The Mets are Good at Ruining Young Talent

The Mets are really good at ruining young talent. We can take the best prospects and dash their hopes and dreams with the best of them. Besides Jose Reyes and David Wright can you name the last young prospects or home grown talent that the Mets have developed into stars?

Let's think, there was Generation K. Nope that didn't work out. There was Timo Perez, Benny Agbayani & Jay Payton. Yeah, that didn't work out either. Gotay? Check. David Segui. Nada.

You pretty much have to go back to Doc & Darryl. But the crazy thing is look at the young talent we've had that has gone wasted. Perfect example is Jeff Keppinger. Keppinger came up in the middle of the 2004 season and was hitting the cover off the ball for a mid-season call-up. He played a great defensive second base and was one of those spray hitters. I thought the Mets had found their second baseman for the next 5 or 6 years.

Then we traded him to the Royals. Where is he now? He's hitting .298 with a .403 slugging percentage for the Reds (P.S. he had a .477 slugging pct last year).

Keppinger is not the only one. Timo Perez came up with a spark in his bat and then faded quickly. Every young pitcher we've had has turned into a bust (you've been warned Mike Pelfrey). There's Ruben Gotay who we ran out of town after he was the most clutch Mets hitter for a period of time last season. Now we got Gimpy Castillo for the next couple of seasons.

Milledge? Wasn't he suppose to be the next big thing but the Mets couldn't quite get the reins in on him.

And now I'm seeing the same thing happen to Angel Pagan. Pagan started the season with a bang and now has been delegated to pinch hitting duties. No one in their right mind can expect Pagan to hit like he did in April without the chance to play on a regular basis.

Don't get me wrong. I love that Alou is back, but Pagan is going to hurt because of it. Sure next year might be his shot to play every day. But who knows how he'll play next season. If history tell us anything it's that his chances aren't great because the Mets can't mold young talent.

That has to change if we're going to be a competitive team in years to come.

The Missing Mets

Let me start this post by saying I'm confident in the Mets roster of players. I love the Santana trade, and I think that Schneider and Church will both add some stability to our lineup.

I do think that there are a few Mets this year that will be missed. Sure we had to give up something to get something, and everything we got was a more than adequate addition. But I still know there will be times this year (and probably the next few years) where we'll miss these ex-Mets.

1. Carlos Gomez
We got Johan Santana for him and some other minor leaguers. Clearly the Mets got the better end of the bargain, but Gomez is sure to impress folks in Minnesota this year. I guarantee that on more than one occasion we'll see Gomez make a stellar grab in the outfield or showcase his blazing speed on ESPN's Baseball Tonight. With Alou being out, Gomez's absence might become more pronounced early on this year than anyone expected.

2. Lastings Milledge
I don't think we'll miss Milledge too much this year. Although I'm quite certain there will be a "payback" hit where he drives in some key runs at some point when the Mets play the Nationals. I have a feeling that Milledge will mature as a hitter this year and next year become a Shannon Stewart type of hitter.

3. Ruben Gotay
My man-crush is gone. He might never amount to the player I thought he'd be, but I do love that lefty bat coming off the bench. As long as Castillo's knees stay glued in place, Gotay will become a distant memory.

A Place for Gotay

It's been well documented here at Mets Lifer that I have an unhealthy obsession with Ruben Gotay. What can I say I love the guy. I like his bat, his speed, his attitude. I want the Mets to find a spot for this kid now that Luis Castillo is here (and by the way the Mets need to sign him after the season).

After much pondering I've had an epiphany. Ruben Gotay is our newest addition to the Mets bullpen.

Think about it. Ok so he's never pitched a day in his life, so he might give up a few hits/home runs/big innings. Is that any different than the three headed monster that is Mota/Schoeneweiss/Selee? I'm sure over time he could be just as good as Mota is when he's not on steroids.

Plus you wouldn't have to pinch hit for him. He could bat for himself and provide you with some solid ABs, good hitting with runners on base, and save your bench.

I think this has potential. How much worse could the bullpen be with Gotay?

Can the Mets Teach Ruben Gotay to Play Right Field?

I love the Luis Castillo pick up. I think he'll prove to be a real asset to the team as we enter the pennant race in August and September. But that does leave Ruben Gotay as the odd man out.

Gotay went from batting over .350 and leading the Mets in batting with runners in scoring position to now just pinch hitting. That has to kill a young player's confidence. I'm expecting Gotay to struggle in his new role and it's a big change for a guy who was just getting used to playing every day. If only Gotay, could play right field.

Think about it. Until Chavez and Beltran return, the Mets are stuck with Shawn Green as the every day right fielder and Damion Easley as the backup to play against left-handed pitchers where necessary. Neither have performed well since April ended, and Green hasn't hit a home run since Memorial Day. Easley is playing decently in the field, but we all know that Green is a risk tracking down fly balls.

Gotay would be a great substitute if only he could play right field. Then you'd be able to keep his hot bat in the lineup and you'd add considerable speed to the bottom half of the order. Ah, a man can dream, can't he?

When Beltran returns, Milledge will more than likely platoon with Green in right, which is better than Easley as a backup.

I know that next year Gotay will have his shot at becoming the everyday second baseman as Castillo will probably test the free agency waters, but I'd like to see the kid's hot bat keep getting regular at bats until the hits run out.

Castillo Acquisition Reflection of Struggling Offense

The Mets have acquired Luis Castillo from the Minnesota Twins for a pair of minor-leaguers, Double-A C Drew Butera and Single-A OF Dustin Martin.

All in all, this is a good move for the Mets. Castillo is a solid veteran and will fit right into the two spot in the lineup behind Reyes. While he doesn't steal bases like he used, he's still a pesky hitter and plays a solid second base. While I like Gotay, I'm just not sure he's ready to play everyday and provide the consistency this lineup needs, not too mention, his defense was a liability and could have hurt us in the post season (if we're fortunate to make it).

Make no mistake though, this move is more indicative of an underachieving offense that has struggled for the better part of two months now. If guys were hitting the way they are supposed to (Beltran, Delgado, Lo Duca and even Wright to an extent) the Mets could have lived with Gotay in this lineup. Unfortunately for Gotay, this team is geared to win now (and are set up well for the future) and they cannot afford to see what type of player they have in him right now. If it were last season, absolutely. This year, different story. Period.

To view Castillo's stats, click here.

Luis Castillo to the Mets for Peanuts?

I'm too excited to even type write now. Via Metsblog.com, word is that Luis Castillo is very close to being traded to the Mets for two minor leaguers (what?).

Matthew Cerrone writes: "According to Dan Graziano and Ed Price at the Star-Ledger, the two minor-league players could possibly be Double-A C Drew Butera and Single-A OF Dustin Martin." (are you kidding?)

Was Omar Minaya last seen wearing a mask because he's robbing the Twins! I hope this isn't just a bad joke because if the Mets can get Luis Castillo without losing my man crush, Ruben Gotay, or any of our top pitching prospects, that's as close to a no-brainer trade as there ever was.

Make it happen Omar! Reyes & Castillo at the top of the order, and Gotay can fill in as a pinch hitter! Love it.

Mets Trade Rumors: Luis Castillo

Bryan and I had a pre-lunch discussion about the current Mets situation including the recent trade rumors about Luis Castillo from the Twins. Castillo is a pesky guy who I've always hated having to face. I remember when the Marlins had Juan Pierre & Luis Castillo at the top of their lineup and them just being a pain in the neck to get out.

If the Mets traded for Castillo they would have that same type of scenario with Reyes & Castillo at the top of the order. Luis Castillo is the ideal #2 hitter. He can get hits, bunt, and plays solid defense. The Twins would probably want a young pitcher and a guy like Gotay or Gomez for Castillo who is only 31.

I hate to give up Gotay, but Castillo is still putting up solid numbers and is a proven hitter/fielder. I'm torn, honestly.

I do think that the Mets needed to add a pitcher rather than a hitter to their lineup. Preferably a relief pitcher. Aaron Selee is wasting space in the bullpen, and I've lost confidence in Guillermo Mota. Don't even get me started about Blowenweiss.

I'm hoping they can do something to get Chad Cordero, but if Luis Castillo is a prospect and a Double A pitcher away from becoming a Met, I think they have to jump on it.

Man Crush on Ruben Gotay

There are a few men that I openly admit I have a man crush on: Jack Bauer (no, not Keiffer), Mark Wahlberg (ever since Three Kings), David Boreanaz (Angel/Bones), and now Ruben Gotay.

If you don't know what a man crush is, here's a link to an article discussing the topic, but it's basically an affection from one heterosexual male to another. And Ruben Gotay has my admiration from this point further. Now my man crush has nothing to do with Gotay's looks although some may find him handsome. But it is more about what he has done for me lately (I'm very needy).

Gotay has been a consistent bat in the lineup since he was called up in June. The man is batting .350 with a slugging percentage over .500. And it seems that every time he is up and a man is on second there's a base hit to score a run. Gotay has been clutch. He has been smart at the plate.

Ok, so his fielding needs some help, but Gotay recognizes that and he's been seen working with Sandy Alomar, Sr. for hours before games working on turning the double play. That's what I love to see.

I find myself getting psyched when Gotay gets up to the plate. I even giggle a little when he gets a 2-0 count because I know that next pitch is going to be slapped into the gap for a base hit. I like Ruben Gotay batting #2 behind Reyes. It gives the Mets so many options. He can do a hit & run. He can let Reyes steal second and get him in with a slap to right-center. He can bunt. The options are endless.

I hate it when Willie Randolph bats Gotay eighth. I think it shatters his confidence, but he still performs! Bat him anywhere at this point.

Now a year from now I might look back at this and so Ruben who? But for now I'm riding this Gotay train wherever it takes me. Forget these trade talks for second basemen. Tell Damion Easley and Anderson Hernandez to find the leftovers from seat cushion day because they're going to be sitting on the bench for a long time.

My man Ruben Gotay is taking over.

Mets Trade Rumors: Ronnie Belliard

This is the first rumor that I actually cringed when I heard. It appears Omar Minaya is interested in more than just one Washington National (why?). Chad Cordero tops the list but Mark Hale of the New York Post writes that second baseman Ronnie Belliard is one of the top choices for the Mets as a possible replacement infielder (again, why?).

Hale writes, "The Mets believe Belliard's the best offense-defense combination as they try to replace Jose Valentin. . ." What!?!?!?!

I refuse to believe this. You mean to tell me Ronnie Belliard is a better option that Mark Loretta or just sticking with Ruben Gotay? Are you on crack?

Don't recite to me Belliard's numbers. Yes, his stats are good for this year, but I'm not buying that he's the right mix for this ballclub. I'd rather stick with Gotay, give him another 100 at bats, than trading for an over-priced Belliard.

Not to mention the fact that my wife would refuse to watch another Mets game. Every game of the NLCS last year, my wife would ask me, "Who's that guy sticking out his tongue like a lizard? What's his problem? He's gross."

And honestly, I have to agree with her.

I'm chalking this up to just another notch in the rumor mill because I'd get too upset if it wasn't.

John Maine Gives Great Start to Home Stand

Any time your pitcher delivers the biggest blast of the night, you know it's a good night. John Maine was stellar both on the mound and at the plate last night going 7 innings and only allowing 2 runs while picking up 2 RBIs on his first home run of the year.

He looked like he took a Beltran swing on that home run. Both hands on the bat with a solid follow through. It was picture perfect for a guy who normally looks like Mr. Magoo at the plate.

The youngsters played exceptionally well last night, specifically Gotay and Milledge. Gotay has got to be the best hitter for the Mets with runners in scoring position. In the first inning with the Mets down 1-0 and Reyes on second, Gotay comes through with a double down the third base line.

Lastings Milledge added some icing to the cake with a 2 run blast to make it 8-2. The great part about Lastings is that every home run he hits, he does the Manny Ramirez "stop and stare" before remembering that Willie Randolph is going to clean his clock if he doesn't start running. I love it.

One down, two go. Keep it rolling.

Mets Trade Rumors: Tadahito Iguchi

Second base has become the latest trade rumors. In this morning's New York Post, Mark Hale writes about the Mets interest in adding a second baseman who could bat second. Tadahito Iguchi appears to be the top choice, but Mets brass is reluctant to part with any of their top prospects.

Other second base options include former Met, Ty Wigginton, or San Fran's Ray Durham.

Personally, I was sad to see Ty Wigginton go a couple years ago, but I'm not sure he's the type of player I'd trade for. At this point I'm ready to stick with Gotay and bring in Anderson Hernandez or Damion Easley as defensive replacements. I'm still pulling for a Mark Loretta deal, but other than that Iguchi, Wigginton & Durham are not guys I'd want to deal prospects for.

So Ruben Gotay, get to Shea early and start practicing some fielding drills and turning double plays. It's your starting spot to lose.

Mets Trade Rumor: Mark Loretta

The Mets went from a surplus of second basemen to having second base become a question mark in the matter of two days. Jose Valentin is now pretty much done for the year, and Damion Easley is on bereavement leave.

Ruben Gotay has been stellar at the plate, but we've now discovered that he really isn't that great in the field as we saw in his game blowing double play error yesterday. Now the Mets are calling up Anderson Hernandez who is the second base version of Rey Ordonez both in the field and at the plate.

So an interesting trade proposition was brought up on WFAN this afternoon with Chris Carlin. What if the Mets made a deal to acquire Mark Loretta from the Astros? Not really I name I would think of, but the numbers made me think. Loretta is batting .401 with runners in scoring position, and batting .342 with runners in scoring position with two outs (I'm salivating).

Mark Loretta is a career .299 hitter with decent speed and a great glove (only 6 errors this year and 5 while he was playing out of position at shortstop). Since Loretta is not a marquee player and is not a spring chicken by any stretch I don't think it would take much to get him. The Astros are planning on rebuilding now that Biggio will retire and they have a young core that they might get rid of Loretta for a mid-level prospect.

I like this idea the more I think about it. Loretta would be solid in the two hole and add some security to the infield. I still feel that we need to ride Gotay until he cools down, but having an experienced veteran at second base as we head towards the playoffs would be a nice addition.

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.

Jose Reyes Botched Hit and Run

I recently posted about the debacle that happened in the 7th inning last night with Gotay getting thrown out at second in the 7th inning with Reyes at the plate.

According to post game interviews, Willie Randolph called a hit and run, but Reyes failed to swing so Gotay was left on his own to try and steal second.

Reyes admitted he "froze" at the plate on that hit and run play. The pitch was the most perfect fastball down the middle, and Reyes just looked at it.

This is just weird because Reyes is a free swinger. In an at bat earlier he swung at a pitch in the dirt and then two pitches way off the plate to strike out. But when he sees a perfect strike he doesn't know what to do? Call it brain freeze if you want, but whatever it is just adds to the Mets woes at the plate.

I do like the idea that Willie Randolph is calling some hit and runs more often. He hardly ever calls them so hopefully he's trying to will his team out of this slump by manufacturing some runs.

We all know we need some runs.

Not the Way to Start a Road Trip

Nine hits. Your team gets nine hits there's no excuse for not scoring more than 1 run. But the Mets continued to struggle with runners on base as they lost an inexcusable game to the Padres, 5-1.

If you asked me which pitcher on the Padres I would want to face, the answer would easily be David Wells. The crazy thing is the hits were in abundance last night. Every inning it seemed the Mets had runners on base. But no one could score.

The most painful moment of the night came in the top of the 7th. Ruben Gotay beat out an infield single with two outs and the score 2-1. With a 3-1 count to Reyes, Gotay tries to steal second and gets thrown out. I have two problems with this play. First, Reyes should have swung at the pitch. It was the meatball to beat all meatballs down the middle of the plate, but Reyes looked at it like it was the worst pitch he had ever seen.

Second, why is Gotay running? I like the aggressiveness, but it's not like you're trying to break up a double play. There's 2 outs! You get caught, rally over. Chance blown. Not sure if Gotay ran on his own or if it was called from the bench, but either way it was a bad move.

Feliciano pitched well in relief, but had some bad breaks not go his way. I can't even talk about Heilman any more. What's happened to this guy?

Lady luck continued to shine on the Mets as every other NL East team lost so the Mets maintained their slim lead on the Braves.

The bad news is the Mets face Peavy and Maddux in the next two games. WAKE UP BATS! PLEASE!

Ruben Gotay is the 2007 Version of Timo Perez

Man do I like Ruben Gotay.

He's got pop in his bat. Plays solid in the field. And I've got this sense that he provides some energy to the lineup.

But he reminds me a lot of another guy I loved back in 2000: Timo Perez.

Do you remember Timo Perez? He was last seen within the Detroit Tigers system, but I remember loving this kid at the top of the lineup when he was called up in September of 2000. He would slap bunt for base hits. He hustled. He had energy. I really thought he was going to be a sparkplug for the the future of the team.

But after a great few months in 2000, he slowly lost favor with the organization.

Now I'm not one who's going to tell you that Ruben Gotay is the future of the Mets. I don't know what to make of him yet for the future, but I do know that we need to play this kid while he's still hot. Right now Ruben Gotay is batting a ridiculous .342 with 4 home runs and .553 slugging percentage. It's not like Jose Valentin or Damion Easley are just too good to sit on the bench.

Plus there's something about Mets' second baseman that seems you need to enjoy the good times while it lasts. Look at Valentin last year compared to this year. Remember how good Jeff Keppinger looked and then he got hurt and we traded him. Anderson Hernandez was a starting second baseman and now he's all but forgotten. And of course there's Kaz Matsui, but I won't even go there.

Let's see if Gotay can continue his performance at the plate. I don't think anyone is dying to see Valentin and Easley. But I've very curious to see what Gotay can do in an every day role.

And if he turns out to be more than a Timo Perez one-year type of player, that's just icing on the cake.