Mets Finish Road Trip 2-9, Talk With Royals About Deals

Yesterday was the same old story lately for the Mets, their starter pitched well enough to win, but the team couldn't score as they lost 1-0 to the Dodgers in L.A. (box/wrap).

This was a terrible road trip, and the Mets SOMEHOW managed to stay within reach of the Braves, although the Phillies are making a move.  Hopefully some home-cooking will make a difference this week, even though these aren't easy games against the Cardinals (Garcia, Wainwright and Suppan) before getting the D'backs again (we know how well that went last time).  All this before heading to Atlanta and Philly in consecutive series.

This will be a telling stretch for the Mets, especially considering the trade deadline just happens to fall into that time period.  Speaking of trade deadline...

Ken Rosenthal tweeted that the Mets are talking with the Royals about swapping some bad contracts.  Rosenthal mentions Farnsworth, Meche and Guillen as players in a potential deal, along with Cashstealo, Perez and Frenchy.  Although Rosenthal does mention that these probably won't be a straight three-for-three or even that a deal is imminent, he does acknowledge that things are being talked about. 

As much as I love Frenchy, and hate Jose Guillen, if you are the Mets and this deal (or some iteration of it) is possible, you HAVE to pull the trigger.  Farnsworth is having a very good year, and Meche if he's healthy can definitely help bolster your pitching staff.  But to me this biggest thing here is to get rid of the headaches you have in Perez and Castillo.  If Omar has a chance to move them, he really should jump on it as long as they're not going to cost any big time prospects.

Anyway, the Mets get tonight off before starting their series with the Cardinals tomorrow.  I hope coming back home will change their fortune, and the way they play ball, because this past weekend was NOTHING fun to watch...

Mets Blanked Again, Having More Trouble Scoring Than a Fat Kid in High School

Last night the Mets were blanked for the third time on this road trip, and lost to the Dodgers 2-0 despite a good effort from Hisanori Takahashi (box score/wrap).

When will enough be enough already?  This road trip has been miserable.  The team is losing, and looking terrible doing it.  On this current road trip the Mets have been shut out three times, not ONCE scoring more than 4 runs in a game.  They've scored 15 runs in their last 8 games...I'm no math major here, but that's less than 2 runs/game.  That isn't going to win anything, anytime, anywhere...

On a night where the line up was without Beltran, Bay and Barajas (which I don't think was a bad thing), the team only managed 5 hits with two of them coming from the often benched Jeff Francoeur.  I don't blame Jerry for shaking things up, in fact, Carter and Frenchy provided the only real offense spark last night.  At one point they put a runner on third base...that was fun.

I guess the bright side, if there has to be one, is that Takahashi didn't get lit again.  That was good.  He went 7 innings giving up 2 runs on 3 hits.  I just hope this doesn't convince management that their rotation is in good shape, because they still need another starter.

Not to get on this train again, BUT, the Mets are 0-4 since Castillo returned...Can you say black cloud?

The Mets try to turn things around tonight in L.A. sending Santana to the hill against Vincente Padilla...

Come on, Mets.

Mets Avoid Sweep, Welcome Back Cashstealo, Potentially Unwelcome Back Perez

After a blown save, and a blown call, the Mets were able to avoid the sweep in San Fran by beating the Giants 4-3 in extra innings (box score/wrap).

So, Santana was great and deserved the win, but he's cursed on this team.  Santana gave up one run in 8 innings yesterday and was in line for the win until K-Rod blew the save, only to then vulture the win for himself.  Ugh...Johan deserves better, and K-Rod is really starting to bother me.  Everything is a freakin' nail biter with this guy.  I can't stand this crap anymore.  Do your job and shut the opposition down in the ninth without throwing 50 pitches and making it too close for comfort...

Anyway, on a positive note, Ike Davis is starting to hit again after going 3-5 yesterday with the game winning RBI.  He really carried the Mets offense over the the last two games of the Giants series, along with Wright who hit a bomb yesterday.

Lucky to even escape San Fran with a win after that horrible call at home, the Mets next stop is in Arizona tonight, where they FINALLY send Pelfrey to the mound to take on Ian Kennedy.  The game starts at 9:40.

In other news, it looks like Luis Cashstealo will be back with the team tonight and Oliver Perez will be rejoining the team in Arizona, as reported by Adam Rubin, here, for ESPN New York...ehhh.  Clearly, I'm not happy about any of this.  I don't like Cashstealo, and I don't like Perez.  But, I hope that the Mets can show that Perez is healthy enough that they can find SOME team to take a gamble with him...although I severely doubt it. 

As far as Luis, I just don't think he fits with the team anymore.  Despite Tejada's struggles at the plate, I really enjoyed watching the kid play.  It made me feel good as a Mets fan that this team, and the organization, has some nice upcoming talent.  Now, that young talent is put back on the back burner for some older, more broken down, talent.  I'm not happy, but this day had to come eventually...

Regardless, I hope Cashstealo finds himself in the 8 spot tonight, because breaking up Reyes and Pagan at the top of the line up would be a huge mistake.  On the same token, I wouldn't be surprised either if Barajas is hitting eighth tonight and Pagan finds himself hitting 6-7, and Cashstealo weasels his way back into the two-hole.  Although I really hope not.

I guess we'll just wait and see...

Injuries: Tatis Likely Out for the Year, Cashstealo Back in L.A.

2009 was filled with tough injuries for the Mets, but 2010, has been full of fortunate ones...

During the Mets/Giants telecast this evening Gary Cohen stated that Fernando Tatis underwent shoulder surgery yesterday and was moved to the 60-day DL in order to activate Carlos Beltran.  Beyond that, Cohen said that Tatis will likely be done for the season.

Not to rag on some of these hurt players, BUT...

Did anyone even remember Tatis was on this team until he got hurt?  When the Mets were having a big run in June, Tatis was nowhere to be seen.  On the same note, neither were Ollie Perez, Luis Castillo , John Maine nor Sean Green.  Maybe there was a little addition by subtraction going on there...

On a much more depressing note, according to Adam Rubin for ESPN New York, it looks like Luis Cashstealo is aiming to return to the Mets at some point next weekend against the Dodgers.  Anyone who knows me, knows I am dreading this.  I just don't like the way he plays, and I don't like the influence he seems to have on Reyes.  All-in-all I would prefer he stay injured...

Cashstealo To Stay on DL

According to Mets.com, here, Anthony DiComo writes that the team has admitted that Luis Cashtealo will need some more time before he's capable of returning to the field.  DiComo points to Minaya saying that the second baseman is "just not ready yet."  DiComo also quotes Omar as saying, "We're not concerned -- not yet...We're hoping that it's not going to be a long-term thing."

I'm not going to kick a guy too much when he's down, but the team has been playing a lot better without Cashstealo around.  The team seems to have better life and a better attitude.  I really think it'd be better for the team and Luis if he just really got healthy, and did whatever necessary to do that.  That was a lot of me being nice right there...I just want him to stay on the DL.

According to the article it looks like the team will continue to play Tejada, which I like.  And finally Jerry sees what I see about Ruben.  DiComo quotes Jerry as saying, ""That's the one thing I thought that we'd miss with Luis is that turn...We were just talking about that today, how impressed we had been with [Tejada] turning the double play. He's adapted extremely well."  Thank you Jerry for that dynamic analysis, it only took you about two weeks of Tejada playing to notice.  I guess I should just be happy you noticed at all...

In the meantime, without Cashstealo, the team continues to win.  I don't care who they win with, because to me winning is the only thing...

Cashstealo, D'Backs, Beltran and Potential RF Platoon

According to Metsblog, here, Luis Cashstealo is working his way back from injury.  Cerrone says, "Jerry Manuel told reporters yesterday that the team will know in the next day or so whether Castillo is capable of being activated this weekend."

Can I start by saying, is there anyway to keep him on the DL longer?  The team is 9-1 since Cashstealo went on the DL June 4th.  I know there are his supporters out there who think he's fine, and not the problem for this team.  Can something please be said for addition by subtraction?  I just find it hard to dispute that since he, Perez and GMJ have all not been part of this team they are winning, and looking good doing it.  I have no problem living with Cora and Tejada, especially considering the results the TEAM has gotten since that's been the arrangement. 

But for those who want a new second baseman...

In the same posting on Metsblog, Cerrone points to a tweet from Jon Paul Morosi, here, who thinks that Kelly Johnson can be had.  While I think any move at second base isn't really an option for the Mets unless they can move Cashstealo, this is an intriguing name.  Although Johnson isn't a great fielder he does have some nice pop and speed.  He's not a great option as far as all-around second baseman in the league, but in my opinion he is a definite upgrade over Cashstealo.  Despite that, I would argue that unless Johnson was a needed add-in for salary relief in another deal with the D'Backs (Dan Haren), the Mets don't NEED to make a move for him.  Cora and Tejada have been fine so far.  And even though I know there are those who are concerned about Cora's option kicking in, I'm not one of them.  Now, if the Mets and D'Backs start talking Haren and Johnson becomes a throw-in salary dump, then that'd be nice.  I just don't think the team needs to pursue Johnson on his own, because in my opinion his value over Cashstealo is not great enough to warrant a deal, and a potential prospect. Also, I think unless the Mets find a way to deal Cashstealo (not likely), this won't even be considered...

Also worth considering since Beltran has been working out in Florida is this article written by Andy McCullough of the Newark Star-Ledger about a potential right field platoon between Pagan and Francoeur once Beltran returns from the DL.  McCullough makes an interesting point about a platoon.  When looking at the righty/lefty splits for Pagan and Francoeur it's hard to deny that a platoon would make sense, and considering the likelihood that Beltran will not be able to play everyday when he comes back, there will be playing time available in the Mets outfield. 

However, should the Mets be lucky enough to get a full-strength Carlos Beltran, I think the Mets have options.  I would make one of Francoeur/Pagan available in a deal, using whichever has more value (probably Pagan) to net some starting pitching.  OR maybe prove Beltran is healthy for a bit and then ship him out for a starter.  I don't know which would make more sense, as it would depend on the deals available.  I am suprised to see myself saying this because I was one of those guys who hated when people first started talking about dealing Beltran, but maybe there is some sense to it...

Regardless, I'm just saying there are options, because Pagan has proven to me this year to be a viable option as an everyday center fielder.  Whether there is more trade value in him, a recovering commodity in Beltran or Francoeur remains to be seen.

I guess what I'm trying to say is...

This could be a fun trade deadline...

Mets Make Roster Moves: My Reactions

I need to address the roster moves the Mets made today.  I would have gotten to these moves earlier had my job not gotten in the way...

So, first thing's first, the Mets FINALLY DFA'D Gary Matthews Jr.  Part of me feels bad for Matthews because he seemed like a good teammate, unfortunately for him he's a terrible player and that's more important.  Now that I showed a little mercy, here it comes...about time.  Matthews was awful and was only really on the team because Jerry was afraid of not having a back up centerfielder.  So instead of calling up Jesus Feliciano, who's hitting close to .400 in Triple-A and plays centerfield, the organization decided to bring up Omir Santos because Blanco is hurting...

Let's stop right there...WHAT?

GMJ being the only guy on the roster capable of playing center fielder was the excuse that kept him around as long as he did, right?  So, when the Mets finally decided "enough was enough" with GMJ, they decided to bring up a catcher?  Is anyone as confused as I am?  I get that Blanco is banged up, but when Blanco was on the bereavement list a week or two ago Barajas played all the time, and Thole was useless.  So what is different now?  Why can't Barajas carry the load again?  If it's because Blanco is THAT hurt, why doesn't he go to the DL?  I am baffled.  The best part of this whole thing is that Jerry now says that Bay can play centerfield if need be.  Where has this been all year?

Before I get to Cashstealo, which I feel was a no-brainer decision, I want to look at Niese being activated tomorrow and try to figure out who gets sent down...

In this article, I mentioned earlier from Metsblog, there is potential for Mejia to be the guy sent down should Perez continue to refuse to take a minor league assignment.  This brings up a few things...

First, while I'd like it to be Mejia who is sent down because I want him to be a starter...I think the need to get Ollie off of the major league roster trumps the need to turn Mejia into a starter, at this point.  Especially considering how Dickey pitched tonight, and how he and Takahashi can easily transition to the bullpen.

I really hope it's going to be Ollie.  I'm not quite sure how it's going to happen, but I really think if the Mets are as frustrated as their fans are with Perez and if he doesn't accept a minor league assignment I a move should be made.  Perez is a distraction and a waste of an arm in the bullpen.  I would throw the minor league option at him one more time, or the organization should just take their lumps and admit Ollie was a bad contract.  That was tough for me to say, I still like Ollie's stuff when he's on...he just hasn't been on in a while.

Now, let's talk Cashstealo, who was playing hurt and NEEDED to go on the DL.  I mean, this guy was limping to the plate, in the field, while walking to first.  There is no doubt in my mind he's tough, and he's earned some respect from me for playing hurt (doesn't make me think he doesn't stink), but I think this was the right decision.

Looks like Ruben Tejada will get a serious look at second base.  I would love to see the kid get hot and never give up this spot, unfortunately, I really doubt that will happen.  Even if Tejada is out of his mind while Cashstealois on the DL, I just don't see the Mets not playing someone who makes $6 million.  For whatever that's worth...

Mets Win 4-2, A Heart Attack Worth Staying Awake For...

Despite K-Rod making last night's game entirely too interesting for my taste, the Mets still managed to hang on and beat the Padres 4-2 (box score/wrap).

Mike Pelfrey was awesome.  He increased his overall record to 8-1 on the year, going 8 innings while giving up only 1 run on 4 hits, and striking out 8.  Pelfrey looked dominant, which I would normally downplay with the Padres offense except for what they did to the Mets offensively yesterday.  He looked great and I now officially have more confidence the Mets will win a game he starts, then they would if Santana was starting.  It's a combination of Pelfrey being THAT good so far this year, and Santana still getting a bunch of those tough luck losses, and no decisions.

At the plate, the big blows came from Wright and Davis, who both hit homers and drove in two runs each.  Also having a good day with another two hits was Jeff Francoeur, and Luis Cashstealo (although hobbling all over the field) did score two runs for the Mets.  I still don't like him, and he's still hitter for a lower average than Francoeur, but I guess I'll give him a break today...

The Mets look to take their first road series of the year, and finish this road trip at .500, tonight at 6:30 when they send Santana to the mound to face Clayton Richard for the Padres.  Santana and Richard have almost identical lines going into tonight's game.  Santana is 4-2 with a 3.03 ERA, while Richard is 4-3 with a 3.00 ERA...runs will probably be at a premium tonight, and it should be a well pitched contest...

Mets Trying To Move Cashstealo?

I thought I was hallucinating when I saw this story on metsblog, and then read the original on FOXSports.com, but apparently the Mets see what everyone else sees and seem willing to move Luis Cashstealo...

In the FOXSports article, Ken Rosenthal points out that the Rockies may not be satisfied with Melvin Mora as their back-up at second base, and adds "A team such as the Rockies likely would require the Mets to pay almost all of that money in any deal. But the Mets could be motivated to move Castillo for another reason as well: A desire to playDaniel Murphy at second base."


Here's what I say...


DO IT NOW!  Look, I know Cashstealo hasn't been the problem this year (as much as other things), but that is EXACTLY why they need to deal him while they can.  Even if they need to pay most of the contract they should do it.  This would be addition by subtraction, as Cashstealo has been a black cloud over this organization since his arrival, which coincided with the 2007 and 2008 late season collapses as well as last year's horror.  On a more serious note, he looks old, isn't as fast as he used to be, and almost never hits the ball out of the infield (especially for the left side).  Cashstealo has been less than adequate overall and if another team is willing to take him, then the Mets should jump on it...now.  And if they do, Murphy, Cora and even Tatis (not my favorite option) take the reigns.  


Interestingly enough, as a first baseman Murphy doesn't have enough power, but as a second baseman he would become more than passable...right?  So, in my estimation if the Mets can move Cashtealo it would really make the team better, and would continue to allow them to get younger and give Murphy a chance to fit in with this team...

An Offseason Move I Wish Were Made...

I don't know if this deal was ever discussed, and I realize hindsight is 20/20...BUT...

Don't you wish that the Mets had sent Luis Cashstealo (that doesn't count as using his name) to Seattle for Carlos Silva.  It's not like the Mariners moved Silva for anything less than a headache, and the Mets could have potentially made that trade and signed a Hudson or Felipe Lopez.  But like I said something about hindsight...

Carlos Silva is currently 4-0 with a 3.40 ERA for the Cubs in 7 starts with only 9 walks in 42 innings pitched.  I know this would have been a huge risk at the time and no one knew he would have recovered like this, but it's interesting to look at...

Orlando Hudson is hitting .285 with a .368 OBP, 2 homers (homers at second base, is that even allowed?) 11 RBI and 3 stolen bases in 36 games.

Felipe Lopez, who just recently returned from an injury, is hitting .273 with a .347 OBP in 15 games with 1 homer, 4 RBI (all against the Mets) and 2 stolen bases.

Meanwhile Luis Cashstealo is hitting .265 with a .355 OBP, 11 RBI and 5 stolen bases.  He also has a slugging percentage of .311, in 32 games this season...

Like I said before there is no way of knowing what Silva would have done, but isn't it interesting to wonder if the Mets could have had one of these two second basemen and Carlos Silva, while NOT having their current second baseman.

Just some food for thought...