Master Index of Archived Threads


Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy MD Jan 07 2011 10:14 PM

Bobby Freakin' Valentine, Stamford Citizen of the Year. Not to make too much of it, but what a photo, huh? I'm a good-looking guy --- in some ways moreso than him --- but if you point a camera at me, good luck in catching that kind of charm. He may have been a marginal big leaguer, but he bats 1.000 with photographers. The guy is freaking radiant. It's a talent and it's a little scary, and I think he may be an alien.

Rockin' Doc Jan 08 2011 08:12 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Whew! When I saw this thread name, I initially thought a prominent former Met had died. Glad to see that wasn't the case. Congratulations to Bobby V.

themetfairy Jan 08 2011 08:40 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: Bobby Freakin' Valentine, I'm a good-looking guy --- in some ways moreso than him - I've met you. I've met Bobby V. You, my friend, are no Bobby V! And congrats to Bobby on the honor :)

Edgy MD Jan 10 2011 03:04 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Jon Adkins is scouting for the Red Sox.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 10 2011 09:36 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

[url]http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/kris-benson-to-retire-011011 Kris Benson hangs 'em up. A marketing major at Clemson, Benson also is working to form his own business management company. “The beauty of my Mets contract was that I got some of that money deferred, so I’m getting paid for the next eight years,” Benson said. “I have the security to relax, take the time to develop this company, and do it right. “This is a chance for me to be at home with my kids and enjoy the family life, which I’m not used to. It’s something a lot of guys welcome once their career is over.”

batmagadanleadoff Jan 10 2011 10:30 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Kris Benson made $38 million through 2010 from MLB. http://www.baseball-reference.com/playe ... kr01.shtml What kind of business is he starting that he needs whatever deferred money is owed him from his Mets contract? Today's athletes might as well be from another planet compared to the rest of us.

G-Fafif Jan 10 2011 11:14 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I guess Kris Benson goes into the theoretical Hall of Fame wearing a Pirates cap.

batmagadanleadoff Jan 10 2011 11:19 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

From the Department of Days of Future Passed: Kris Benson's first career CG win came against the Mercury Mets.

Edgy MD Jan 11 2011 05:48 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

It was the year without a Santa Claus.

G-Fafif Jan 11 2011 07:19 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

In the offseason he was signed to that deferred payment contract of which he crows, I recall Michael Kay on ESPN howling that the Mets were ruining baseball's salary structure -- three years at $21 million for KRIS BENSON? Three weeks later, the MFYs went and cut the ribbon on the First National Bank of Carl Pavano. Clearly, that was the Mets' doing.

metirish Jan 14 2011 01:02 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Prosecutors won’t file charges against Dykstra Published: January 12, 2011 12:21 PM By The Associated Press Prosecutors in Los Angeles have declined to file criminal charges against retired center fielder Lenny Dykstra after his housekeeper accused him of sexual assault. Court documents filed last week indicate an apparent lack of evidence that the 41-year-old woman was forced to give Dykstra oral sex on Saturdays as she claims. Prosecutors say the woman, who worked for Dykstra for several weeks, didn’t report the accusations until after he failed to pay her $2,000 he owed her. The woman told investigators that she complied with Dykstra because she didn’t want to lose her job. Dykstra denied the allegations in an interview with the Los Angeles Times, claiming the woman attempted extortion to purchase drugs.

Edgy MD Jan 14 2011 01:09 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Richest part of the story was this comment from Lenny about why he shouldn't bother commenting. “If she was assaulted on Saturdays, then I’m a ... ballerina dancer on Sundays,” Dykstra said. “This is a maid. That’s not even worth commenting on, are you kidding me?” In other words, "Talk to me when I coerse a CPA into sex. They have some value to society."

MFS62 Jan 17 2011 09:59 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Pictures of two ex-Mets in this article. Another one mentioned, for whom one of the pictured was traded. http://www.thepostgame.com/blog/good-sp ... thren-need There may be others, but its late and I'm tired. Later

Edgy MD Jan 30 2011 10:01 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Sing for your Seaver.

Edgy MD Jan 31 2011 12:54 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

If you can't afford to buy a piece of the Mets, maybe you can put up the scratch to live the elusive Shawn Green Lifestyle.

Ceetar Jan 31 2011 01:01 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Section 518 notes Kurt Abbott is now a cop in Florida.

Edgy MD Feb 01 2011 10:53 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Go, Officer Kurt. Meanwhiles, Nolan Ryan has hired his old catcher Jerry Grote as the color analyst for the Round Rock Express.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Feb 01 2011 10:58 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Bobby Malek (x Met prospect) named hitting coach of the Cyclones.

metirish Feb 01 2011 11:48 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

From Twatter "Darryl Strawberry, who agreed to run up the Empire State Building today for cancer research called in sick"

themetfairy Feb 01 2011 11:55 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

metirish wrote: From Twatter "Darryl Strawberry, who agreed to run up the Empire State Building today for cancer research called in sick" He was afraid to race against me!

G-Fafif Feb 01 2011 12:34 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Nobody I know gets sick 25 times a year.

Edgy MD Feb 01 2011 12:40 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I'm going to clip and present that coupon for the free front-end alignment.

metirish Feb 01 2011 12:55 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: I'm going to clip and present that coupon for the free front-end alignment. Going on your idea I called the Chemical Financial Services 800 # and guess what it is now?....."this service costs between 69c and 2.99 a minute, if you are under 18 hang up now...... SULTRY VOICE....welcome to intimate connections......"....I hung up Great link btw Greg......where was the Vindicator newspaper?

Benjamin Grimm Feb 01 2011 01:06 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Youngstown, Ohio. I remember when Darryl made that crack about Wally being a "little redneck." The followup was that Backman didn't know what the word "redneck" meant. (This was in the pre-Jeff Foxworthy era, I suppose.)

metirish Feb 01 2011 01:07 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Strawberry was always mouthy?... why would Youngstown Ohio have a big write up om the Mets?

Edgy MD Feb 04 2011 08:24 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I just found out Ray F. Searage is the pitching coach for the Pirates. One more reason to go to Pittsburgh.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Feb 04 2011 08:36 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Got our tixx for 6/10 already. Section 115!

Edgy MD Feb 04 2011 08:37 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Which games again?

John Cougar Lunchbucket Feb 04 2011 08:54 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Mets in Pitts June 10, 11 & 12. We have tixx for the 10th and I might also go on Saturday.

Edgy MD Feb 04 2011 08:58 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Pittsboig, I knew. I just wanted to know which games you were gonna be at.

Edgy MD Feb 05 2011 02:50 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Ike Hampton, straight into Compton.

Fman99 Feb 07 2011 07:52 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Steve Phillips is now doing a morning show on Chris Russo's satellite radio channel, Mad Dog radio. He's already on his second cohost, and no, it's not this "beauty" Opie and Anthony were discussing it this morning.... apparently he's real surly around the XM offices and as they described it, has the permanent look on his face of being "the guy who knows that everyone else knows." Also described as being in "radio hell." Good stuff.

G-Fafif Feb 12 2011 10:49 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Jay Payton, the last 1998 Met still active in 2010, "officially retiring."

Edgy MD Feb 17 2011 07:51 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Gary Sheffield, Jr. officially joins this thread as he announces his retirement. Entering the player representation bidness.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Feb 17 2011 09:58 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Well, considering all the conviviality he's fostered throughout the league's front offices, that's only natural.

Frayed Knot Feb 17 2011 10:19 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: Entering the player representation bidness. What a great recommendation, hire a guy to represent you that fired his own agent in order to represent himself in contract negotiations (the FA deal he signed with the Yanx) only to later complain that he was hoodwinked into accepting a bad contract!!

Fman99 Feb 17 2011 07:43 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Cliff Floyd heard in my car, doing fantasy baseball analysis on XM's fantasy sports channel.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Feb 26 2011 08:31 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

So, like... this Charlie Sheen business is nuttier than a squirrel's living-room decor, right? Well, if I told you that an ex-Met had suddenly embroiled himself in all this, and that it wasn't Doc, who would you guess it was? Well, either you're right, or you've got this-guy-quality judgement: Sheen on Dykstra: Sheen: He's hardcore. And it's with a capital "C" (???????). There's a movie called Hardcore with George C. Scott. So, you can be hardcore and just be George Scott. You can be hardcore and then, you know, you get a lower case "c". My man is an upper case George C. Scott. Hardcore. Dykstra: I don't want him to stop, and Charlie knows me. I don't really tell him what he wants to hear, I just tell him the truth. Sheen: Which is why we love each other unconditionally and with violence. And you're one of the best dudes alive, Bro.

Rockin' Doc Feb 26 2011 09:37 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Unbelievable. The conversation between Sheen and Dykstra sounds like something from The Onion.

Fman99 Feb 27 2011 05:52 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Two and a half lunatics.

Edgy MD Mar 02 2011 02:45 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Dwight Gooden, celebrity rehab.

metsguyinmichigan Mar 02 2011 03:26 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

So, like... this Charlie Sheen business is nuttier than a squirrel's living-room decor, right? Well, if I told you that an ex-Met had suddenly embroiled himself in all this, and that it wasn't Doc, who would you guess it was? Well, either you're right, or you've got this-guy-quality judgement: Sheen on Dykstra: Sheen: He's hardcore. And it's with a capital "C" (???????). There's a movie called Hardcore with George C. Scott. So, you can be hardcore and just be George Scott. You can be hardcore and then, you know, you get a lower case "c". My man is an upper case George C. Scott. Hardcore. Dykstra: I don't want him to stop, and Charlie knows me. I don't really tell him what he wants to hear, I just tell him the truth. Sheen: Which is why we love each other unconditionally and with violence. And you're one of the best dudes alive, Bro. "Hardcore" was partially filmed in Grand Rapids and was set here. The director -- Paul Schrader, I think? -- is from the area, and when it was being shot told locals it was going to be called "The Pilgrim" and implied that it was some kind of crusading story. Well, if you've ever seen it, it's about a runaway who gets involved with the porn industry and the Scott character goes to find his daughter. Lots of nudity and other stuff. It's pretty creepy, actually. There was a big opening night celebration here, and, well, people kind of freaked out. Well before my time here, but people still talk about it.

Edgy MD Mar 04 2011 10:58 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Going to bat for Dwight Gooden, Jeff Pearlman.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Mar 04 2011 11:01 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: Going to bat for Dwight Gooden, Jeff Pearlman. what-evs

metirish Mar 04 2011 11:08 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: Edgy DC wrote: Going to bat for Dwight Gooden, Jeff Pearlman. what-evs Yeah really , Doc needs to make money I'm sure and this is another gig for him.

G-Fafif Mar 04 2011 11:14 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I admire someone who can write quickly and a lot -- not to mention well -- but Pearlman might want to not treat every idea that hits him as gold (no relation to Ann Gold). Also, Doc was 19 when he was a rookie, not 20 as is written in the article. I'd not pick that nit except a) teenage stardom is intrinsic to the Doc mythology and b) Jeff's speed to market tends to leave a lot of little mistakes in his wake. Thus, Tom Seaver being traded in 1978 and Billy Hatcher's home run hitting the right field pole in the first edition of TBGW.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Mar 04 2011 11:18 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

G-Fafif wrote: I admire someone who can write quickly and a lot -- not to mention well -- but Pearlman might want to not treat every idea that hits him as gold (no relation to Ann Gold). It's astounding how much poorly considered garbage he just pumps out there. (says the guy with a billion message board posts)

Edgy MD Mar 07 2011 05:57 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

The Montreal Gazette catches up with Mike Jorgenson.

Edgy MD Mar 07 2011 10:14 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

3 executives fired Major League Baseball has fired three executives as part of the restructuring that put Joe Torre in charge of baseball operations. The commissioner’s office said Monday that vice president of umpiring Mike Port, vice president of operations and administration Ed Burns and senior specialist of on-field operations Darryl Hamilton have been let go.

Edgy MD Mar 18 2011 06:13 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Dwight F. Bernardlooks back. Not for nuttin', but what an uneventful career.

Edgy MD Mar 22 2011 08:17 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

This goes back about a month, but former Mets have been drinking from the most boring of volcanos. Charlie Sheen Screens ‘Major League’ With Major Leaguers & Colin Farrell LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- With baseball’s spring training underway, what better way for some current and former baseball stars to get ready for the new season than…. a party at Charlie Sheen’s house. The rehabbing “Two and a Half Men” star had several superstars of America’s favorite pasttime — along with fellow Hollywood superstar Colin Farrell — over to his home on Friday for a viewing of Charlie’s own baseball classic, “Major League,” Access Hollywood has learned. Among the ball players who joined Charlie and Colin at the house were former players Lenny Dykstra, Eddie Murray, Todd Zeile and Kenny Lofton, as well as current San Francisco Giants star Brian “The Beard” Wilson. Charlie played baseball bad boy Ricky “Wild Thing” Vaughn in 1989’s “Major League,” a man who gets out of jail and quickly turns into a major league superstar. The film also starred Tom Berenger, Corbin Bernsen and Rene Russo. Earlier this month, in his uncensored interview on “The Dan Patrick Show,” Charlie named the aforementioned Lenny Dykstra and Todd Zeile as guys who often stop by his house to hang out. ”[Dykstra] makes you look boring,” show host Dan Patrick told Charlie of former baseball star — and notorious wild man — Lenny Dykstra. As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com, Charlie is expected to return to the set of “Two and a Half Men” on Feburary 28.

Frayed Knot Mar 22 2011 09:46 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Murray & Zeile sound somewhat out of place in that group. The rest I assume to be regulars at Chez Sheen.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Mar 22 2011 10:21 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Sounds just a little more nuts than David Strathairn's annual Opening Sunday "Eight Men Out for a Nice Brunch" event.

Willets Point Mar 24 2011 09:18 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

A portrait of Pedro Martinez will go on display at the National Portrait Gallery tomorrow. No word if there will be a small portrait of a dwarf next to Martinez's portrait. Edgy or Valadius should host an after-party.

G-Fafif Mar 24 2011 09:22 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

The installation will wow everybody at first, but then it will have to be taken out of circulation for repair. We'll get frequent updates on its rehabilitation, I'm sure.

Edgy MD Mar 24 2011 09:31 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

A press release from "New" Smithsonian stated that this acquisition made landing the subseqeunt Carlos Beltran portrait possible.

metirish Mar 24 2011 09:34 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Benjamin Grimm Mar 24 2011 09:41 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Any idea what that logo is on his right sleeve?

Willets Point Mar 24 2011 09:42 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Benjamin Grimm wrote: Any idea what that logo is on his right sleeve? The flag of the Dominican Republic.

Edgy MD Mar 24 2011 09:46 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Stands to be the most lovingly rendered portrayal of a resin bag in the entire National Portrait Gallery. And that's saying something.

metirish Mar 24 2011 09:47 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

From the notes I read it was rendered as neutral from MLB.

Vic Sage Mar 25 2011 10:42 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Fernando Nieve signed by the Astros to a minor league deal.

G-Fafif Mar 26 2011 01:54 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Unloved former Mets closer Braden Looper hangs 'em up.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Mar 26 2011 01:59 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Mike Hampton and his Colorado-educated chillun going with him.

metirish Mar 26 2011 01:59 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Saw a tweet that Mike Hampton announced his retirement too......I didn't weep.

G-Fafif Mar 26 2011 02:14 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

With Jay Payton retired, that leaves Melvin Mora, who endured a car accident this spring, as the last of the 2000 Mets still standing. What hurts most these days for the 39-year-old third baseman is his unproductive spring at the plate, where he was batting .167 after his first 10 games. "He's an old man, what do you expect?" Diamondbacks catcher Henry Blanco joked. "I might be old," Mora told Blanco before Sunday's game against the Oakland A's at Phoenix Municipal Stadium, "but you're older." Melvin Mora = Old Man. What does that make the rest of us? Bruce Chen and Mora are the last 2001 Mets going. Mora may be the only 1999 Met on an Opening Day roster pending the status of Jason Isringhausen; Octavio Dotel is slated for the Blue Jays DL.

Met Hunter Mar 26 2011 05:04 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Some hangers on in the independent Atlantic League this season so far: Prentice Redman-Bridgeport Bluefish Tim Hamulack, Matt Watson-Lancaster Barnstormers Bill Pulsipher, Jason Anderson-Somerset Patriots

Edgy MD Mar 26 2011 06:45 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Not that it matters much but the idea had been to distinguish the stories of players still active (in this thread) from those in retirement (in this thread here).

G-Fafif Apr 12 2011 10:14 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Doug Flynn was on the 'FAN this morning, ostensibly to promote a community service project the Mets Alumni (sponsored by Citi) is doing. Didn't hear the whole interview, but Doug took umbrage at being referred to as good field/no hit. When it was pointed out his lifetime batting average was .238, he countered, "It was a hard .238." Laughing while he said it, of course. When FAN gets around to posting it on their site, listen. Told a good story about Chuck Cottier telling him not to be lazy with his feet around the bag the spring after he won the Gold Glove, the point being Cottier approached him delicately, and this was 1981 and that was Doug Flynn -- and it's much tougher these days for coaches to get through to much better-paid players. My favorite .238 hitter ever.

Edgy MD Apr 12 2011 02:54 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Carlos Dos packin' it in. Those 473 homers. That used to mean something.

Edgy MD Apr 12 2011 03:01 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I was trying to remember this --- Tom Verducci declaring him the most robbed guy of the steroids era, almost perfectly setting him up for a downfall.

G-Fafif Apr 12 2011 05:15 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Discovering Carlos Delgado has retired from playing baseball is like finding out Gerald Ford won't be running for president next year.

MFS62 Apr 12 2011 10:05 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Robin Ventura was on with Joe and Evan on WFAN mid-day. He is currently working with/ promoting a CapitalOne program to provide money to College athletes in many sports so they can go to graduate school. Later

The Second Spitter Apr 13 2011 12:45 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Carlos Dos packin' it in. Those 473 homers. That used to mean something. I know I'm in the minority amongst my CPF brethren, but I'd put him in the Hall. Here are my arguments: 1. 473 HR (30th All-time) 2. Never-linked to the hot sauce and career stats show no abnormal spikes. 3. The person who deprived him of 2003 AL MVP is a self-confessed drug cheat. 4. Career SLG 28th all-time 5. Career OPS 39th all-time 6. Career RBI 49th all-time 7. Community service record.

Edgy MD Apr 13 2011 06:09 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

It's hard to figure out what the Hall of Fame will look like in 10 years, but I'd have no problem with him in it under any circumstances. The problem is that anybody who played when he played is "linked."

The Second Spitter Apr 13 2011 07:09 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: The problem is that anybody who played when he played is "linked." Which made their willingness to exonerate Alomar, who at the very least had a strong rumor attached to him, all the more perplexing. (And I'm not talking about the rumor pertaining to his sexuality/HIV status).

TransMonk Apr 13 2011 07:11 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

G-Fafif wrote: Discovering Carlos Delgado has retired from playing baseball is like finding out Gerald Ford won't be running for president next year. I actually find myself with a reason to use the initialization LOL. Funny!

G-Fafif Apr 13 2011 07:14 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Though we've often been treated to veteran stars on the definite downside of great careers, I've enjoyed in recent years getting a glimpse (or more) of what made them great to begin with (when it wasn't painfully obvious we were overpaying for past achievements on somebody else's behalf): Pedro, Gl@v!ne, Sheffield and certainly Delgado in that category. "Oh, so that's what the big deal was all those years in Toronto."

Edgy MD Apr 13 2011 07:20 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Which made their willingness to exonerate Alomar, who at the very least had a strong rumor attached to him, all the more perplexing. (And I'm not talking about the rumor pertaining to his sexuality/HIV status). No doubt. I just think they're going to move gingerly, even with guys who are thus far in the clear, because if you let one in, and then he gets outed, it sets enough of a precedent to weaken the case against the guys outed before or during their candidacies. If one is looking for "abnormal spikes," it wouldn't be too far fetched to latch onto the MVP performance he put on the last two thirds of 2008 after performing below the mean for the previous season and a third. That run made Jerry Manuel. And if you further want to build a circumstantial case against him, it's a tempting time for him to start a cycle, wrestling with injuries keeping him from staying in shape, and seeing his career tapering off just as he's within reach of a legacy-solidifying 500 homers. He has an awsome run but it all ends in 2009 with further damage to connective tissue. He enters a two-plus-year cycle of rehab and re-injury, desperately trying to get back on the field, even though he's had a good career and the world has moved on. I'm not saying, but it could all make a voter nervous on the trigger.

metirish Apr 13 2011 07:55 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

A quite dignity is one way I would describe Delgado, although there was the Randolph business and all that was implied there. Who will ever forget that day he had against our more illustrious cross town rivals?

batmagadanleadoff Apr 13 2011 03:10 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

If you wanted to gauge Los Mets, the 2006-08 Mets that simultaneously delighted and disheartened Mets fans, then look no farther than Carlos Delgado. Forget all that mumbo jumbo about when Reyes did this or that, the Mets did this or that. As Delgado went, so went the Mets. Carlos was The Man. When he was on, he could carry the team all by himself. Other than Piazza, I can't think of any Met more powerful than Delgado. (Bonus points for openly dissing Wee Willie Small Balls.)

John Cougar Lunchbucket Apr 13 2011 03:19 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I forget the deets but Marty Noble described Delgado intercepting Reyes on his way to do some outwardly fan-friendly or organizational-friendly thing, and reminding him he didn't have to do that stuff. And so he didn't. Noble didn't believe Delgado had the right kind of influence as a leader. I think Delgado must've really hated Willie.

G-Fafif Apr 13 2011 03:20 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

batmagadanleadoff wrote: When he was on, he could carry the team all by himself. Other than Piazza, I can't think of any Met more powerful than Delgado. For only a few stretches -- Kingman in 1976, Strawberry in 1990, Piazza in 2000 -- the Mets have had that "put the team on my back" guy. Never did I see anybody fill that role the way Delgado did for approximately half a season in 2008. It was thrilling to watch.

G-Fafif Apr 13 2011 03:22 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: I forget the deets but Marty Noble described Delgado intercepting Reyes on his way to do some outwardly fan-friendly or organizational-friendly thing, and reminding him he didn't have to do that stuff. And so he didn't. Noble didn't believe Delgado had the right kind of influence as a leader. I think Delgado must've really hated Willie. He wasn't thrilled with his turn off/on the caring either. Not that he didn't think he didn't try, just that he seemed to make a conscious decision not to care more than he had to.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Apr 15 2011 02:42 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

This comes as a complete and utter shock. LOS ANGELES – Lenny Dykstra, who played outfield for the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies baseball clubs and later gained notoriety as a stock picker, has been charged with bankruptcy fraud for allegedly selling items from his $18 million mansion in Ventura County. Lenny Kyle Dykstra, 48, who is currently residing in Encino, was named in a one-count criminal complaint filed Wednesday that accuses Dykstra of one count of embezzling from a bankruptcy estate. The federal criminal case against Dykstra was announced today after he was taken into custody last night at his residence by local authorities on unrelated charges. The federal charges stem from a bankruptcy case that Dykstra filed on July 7, 2009. The criminal case filed in United States District Court alleges that Dykstra removed, destroyed and sold property that was part of the bankruptcy estate without the permission of the bankruptcy trustee. According to court documents, after Dykstra filed for bankruptcy, he sold many items belonging to the bankruptcy estate for cash, as well as destroying and hiding other items. An attorney hired by the bankruptcy trustee estimates that Dykstra stole and destroyed more than $400,000 worth of property in the estate, according to the criminal complaint.

batmagadanleadoff Apr 21 2011 09:35 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

When he was on, he could carry the team all by himself. Other than Piazza, I can't think of any Met more powerful than Delgado. For only a few stretches -- ... Piazza in 2000 -- the Mets have had that "put the team on my back" guy. Never did I see anybody fill that role the way Delgado did for approximately half a season in 2008. It was thrilling to watch. Brook Fordyce, and only Brook Fordyce, is why I own this baseball card:

Edgy MD Apr 21 2011 09:43 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

G-Fafif wrote: batmagadanleadoff wrote: When he was on, he could carry the team all by himself. Other than Piazza, I can't think of any Met more powerful than Delgado. For only a few stretches -- Kingman in 1976, Strawberry in 1990, Piazza in 2000 -- the Mets have had that "put the team on my back" guy. Never did I see anybody fill that role the way Delgado did for approximately half a season in 2008. It was thrilling to watch. Lee Mazzilli, July 1980. Not a half season, but up to that time, I didn't know a Met could have a month like that.

Benjamin Grimm Apr 21 2011 09:44 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I would have guessed it was because of Donnie Leshnock. I'm trying to remember, who was it who shared a Rookie 3B card with Mike Schmidt and Ron Cey back in 1972? I'm thinking his name was... John Hilton?

batmagadanleadoff Apr 21 2011 09:52 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: G-Fafif wrote: batmagadanleadoff wrote: When he was on, he could carry the team all by himself. Other than Piazza, I can't think of any Met more powerful than Delgado. For only a few stretches -- Kingman in 1976, Strawberry in 1990, Piazza in 2000 -- the Mets have had that "put the team on my back" guy. Never did I see anybody fill that role the way Delgado did for approximately half a season in 2008. It was thrilling to watch. Lee Mazzilli, July 1980. Not a half season, but up to that time, I didn't know a Met could have a month like that. Good one. Maz was en fuego that summer. What about Hendu, July 1977? Not as awesome as Maz80, but as magical a month as any Met ever had.

Edgy MD Apr 21 2011 09:54 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Damn. An All-Star, a Hall-of-Famer, and Ernie Douglas in between them.

Edgy MD Apr 21 2011 01:38 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Brian McRae, DUI.

metsguyinmichigan Apr 21 2011 01:40 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

What did McRae do, jump out of the barber's chair, into his car and into a cop?

Edgy MD Apr 21 2011 01:45 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I imagine there was a visit to McSorley's somewhere in that sequence.

Benjamin Grimm Apr 21 2011 02:04 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

The placement of that shadow makes me think of the Red Ghost:

Benjamin Grimm Apr 26 2011 08:20 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

TAMPA, Fla. (AP)—Former Major League outfielder Carl Everett is in a Tampa jail on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and tampering with a witness. Jail records indicate the 39-year-old Everett was arrested Monday night at his suburban Tampa home. He was booked into the Hillsborough County Jail shortly after midnight and is being held without bond. Details of the arrest were not immediately available. Everett’s attorney, Clinton Paris, did not immediately return a call for comment. Everett played Major League Baseball for 14 seasons. He began with the Florida Marlins and was traded to the New York Mets. He also played with the Houston Astros, Boston Red Sox, Texas Rangers, Chicago White Sox, Montreal Expos and Seattle Mariners. Everett is from Tampa and attended Hillsborough High School.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Apr 26 2011 08:31 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

More details. The trouble started at 7:30 p.m., according to the report. Everett was arguing with his wife. Court records show he is married to Linda Everett. The argument was escalated by Everett, when he pointed a silver handgun his wife's head and pressed it against the side of her head, placing her in fear for her life, according to the report. Linda Everett then tried to call 911, on her iPhone. Everett grabbed it and broke it. His wife tried to call 911 from another phone, but Everett grabbed that and broke it too, according to the report. The Everetts have been married 18 years and have three children together, according to the report. Billy Wagner thinks this is a... let's just say he's not surprised.

themetfairy Apr 26 2011 10:46 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Why is the color of the handgun a relevant detail?

Benjamin Grimm Apr 26 2011 10:58 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Because it's silver. Means it can be used to kill vampires and werewolves.

themetfairy Apr 26 2011 11:05 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Good point! I guess we should take it easy on Carl if Linda was distracting him from his vampire/werewolf killing duties....

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Apr 26 2011 11:22 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Well, he sure as hell wasn't shooting any dinosaurs. Because they're imaginary, not because they're extinct.

Gwreck Apr 26 2011 11:53 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: I think Delgado must've really hated Willie. I wonder if that was an acquired hatred or if it played into Delgado's rebuffing the Mets' contract offer in the '04-'05 offseason.

batmagadanleadoff Apr 26 2011 12:11 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Gwreck wrote: John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: I think Delgado must've really hated Willie. I wonder if that was an acquired hatred or if it played into Delgado's rebuffing the Mets' contract offer in the '04-'05 offseason. Randolph's strategy of reducing the #2 slot in the lineup to designated bunter and out-maker probably undermined Delgado's production more than any other Met.

Edgy MD May 10 2011 01:16 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Dykstra wasn't able to post bail. Meanwhile, he's loading up to go full Sheen on us.

metirish May 10 2011 01:38 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: Dykstra wasn't able to post bail. Meanwhile, he's loading up to go full Sheen on us. I'd hate to be his attorney , guy never shuts up and in that bit talked a lot but said nothing.

Edgy MD May 10 2011 01:51 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Plus he's broke, out of credit, and running out of friends.

Met Hunter May 14 2011 05:18 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Endy Chavez recalled by the Texas Rangers.

seawolf17 Jun 02 2011 01:47 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Rico to Notre Dame in Fairfield to coach... football.

Fman99 Jun 02 2011 07:15 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Lastings Milledge toiling away for the White Sox' triple AAA affiliate based out of Charlotte, and witnessed here in Syracuse this past weekend.

Edgy MD Jun 06 2011 02:00 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Yes, it can get worse for Lenny Dykstra.

G-Fafif Jun 15 2011 12:34 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Mark Simon catches up with his favorite Met ever, Neil Allen.

Edgy MD Jul 01 2011 07:47 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Cleon Jones, grumpy old man.

MFS62 Jul 01 2011 08:27 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: Cleon Jones, grumpy old man. I didn't get the grumpness, just a guy saying things aren't (done) like they used to be. A common thought. Later

Edgy MD Jul 01 2011 08:39 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

You see, I'm referencing a comedy sketch.

MFS62 Jul 01 2011 08:43 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: You see, I'm referencing a comedy sketch. Got it. Just sensitive to those "old men" comments, y'know. :) Later

G-Fafif Jul 02 2011 07:59 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Fine profile of former Mets manager, coach and catcher Yogi Berra by Joe Posnanski in the annual "Where Are They Now?" issue of Sports Illustrated. Just as worthwhile is Austin Murphy's visit 40 years later with the team of his youth, the 1971 champion Pirates, including Richie Hebner, from before we had reason to hate Richie Hebner other than for being a Met opponent (when, quite frankly, I didn't have much of an opinion of him one way or the other).

Edgy MD Jul 18 2011 11:09 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Nolan Ryan, hospitalized, believed to be heart-related. Shawn Estes, calling games for the Reno Aces. Mike Piazza, swinging play dates with an undernourished woman.

TransMonk Jul 18 2011 11:15 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Wait...Tom Cruise and Mike Piazza are friends?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 18 2011 11:20 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

That's not uncreepy.

Frayed Knot Jul 18 2011 12:06 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Does that mean Mike's a Scientologist now? btw, there's nothing worse than tabloids that refer to the kids of celebs by their first name only - and by extension the idea that that's all they have to do knowing that their readers are so tuned into these mini-celebs that first names are all that's required.

Willets Point Jul 18 2011 12:24 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Do any of those photos of Katie Holmes' ass also include Mike Piazza?

Edgy MD Jul 18 2011 12:46 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Frayed Knot wrote: Does that mean Mike's a Scientologist now? btw, there's nothing worse than tabloids that refer to the kids of celebs by their first name only - and by extension the idea that that's all they have to do knowing that their readers are so tuned into these mini-celebs that first names are all that's required. Well, there's probably something worse.

G-Fafif Jul 19 2011 12:01 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Blue Jays to retire their first number, for Roberto Alomar. Mets wisely decide to keep 12 in circulation.

TransMonk Jul 19 2011 12:09 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

G-Fafif wrote: Blue Jays to retire their first number, for Roberto Alomar. Mets wisely decide to keep 12 in circulation. John Stearns will be happy.

Edgy MD Jul 29 2011 09:03 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

HoJo meeting and greeting at Strawberry's in Douglaston tonight.

G-Fafif Jul 29 2011 04:45 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Rico Brogna, baseball columnist for wfan.com. Good fit.

G-Fafif Jul 29 2011 04:51 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Marlon Anderson, Tony Tarasco and Brian Daubach show up in this overly flattering SI profile of Bryce Harper, though not because Harper is projected as an Anderson-Tarasco-Daubach type. Oh, and Tarasco's still high: Harper, a travel-baseball phenom out of Las Vegas at 10, an SI cover boy at 16 and a $9.9 million signee at 17, is the most well-known minor leaguer since Michael Jordan. But Jordan was a novelty, not a prospect. Harper is the most scrutinized prospect since.... "Jackie Robinson," says Tony Tarasco, a former major leaguer and a Nationals minor league coordinator who has become Harper's player-development Yoda. "You have to go back to Jackie Robinson to find anybody who goes through this much scrutiny. It wasn't like this for [Stephen] Strasburg. Wasn't like this for Alex Rodriguez." Jackie Robinson? Surely Doug Harris, the Nationals' director of player development, with 21 years in pro ball as a player, scout and executive, would find a different comparable for Harper. Independent of Tarasco, Harris offered, "This is really unfair and it's totally different, but if I can make a comparison to one guy that has been scrutinized like this, it would be Jackie Robinson. And it's unfair because it was a different standard. He was under a microscope in an era when we didn't have Internet, didn't have cellphones. "Now, Jackie Robinson had his life threatened. I'm not comparing Bryce to that. But as far as nonstop scrutiny? Absolutely. Day to day."

PiggiesTomatoes Jul 29 2011 06:55 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Aaron Hielman signs a minor league deal with the Fillies. I hadn't realized the the Diamondbacks had dropped him.

Edgy MD Jul 29 2011 10:22 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

If I had to compare Bryce Harper's situation to one guy's, I would say Ted Williams, landing his bomber in Korea when it was on fire. But that's just me.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 30 2011 07:47 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Robinson was speedier, and had less power than Harper. To me, he's more of a Rosa Parks-of-guys-who-wear-wrestling-makeup-on-a-ballfield.

Edgy MD Jul 30 2011 09:55 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I guess I'm making too much of one incident, but if he's such a precious commodity, and there's such an historical level of scrutiny on this guy, why is he being placed in the emotional and developmental care of Tony Tarasco?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jul 30 2011 09:59 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Who better to keep him relaxed and loose? Yeah, I don't know.

Edgy MD Jul 30 2011 10:15 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Again, I don't want to make too much of it. Tarasco seems like a decent guy and a committed baseball lifer, and as I mentioned in another thread, there's few enough African-Americans applying these days for that job (though I gather he's mixed-race). Maybe his position was that, if Corey was going to deal with the pressure by getting high, the least he could do is stick by him and act as a wingman. (Keith told of how he'd deal with a deep slump a handful of times in his career by getting roaring drunk, but not until he was sure he had a wingman looking out for him.) Anyhow, at least he got Corey to some medical care, instead of doing the paranoiac stoner thing of "Oh, God, oh, God! Get it gogether, man! Come on, Mark, snap out of it! We are so screwed! You gotta stop Mark, or we are so screwed! Where's my phone? WHERE'S MY PHONE?! Dude, it's Tony. I'm with this rookie pitcher and we are so STOKED but now he's sort of gone all still and shit and there's foam coming out of his mouth. I KNOW DUDE, I KNOW! Yeah, he's got a pulse, but his eyes aren't focused and he's not responding and shit! Where did you get this weed? NO, I'M NOT BLAMING YOU BUT... hello? hello? Oh shit! Oh, SHIT!! Mark, man, it's Tony! THINK, TONY, THINK! Ok, you totallly weren't here. You go around the corner, you place an anonymous call. WHERE THE FUCK AM I EVEN AT MAN!? WHY DOES THIS ALWAYS HAPPEN TO ME?? YOU'RE SUCH A FUCKUP, TONY! And GODDAM YOU, JEFFREY MAIER! If I ever get out of this I'M GOING TO KILL THAT KID! Oh, man, snap out of it, Mark. Oh, Jeez, I just pissed myself..."

Farmer Ted Aug 15 2011 08:17 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Lo Duca doing color for the East Little League regional on ESPN. Not bad, he's nailing these Italian names from Paramus.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Aug 15 2011 08:24 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I was wondering the other day for some reason whatever became of LoDuca. Of all the Mitchell Report guys his story was about as pathetic as they came (caught red-handed paying by personal check; subject of speculation by team executives that he'd take them if traded, etc etc). Insert obligatory joke about how he'd prefer to be doing commentary for 13-year-old girls tournament here.

Met Hunter Aug 15 2011 11:15 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Check the handicapping at Saratoga section of the NY Post and you'll see Paul's opinion every day.

Met Hunter Aug 17 2011 02:14 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Don't know if any of you care or not, but I've located and met up with 1962 Met Choo Choo Coleman. He should be making a few appearances in the NY area in the coming months, which I'm sure will make some of his former teammates very happy. He's been out of the spotlight some 45 years now.

metsguyinmichigan Aug 17 2011 02:18 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Met Hunter wrote: Don't know if any of you care or not, but I've located and met up with 1962 Met Choo Choo Coleman. He should be making a few appearances in the NY area in the coming months, which I'm sure will make some of his former teammates very happy. He's been out of the spotlight some 45 years now. That's cool, Bub!

metirish Aug 17 2011 02:18 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

"@AdamRubinESPN: On this date in 1973, Willie Mays hits his final major league homer, No. 660, for #Mets off Cincinnati's Don Gullett."

seawolf17 Aug 17 2011 02:28 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

metsguyinmichigan wrote: Met Hunter wrote: Don't know if any of you care or not, but I've located and met up with 1962 Met Choo Choo Coleman. He should be making a few appearances in the NY area in the coming months, which I'm sure will make some of his former teammates very happy. He's been out of the spotlight some 45 years now. That's cool, Bub! /raises eyebrow /gets card ready for autographing

G-Fafif Aug 23 2011 03:26 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Learn to pitch the Brent Strom way.

G-Fafif Aug 25 2011 01:25 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Doc all over ESPN today. Mark Simon asks the real Mets fan questions here.

DocTee Aug 25 2011 07:57 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Lenny Dykstra, arrested for indecent exposure. Just when you think he hits rock bottom... [url]http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2011/08/25/national/a181641D39.DTL&tsp=1

G-Fafif Aug 25 2011 08:01 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

DocTee wrote: Lenny Dykstra, arrested for indecent exposure. Just when you think he hits rock bottom... [url]http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2011/08/25/national/a181641D39.DTL&tsp=1 Former New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Lenny Dykstra has been charged in Los Angeles for allegedly exposing himself to women he met on Craigslist. Craig Swan must be disgusted his list is being used for such unsavory purposes.

MFS62 Aug 25 2011 09:42 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Oops. I keep getting these threads mixed up. Moved. Later

seawolf17 Aug 26 2011 06:31 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

El Duque retired last week. http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/sports/128036413.html

John Cougar Lunchbucket Aug 26 2011 07:29 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Strawberries on special: [url]http://supermarketnews.com/news/strawberry_fooddesert_0825/

Edgy MD Aug 26 2011 07:38 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Good for Darryl. Hell, great fro Darryl. But that headline confuses, o Supermarket News. You've got to read deeply to understand that "Darryl Strawberry Helps Open Food Desert Store" means he's helping provide a desert oasis and not actually growing the desert or something.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Sep 08 2011 11:43 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

He'd change his ways, but he's no big fan of evolution: hooray for "Hot" Carl Everett. Everett, 40, was taken into custody just before 5:30 a.m. on Sept. 2 at a 5,800 square-foot home he and his wife own in the 7200 block of Majestic Manor in Colleyville. Details are not known but according to a police report, the retired Florida resident is charged with assaulting and injuring a family member. According to published reports, he was arrested in April for allegedly pointing a gun at his wife's head in Florida.

Edgy MD Oct 22 2011 12:49 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Name those '86ers. http://www.examiner.com/baseball-histor ... ll-picture What might have made me drop down that money to attend would have been Bruce Berenyi.

Edgy MD Oct 22 2011 08:48 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Jim Duquette, fighting for his daughter's life.

Edgy MD Oct 23 2011 08:46 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Davey Johnson, Ray Knight, Keith Hernandez. Rafael Santana, Kevin Mitchell. OK, front row: Mookie, Backman, Johnson, Some Guy Who's Hit His Limit, Davey Johnson with his arms around a madman, um Coachy McCoachalot, Kevin Mitchell, Bud Harrelson, and, uh, Bob Ojeda on a bad day. Back row, I got Mr. I'll-Hang-Onto-My-Jacket-I-Can't-Stay-Long-Do-You-Have-the-Check in the blue shirt, Kevin Elster in white, two guys I don't know, one of them possibly dead, Santana, Don't Know, Strawberry, A well-tanned pate, possibly belonging to Ron Darling, Ray Knight, the shoulder of somebody in green, possibly Keith Hernandez, Mr. Squinty (Buckner?), Cyclops from the X-Men, Berenyi behind Harrelson, Ed Lynch, Some Guy, Rick Aguilera, and Some Other Guy. How'd I do?

Frayed Knot Oct 23 2011 08:57 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Your 'Ojeda on a bad day' is, of course, Sid

Edgy MD Oct 23 2011 09:14 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

If this doesn't break your heart, you're not human.

Frayed Knot Oct 23 2011 09:19 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Not a flattering picture for sure. Sisk did show up during one of the telecasts this season with 'Guys' and, while he certainly looked aging and heavy, he did present a bit better than what that photo shows.

Met Hunter Oct 23 2011 10:32 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

The guy next to Hojo is Terry Leach, next to Davey is Mel. Mr. IHOMJICSLDYHTC looks like Danny Heep. Next to Elster is Lyons and Sisk. Guy behind Straw looks like Berenyi. Behind Knight is Aggie. Cyclops is Buckner. Guy behind Buddy may be Mags. Two guys at far right are John Mitchell and John Gibbons. Guy left of Mitchell may be Rick Anderson.

Edgy MD Oct 24 2011 05:44 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Great job. And I guess the green shoulder is Hernandez. Big fart for me on Fernandez. It's funny how you see what you're looking for. I read that Ojeda was on the guest list, but I couldn't make any of those other faces out as him, so I just stared at Sid until I convinced myself it was Bob. I hadn't seen Sid's name anywhere, so I never thought of him. The turnout for this reunion was better in many ways than the one at Shea in 2006. The big absences were Doc and Dykstra and Carter, but those last two probably couldn't be helped, or shouldn't be. (Orosco was there, right?) A little Teufel love would've been nice , too. But I love that he included peripheral contributors. Wish they had Stanley Jefferson, Rick Anderson, and Randy Myers.

Edgy MD Oct 24 2011 06:28 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

And, oh shit, Mazzilli's too big a big shot to come out to Douglaston?

MFS62 Oct 24 2011 06:45 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: And, oh shit, Mazzilli's too big a big shot to come out to Douglaston? I guess no umpire called it to his attention. Later

John Cougar Lunchbucket Oct 24 2011 07:28 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

[youtube:6vk0tbu5]S8XlTjf41kg[/youtube:6vk0tbu5]

Edgy MD Oct 24 2011 08:34 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

And here's big D: http://www.livestream.com/brewerfoundat ... m=ui-thumb

seawolf17 Oct 24 2011 09:43 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Old Barry Lyons looks like my dad. Or like Future Me.

Edgy MD Oct 24 2011 09:55 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Barry Lyons in 1986: 10 plate appearances, one walk, and no hits. Improbably though, he had two RBI, one on an groundout to the pitcher and one on a groundout to third.

Met Hunter Oct 24 2011 10:05 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Green shoulder isn't Keith. Hernandez is standing just to our right of Ray Knight.

Edgy MD Oct 24 2011 10:08 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Yeah, sorry. That squint and the glare threw me off. Not to mention the gray. He also looks a little slimmer. I think it's time to admit I don't know what anybody looks like.

seawolf17 Oct 24 2011 10:52 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: Barry Lyons in 1986: 10 plate appearances, one walk, and no hits. Improbably though, he had two RBI, one on an groundout to the pitcher and one on a groundout to third. And as such, the most confusing of the many Mets featured in Topps' "Fan Favorites" sets from 2003-2005.

Edgy MD Oct 24 2011 01:26 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Jon Matlack, joining the Astros as a minor league coach.

SteveJRogers Oct 24 2011 03:15 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Barry Lyons in 1986: 10 plate appearances, one walk, and no hits. Improbably though, he had two RBI, one on an groundout to the pitcher and one on a groundout to third. And as such, the most confusing of the many Mets featured in Topps' "Fan Favorites" sets from 2003-2005. I'm shocked Billy Beane didn't make the cut on those. He actually did as a Twin using the 1986 design on one of those years.

Edgy MD Oct 25 2011 09:48 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Cal Forever: The Afterlife of the Ryans and the Koonces.

Edgy MD Nov 05 2011 01:26 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Dwight Gooden, pitching apples... and the George Foreman Grill! Check out those chompers! Former Met “Doc Gooden” To Pitch Again In New York… Pitch Produce At The New York Produce Show And Conference Jim Prevor’s Perishable Pundit, November 4, 2011 We suppose we could write a lengthy and thoughtful essay on the importance of the produce industry aligning with athletics and physical activity so as to fight obesity and position the industry as a force for good. And we could explain how our understanding of this dynamic led us to invite ‘Doc Gooden’to The New York Produce Show and Conference. After all, we already explained that we invited Charles Oakley because of his cooking skills in a piece we called New York Knicks’ Charles Oakley Will Be Cooking Up A Storm At New York Produce Show And Conference. How about if, instead, we just say that everyone works hard at The New York Produce Show and Conference —learning, networking, selling, buying, building relationships etc., and life should consist of not just meat, but also a little ice cream. So, along with Apio, which will be hosting him at its booth, we invited Dwight Gooden to come and add some fun: Dwight Gooden Major League Baseball Pitcher Q: Produce industry attendees are excited you will be coming to The New York Produce Show and Conference in November. Your amazing career in baseball and record-setting athletic achievements exhilarated and inspired fans. At the same time, you’ve faced many challenges and persevered through much adversity battling drug and alcohol addictions. Could you share your mission toward healthy living, getting in shape, and eating well? How does produce fit into your diet? How strong is the relationship between nutritious eating, athletic performance and overall well-being? A: Very important, not just for athletes. Eating nutritiously helps the body recover, stay balanced, and create energy. That’s one way I prepared myself for baseball. It was put on us at an early age to eat fresh fruits and vegetables. When I was growing up, I was told, “You have to eat your vegetables and then we’ll get to dessert.” It’s very important to establish good eating habits at a young age. When you are older, those habits have already been formed. Q: Did you ever feel resentful that dessert was dependent on finishing your vegetables? Produce industry executives and parents alike grapple with the right approach in enticing increased produce consumption… A: It’s important not to force it upon them, but to add vegetables into the meal to make it taste better, or start with fruit, which kids love. Eating produce is just as important for adults. When I was playing baseball, I was in the heat all the time and concerned about getting dehydrated. I was always grabbing oranges and bananas for the nutrients and to stay hydrated and energized. Early on, even when I was in little league and then on the travel teams, we always had oranges and other fresh produce at the practices and games to refuel, and we’d drink lots of water. Now kids want sugary sports drinks and salty, processed snacks. They get mixed messaging. Q: In what ways? A: Much of that comes from the television and food manufacturers. A lot of kids watching professional sports on TV want to identify with the athletes. They see their sports heroes drinking Gatorade or other power drinks that have so much sugar in them, but eating fruit is most important. With my own kids, I teach them to drink water. The kids have their backpacks on heading out the door and say, “Dad, I need my Gatorade, and I say you need fruit.” I try to pass down the lessons instilled in me as a child about getting enough fresh produce in the diet. Q: How old are your kids? I imagine they have inherited your athletic talents… A: I have all age kids, seven all together! There are five from my first marriage and two from my wife now -- a 19-month-old daughter, and six-year-old son. I live in New Jersey now and the weather is not always optimal for outdoor sports. One of my sons plays flag football, a son in Tampa from my first marriage plays baseball and football, and another plays basketball. The teams supply them with Gatorade, but I tell them, make sure you eat fruit. They have Gatorade, that’s fine, but have a banana. Q: Do you cook healthy meals at home? A: My wife is the cook. Thank God for the George Foreman Grill! I can grill up all kinds of vegetables, throw on a piece of chicken, and it’s easy. My wife works out all the time and is into running, so she is always preparing healthy dishes filled with produce. I’m from the South, so I like all the fried food. My wife grills stuff. When we first got married, I had to negotiate with her about fried food. My first wife would cook whatever, but my wife now is into working out her body and understands how eating well is connected. Q: It sounds like you are surrounded by a supportive environment. How important is that to staying on track? A: The positive environment helps me a lot in my quest toward healthy living and in overcoming my personal struggles with addiction. When the environment is good and you’re backed by a supportive team, if you’re craving ice cream, or induced by other temptations, it’s so helpful to know you’re not in this alone. When up in age, the doctor says you have to change, and it can be very tough unless you have support. It’s challenging for kids these days. They go to school and there’s a truck parked outside with greasy food. That’s why you have to start them on a path of healthy eating when they’re young. My 19-month-old will go for vegetables first, when others her age go for fatty foods. We started by putting fresh vegetables and fruit in her baby food. My wife would make sure she was eating nutritiously. Q: Hopefully, when she’s older, outside influences won’t derail your efforts… A: Now with computers, video games and texting, kids don’t want to go outside and they don’t understand the importance exercise and eating right plays in their health and well-being. My 16-year-old son has a lot of athletic ability and would do whatever the coach asked him to do, but he wouldn’t go out and run or take a bike ride on his own. Bike riding gets the heart rate up. Diet is essential but it must be combined with exercise. Athletes are in the limelight where they can make a difference. Athletes should step up more than anyone to encourage kids to eat healthy, ride a bike, throw a ball around with friends. Once kids see the guys they look up to talking about it, they will become motivated. We have to hit them with this message young, even if they are not into sports. I can’t emphasize enough the value of starting these kids on the right track at a young age. Q: As you’ve taken steps to lead a healthy, balanced life, are you looking to help others do the same? I remember reading about your plans to open a baseball academy back in 2009. Did that ever come to fruition? A: I’ve had a dream to open a baseball academy for a long time, and it is a dream that is going to come true. I’m working hard to open the Dwight Gooden Baseball Academy and Sports Complex, which will also have a nutrition center and other family support services. Obviously, it’s about baseball lessons and sports training, but it’s also about healthy living and a balanced life. I’ll be able to share my life experiences with drugs and alcohol, the life turns and challenges kids go through. In Florida where I grew up, weather allowed us to do outdoor sports all year round. But up here in the north, there are many months you can’t do that, so we’ve created indoor sports facilities for kids ranging from 8 to 18. I’ll be doing the pitching lessons; we’ll have softball training for girls, four batting cages, four pitching mounds, and an indoor track. If a brother or sister is not into baseball, we have a full basketball court, a half-size soccer field, and downstairs a video arcade and a golf area for putting, and other activities to keep them from being bored. At first, we thought we would build it in downtown Newark but now the plan is that the complex will be just outside of Rockland County, New York. Q: Could you tell produce attendees more about the nutrition center and support services? Produce industry executives might want to get involved and donate produce or help your cause in other ways… A: That would be great. Produce will be in the spotlight. There will be a health bar where kids can get nutritious shakes with all kinds of fresh produce. And we want to provide information about eating right and teach young kids ways to make healthy meals. We have to start there. My goal because of the struggles I went through is to show kids there’s a better way. I want to give them strategies to handle life challenges so they stay on track and don’t lose their way. I want to talk to kids about enjoying life to the fullest and, most important, creating balance. Come get an autograph from Dwight Gooden in Americas Hall II!

Edgy MD Nov 07 2011 06:58 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

New Mariner minor league hitting coordinator: New Mariner minor league catching coordinator:

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 07 2011 08:37 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Look how far out in front he is there. Ball probably went 35 feet. Cmon Stoins.

G-Fafif Nov 07 2011 09:01 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Pete Walker, he who won the "best" Game 144 in Mets history, is Blue Jays' new bullpen coach.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 09 2011 01:49 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Not so dynamic interview with Arizona real estate superstar Jack Heidemann. If I had one of those yellow-and-green Heidemann cards I had a hundred. [url]http://borosny.blogspot.com/2011/11/jack-heidemann-on-baseball-cards.html [url]http://realtyexecutives.com/jackheidemann/

Edgy MD Nov 10 2011 01:45 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

New Padres development staff announced, and it's sick with Mets: Managing the AA San Antonio Missions: Managing the High A Lake Elsinore Storm is Shawn Wooten, who spent his last professional playing days as New Orleans Zeph in the Mets system, but I can't find a card. His hitting coach with the High A Lake Elsinore Storm: (The current price on that card is "$0.01" at E-Bay.) Managing the Low-A Ft. Wayne TinCaps: And his pitching coach with the Low-A Ft. Wayne TinCaps: Coaching for rookie-ball Peoria: Pitching coach for the DSL Padres:

seawolf17 Nov 10 2011 01:56 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Pitching coach for the DSL Padres: "No, no, kids. You need to hang the curveball like THIS."

G-Fafif Nov 10 2011 02:02 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Pitching coach for the DSL Padres: And obviously "DSL" is short for "Dismal".

Edgy MD Nov 11 2011 11:38 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

New Angel GM Jerry DiPoto and his angelic wife Tamie, with daughters Taylor, left, and Jordan, and son Jonah, at right Taylor's first word: "Nolan" Jonah's middle name: "Seaver"

DocTee Nov 11 2011 11:56 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Big Fleshy Rod Barajas: one year, $4 million from Pittsburgh.

G-Fafif Nov 11 2011 02:16 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Shawn Green may be bringing his washed-up mojo to Team Israel.

G-Fafif Nov 11 2011 02:28 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Orel Hershiser would like to buy a team...the one for whom he pitched when we didn't particularly care for him.

G-Fafif Nov 11 2011 02:29 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Sandy Alomar the younger and Mike Maddux on Cubs' short list.

themetfairy Nov 11 2011 02:59 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

G-Fafif wrote: Shawn Green may be bringing his washed-up mojo to Team Israel. Very cool!

G-Fafif Nov 11 2011 03:12 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

themetfairy wrote: G-Fafif wrote: Shawn Green may be bringing his washed-up mojo to Team Israel. Very cool! Probably a lot of overlap there on the favorite clubhouse snack.

Edgy MD Dec 01 2011 07:27 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Wall Street Journal looks at the wrap story. (Fixed!)

Fman99 Dec 01 2011 09:08 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Wall Street Journal looks at the [url-http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204012004577072890725228440.html?mod=googlenews_wsj]wrap story. Aw you suck at this!

Edgy MD Dec 02 2011 10:06 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

New Padres development staff announced, and it's sick with Mets: Managing the AA San Antonio Missions: Managing the High A Lake Elsinore Storm is Shawn Wooten, who spent his last professional playing days as New Orleans Zeph in the Mets system, but I can't find a card. His hitting coach with the High A Lake Elsinore Storm: (The current price on that card is "$0.01" at E-Bay.) Managing the Low-A Ft. Wayne TinCaps: And his pitching coach with the Low-A Ft. Wayne TinCaps: Coaching for rookie-ball Peoria: Pitching coach for the DSL Padres: Also joining the Pads.

Fman99 Dec 02 2011 10:26 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Watch Omar now, working in the SD front office, he loves the Latino players so much, he'll probably change the team name to some Spanish word or something.

Edgy MD Dec 02 2011 11:00 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Adam Rubin tweets: "Whatever salary Omar Minaya gets from the #Padres will be deducted from the roughly $1.1 million #Mets owe ex-GM in 2012." Is he serious? That's wonderful!

Met Hunter Dec 04 2011 08:47 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Two other exMet transactions. Both scouting related. The Orioles named Gary Rajsich their Director of Amateur Scouting. The Mets named Kevin Roberson their scout in the Arizona-New Mexico-Colorado-Nevada region.

Edgy MD Dec 13 2011 07:01 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

George Altman looks back.

MFS62 Dec 13 2011 07:44 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: George Altman looks back. I didn't know all of that, but I did name a disease after him. It attacks relative young all-star or high ceiling caliber players who come to the Mets and regress. I named it "George Altman Syndrome" because he was the first. Later

G-Fafif Dec 21 2011 09:34 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Tim Bogar, whom Bobby Valentine had on his bench at the tail end of 1996, will be Bobby Valentine's bench coach in 2012.

Edgy MD Dec 21 2011 09:35 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Tim Bogar, reportedly set to become Bobby Valentine's bench coach in Boston. OE: Tripp F. Keister is the new manager of the Gulf Coast Nats. The new manager of the Gulf Coast Mets is, of course, nobody.

G-Fafif Dec 21 2011 09:36 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

That's what she said.

Met Hunter Dec 21 2011 10:21 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Word is the Red Sox will name Bob McClure their pitching coach. Bobby V., Bogar, Magadan, McClure. Nice staff. Gary Thurman was named first base coach of the Miami Marlins as well.

Edgy MD Dec 22 2011 04:22 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

That's 20 years worth of Mets there.

Fman99 Dec 22 2011 06:37 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Cardinals rewarding Carlos Beltran with two years and $26 million, as well as a full no trade clause, sez the ESPN. Good for him. Seems like a lot of bread for a guy who couldn't stay on the field in 2009-2010.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 22 2011 10:02 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

To be fair, that's less overall money than Cuddyer or Willingham are getting, and he's not just a better bat than those two, but a significant defensive upgrade for the Cards in right.

G-Fafif Dec 22 2011 10:41 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Kickback Stadium opens on April 4 with the Beltrans at the Reyeses. Winners get whoever comes out of the '78 Reds-'91 Dodgers bracket.

Rockin' Doc Dec 23 2011 08:40 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I always liked Beltran and feel he was never fully appreciated by the Mets fan base. If he can remain healthy, he is likely to be more productive than anyone patrolling the outfield in a Mets uniform next season. I wish him well in St. Louis, except when playing against the Mets.

TransMonk Dec 23 2011 08:48 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I'll miss Beltran more than I'll miss Reyes.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 23 2011 08:52 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

No beat writer could resist taking the Wainwright angle this morning. Pathetic.

metirish Dec 23 2011 09:04 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Rockin' Doc wrote: I always liked Beltran and feel he was never fully appreciated by the Mets fan base. If he can remain healthy, he is likely to be more productive than anyone patrolling the outfield in a Mets uniform next season. I wish him well in St. Louis, except when playing against the Mets. never fully appreciated , unappreciated , unloved , you see all those things mentioned about Beltran, but I wonder how true it all is?, he got a tough going over in his first year and more as a Met like a lot of players. Is too much made of all that? Plus , is he really on a "HOF path"?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 23 2011 09:50 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Closing in on 400 home runs, and toting 162-game averages of .283/.361/.496, 28 HR/27 steals/100+ RBI and runs... which merely marks him as one of the more productive-- say, top 20-- offensive players of the last 15 or so years, maybe. Except none of the others played center field at all, much less at an elite, game-changing level (Griffey isn't at this level during the last decade-plus, since his all-world prime preceded the period we're talking about; besides, he's a surefire HOFer). Besides that, he's put up 293 steals and counting... as the most efficient basestealer in history. Put it this way, he's got a better case than Bernie Fucking Williams (and probably Andre Dawson and Jim Rice), and only a slightly worse case than Tim Raines.

Frayed Knot Dec 23 2011 10:00 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: No beat writer could resist taking the Wainwright angle this morning. Pathetic. Woke up in the middle of the night last night so I flicked on the radio to tide me over only to hear FAN's 3AM-ish update leading with that angle of the Beltran signing as if saying that it has become his 'Buckner' moment, one that will wash out everything else in his career both before and after that point. Hell, it isn't even his most notable post-season vs St Louis highlight! I think Cardinal fans just might remember his near single-handed destruction of them in the 2004 playoffs instead, a mere 10 hits including 4 HRs and 12 runs scored in 24 ABs

seawolf17 Dec 23 2011 11:19 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: Closing in on 400 home runs, and toting 162-game averages of .283/.361/.496, 28 HR/27 steals/100+ RBI and runs... which merely marks him as one of the more productive-- say, top 20-- offensive players of the last 15 or so years, maybe. Except none of the others played center field at all, much less at an elite, game-changing level (Griffey isn't at this level during the last decade-plus, since his all-world prime preceded the period we're talking about; besides, he's a surefire HOFer). Besides that, he's put up 293 steals and counting... as the most efficient basestealer in history. Put it this way, he's got a better case than Bernie Fucking Williams (and probably Andre Dawson and Jim Rice), and only a slightly worse case than Tim Raines. I've never thought of him as HOF material, but it's not a stretch. Certainly a better case than Bernie already, even with a few years left, and Dawson is his B-R closest comparison through age 34.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 23 2011 11:27 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Beltran is in, the 05 series plus the round numbers will get him there, and he deserves it.

batmagadanleadoff Dec 23 2011 11:34 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

So what do you think is the better deal from the team's perspective: Beltran 2 yrs at $13M a season* or Reyes 6 yrs at $17.67M a season* *average season per entire contract

Edgy MD Dec 23 2011 12:10 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

In general, for team X, the Beltran deal. Personally, for my team, Reyes. I guess.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 23 2011 03:01 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I mean, it's six years.

Met Hunter Dec 23 2011 08:11 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Met Hunter wrote: Word is the Red Sox will name Bob McClure their pitching coach. Bobby V., Bogar, Magadan, McClure. Nice staff. Gary Thurman was named first base coach of the Miami Marlins as well. Add Alex Ochoa to Bobby V's staff.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 27 2011 08:38 PM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

From an HOF-vote-explained column: ="Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe"]Burnitz would have fit in with the cast of "Jackass." As a practical joke, he would empty out bottles of shampoo in the showers on road trips after the last game of the series and pee in them.

So that's why his plate approach and defense were generally so piss-poor... he left it all in the hotel. (And how droll! And how hilarious for the hotel cleaners! He sure took them high-pocket-y sorts down a peg!)

Edgy MD Dec 30 2011 07:13 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Melvin Mora debuts in this thread with a memories essay from Rob Neyer.

MFS62 Dec 30 2011 07:51 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

Edgy DC wrote: Melvin Mora debuts in this thread with a memories essay from Rob Neyer. How can you have a "memories of Melvin Mora" story and not mention that he is the father of quintuplets? Later

Edgy MD Dec 30 2011 07:53 AM Re: Rico Forever: The Afterlife of Mets, 2011

I assume because it's his personal story and he doesn't personally know the quints. It's not like that hasn't been written about a thousand times.