wright's doing alright, but not over-his-head alright; same with Pagan (who MAY be playing a little over-his-head at the IMMEDIATE present). Bay, Reyes (assuming he healthens up) and the rest are due to improve or stay solid... and Beltran's an upgrade over the 2/3 of a full Francoeur share and 1/3 of a full Pagan that you'r losing. Boom... passive upgrade (as long as Castillo's healthy and/or stays the fuck away). Get Lilly to bump Taka back to the Darren Oliver suite or use your current parts better (institute the split-start plan with Maine and Taka-- wherein each goes 3-5 innings during the same turn in the rotation, with order to be determined by the guys in the other dugout), and you've got a stew goin'!

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jul 12 2010 01:52 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I kinda like the idea of Maine as a pissed-off short relief guy. If his shoulder isn't completely shot, that is.

Edgy DC Jul 12 2010 02:00 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Five guys coming off of rehab assignments in the coming weeks, and scarcely room for three of them. DRAMA!

TransMonk Jul 12 2010 02:03 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Too many options is better than no options.

Edgy DC Jul 12 2010 02:08 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I'm certianly not suggesting it's bad. I am predicting much drama will be made of it.

Benjamin Grimm Jul 12 2010 02:11 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Edgy DC wrote: Five guys coming off of rehab assignments in the coming weeks, and scarcely room for three of them. Maine... Perez... Beltran... Castillo... and...?

Edgy DC Jul 12 2010 02:13 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Fernando Tatis.

metirish Jul 12 2010 02:14 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Benjamin Grimm wrote: Edgy DC wrote: Five guys coming off of rehab assignments in the coming weeks, and scarcely room for three of them. Maine... Perez... Beltran... Castillo... and...? Bay , should be back right after the ASG.

MFS62 Jul 12 2010 09:33 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Edgy DC wrote: MFS62 wrote: Like Edgy, I'd like to see the Mets go for Dan Uggla. Did I really advocate this? When? Thought I saw it as a short reply in a thread about a week ago. Maybe it was someone else. In any case, I'll just say I agree with whoever it was who posted it. Later

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 13 2010 01:15 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

TransMonk wrote: Too many options is better than no options. Sometimes, it's just as bad. Sometimes... dead is better. (coughcoughOllie)

Edgy DC Jul 13 2010 07:01 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Easy now. Don't give anybody any ideas.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 13 2010 08:10 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Figuratively dead is better.

Fman99 Jul 13 2010 09:59 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I say get another starter, put Tak back in the pen, hope that Beltran looks good, Bay wakes up and Jose Jose can get healthy. More Thole. Let Castillo hit 9th and bunt guys over for Reyes.

Benjamin Grimm Jul 13 2010 10:10 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

This three-catcher thing isn't going to last, and I don't think Thole ought to be the one to leave.

MFS62 Jul 13 2010 10:29 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Benjamin Grimm wrote: This three-catcher thing isn't going to last, and I don't think Thole ought to be the one to leave. The more he shows that he can catch the knuckler, the longer he should stay. The hitting hasn't been to shabby, either. Later

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 13 2010 10:31 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Benjamin Grimm wrote: This three-catcher thing isn't going to last, and I don't think Thole ought to be the one to leave. Ah, yes. But if you're going to free up space by trading, he's the only one with any value on that market.

Edgy DC Jul 13 2010 10:33 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I disagree with the notion that Rod Barajas and Henry Blanco are without value on the trade market.

Benjamin Grimm Jul 13 2010 10:35 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I'm sure they have value. Less than Thole, I'm sure, but value.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 13 2010 10:42 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010 Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Jul 13 2010 10:53 AM

One-year deal. Not controllable beyond this year. On the far side of their talent's peak. Probably not Type A FAs this offseason. Possibly more injured than they've let on. I'm not saying there aren't any contending teams that would take them on-- of course there are.* But pay for them-- part-time catchers with little to offer offensively**? The going rate in this particular trade market can't be more than somebody else's bullpen detritus, can it? *Though this list lost a big player when the Rangers picked up FatBengie. **Though Blanco has more to offer here on balance than Barajas does.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jul 13 2010 10:52 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Blanco's hurt still, I'm sure that's the unsaid dynamic in the ongoing 3-catcher saga. I'd like to think the Mets could get by with 6 relievers but it's pretty obvious they can't. If they could, that extra hitter could play any position. It'd be cool if were Mike Hessman or something.

Edgy DC Jul 13 2010 10:55 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

The going rate in this particular trade market can't be more than somebody else's bullpen detritus, can it? Sure, it can. The Mets got a third-tier prospect for Rey Sanchez. Maybe the Diabolical Rays, with two backup catchers flailing below the Mendoza line, would see some need there and give up a second-tier guy. It only takes one team to jump in. They're both genuine players and their type gets traded all the time. Detritus? Not unless you consider them detritus as well, and I don't. I've come to think that Jerry can't get by with eight or nine relievers, much less six. Bud didn't I say there'd be drama? Didn't I promise drama?

Ashie62 Jul 13 2010 10:57 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Sometimes you don't have to do anything.

Centerfield Jul 13 2010 12:55 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Can we trade Jason Bay for a power-hitting, middle of the lineup-type guy?

MFS62 Jul 14 2010 10:15 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

BLUE JAYS have acquired ESCOBAR and JO-JO REYES from Braves in exchange for ALEX GONZALEZ, TIM COLLINS & INF TYLER PASTRONICKY. (per MLBTrade Rumorscom) Escobar has tormented the Mets in the past. But Reyes is a so-so pitcher. Gonzalez has 15 homers so far this year. Collins is a high- strikeout reliever now playing in the Eastern League. Couldn't find anything on Pastronicky. Later

metirish Jul 14 2010 10:17 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Escobar who?

MFS62 Jul 14 2010 10:27 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

metirish wrote: Escobar who? This guy: http://ultimatemets.com/profile.php?PlayerCode=7359 Later

metirish Jul 14 2010 10:31 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

MFS62 wrote: Escobar who? This guy: http://ultimatemets.com/profile.php?PlayerCode=7359 Later That's a bit of a wow no? Cox didn't care from Escobar right?

MFS62 Jul 14 2010 10:40 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

According to what I've heard from Braves fans, Cox felt that Escobar had even more talent that he had shown; he didn't always have his head in the game. But what do Braves fans know? Later

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jul 14 2010 10:49 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

The Braves need more homa powa, but that's a pretty steep price to pay for it considering Escobar's pretty comparable but for the power to Gonzalez, and is 6 years younger. Jays also get a shitload of prospects for a 1-year contract guy.

Edgy DC Jul 14 2010 10:56 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

It's Cox's last run. Of course, it may well be Jerry's, as well.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 14 2010 11:18 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: The Braves need more homa powa, but that's a pretty steep price to pay for it considering Escobar's pretty comparable but for the power to Gonzalez, and is 6 years younger. Jays also get a shitload of prospects for a 1-year contract guy. Arguable improvement short-term, and (unless Yunel Escobar's NOT the player he's seemed to be during the several years previous) a terrible deal long-term for them. Really, it's like our trading Ike for Russ Branyan. (Only sub Branyan's OBP for Gonzalez's glove.) What's not to like? (Well, besides the inevitable game-tying WTF 2-run home run Nieve gives up to him in a future 7th inning.)

duan Jul 14 2010 03:22 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

he's the blue jay's rod barajas (funnily enough considering rod's last home) Career OBP of .300 and SLG of .400 - it's just that barajas has come back to earth earlier. This is very likely to be a bad move.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 14 2010 03:39 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

duan wrote: he's the blue jay's rod barajas (funnily enough considering rod's last home) Career OBP of .300 and SLG of .400 - it's just that barajas has come back to earth earlier. This is very likely to be a bad move. Was just thinking this. Not to mention that Escobar's defense-- that high-profile muff behind Tommy Hanson the other game aside-- is close to where Gonzalez's is right now.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jul 14 2010 06:56 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Word is Yunel Escobar was an unpopular guy in the clubhouse. Anywhoo, always takes cojones to make a challenge trade, the Braves made one around this time last year you might recall that didn't hurt nor help too much.

Centerfield Jul 26 2010 08:34 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Updating the Mets' offensive woes: OPS: 25th out of 30 teams. Runs: 23rd out of 30 teams.

Edgy DC Jul 26 2010 08:41 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

And that's with a set lineup. You folks really want Minaya to move Heaven and Earth for pitching?

TransMonk Jul 26 2010 08:47 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

How would Minaya be able to improve this offense at the deadline? I don't see it happening. At this point, even though nominal pitching is available, I would have no problem with him standing pat and saving any chips we have for 2011.

seawolf17 Jul 26 2010 08:56 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

TransMonk wrote: How would Minaya be able to improve this offense at the deadline? I don't see it happening. At this point, even though nominal pitching is available, I would have no problem with him standing pat and saving any chips we have for 2011. Hell, I'd rather dump guys and try to bring back even a middling prospect or two. Seems like those have been the guys who have given this team any oomph and have been any fun to watch.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 26 2010 09:04 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Given that there doesn't seem to be much of a present for which to mortgage the future, the only trades worth making at this point, it seems, are: 1) Sorta-challenge trades. (I'll take amiably-rehabbing Meche over amiably-taking-up roster space Ollie.) 2) Glut-for-glut. (Spare OF for spare reliever, e.g.) 3) Scalp the salary dumpers. (See: Haren-to-Anaheim. Only for real quality, though-- keep your Guillens. Of course, this one necessitates this team being able to take on a big salary.)

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jul 26 2010 09:18 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

TransMonk wrote: How would Minaya be able to improve this offense at the deadline? I don't see it happening. At this point, even though nominal pitching is available, I would have no problem with him standing pat and saving any chips we have for 2011. If anything he could add to that prospect pile by trading useless luxuries like K-Rod. A GM with stones would.

seawolf17 Jul 26 2010 09:31 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: TransMonk wrote: How would Minaya be able to improve this offense at the deadline? I don't see it happening. At this point, even though nominal pitching is available, I would have no problem with him standing pat and saving any chips we have for 2011. If anything he could add to that prospect pile by trading useless luxuries like K-Rod. A GM with stones would. Back up the truck, baby.

Ashie62 Jul 26 2010 10:07 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Sell. F Rodriguez Beltran Castillo Francoeur Pagan Pelfrey Yes, all of them Get the team turned around and maybe David Wright will resign.

Edgy DC Jul 26 2010 10:13 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Beltan has a full no-trade clause and is coming off an extended, chronic debilitating injury. He's unlikely to go anywhere, and if he does, we'll get pence on the pound. Rodriguez has a partial no-trade.

Benjamin Grimm Jul 26 2010 10:13 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Resign? Or re-sign?

seawolf17 Jul 26 2010 12:08 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I'd trade the top five, but not Pelfrey.

Ashie62 Jul 26 2010 01:04 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Edgy DC wrote: Beltan has a full no-trade clause and is coming off an extended, chronic debilitating injury. He's unlikely to go anywhere, and if he does, we'll get pence on the pound. Rodriguez has a partial no-trade. Hunter Pence? Seriously, I'd almost be willing to flat out give away Beltran and his salary. I know Beltran has been out a long time but he doesn't look terribly flexible.

Ashie62 Jul 26 2010 01:05 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

seawolf17 wrote: I'd trade the top five, but not Pelfrey. I put in Pelfrey in that the Mets can get something for him and eliminate one head case. Beyond that maybe Dillon Gee would work next season.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 27 2010 01:11 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Martino predicts a quiet deadline week for the Mets. Let's examine the possibilities, in order of likelihood: 1. Deadline passes without a significant Mets acquisition Two factors make this the most likely outcome: Cliff Lee was traded to the Texas Rangers, and the Mets' payroll situation is unclear. The front office viewed Lee as the one clear difference-maker available, and has never loved the remaining options. Also, reports have surfaced that the Mets are unable to add payroll during the season. While team sources vehemently deny this, the front office's flexibility remains fuzzy.

Edgy DC Jul 27 2010 01:20 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Two factors make this the most likely outcome Three if you count the "that's what happens as often as (more than?) not" factor. Also, reports have surfaced that the Mets are unable to add payroll during the season. That's part of factor two. Which reports are these anyhow? Really, everybody's payroll situation is unclear.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 27 2010 01:27 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Also, they loved Lee. How can their hearts heal from the trauma in time to ask Ted Lilly to prom (even though he's, like, so perfect for them, and they don't even know it)? THESE THINGS TAKE TIME. Yeah, he's not the only one who's taking these "financial problems" for granted among beat reporters, either, with absolutely no proof to be found. These must be some solid rumors.

Ceetar Jul 27 2010 01:29 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: Also, they loved Lee. How can their hearts heal from the trauma in time to ask Ted Lilly to prom (even though he's, like, so perfect for them, and they don't even know it)? THESE THINGS TAKE TIME. Yeah, he's not the only one who's taking these "financial problems" for granted among beat reporters, either, with absolutely no proof to be found. These must be some solid rumors. the actual evidence doesn't support the financial problems, but the whispered rumors do somehow?

Ashie62 Jul 27 2010 01:30 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

They are just that rumors. Could Fred or Jeff publically say they are are not in dire straits? Like holding or not holding a pile of commercial real estate in Queens that is 10 cents on the dollar. Would Selig call them and ask for the "real scoop" Danged if I know.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 27 2010 01:30 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

What evidence?

Benjamin Grimm Jul 27 2010 02:00 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I'm not sure what kind of trade we can reasonably expect them to make that will give them much of a shot at a postseason run. I don't think they'll be able to upgrade over Pagan. I don't think they're nearly ready to give up on Bay. And I don't think they're quire ready to give up on Beltran. (By this time next year that will be a different story.) They're not going to be able to add a catcher that will be much of an impact over what they have. They're not going to replace Wright or Reyes. I guess they could rent a slugging first baseman and shove Davis aside for a few months, but that seems awfully unlikely. Second base is the most likely spot, I guess. Getting a guy like Uggla (whose name was floated somewhere) would be an upgrade over Castillo, and Tejada doesn't appear to be ready. As for pitching, Oswalt appears too expensive, and the other guys (Lilly, for example) seem pointless. As for the bullpen, are the Mets one or two relievers from turning it all around? I don't think so. I don't want the Mets to trade valuable young players in a likely futile effort to salvage 2010. At this point, I'd rather see them cross their fingers and hope that August and September play out like June did, which is, at least in theory, possible.

Ceetar Jul 27 2010 02:18 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: What evidence? They supposedly had a couple of offers out, at the same time, on guys like Molina and Piniero, which had they accepted would've been a decent boost in payroll over what they have now. Hard to believe they were bluffing those guys.

metirish Jul 27 2010 02:50 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Lennon @lenno212: Takahashi's start pushed back to 31st - trade deadline. A move in works? #mets

Benjamin Grimm Jul 27 2010 02:55 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I don't think it means that at all. Because of the day off, they're able to pitch Santana (and Niese and Dickey) a day sooner. Takahashi, being the 5th guy*, gets slid back. (That kind of stuff should happen more often.) *Actually, Pelfrey has been the fifth best pitcher for a while now, but that's another story...

Ceetar Jul 27 2010 02:57 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

metirish wrote: Lennon @lenno212: Takahashi's start pushed back to 31st - trade deadline. A move in works? #mets I'm just being silly being annoyed at this right? I felt like the Mets should've come out with their best pitchers coming out of the break, not Takahashi. Santana (And to a lesser extend Pelfrey who was struggling) should've pitched on normal rest, not an extra two days. But now suddenly we've lost some and gotta move everyone else up? They could actually get by without pitching him again after Saturday until August 14th. During this nine game stretch with no breaks it means everyone twice, except Takahashi.

metsguyinmichigan Jul 27 2010 03:23 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Ceetar wrote: LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: What evidence? They supposedly had a couple of offers out, at the same time, on guys like Molina and Piniero, which had they accepted would've been a decent boost in payroll over what they have now. Hard to believe they were bluffing those guys. I believe none of the nonsense floated in the offseason about the Mets allegedly making offers to this guy or that. I think a lot of that is crap floated by agents to drive up the price on whatever teams are actually talking seriously.

Ashie62 Jul 27 2010 03:50 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

metsguyinmichigan wrote: Ceetar wrote: LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: What evidence? They supposedly had a couple of offers out, at the same time, on guys like Molina and Piniero, which had they accepted would've been a decent boost in payroll over what they have now. Hard to believe they were bluffing those guys. I believe none of the nonsense floated in the offseason about the Mets allegedly making offers to this guy or that. I think a lot of that is crap floated by agents to drive up the price on whatever teams are actually talking seriously. Thank you.

Ceetar Jul 27 2010 03:52 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010 Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Jul 27 2010 03:52 PM

metsguyinmichigan wrote: Ceetar wrote: LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: What evidence? They supposedly had a couple of offers out, at the same time, on guys like Molina and Piniero, which had they accepted would've been a decent boost in payroll over what they have now. Hard to believe they were bluffing those guys. I believe none of the nonsense floated in the offseason about the Mets allegedly making offers to this guy or that. I think a lot of that is crap floated by agents to drive up the price on whatever teams are actually talking seriously. Pineiro and Molina both confirmed that they had offers from the Mets, well after signing. either way, it's certainly more evidence than "someone told me that the Mets may not possibly be able to spend because of the possibility that they may have lost an undisclosed amount of money from Madoff"

Ashie62 Jul 27 2010 03:52 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

NY is a large market. The Wilpons' are behaving too passively for me to believe all is well. Or, maybe the times or hunger have passed them by. Cueing<< Mark Cuban.

Edgy DC Jul 27 2010 08:34 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Ceetar wrote: Ceetar wrote: LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: What evidence? They supposedly had a couple of offers out, at the same time, on guys like Molina and Piniero, which had they accepted would've been a decent boost in payroll over what they have now. Hard to believe they were bluffing those guys. I believe none of the nonsense floated in the offseason about the Mets allegedly making offers to this guy or that. I think a lot of that is crap floated by agents to drive up the price on whatever teams are actually talking seriously. Pineiro and Molina both confirmed that they had offers from the Mets, well after signing. either way, it's certainly more evidence than "someone told me that the Mets may not possibly be able to spend because of the possibility that they may have lost an undisclosed amount of money from Madoff" Really though, I don't think it is. Either the Mets evaluated what they thought the guy was worth and didn't offer him any more, or they evaluated what they thought the guy was worth and lowballed him because they were broke. Believe what you want to believe, but that's not evidence in my book. I'm perfectly happy they didn't up their bid on Benjie Molina.

Ceetar Jul 27 2010 08:36 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Edgy DC wrote: Ceetar wrote: Ceetar wrote: LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: What evidence? They supposedly had a couple of offers out, at the same time, on guys like Molina and Piniero, which had they accepted would've been a decent boost in payroll over what they have now. Hard to believe they were bluffing those guys. I believe none of the nonsense floated in the offseason about the Mets allegedly making offers to this guy or that. I think a lot of that is crap floated by agents to drive up the price on whatever teams are actually talking seriously. Pineiro and Molina both confirmed that they had offers from the Mets, well after signing. either way, it's certainly more evidence than "someone told me that the Mets may not possibly be able to spend because of the possibility that they may have lost an undisclosed amount of money from Madoff" Really though, I don't think it is. Either the Mets evaluated what they thought the guy was worth and didn't offer him any more, or they evaluated what they thought the guy was worth and lowballed him because they were broke. Believe what you want to believe, but that's not evidence in my book. I'm perfectly happy they didn't up their bid on Benjie Molina. As am I. But if both players were to sign the contracts that were offered, the Mets payroll would be higher than it is now. More than Lily higher for example. So to say the Mets cannot afford to add a player would seem to me to be not true.

Ceetar Jul 28 2010 07:42 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Steve Popper notes here that they will (http://blogs.northjersey.com/blogs/amaz ... um=twitter) sign a pitch on Saturday before the deadline. the catch is that it's a one-day contract to a 45 year old. He will be on the field for Sunday though.

metirish Jul 28 2010 07:44 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Ceetar wrote: Ceetar wrote: Ceetar wrote: LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: What evidence? They supposedly had a couple of offers out, at the same time, on guys like Molina and Piniero, which had they accepted would've been a decent boost in payroll over what they have now. Hard to believe they were bluffing those guys. I believe none of the nonsense floated in the offseason about the Mets allegedly making offers to this guy or that. I think a lot of that is crap floated by agents to drive up the price on whatever teams are actually talking seriously. Pineiro and Molina both confirmed that they had offers from the Mets, well after signing. either way, it's certainly more evidence than "someone told me that the Mets may not possibly be able to spend because of the possibility that they may have lost an undisclosed amount of money from Madoff" Really though, I don't think it is. Either the Mets evaluated what they thought the guy was worth and didn't offer him any more, or they evaluated what they thought the guy was worth and lowballed him because they were broke. Believe what you want to believe, but that's not evidence in my book. I'm perfectly happy they didn't up their bid on Benjie Molina. As am I. But if both players were to sign the contracts that were offered, the Mets payroll would be higher than it is now. More than Lily higher for example. So to say the Mets cannot afford to add a player would seem to me to be not true. All the quoting here makes my eyes sore.

MFS62 Jul 28 2010 08:20 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Ceetar wrote: Steve Popper notes here that they will (http://blogs.northjersey.com/blogs/amaz ... um=twitter) sign a pitch on Saturday before the deadline. the catch is that it's a one-day contract to a 45 year old. He will be on the field for Sunday though. If it is an official major league contract, even if its for one day, will they have to cut someone from the major leage 40 man roster to "make room"for him? Later

Ceetar Jul 28 2010 08:22 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

MFS62 wrote: Steve Popper notes here that they will (http://blogs.northjersey.com/blogs/amaz ... um=twitter) sign a pitch on Saturday before the deadline. the catch is that it's a one-day contract to a 45 year old. He will be on the field for Sunday though. If it is an official major league contract, even if its for one day, will they have to cut someone from the major leage 40 man roster to "make room"for him? Later No idea, but Tatis is an easy choice.

Willets Point Jul 28 2010 09:43 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

metirish wrote: Ceetar wrote: Ceetar wrote: Ceetar wrote: LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: What evidence? They supposedly had a couple of offers out, at the same time, on guys like Molina and Piniero, which had they accepted would've been a decent boost in payroll over what they have now. Hard to believe they were bluffing those guys. I believe none of the nonsense floated in the offseason about the Mets allegedly making offers to this guy or that. I think a lot of that is crap floated by agents to drive up the price on whatever teams are actually talking seriously. Pineiro and Molina both confirmed that they had offers from the Mets, well after signing. either way, it's certainly more evidence than "someone told me that the Mets may not possibly be able to spend because of the possibility that they may have lost an undisclosed amount of money from Madoff" Really though, I don't think it is. Either the Mets evaluated what they thought the guy was worth and didn't offer him any more, or they evaluated what they thought the guy was worth and lowballed him because they were broke. Believe what you want to believe, but that's not evidence in my book. I'm perfectly happy they didn't up their bid on Benjie Molina. As am I. But if both players were to sign the contracts that were offered, the Mets payroll would be higher than it is now. More than Lily higher for example. So to say the Mets cannot afford to add a player would seem to me to be not true. All the quoting here makes my eyes sore. Can I quote you on that?

metirish Jul 29 2010 06:36 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Oswalt to the Phillies just about done according to my various internet sources , and yes, you can quote me on that and this.

Zvon Jul 29 2010 10:53 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

metirish wrote: Oswalt to the Phillies just about done according to my various internet sources , and yes, you can quote me on that and this. Deal is just awaiting Oswalts okay. Roy, JUST SAY NO! ;)

metirish Jul 29 2010 11:16 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Heyman SI_JonHeyman #jays asked #mets for top OF prospect kirk nieuwenhuis plus another for scott downs. mets saying no on nieuwenhuis Good , wtf would we want Downs?

Edgy DC Jul 29 2010 11:20 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Eighth-inning guy. Duh.

metirish Jul 29 2010 11:21 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Edgy DC wrote: Eighth-inning guy. Duh. We need to know first if he feels comfortable in the eight inning, can he get up for it?

Zvon Jul 29 2010 12:57 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

metirish wrote: Edgy DC wrote: Eighth-inning guy. Duh. We need to know first if he feels comfortable in the eight inning, can he get up for it? There's always Viagra ™© Confirmation of this trade to Philly should be up before I hit send (ha, I recycle).

Ashie62 Jul 29 2010 01:24 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Lee Harvey Oswalt is a Phillie.

Edgy DC Jul 29 2010 01:28 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

R.A. Dickey is a Met.

smg58 Jul 29 2010 03:38 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Jorge Cantu rumored to be heading to Texas.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 29 2010 03:39 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Jorge Cantu is a Texas Ranger, for Venezuelan right-hander Omar Poveda and home-run-suppressing/strikeout-y AA closer Evan Reed.

smg58 Jul 29 2010 04:14 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Miguel Tejada is packing for San Diego.

Ashie62 Jul 29 2010 05:13 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

And San Diego steps up to the bar.. [url]http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010_swimsuit/models/bar-refaeli/10_bar-refaeli_5.html

DocTee Jul 29 2010 05:21 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Cantu is a FA at season's end and has stated-- multiple times--that no matter what he is returning to the Marlins next year. Of course they traded him.

Frayed Knot Jul 29 2010 10:19 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Matt Capps goes to the Twins for two prospects. Capps was acting as the Nats closer and will probably fill the same role for the Twinkies - or share it was other Nationals' cast-off Jon Rauch - a role that's been in flux since Joe Nathan's injury this spring. One of the prospects was highly touted catcher (at least defensively) Wilson Ramos who had a big debut when filling in for Joe Mauer earlier in the year. LHP Joe Testa is the other prospect -- don't know nuthin' about him. Drew Storen probably inherits the closer's job in Washington.

Frayed Knot Jul 30 2010 08:47 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Rangers continue to stock up on ... well, anything as they add Christian Guzman from the Nats for two minor league pitchers. Guzman has 10-5 rights so still has to approve (apparently 10-5 guys get a 24 hr window to change their minds) but is expected to do so. Minor League pitchers Ryan Tatusko and Tanner Roark to the Nationals. Both were with Double-A Frisco where Tatusko was 9-2 with a 2.97 ERA in 13 starts and 11 relief appearances while Roark was 10-5 with a 4.20 ERA in 17 starts and five relief appearances.

DocTee Jul 30 2010 08:59 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

The Gnats will be good before too long. Strasburg, Harper, Flores, and these two give them a sold foundation. Storen is good, too. Interesting to see if they can spin Dunn into some more pieces.

Frayed Knot Jul 30 2010 09:05 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

The guy they got for Capps is a catcher because Flores's rehab is not going well at all. Don't think he can be counted on for much of anything anytime soon. Harper too is at least 3 years away - and that's from being a 20 y/o rookie. Strasburg & Zimmerman are a good start of course, but that's two. Who knows what the team looks like when Harper is near ready.

Farmer Ted Jul 31 2010 10:54 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

The Mets allegedly offered up Ollie and Castillo to the Cubs for Zambrano. Cubs said no to the Castillo component.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 31 2010 10:57 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

And the Astros asked for Thole and Parnell for Myers. Which the Mets rightfully turned down. On the other side of the field today, at least a few more of the D'Backs on the bench may be jetlagged and/or familiar: Qualls for something unspecified to the Rays, Chris Snyder to the Pirates with a minor-league nonentity for Ryan Church, Bobby Crosby and D.J. Carrasco.

batmagadanleadoff Jul 31 2010 11:19 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

The Yankees would've eaten the Ollie Perez and Luis Castillo contracts long ago. Same with the Red Sox. And the Phillies. This assumes that those teams would've been dumb enough to you know what in the first place. Over here in Met land, we're supposed to be hoping and waiting for some kind of alchemy from the Wilpons and Minaya whereby they magically transform these two toxic lumps of untradeable shit into gold, as if there might be a team out there dumb enough to give us Albert Pujols for our fabulously overpaid dregs. The Phillies have two or three ace pitchers and our plan is to allow Jeff Francoeur to accumulate 300 plate appearances by the all star break and for the useless Ollie Perez to take up one of the 25 man roster spots.

Edgy DC Jul 31 2010 11:37 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I don't know what's the hurry to eat anything. Castillo's still their best option at second. I mean, to heck with the Yankees. You want 'em, take 'em.

Ashie62 Jul 31 2010 12:51 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Castillo is saleable on a selling team.

Ceetar Jul 31 2010 01:31 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Edgy DC wrote: I don't know what's the hurry to eat anything. Castillo's still their best option at second. I mean, to heck with the Yankees. You want 'em, take 'em. Pavano got a similar three year deal did he not? Was worthless the first two? and [crossout]had his contract eaten by the Yankees[/crossout] was the Opening Day starter in 2008.

seawolf17 Jul 31 2010 02:29 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I know in my head that this team isn't going anywhere, and making a trade just to make a trade is idiotic with this roster, but I sure do wish they cared about the product as much as we do sometimes. (sigh)

Frayed Knot Jul 31 2010 02:30 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Yanx are also paying (Off) Kei Igawa $4mil or so a year to pitch in the minors even though he hasn't been close to helping them anywhere and had the bulk of his money up front. Eating that deal would be a diet lunch compared to Luis's yet they somehow haven't been anxious to dine on it.

Ceetar Jul 31 2010 02:35 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Frayed Knot wrote: Yanx are also paying (Off) Kei Igawa $4mil or so a year to pitch in the minors even though he hasn't been close to helping them anywhere and had the bulk of his money up front. Eating that deal would be a diet lunch compared to Luis's yet they somehow haven't been anxious to dine on it. Guys like Kevin Brown and Jared Wright and Weaver and what not also wore out there welcome long before they left.

bmfc1 Jul 31 2010 02:38 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

seawolf17 wrote: I know in my head that this team isn't going anywhere, and making a trade just to make a trade is idiotic with this roster, but I sure do wish they cared about the product as much as we do sometimes. (sigh) I don't understand why they didn't take the Red Sox offer of Ramon Ramirez for Rod. That would have been a minor deal but helped in the 'pen at no cost (Rod won't be here next here and is only catching 3X/week). And I don't understand why our GM couldn't have gotten a AA starter with a 4 ERA for Francoeur.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jul 31 2010 02:40 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Braves wind up with Ankeil & Farnsworth from KC MFYs get Kerry Wood Dodgers trade for Theriot & Lilly (for Joyce DeWitt and a Tripper to be named)

Frayed Knot Jul 31 2010 02:53 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

So this gives the Yanx a set of LH & RH DHs (Berkman switch-hits but isn't so good vs LHP) plus a matched set of fat, hard-throwing, under-achieving, former golden-boy RH set-up men. On the other hand, now the gimpy Posada can't DH as much and no more off-days for the aging left side of the IF as their DH-ing days are gone too unless & until they clinch a playoff spot.

smg58 Jul 31 2010 02:58 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

If Berkman can get fully healthy in two months of DHing, that will be a great pickup for the Yankees. Unfortunately.

Ceetar Jul 31 2010 03:49 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

bmfc1 wrote: seawolf17 wrote: I know in my head that this team isn't going anywhere, and making a trade just to make a trade is idiotic with this roster, but I sure do wish they cared about the product as much as we do sometimes. (sigh) I don't understand why they didn't take the Red Sox offer of Ramon Ramirez for Rod. That would have been a minor deal but helped in the 'pen at no cost (Rod won't be here next here and is only catching 3X/week). And I don't understand why our GM couldn't have gotten a AA starter with a 4 ERA for Francoeur. Sox probably wanted more than Rod that wasn't reported. That'd be my guess. Would _YOU_ give up an AA starter with a 4ERA for Francoeur? You'd be better of playing that starter in RF.

bmfc1 Jul 31 2010 03:57 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Fair point Ceeter. Maybe a AA starter with a 5 ERA. BTW, all the Giants gave up for Ramirez is a AA pitcher with a 4.09 ERA: http://www.baseball-reference.com/minor ... rpen001dan But who says that the Mets aren't doing anything... Alyssa Milano is signing autographs tonight: http://twitpic.com/2agz38

Ceetar Jul 31 2010 03:59 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

bmfc1 wrote: Fair point Ceeter. Maybe a AA starter with a 5 ERA. BTW, all the Giants gave up for Ramirez is a AA pitcher with a 4.09 ERA: http://www.baseball-reference.com/minor ... rpen001dan But who says that the Mets aren't doing anything... Alyssa Milano is signing autographs tonight. grabbed a "prospect" for Jacobs. I'm sure they re-configure stuff via waivers. Michael Baron made a couple of points that do seem like they're basically treating anything this year as gravy though. So..i dunno.

batmagadanleadoff Jul 31 2010 05:02 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Edgy DC wrote: I don't know what's the hurry to eat anything. Castillo's still their best option at second. That's the point. Sadly.

batmagadanleadoff Jul 31 2010 05:17 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

seawolf17 wrote: I know in my head that this team isn't going anywhere, and making a trade just to make a trade is idiotic with this roster .... Agreed. But maybe they'd be going somewhere if the plan wasn't to stick with Jeff Fucking Francoeur for 300 plate appearances at what should be one of the most potent positions for generating offense. I guess that when the Wilpons and Minaya penciled Jason Bay in for 18 HR's by the all-star break, they decided that it would be okay to squander their right field production. Why go all out and try and field an all-solid outfield. And just in case anybody questioned the idea of playing Francoeur regularly, they'd plaster Frenchy's mug all over 3' x 6' subway posters during the pre-season. Because it's cheaper to market their right fielder as a terrific player than it is to actually go out and get a terrific right-fielder. Of course, in Frenchy's case, replacing him with an average right fielder would be like getting Ted Williams. The games in September count just as much as the ones in April do. And if you don't win in April, the games in September will be irrelevant.

G-Fafif Jul 31 2010 05:21 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Mets trade any possible impulse to send Davis, Niese, Tejada, Parnell packing for patience and realization there are no short-term gains to be made. Best trade of the day.

metirish Jul 31 2010 05:44 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

G-Fafif wrote: Mets trade any possible impulse to send Davis, Niese, Tejada, Parnell packing for patience and realization there are no short-term gains to be made. Best trade of the day. here , here

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jul 31 2010 06:36 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I'd have seen what Feliciano and Rodriguez woulda been worth.

RealityChuck Jul 31 2010 09:11 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

G-Fafif wrote: Mets trade any possible impulse to send Davis, Niese, Tejada, Parnell packing for patience and realization there are no short-term gains to be made. Best trade of the day. Second that. There was no one out there worth mortgaging the future for (and that includes a rental of Lee).

Edgy DC Jul 31 2010 09:20 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Ankiel and Farnsworth to the Braves is deliciious. They were already ideal Metemies without having them in the division. Hopefully the Braves and Phils gutted themselves muscling up for this stretch run.

Ashie62 Jul 31 2010 11:28 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

RealityChuck wrote: G-Fafif wrote: Mets trade any possible impulse to send Davis, Niese, Tejada, Parnell packing for patience and realization there are no short-term gains to be made. Best trade of the day. Second that. There was no one out there worth mortgaging the future for (and that includes a rental of Lee). They should have shopped Frankir, P Feliciano and Castillo

G-Fafif Jul 31 2010 11:52 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Ashie62 wrote: RealityChuck wrote: G-Fafif wrote: Mets trade any possible impulse to send Davis, Niese, Tejada, Parnell packing for patience and realization there are no short-term gains to be made. Best trade of the day. Second that. There was no one out there worth mortgaging the future for (and that includes a rental of Lee). They should have shopped Frankir, P Feliciano and Castillo We don't know that they didn't, or that the shoppees didn't retort by saying, nah, no thanks, but we'll take some of those younger, inexpensive, more mobile fellows off your hands. To get anything for Francoeur or Castillo, I imagine Omar Minaya would have to get Omar Minaya on the other end of the line.

Edgy DC Aug 01 2010 06:01 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

As for not trading Barajas, he probably went down before anything was consummated.

MFS62 Aug 01 2010 07:55 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

The rest of the season is going to be a war. And this is the Antebellum: Views of future victories, Scattered all around the floor. Reaching for the phone but, he can't do it any more. And I wonder if it’ll ever cross his mind. But he’s runnin’ out of time. It's a quarter after one, Omar didn’t get it done and I’m steaming now. The Mets won’t play this Fall, Omar dropped the ball, and I’m steaming now. Not sure if they can compete without that trade they needed now. Keep looking at the done deals, Wishing there was just one more. Omar might complete one, just like he has done before. And I wonder if it ever crossed his mind. It used to happen all the time. It's a quarter after one, I'm a little drunk, And I need one now. The Mets won’t play this Fall, Omar dropped the ball, and I’m steaming now. Not sure if they can compete without that trade they needed now. It's a quarter after one, Omar didn’t get it done,and I’m steaming now. The Mets won’t play this Fall, Omar dropped the ball, and I’m steaming now. Not sure if they can compete without that trade they needed now. They just need it now. They just need it now. Yes I'd rather hurt than feel nothing at all. Later

bmfc1 Aug 01 2010 08:17 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Loved that, MFS.

Edgy DC Aug 01 2010 10:35 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Really? Are you really that angry? Phooey on deadline deals and fool's gold they promise.

bmfc1 Aug 01 2010 10:48 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I'm not angry but disappointed because I think that they still have a slight shot this year (maybe it's less than 10% but it's greater than zero). If Omar doesn't think that they do (a logical position), then he should have been able to trade to improve the team next year (G-Fafif had a good point that perhaps the only GM that would have traded for Francoeur and Castillo is Omar, but if Jacobs can be dealt then who knows?) You're anti all trades, Edgy, citing them as "heartless." I want more than a .500 club and I'm sure that you do too but how do you do that w/o trades, FA and/or a great farm system. The Mets, by all accounts, don't have a great farm system so what then? I contend that a clever GM does that by trading overrated prospects and current expendables (e.g. Barajas). And that certainly should have been done w/o trading Thole, Ike, etc. (and it's nice to have untradables). Bottom line for me is that Omar did nothing to improve the team, either for '10 or '11.

Edgy DC Aug 01 2010 11:43 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

bmfc1 wrote: I'm not angry but disappointed I was really addressing the singer of the song, who claims to be steaming. I don't know anybody who really is, and don't really know why they'd be, except some folks maybe want to be. If Omar doesn't think that they do (a logical position), then he should have been able to trade to improve the team next year (G-Fafif had a good point that perhaps the only GM that would have traded for Francoeur and Castillo is Omar, but if Jacobs can be dealt then who knows?) I don't think the choice has to be between this year and next. I think you can play for now and work for the future. I want more than a .500 club and I'm sure that you do too but how do you do that w/o trades, FA and/or a great farm system. Maybe with two of the three. Maybe even with one of the three. The Mets, by all accounts, don't have a great farm system so what then? I don't think that's really true. I certainly think they have a very good farm system --- if not great --- certainly when you consider the broad balance of prospects. I contend that a clever GM does that by trading overrated prospects and current expendables (e.g. Barajas). Sure, but Barajas is hurt and that's that. Another more important way you build a farm system is by scouting broadly, signing aggressively, and developing carefully. Bottom line for me is that Omar did nothing to improve the team, either for '10 or '11. My feeling is that what a good GM does to improve his team is to grow his assets and cash them in on the field in Flushing, not dealing them away for Ted Lilly. I'm certain he's still in the market, but I really don't think restraint represents a lack of ability or judgment or talent or decisiveness or caring or understanding of the job or all sorts of things folks might want to ascribe to him. There are perhaps dozens of choices of Omar Minaya's I disagree with, but I think the judicious exercise of restraint is a wonderful quality, and I don't think we know nearly enough to think that his restraint wasn't judicious. Don't we all remember how the Mets were laughably out of the Johan Santana candidates because Minaya either hadn't develoed enough attractive prospects or wouldn't part with the few they had? They were languishing behind more high-profile teams. (Say it with me: Yankess, Red Sox, Phillies.) But they not only were (1) the winners there, but (2) by playing hardball got him for less than expected, and (3) signed him to a long-term deal. Here's to restraint. Sometimes it gets you a bargain, and other times it allows you to walk away with your chips stil in your pocket. Either way you win, I think. You don't really need to be against trading to think it still sometimes not the right time to trade. Besides, as far as i can tell, almost all trades Minaya makes are hated on the day they happen anyhow.

MFS62 Aug 01 2010 01:32 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Edgy DC wrote: Really? Are you really that angry? Not really. I felt the muse, chanelling all the people (and hosts) talking about the lack of a deal on WFAN. (And it will probably continue tomorrow as the weekday hosts resume their tedia.) Personally, I'm happy that Omar didn't mortgage the future for a brand name band-aid. But there was a lot of talk a few days ago about a Peresz + Castillo deal for Carlos Zambrano. Omar even discussed the possibility in a post-deadline interview. I would have been OK if he had pulled that off. Later

Ashie62 Aug 01 2010 01:55 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I am dissapointed that the Wilpons are distracted to the point where Sterling Mets is secondary.

Frayed Knot Aug 01 2010 02:51 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Ashie62 wrote: I am dissapointed that the Wilpons are distracted to the point where Sterling Mets is secondary. I don't even know what that means. Also not sure I want to. Lost in the deadline deals was the BoSox finally landing their catcher, sending several pieces to snag the mercurial Jason Saltalamacchia. No word whether the Rangers included numerous sew-on lower-case 'a's to go along. I guess 'Salty' gets to compete for the #1 catcher's job next season what with Victor Martinez headed for FA-gency after this year and Jason Varitek to the glue factory, but for now it gives them a third lousy defensive catcher. They also sent reliever Ramon Ramirez - the one rumored to be available for Barajas - to SF for a AA arm. Don't know anything about the guy - Dan Turpen - but his numbers don't look all that exciting and there's a big difference between a minor league reliever and the starting, or even platoon, catcher they supposedly wanted.

G-Fafif Aug 01 2010 04:45 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I hate the trading deadline. Not trades, just the stupid, artificial deadline. I wish the Mets had improved their club (don't ask me how -- I hate pretending to be a GM...I'll leave that to Omar Minaya) but I always wish the Mets would improve their club. I'm glad they didn't give away the farm or a farm product, but maybe if they had, it would've worked out. Call me when a move is made, not when somebody writes about a rumor. Also, let me know when Adam LaRoche is done detonating Citi Field.

batmagadanleadoff Aug 01 2010 06:51 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I'm not upset that the Mets kept their young 'uns. I'm annoyed that the team is essentially competing one man short, so long as Ollie Perez is on the 25 man roster. And I'm pissed that Jeff Francoeur got about 300 plate appearances by the all-star break. Because full-time-Frenchy should not be part of the plan from a mega metropolis market team that charges its fans about $200 for a good seat to one of its games. Francoeur equals bullshit. What the fuck were they thinking? That Francoeur was gonna have a Hank Aaron season because the team put him on a poster in a pre-season ad campaign?

John Cougar Lunchbucket Aug 01 2010 07:04 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Yeah I think in the end, relying as much as we did on Frenchy was a bad bet, although its conceivable that we coulda gotten away with less Frenchy had Beltran been available all year. Not to say this wasn't foreseeable (same with our getting so little offensively from the catchers). I think they've gotta release Ollie at this point. If they're afraid to use him and he can't help stop the bleeding when down by 9, who needs him. I'd actually have more patience with him were they actually utilizing him as a starter again; at least then we'd know exactly what it is we're throwing away.

Edgy DC Aug 01 2010 07:55 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Yeah, I would too, but if Manual can't find the opportunities or the interest to get him the sort of work that might or might not help rehab him, and he's hapless the few times he is set free, what's the point? Regarding Francoeur, I'm particuarly plussed about the volume of work he's gotten since the All Star break and since Bay got hurt. Come on. It's like Jerry's in that mode of, "I need to get him going if we're going to turn this thing around, so I'm going to keep trying to get him going even if it means driving this thing into the ground." Move on, you madman.

Gwreck Aug 01 2010 08:01 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Edgy DC wrote: Yeah, I would too, but if Manual can't find the opportunities or the interest to get him the sort of work that might or might not help rehab him, and he's hapless the few times he is set free, what's the point? I still can't figure out why there hasn't been any new movement on sending him to AAA. We know he has talent and they've invested the bucks; I don't understand why we can't get him down there to pitch regularly. I know he balked at the idea back in May but now that we've seen what's happened since his pseudo-DL stint is over, I think they need to take another shot at getting this done.

Edgy DC Aug 01 2010 08:06 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

I suspect that there either (a) is some energy being expended in that direction, or (b) will be within the next few hours. Either way, I think it's probably even money he isn't on the roster for the Braves series. Igarashi, Stoner, or Bruney --- YOU make the call.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Aug 01 2010 08:48 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: Yeah I think in the end, relying as much as we did on Frenchy was a bad bet, although its conceivable that we coulda gotten away with less Frenchy had Beltran been available all year. Within the realm of possibility? Sure. But not likely, I suppose. I'm thinking that Pagan would have had fewer at bats than Cora had that been the case. I think they've gotta release Ollie at this point. If they're afraid to use him and he can't help stop the bleeding when down by 9, who needs him. I'd actually have more patience with him were they actually utilizing him as a starter again; at least then we'd know exactly what it is we're throwing away. They booed him today as he took his warmup pitches. The atmosphere around him is beyond toxic-- it's a cancer cluster.

Edgy DC Aug 01 2010 08:59 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

That sucks. He didn't dig the 10-1 hole.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Aug 01 2010 09:03 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Also, his beard looked as far from laughable as I've ever seen it.

Ashie62 Aug 01 2010 09:13 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Frayed Knot wrote: Ashie62 wrote: I am dissapointed that the Wilpons are distracted to the point where Sterling Mets is secondary. I don't even know what that means. Also not sure I want to. Lost in the deadline deals was the BoSox finally landing their catcher, sending several pieces to snag the mercurial Jason Saltalamacchia. No word whether the Rangers included numerous sew-on lower-case 'a's to go along. I guess 'Salty' gets to compete for the #1 catcher's job next season what with Victor Martinez headed for FA-gency after this year and Jason Varitek to the glue factory, but for now it gives them a third lousy defensive catcher. They also sent reliever Ramon Ramirez - the one rumored to be available for Barajas - to SF for a AA arm. Don't know anything about the guy - Dan Turpen - but his numbers don't look all that exciting and there's a big difference between a minor league reliever and the starting, or even platoon, catcher they supposedly wanted. Simple, their other businesses, real estate, are in the crapper and attention to the Mets is secondary. Omar is not going to fire Jerry. Omar and Manuel can go down on the ship together if the Wilpons can them.

Ashie62 Aug 01 2010 09:22 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Wilpon sued over Madoff loses. Fred may have been a bagman by accident. [url]http://proxy.espn.go.com/blog/new-york/mets/post/_/id/7681/fred-wilpon-sued-over-madoff-losses

HahnSolo Aug 09 2010 03:34 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Wasn't sure if post-deadline non-Met deals merited its own thread, but the early-Aughts Cardinalization of the Reds continues, as Cincy picks up Jim Edmonds from the Brewers. Can Fernando Vina be far behind?

Edgy DC Aug 09 2010 05:28 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Great transformations in recent years. The Redicization of the Nationals. The Cardinalization of the Reds. The Red Sox Nationicization of the Dodgers. And some would say the Exposition of the Mets.

Vic Sage Aug 10 2010 09:27 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

i would certainly agree that Omar has EXPOSed the Mets... to perpetual mediocrity, a resentful fanbase and pundit ridicule.

MFS62 Aug 10 2010 09:58 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Mets fans have sensed the Evil Empiricism of the Yankees. Later

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Aug 18 2010 10:55 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Um, yay? (For as-yet-unnamed prospects, as per radio reports.) The Atlanta Braves are on the verge of acquiring first baseman Derrek Lee from the Chicago Cubs and hope to have the deal finalized by this afternoon, according to the Chicago Tribune. The only thing holding up the deal is Lee's back problems. He had an injection in the epidural of his lower back to ease discomfort from a bulging disk on Monday and missed the last two games. Lee, in the final year of his contract, has $3.4 million remaining on his salary. The slugger is hitting .251 with 16 homers, but has had a .939 OPS since the All-Star break. Glaus, whose body has shown fatigue, has struggled with a .575 OPS the last two months. He will not be an option at third base. Lee, who can veto a trade with his 10-and-5 rights, rejected a deal to the Los Angeles Angels in July. Yet, the Braves have been told that he would approve this deal.

metirish Aug 18 2010 10:58 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

They always do a trade like this right?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Aug 18 2010 11:01 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

Seems like they've swapped first basemen at the deadline three of the last four years, doesn't it?

Vic Sage Aug 18 2010 11:10 AM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

i'm not sure i get why they traded LaRoche in the first place. A good glove, some pop, decent and consistent production year after year. I'm hoping Ike Davis turns into him.

Nymr83 Aug 18 2010 04:04 PM Re: Trade Deadline 2010

the Braves lose Robinson Lopez, Tyrelle Harris, and Jeffrey Lorick. Lopez was 18th, a C+ prospect, in Sickel's pre-season Braves rankings. The others didnt make his list