Thursday, July 19, 2007

Why is Marlon Anderson on the Mets?

Marlon Anderson was a great asset to the team two years ago. He filled in nicely for the often absent Kaz Matsui, and was a great pinch hitter. But why is he on this year's team?

Do we really need another second baseman? We have Gotay who's batting an insane .337 and desperately needs more at bats. Then we have Jose Valentin who is struggling a bit because of injuries. Damion Easley who has lost his playing time because of Gotay's performance. So why do we need another second baseman?

It's not like Marlon Anderson was taring it up in the minors or for the Dodgers. I guess he can play some outfield, but do we really feel he's better than Newhan? This move just boggles me. I hope it works out for the best, but I just don't see it right now.

2 comments:

Stuart Johnson said...

This move was about adding a left handed bat to the bench. David Newhan hit an even .200 in 60 at bats this season. He had 1 home run, 2 extra base hits, and 4 RBIs. Horrendous. He hit .252 the year before and .202 in 2005.

Anderson put up slightly better numbers than Newhan in his very limited action this year, has more experience, and had pretty strong performances in the last two seasons, including hitting .375 down the stretch for the Dodgers last year, with 7 home runs in just 64 at bats proving he has pop as well. As you mentioned, he played very well with the Mets in 2005, especially as a pinch hitter, where he hit .321.

Jose Valentin is struggling more than a bit, and if one is to make an exception due to his injuries, one must do likewise with Anderson, who spent significant time on the DL this year. However, the newest Met is far younger, at 33 years of age, than Valentin. In addition, he is more able outfielder than Damion Easley.

Anonymous said...

also, Marlon is a utility player, the year he had with the Mets, he played virtually every position on the field besides catcher, pitcher, and left IF. I am ecstatic about this.