The 25th Man

Interesting blurb this morning...

Yes, that was Mike Jacobs this morning, with a bag of catching equipment in front of his locker. Jacobs looks like he's the leading candidate for the final bench spot with the Mets, and the organization has asked him to catch on a limited basis in order to increase his versatility. So Jacobs, who caught in the minors with the Mets before being converted to first base in 2005, is planning to catch Tobi Stoner's bullpen session before today's Mets-Twins game. source  Daily News -  link

This is such a good idea.

It also speaks volumes to who the Mets management want to make the 25-man squad on opening day.

I had a wonderful conversation with Mike outside of Duffy's, after his SNY-TV appearance there... this is not the same kid that was a Met a few years ago. This is much bigger, much stronger "young man" who came to the Mets camp with only one goal, and that was to make this team and re-feast on NL East pitching.

Versatility is everything when you're talking the last few spots on the 25-man, and Jacobs will be the LOOGY if that's what it takes to stick around.  Frankly, I believe he's way ahead of Daniel Murphy at first base, but Murphy probably wins the opening day lineup simply out of loyalty.

Here's the problem.

As best as any of us can guess right now, Ike Davis is going to be the every day first baseman for the Mets in 2011, 2012, 2013... well, you get the picture.

In addition, Murphy is still trying to finsda position to play, which simply is not something you should be doing in the National League. You need to play defense here, as well as hit the ball.

Add to that the Mets stereotype for a first baseman... big, strong guy that hits 30 home runs... and Murphy doesn't fit the mold.

Next up... Chris Carter...  great bat, natural first baseman, also a passable outfielder... but, no major league experience, marginal defense, most of his offense from one side of the plate, and the locker room demeanor of the Unibomber.

Which gets us back to Jacobs...  big guy... strong guy...  has hit 30+ homers in the majors... young... bleeds Mets blue... passable defense at first... and can catch, allowing the Mets to carry only two full time catchers on the 25man...

Any questions?