Mets 2013 Awards

The Mets season is over and they have little to show for the season that just took place. Their best pitcher is in surgery limbo, almost every player's job is on shaky footing and there will be no playoffs or accolades to be handed out to any of them. But here at Mack's Mets Report, it seems necessary to give credit or ire where it is due. In the next few weeks, I'll be giving out some awards to the people in the organization that made this year memorable for reasons both good and awful. Without further ado, Part 1 of the 2013 Mets Awards!

The MVP- Matt Harvey

This is obvious and we'll get it out of the way. Matt Harvey brought excitement to Citi Field in so many ways this year. Near no-hitters, tons of strikeouts and his All Star appearance as the NL starting pitcher. He didn't complete the season, but no one on this team did more at such a high level with so much pressure heaped on him. We demanded as fans that Matt Harvey entertain us every fifth day and he rarely disappointed. Hopefully everything with his UCL works out for the best.

The LVP- Ruben Tejada

*Audible Gasps* A shocker already! Ike Davis is free from the LVP award? We'll get to destroying Ike Davis' name later. Ruben Tejada deserves this award for so many reasons. When this year began, I'm sure most fans had some high hopes for Ruben. His defense, decent hitting and presence atop the lineup would help fortify this team and it was up to him to make the next step. Well, he took such a big step backward that he broke a leg in the process. His defense? Putrid at the beginning of the year. His hitting? Nonexistent during his time at the highest level. His work ethic was questioned and he made us all shut our eyes and pretend that Omar Quintanilla was a serviceable replacement. We expected more from you, Ruben. You couldn't even play your way back to the majors and now, you may very well be replaced. Hopefully, your loss is our gain.

The Keith Hernandez "Oh My" Award- Ike Davis

Anyone who watches a Mets game is privileged to hear great commentary from Keith on everything baseball. He is funny, charismatic and very knowledgeable of the game. However, some Mets players have a tendency to get on Keith's bad side. You start to hear the sighs and the teeth sucking later in games that are all but lost. Keith is not afraid to express his dissatisfaction with player's play and no one draws more "Oh My"s than Ike Davis. Every swing that Ike Davis took seemed to pain Keith. Death by a thousand cuts: baseball edition. Keith played the same position and loved to break down how terrible Ike's stances and swings became. I've never heard the phrase "foot in the bucket" used so profusely about a player until Keith started highlighting Ike's shortcomings. I don't know what the Mets are going to do with him, but Keith's sanity, as well as that of the collective fan base, hangs in the balance.

The 2014 Roster Spot Award- Eric Young Jr. 

EY wasn't an All Star by any means and probably will never become one, but boy did he make things more interesting when he was in the lineup. He became the NL leader in steals and filled in the dimension that Jose Reyes vacated on his way out. The offense became (slightly) more dynamic and his defense was a welcome addition to that of Lucas Duda's in left. EY has played his way onto the 2014 roster and may even become a starter. He deserves it too. There has been talk that he could replace Daniel Murphy at second base if a trade happens. Regardless of the circumstance, Eric Young Jr. has a job on this team next year.

Next week's Awards: The Rising Star Award, The Good Riddance Award, The "Where Did He Come From?" Award, and The "You're Killing Me, Smalls!" Award.

Reese Kaplan - A Visit to Club PED

One thing that Marlon Byrd taught the New York Mets last year is that it’s possible for a player to rebound on the field and to rebuild his public image while doing so. They signed him as a favor to an agent and he helped propel the team forward with his bat. It became quite clear upon his departure that the team, which was never an offensive juggernaut to begin with, was going to struggle big time to score runs.

The rest of the league, of course, well knows Byrd’s story, so the days of the sub-$1 million contract for a former steroid abuser are probably gone. Still, the stigma of cheating and the mental asterisk people put next to their performances will still depress their values, though probably not quite as far as they did in the case of the current Pirates’ right fielder.

Towards that end, let’s take a look at some of the implicated players and see how they might fit into the Mets future:

Ryan Braun
With all the talk in the media about the Mets targeting Carlos Gonzalez, Troy Tulowitzki or Giancarlo Stanton, from a marketing perspective what better option exists than to bring the PED-tainted “Hebrew Hammer” to Queens. His numbers are outstanding in every category – average, power, speed and he plays decent defense, too. Might the Brew Crew be tempted around a package of Mets players and prospects to rid themselves of the guy who is the poster child for athletes abusing steroids? His contract is big though not nearly as onerous as some others in the league – averaging less than $15 million per year through 2020. That team’s Achilles Heel seems to be starting pitching. The Mets are deep in pitching in the minors. Would you go so far as to offer one of Montero or Syndergaard plus a handful of lower minor league pitching prospects? Neither figures to be in the Mets plans this coming year and to get a former MVP you do have to give big. Flores and Murphy are about the only bats in the upper levels not tainted by scandal. They have Jonathan Lucroy so Travis d’Arnaud would not likely be of immediate interest.

Nelson Cruz
Former Met farmhand Nelson Cruz is a free agent this year and the timing for his suspension couldn’t have come at a worse time for him. He’s a proven slugger who you can easily pencil in for 25/85 while patrolling right field for the Mets. His last two year contract with the Rangers was backloaded but averaged $8 million per season. Coming off the $10.5 million owed in 2013, I could see him landing in that $8 million range again.

Jhonny Peralta
An offensive-minded shortstop, 31 year old Peralta has proven to be a good offensive weapon since arriving in Detroit. Over approximately a single season he has averaged .275/17/80. How much is talent and how much is PEDs is anyone’s guess, but the two time All Star would be a great addition in Queens. You wouldn’t have to give up any talent to get him as he is a free agent and is coming off a reasonable $6 million salary. You’d have to figure he’d get that or less given the dark cloud over his head, so it might be a smart move for the Mets to swoop in and add this type of offense from a position that, save for the Reyes years, has always been a black hole.

Everth Cabrera
Before serving his Club Bud mandatory 50 game suspension, Everth Cabrera was well on his way to a second consecutive stolen base title. He’s a plus defender but has no power whatsoever (not even with the PEDs). This season the switch hitter kicked it up a notch and was batting .283 when he was shut down. I don’t know how image conscious the Padres are, but for the right price he’d be a definite upgrade over Ruben Tejada and is still just 26 year old. He’s arbitration eligible and the San Diego braintrust might find it distasteful to give him a raise after humiliating himself and the team.

Jesus Montero
Unless the Mets made it a part of a bigger trade involving Travis d’Arnaud, it’s unlikely to pry Jesus Montero away from Seattle, scandal notwithstanding. He has shown in the majors the same power in the minors, though the batting average dipped a bit. Apparently he’s a catcher in the Mike Piazza mold, meaning he has to play “somewhere” so it might as well be behind the plate. For a team trying to build itself on pitching, the Mets probably have no place for him unless he would consider a shift to 1B where he has played a little bit in the minors. Then again, without d’Arnaud, the Mets have robbed Peter to pay Paul as they would have to use singles hitter Juan Centeño to go along with an out-of-position Montero. The sum total of their offensive production is probably less than what you would get from d’Arnaud plus the three-headed-first-base-beast they currently have as an option.

Antonio Bastardo
Lefty setup specialist Antonio Bastardo has been a valuable member of the Phillies pen since getting steady work in 2011. At age 28 he’s the kind of player you could build around for the next several years and he would make the Scott Rices and Josh Edgins of this world available as trade bait. He’s not yet a free agent being arbitration eligible in 2014, so an intradivision trade would have to be worked out – something that the Phillies are probably loathe to do.

Bartolo Colon
Leading the Oakland A’s into the playoffs is the portly righthander, Bartolo Colon. He signed for a mere $3 million after his PED scandal and rewarded his team with a 2.65 ERA over 30 starts. Lest you think it was a fluke, over the past three years he’s delivered to the tune of a 3.32 ERA and a nearly 4-1 strikeout to walk ratio. For a team in need of a one year stop gap, you could do far worse than the 40 year old Colon. Oakland is not known for opening the checkbook and you can bet Bartolo is after his last brass ring.

Marlon Byrd
A reunion with the rejuvenated Marlon Byrd would probably please many Mets fans who accepted him with open arms because he produced. As a free agent coming back to New York means it would only cost money, plus the team still gets to keep the prospects garnered in that trade that sent him to Pittsburgh. He was probably the highest value player this past season based upon salary vs. performance and is due a huge bump in salary, though his age and PED past may keep the term and average number of dollars more palatable than they would be for someone who doesn’t have to prove he can do it again (and who doesn’t have to pee into a bottle on demand).

Of the players on this list, I’d be all in for a Ryan Braun trade. His salary in 2014 is just $10 million. Lump in Peralta for SS and Colon for the rotation and you have spent your $30 million very wisely with some left over to secure a second outfielder such as Marlon Byrd. Figure $10 million, $6 million, $6 million and $6 million respectively for all four of them. Throw in non-steroid abuser Kendrys Morales or Cuban prospect Jose Abreu and you have the makings of a pennant contender.  Hell, with that kind of offense added they could even live with another year of Davis or Duda.

Sound off in the comments below!

Draft 14 - A Quick Look At - SS - Matt Chapman - Cal State Fullerton

Matt Chapman

 

6-9-13 -  24. Matt Chapman, SS (Cal State Fullerton): By all indications, he has the tools to be a strong defender at short. Add in the fact that he already has a strong approach and solid pop, and he has a lot of all-around value. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/

 

6-16-13 -  Player:  Matt Chapman - Position:  SS/3B - School:  Cal State Fullerton - Date of Birth:  4/28/1993 - Height/Weight:  6’1/195 - Bats/Throws:  R/R - 2014 Class:  College Junior - Previously Drafted: - Scouting Report: Solid build  Square stance  Good approach at the plate  Above average bat speed  Lift in swing  Above average power  Strong defense  Comes in on the ball well  Shows a strong arm in the field

 

7-6-13 - Alex Bregman ‏@ABREG_1  - My roomie @MattyChapp (Matt Chapman) pitched for the first time last night in his life... Sat 97-99 with a 90 mph slider

 

7-17-13 –  Matt Chapman, 3B, Cal-State Fullerton - Chapman is not your protoypical 3B at 6'1", 195 lbs but he has a compact athletic build and an all fields line-drive approach at the plate.  There wasn't a lot of loft to his swing and that, combined with his modest size, leads me to think he isn't going to hit for a lot of power.  He was very good at 3B, showing good lateral movement to both sides, including a tremendous diving play to his left.  I wonder if perhaps he can change positions.  SS may be a stretch but he looked quick and athletic enough to maybe try 2B, where his bat would profile better. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/07/looking-ahead-to-the-2014-and-2015-mlb-draft-notes-from-the-collegiate-national-team-games/

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 45. Matt Chapman, 3B, Cal State Fullerton - The 6’-2”, 200-pound right-hander has a plus arm and enough range to stick at the hot corner. Whether or not the power will show up to remain there is up for debate. He does show an advanced approach at the plate, having drawn 34 walks to 29 strikeouts over 55 games as a sophomore. I got to see him play with The Collegiate National Team and really liked his line-drive swing. If the power comes this year, he could move up draft boards. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

 

9-3-13 - Kendall Rogers ‏@KendallRogersPG  - INJURY NEWS: CalStateFullerton 3B, top MLBDraft prospect Matt Chapman will have surgery to repair a torn ligament on ring finger.  HC Rick Vanderhook said he played through it this summer and will miss the start of fall workouts. Will be back though.

Mack Ade – Morning Report – 10-2-13 – Mets DL, Steven Matz, Refinancing, Travis d’Arnaud

The following players were reinstated from DL: RHP Matt Bowman, RHP Luis Cessa, RHP Jake deGrom, RHP Michael Fulmer, RHP Matt Koch, RHP Luis Mateo, RHP Cory Mazzoni, RHP Dylan Owen, RHP Tyler Pill, RHP Mitch Talbot, RHP Logan Taylor, RHP Taylor Whitenton, RHP Ernesto Yanez, LHP Shane Bay, LHP John Mincone, LHP Jhonathan Torres, LHP Carlos Valdez, LHP Carlos Vazquez, 1B Joe Bonfe, 2B Reese Havens, 3B Aderlin Rodriguez, SS Chad Zurcher, OF Jorge Rivero.

Don’t you love how this works. All these guys are supposed to have some legitimate injury that keeps them off the playing field and then, low and behold, the season ends  and everybody is 100% healthy. It’s such bullshit.

 

Steven Matz. The fact that Matz was able to avoid any further arm injuries and pitch his first full season cannot be overstated. That's because the dynamic stuff from the left side that prompted the Mets to select him in the first round way back in '09 was readily apparent very early. Matz regularly touched 97 MPH with his electric fastball and made good strides with a curveball/change-up combo. Unleashing that repertoire over a full season led to spectacular numbers, including a 2.62 ERA, a .225 opponent average, and a nearly 30% strikeout rate. http://www.amazinavenue.com/2013/10/1/4788656/mets-minor-league-season-in-review

 

From MetsBlog - The Mets are beginning the process of trying to refinance roughly $250 million in bank debt, reports Josh Kosman of the New York Post. Regardless, it won’t affect the budget for player salaries in 2014, Kosman’s sources said. “The Amazin’s are in a better bargaining position with their lenders now than they were just two years ago,” and, “the value of all MLB teams has risen,” according to Kosman, who feels it is likely the team will be successful in it’s effort to refinance, which could then help increase payroll for 2015.

                Mack – This is why you don’t panic when you read about some writer/blogger tell you that this team is going into the financial crapper. The Wilpons had their financial crisis a year ago because of their investments vs. the economy, not one single investment, the Mets. The economy has returned and, with it, the value of the Wilpon portfolio. This will get them a more favorable interest rate and a longer period in which to pay off the money owed. Trust me… many business never pay off the principal on their notes. They just keep refinancing until they sell the property. The Mets financial picture is just fine. Now, we have to see if our General Manager has the stones to get us a lineup.

 

30. Travis d’Arnaud, C, New York Mets - Affiliate Team: New York Mets Age: 24 Ht/Wt: 6-2/195 Bats/Throws: R/R Drafted: 1st Round (37th overall), 2007  Travis d’Arnaud has been consistently ranked as the top catching prospect in baseball over the past couple of seasons. Despite fracturing his left foot in mid-April, d’Arnaud rebounded with a solid second half return that would include a big league promotion. Everything about d’Arnaud’s game suggested that a big league call-up was around the corner, as he possesses a compact swing that generates plus power and allows him to hit to all fields with relative ease. He has blossomed into a solid defender behind the plate and possesses a strong arm, as he projects to be a solid all-around, everyday catcher at the next level. http://baseballnewssource.com/prospects/bns-top-50-mlb-prospects-end-of-season-report-and-analysis/26685/22/

 

With the additions of Eric Young Jr., Juan Lagares and Matt Den Dekker, the Mets’ outfield defense has dramatically improved. Even with Young’s defensive weaknesses, his speed and ability to charge the ball make him mediocre at best, and Lagares looks like a perennial Glover next to him in the outfield so he’ll have protection in the gaps. There’s also still the possibility of moving Young to second base, which is his more natural position. A move to second base would allow him to continue to improve at the top of the batting order, where he’s been a valuable catalyst. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/new-york-mets-shin-soo-choo/38267#TR7pmuejp1QbXeFx.99

 

What outfield? Let's be honest: Eric Young Jr. has speed, but he's really a fourth outfielder. The Mets need to add sluggers for both corner-outfield spots, especially if the defensive-focused Lagares will be manning center field. Where are those boppers coming from? Adam Rubin - http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york/mets/post/_/id/78739/5-reasons-for-optimism-and-pessimism?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

 

Buddy3 asked –

Mack, can you see the Mets going for Choo at $16 or $17 per, Drew at $9 or 10 per and trying to sign Byrd on the cheap at 2 for $10. Byrd knows that Puello, Vaughn and Lawley are coming and the best he can get from the Mets is one full year and then a reserve role. Still leaves some money to add a veteran catcher, a few pitchers on minor league deals to supplement the rotation and bullpen. choo drew murphy wright byrd Davis/Satin TDA lagares/MDD that is not a bad lineup with our pitching

                Mack – First of all, I don’t see the Mets going over $15mil, 3-4 yrs for anyone. This is just what I think and feel at this point in the process. The Pence deal shows how crazy this is all becoming and I guess $20mil per year is going to soon become the new normal, but I see Alderson approaching this off-season knowing that he probably is never again going to have this much money to spend in one off season.

I’m sure the Mets will make an offer to Choo, but it will not be close to what he signs for. He’s a good player, but he’s going to get stupid money in a light FA market.

Drew is the kind of player you probably will see signed. Someone that will go in the $8-12 range for 2-3 years. Hopefully, you will see at least three of these kind of players.  Byrd and Beltran could be two more.

Outfield prospect wise, there are big hopes for Puello but Wilmer Flores is proving that hitting at the AAA level doesn’t mean you’re going to produce in the majors (yes I know, he was dinged). I love Lawley but he’s a long shot and you’re being very kind to Vaughn who has been a major disappointment.

I just don’t see an outfield solution this year. I would take four of your best mid-level pitching prospects and put together a three way that gets you Tulo on short. But, that’s just me…

Draft 14 - A Quick Look At - SS - Nick Gordon - Olympia HS, Fla

Nicholas Gordan

6-9-13  -  8.Nick Gordon, SS (Florida HS): Right there with Jackson for all-around value, though he could be the better defender of the two. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/

6-11-13 - 7. Nick Gordon, RHP/SS, Olympia HS, Fla.: The son of Tom and brother of Dee, Gordon is a legitimate two-way guy who can play shortstop and hit from the left side. He's athletic on the mound, too, with a low-90s fastball and a big curve. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130611&content_id=50293726&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_50293726

6-12-13  -  Committed to Florida State, Gordon had a big year for Olympia, batting .505 with 50 base hits, 15 doubles and 23 runs scored. He also pitched and posted a 5-1 record. He's the son of fomer major leaguer Tom "Flash" Gordon and the brother of Dee Gordon, who has seen time with the Los Angeles Dodgers http://www.maxpreps.com/news/article.aspx?articleid=7c0ad513-b5e1-4ac1-b57e-8dedcc72c783&page=2

6-13-13  - 7. Kansas City Royals — Nicholas Gordon, SS/RHP, Olympia HS (FL) - The son of  Tom “Flash” Gordon, Nick also can sling it on the mound (92 mph) but may have a brighter future at shortstop, where his strong arm, range and instincts will make him one of the better defensive shortstops in the 2014 MLB draft. Offensively, he hits from the left side and projects to a top-of-the-order hitter with speed and a very good approach at the plate. Over 30 games as a junior, he hit .505 with 15 doubles, six triples, and stole 12 bases. Committed to Florida State. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2

5. Nicholas Gordon, SS/RHP, Olympia High in Orlando - Gordon (6-foot-2, 175) "may be the premier two-way talent in the 2014 draft," Perkin said, noting that he throws a low-90s fastball but is also a slick-fielding shortstop with speed and quickness. "Gordon's bat will determine his future in pro ball," Perkin said. "If he hits, Gordon stays at shortstop. If not, he moves to the hill." Choice A would make him like his older brother (Dodgers shortstop Dee Gordon), and Choice B would make him like his father (former big league reliever Tom Gordon). http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/mlb/news/20130610/draft-prospects-carlos-rodon/#ixzz2WWk0FqzU

7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 9. Nick Gordon- SS/RHP, Olympia (FL) HS - 6.68 runner, 94 MPH across the diamond. Up to 92 on the mound. Scout in North Carolina told me he was #1 on his HS list http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 13. Nick Gordon, SS/RHP, Olympia HS (FL) - 6'1/170, L/R, Draft Day Age: 18.62, Florida State commit, Full Report & Video - Quick Take: Gordon is probably the second most famous player in this class behind Toussaint as he's at most national events and has elite bloodlines from father Tom (former MLB closer) and brother Dee (Dodgers shortstop). Gordon has been up to 94 mph with an above average curve on the mound but is a better prospect as a lefty-hitting shortstop with good pop, feel to hit and defensive skills. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html

8-2-13 – Matt Garrioch ‏- That is why I rarely read or watch news...now back to baseball. Nick Gordon is already in the cages at East Coast Pro.........    Dan Kirby ‏@DanMKirby  - See him as a SS or SP? ….  Matt Garrioch ‏@mattgarrioch  - @DanMKirby SS, no question.

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 10. Nick Gordon – SS/RHP, Olympia (FL) HS - Top of the class defensive SS who can swing it too. Sat 90-91 and touched 92 on the mound http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 18. Nick Gordon, SS/RHP, Olympia HS (FL) - The son of  Tom “Flash” Gordon, Nick also can sling it on the mound (92 mph) but may have a brighter future at shortstop, where his strong arm, range and instincts will make him one of the better defensive shortstops in the 2014 MLB draft. Offensively, he hits from the left side and projects to a top-of-the-order hitter with speed and a very good approach at the plate. Over 30 games as a junior, he hit .505 with 15 doubles, six triples and 12 stolen bases. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

8-13-13 - The Perfect Game All-American Classic in San Diego - *Nick Gordon (Olympia High School; Fla.) certainly can play shortstop, and obviously has the arm strength to stick at shortstop, but I’m not in love with the swing. He has a tendency to glide, and I’m not sure he’s going to be more than a gap hitter at the next level. With a 94 mile per hour fastball and a potentially plus curveball, I think I prefer Gordon on the mound at this point. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/08/thoughts-on-perfect-game-all-american-classic/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

8-16-13 - 11th All-American Classic - Nick Gordon | SS/RHP | Olympia HS (Orlando, FL) - Height/Weight: 6-foot-2/170 pounds - B/T: L/R - Draft Day Age: 18 years, 7 months - Commitment: Florida State - One of the highest-profile players in the 2014 draft class, Gordon routinely impresses on and off the field, with the San Diego showcase being no exception. With standout tools, an excellent feel for the game, and major league bloodlines through both his father Tom and brother Dee, Nick received plenty of scout attention as an underclassman, and continues to ride high on follow lists as he enters his draft-eligible senior year. Scouting Notes: Top overall talent for me in the class; everything he does looks easy; natural glovework at shortstop with some swagger; soft hands; excellent backhand pickup; smooth; arm is very strong; no doubt at the position; body has more projection than his brother’s, with more strength potential; plus run; lunges at the ball a bit at the plate, but hand-eye is exceptional and can put barrel on the ball; good bat speed; don’t see a lot of power coming but he can sting the ball; timing can get disrupted by off-speed stuff; could develop into plus-hit-tool shortstop at highest level; bloodlines and makeup are there; could be a top 5 pick in 2014. –Jason Parks  Summer Stock: Gordon has had some ups and downs the past couple months on the showcase circuit, but he has shown so well in past viewings that his stock is unlikely to affected by a few hiccups here and there. At his best, Gordon boasts a dynamic defensive skill set, with impact potential in the hit tool. It has been a long eight months for the two-way standout dating back to the January Perfect Game World Showcase in Fort Myers, Florida, and evaluators will be champing at the bit to see a rested Gordon in a couple of months in Jupiter, and then again next spring. –Nick J. Faleris  http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537

9-1-13 – Petco Game - Nick Gordon (SS/RHP) (L/R) 6’2″ 170; Grad: 2014 Orlando, FL This was my first look at the SS so thought I would include him on my list. Tall, lean look with good projection to body. Two way athlete and EZ  to dream considering the bloodline: father is Flash Gordon and brother is Dee Gordon (LAD). Fast twitch swing geared for contact/LD at the moment; lives in middle part of diamond. As body matures and strengthens, can project as LD/gaps hitter with BA power. Instinctive base runner and SB threat. Alert defender w/quick first step and smooth, fluid actions. Plenty of arm to stay at SS. Premium  defender and future GG candidate. Pending how the bat progresses this spring, Nick has a chance to go early in the first round 2014. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/09/01/aflac-game-wrap-up-better-late-than-never/

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Nicholas Gordon: SS/RHP:  The son of former pitcher Tom Gordon, Nick also has a very good arm and can bring it at up to 92 mph but he's also a SS, where he may stand out more as a speedy top of the order hitter with great range, arm, and instincts in the field. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/08/2014-mlb-draft-ua-game-roster-and-preview-plus-more-tickets-and-meet-up-information/

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 6 – Giants – SS Nick Gordon – Olympia (FL) HS – I’ve got Gordon as the first high school shortstop to be drafted. The lefty projects as a leadoff hitter and plays a very good defensive game. Did not have a great summer, but I still have him as one of the top 10 players in the draft

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 15.Nicholas Gordon – SS/RHP, Olympia (FL) HS

 

Press Release - Forsythe Earns Rawlings Gold Glove Award

BINGHAMTON, NY – Binghamton Mets catcher Blake Forsythe has been named a Gold Glove Award recipient for defensive excellence at his position during the 2013 season by Minor League Baseball and Rawlings. Selected among qualifying players from the ten domestic full-season Minor Leagues, Forsythe is one of three members of the Eastern League to receive the honor (Taylor Hill, Pitcher, Harrisburg & Wade Gaynor, Third Base, Erie).

In his first year at Double-A, the 24-year-old committed just one error in 80 games behind the plate. He ranked second in the league with 701 total chances and compiled a league-best .999 fielding percentage. Selected in the third round of the 2010 draft out of the University of Tennessee, the Nashville native threw out a career-best 36% (31-for-87) of attempted base-stealers, the sixth-best mark in the Eastern League.

As a team, the Binghamton Mets committed just 109 errors, the fewest in the Eastern League in 2013 and the second-lowest total in franchise history. The club led the league with a .978 team fielding percentage.

Be sure to follow the B-Mets on Facebook, Twitter and at the team’s official website (www.bmets.com) for more team information. Fans can also stay up to date with all the action on the field by visiting “B-Mets Buzz with Tim Heiman” at bmets.mlblogs.com

Draft 15 – Skyler Bolt, Ty Greene, Jordan Desguin, Daz Cameron, Ryan Kellogg

7-17-13 –  Skyler Bolt, CF, North Carolina: The switch-hitting Bolt has a sweet swing and the ball jumps off his bat.  He's a good, but not elite athlete who easily runs and throws well enough to stick in CF, where his bat and solid power would be a nice asset.  His tools all appear to be average to above average across the board. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/07/looking-ahead-to-the-2014-and-2015-mlb-draft-notes-from-the-collegiate-national-team-games/

 

9-2-13 - Todd Gold ‏@TGold_PG  -  2015 C Ty Greene (San Diego, CA) gets scoring started in @PGSuper25 #SoCalQualifier with solo HR ~325 ft to RF

 

9-9-13 – Top 10 Far West League Prospects - 4. Jordan Desguin, rhp/if, Redding (So., Feather River CC, Calif.) - A California prep product, Desguin transferred to Feather River from Florida State due to a lack of playing time. He played both ways this summer and was Redding’s regular shortstop but is a better prospect on the mound, where he allowed just six hits in 16 innings while striking out 24. Desguin has received interest from several professional clubs and Division I schools on the West Coast. His fastball touches 92-93 mph, and he his 6-foot-1, 185-pound frame is still maturing. He could be a top-10-rounds pick next June. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/far-west-league-top-10-prospects/

 

9-9-13 – BA Top 2015 HS Prospects - #1 - Dazmon Cameron OF  6-0 186 R R Eagle`s Landing Christian Acad McDonough GA   East Cobb Astros  -  Outstanding all around talent. Potential 5 tool player. Very good at PG and WWBA. Stood out at NUC Main Event. Great hitting display

 

9-10-13 – Top Arms in 2013 Cape Cod League - Ryan Kellogg 6-5/225, Bourne Braves 33 IP, 26 K, 1.36 ERA: FB 85-90 CB 68-71 SL 74-76 CH 76-78 -  Kellogg possesses the command and control to work his way into the front of a rotation, and that is why he made my list. The CH is an excellent pitch and could become an MLB out-pitch. The other secondaries need cleaning up, and the FB velo needs to increase. For a cold weather arm that is still very young, he has a lot of positives to build on. http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/

Hot Stove - Oct 1. 13 - Jose Abreu, Mike Napoli

The Mets are sending scouts to the Dominican Republic to participate in the showcasing of Cuban 1B Jose Abreu... Marc Carig reports that 'the Mets in position to take on a big contract via trade. Again, it seems to be a route they are exploring'... Jorge Castillo reports that 'Source says Mets will be more aggressive in pursuing Cuban and Japanese players with $ flexibility. Doesn't mean they'll be signing anyone'...  Mets to give Dan Warthen two-year contract... the Mets will target 32-year old 1B Mike Napoli as a possible replacement for both Lucas Duda and Ike Davis. Stats with Boston this year: 498-AB, .259/.360/.482/.842, 23-HR, 92-RBI... the Red Sox, Giants, Rangers, Reds and Dodgers -- are in the running for free agent Cuban infielder Alex Guerrero... The Texas Rangers designated 27-yr. old OF Joey Butler (2012: AAA - .290, 20-HR, 78-RBI) for assignment to make room for Nelson Cruz. ... The Giants are currently in talks with Tim Lincecum about a contract extension and a deal could get done before free agency starts...

 

 

Mack Ade – Morning Report – 10-1-13 – Nelson Cruz, Draftable Outfielders, Sully, Frank Francisco, Syracuse

The More I look at Texas OF Nelson Cruz as an opportunity for the New York Mets, the more I like it. Here is a legitimate power bat that is four years younger than Carlos Beltran three less than Marlon Byrd. Additionally, like Byrd, his past association with a drug suspension will seriously limit his negotiation power in the off-season. Oh, he won’t go broke, but he can forget about anything close the kind of deal that Shin-Soo Choo or Jacoby Ellsbury will get in this off-season. Based on the Biogenesis situation and his $10.75mil deal, my guess is a 3-year, $45mil ($13m, $15m, $17m) would seal the deal. You still have plenty of money to sign another outfielder and still solve the shortstop situation.

 

There looks like there is going to be a good chance that the Mets draft pick is going to hit the board and no outfielders have been chosen yet. Most draft experts currently have none in the first ten picks so the Mets have a perfect opportunity this year’s Courtney Hawkins (sorry… couldn’t help myself).

These will probably be the top five picked and the first is a high school kid that if the Mets go OF) could wind up playing for the GCL Mets. OF-1B, Braxton Davidson, 6'2 205, L/L, TC Roberson HS, Asheville NC – Davidson is as much a first baseman as an outfielder who has some decent bat speed and dead pull power to right field. Not known for his defensive skills but he doesn’t suck either. He will go as far as his bat will take him. Over 31 games as a junior, he hit .403 with seven doubles, eight home runs, and drew 30 walks for a .600 OBP/.831 SLG. Tied a TOS record with three home run in four games. Nine Baseball has him as the ‘most feared batter in the 2014 draft’.

If you want speed there is Virginia’s Derek Fisher. 6’2, 21-, L/R with a ++ arm from the outfield. Has potential to steal 20+ bases in the ML. Straight away power, good strength and bat speed. Put up a great turnaround 2013, hitting .306 with 12 doubles, seven home runs, stole eight bases and had a .420 OBP/.505 SLG. He also cut down his strikeouts from 61 to 38 while upping his walks from 22 to 28. Not flashy, just an all-around decent player.

Another wild card would be Kel Johnson, a home schooled player out of Palmetto, Georgia. Johnson plays for the very talented travel team, the East Cobb Braves, and is the premier bat in that league. Actually, he’s one of the premier bats in the entire draft, but he projects out eventually to be a first baseman. I love what one scout said about him… ‘the kind of player you come out just to watch him hit in batting practice.” 6-4, 210, R/R.

The first college outfielder picked probably will be Oregon’s Michael Conforto – 5’11, 190, L/L – has adequate defensive skills plus gap power to right field. Should hit 15-20 home runs as a pro and definitelt projects as a corner outfielder. One of best offensive tools hitter coming out of the college ranks for 2014. College Junior Scouting Report:   One of the top college bats for 2014   Strong, muscular build  Open stance   Smooth swing with lift   Excellent bat speed   Plus raw power  Ball jumps off bat. His stock could rise with a great 2014 season.

And then there’s Michael Gettys (Gainesville (GA) HS – 6-2, 215. Most of us had him as one of the top pitchers in the upcoming draft. He does has a 95-mph fastball but his bat is more deadly. As a junior, he hit .406 and stole 38 bases over 32 games. The problem is he also had a 0.99 ERA, 0.74 WHIP and 114 K/18 BB over 73 innings. Plus-plus speed with average power. Is a projectable 5-tool player that does need to work on his pop. Biggest asset is 100-mph arm from the outfield. Showed some serious power at the Under Armour All-American Game home run derby at Wrigley Field.

 

Jeff Sullivan (‘Sully’s Draft’) updated his top 10 picks yesterday… 1.HOU-Rodon 2.MIA-Gettys 3.CHW-Hoffman 4.CHC-Holmes 5.MIN-Turner 6.SEA-Beede 7. PHI-Kolek 8.COL-Davidson 9.TOR-Jackson10.NYM-Gatewood

 

Patrick Flood –

                I  wrote a blog about the New York Mets from the end of the 2009 season through the 2012 season. The Mets won 230 games and lost 256 over that span, finishing second-to-last in the division each season, with attendance falling each year despite a new stadium. For those three years, the Mets were bad, if not remarkably so. Over those three years I spent thousands of hours watching that unremarkably bad baseball team fall down and drop fly balls and strike out. I spent thousands more hours blogging about that team. What possesses someone to spend that much time writing a blog about a bad baseball team? http://narrative.ly/swinging-for-the-fences/the-misadventures-of-a-baseball-blogger/ 

 

 

Metsiac7@aol.com  asked -

What on earth does the GM have planned for Frankie? A few weeks ago, no one expected him to ever throw a pitch for the Mets again, then he was activated and used, and climaxed with a Save in the final game yesterday. His contract is up, so he's obviously not being showcased for a trade. We already knew what he can/can't do. Is he being auditioned for a re-signing next year? The pen is full as is, with 7 RHRPs in Parnell, Black, Hawk, Germen, Torres, and Familia, only 5 of which can be kept. And if the GM wants to, he can re-sign Aardsma and Atch as insurance.

                Mack – Bill, this will go down in Mets history as one of the great DiVinci Code decisions. I have no idea why he was activated and was never eligible to any team that would have wanted to use him in the playoffs. His activation date was way past that deadline. I thought it was strange enough the first time he pitched, but the last inning of the last game? There’s absolutely no chance he will ever wear a Mets uniform again under any condition. I simply didn’t get this move and still don’t.

 

After three straight years of declining attendance and growing debt, changes are coming to the Syracuse Chiefs. And it’s not clear whether the future of the International League franchise will include the Simone family, whose name has been synonymous with professional baseball in Syracuse for more than five decades. The board of directors for the community-owned Chiefs met last Friday to discuss the team’s financial woes—which, according to the Syracuse (N.Y.) Post-Standard, include a $500,000 operating loss this season and $64,000 owed in back rent at NBT Bank Stadium—and have called another meeting for this evening. The Chiefs have been the Nationals’ Triple-A affiliate since 2009, following 30 years with the Blue Jays. http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/syracuse-chiefs-consider-changes-after-attendance-decline/

                Mack – So, what do you think? How about we move them to Montreal and they become the Mets AAA affiliate in 2015?