1/07/2007 12:44:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Jeff Weaver's name has been thrown out as a possibility to fill the rotation, but don't look for it to happen. He wants too much money. Four years at $40 million is too much for somebody who pitched well in a few playoff games. GM Omar Minaya remembers that he was 3-10 with a 6.29 ERA in 16 starts with the Angels before he was designated for assignment. And, while the Mets and Yankees are different animals, Minaya is wary of him pitching in New York, and is considering free agents Tomo Ohka and Tony Armas. Neither is clear cut better than the Mets' current options.|||116819830928571238|||Jan. 07: Weaver not much on option afterall COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/08/2007 06:45:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:If I had to pick between the two I would go with Armas. He is younger and seems healthier than Ohka. Ohka had a partial tear of his rotator cuff last season. Armas is younger and would cost less and he finished with a high ERA but also was almost at .500 with his record last season. I still would not get very excited over either, but it does help out the young inexperienced rotation. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/09/2008 08:01:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Its been awhile. I see the format has changed here. I need to get back into seeing what the Mets are doing for people. *sigh* After the post season shake up I took time off from all this. I'll get back into the swing shortly :-)

Steve C. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Ed COMMENT-DATE:1/14/2008 08:00:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Nice blog, January, 2007. It's 1/14/2008 if anyone is interested. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/15/2008 04:37:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Great blog if you're into H. G. Wells and the time machine. How about an article on G. Donald Grant, or Honus Wagner? -------- 1/05/2007 03:29:00 PM|||John Delcos||| There is a possibility Randy Johnson is healthy in 2007 and has a great year. I think there's a greater possibility he'll break down. That the Yankees free themselves of his contract and get some prospects in the process is a plus. If Johnson stays with the Yankees, who couldn't imagine a season of the disabled list and another early exit in the playoffs?|||116802926693931402|||Jan. 05: Yankees would do well to dump Johnson COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:1/06/2007 08:54:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Hi John -

Mike Francesa made an oblique reference to Randy Johnson's older brother's untimely death and thought that was the biggest reason that Randy wanted to 'stay home'. What do you hear about that? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/06/2007 03:05:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Ta Ta Rag Arm!!!

- Mike -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Steve C. COMMENT-DATE:1/06/2007 04:00:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Yankees....hmmmmmmm...
nah sorry still dont care..

Lets Go Mets Go.. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/08/2007 01:54:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:With all the news about the yanks recently, it made me look at the teams.

For right now the yanks look much better than we.

Play during the season may change that, but looks like we will be second fiddle this year.

Dave -------- 1/05/2007 10:48:00 AM|||John Delcos||| Jeff Weaver has to be somewhere between the pitcher who imploded while with the Yankees and the one who pitched well in the World Series. Wouldn't that make him a No. 3 or No. 4 quality starter? And, that could be enough to fill out the rotation. There's no question Weaver didn't handle things well emotionally while with the Yankees, but that was four years ago and people can change. Remember, it wasn't so much New York, as it was in dealing with all that nonsense with George Steinbrenner. I covered the Yankees at the time and Steinbrenner publicly ripped Weaver and chose Jose Contreras over him. Steinbrenner made it impossible to Weaver to succeed here because he let it be known he wanted Contreras. His preference with Contreras had nothing to do with ability at the time, but everything to do with justifying winning the bidding war with the Red Sox over him. New York can be an intimidating place, but Weaver wasn't flustered in October. And, don't forget, pitching for the Yankees and Steinbrenner is different than pitching for the Mets. It's New York, but it's still different. Weaver could be worth the gamble, but not at four years and $40 million.|||116801210218133790|||Jan. 05: What about Weaver? COMMENT-AUTHOR: Ryan COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 11:16:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Agreed. Weaver would be worth the gamble at one year - mainly so that Maine and Pelfrey/Humber don't have to both throw more innings than they've ever thrown before (which would be my main worry with "going with the kids" - not that they'd be bad because I think they'd be at least average, but that they'd hit a wall, or worse).

But I would be SHOCKED if he didn't get exactly what he was looking for - from somebody else. If the Mets aren't giving Zito $127m, they're not going to give Weaver $40m - but somebody will. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: TurnTwo COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 11:45:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:i dont think he ever really had a chance to succeed in pinstripes, either. he's a NL pitcher, and should stay in the NL.

i think the mets could do a lot worse than Weaver, who if nothing else can provide stability and innings at the back of the rotation.

Unfortunately, the going rate for those types of pitchers is $10 million a season, but I cant imagine that changing any time soon.

If I were Minaya, I'd offer 2 years at $11 million, and a third year option, and see if he bites.

I know Boras had other more pressing issues to deal with thus far this offseason, but the fact he is still on the market demonstrates to me that there isnt the demand for him as he had hoped. The same thing happened after last season, and he wound up with a 1 year deal. It wouldnt be a stretch for me to see it happen again. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 01:47:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:The Mets are definitely a different situation from the Yanks. We have seen them go overboard to make guys feel welcome and fit in (except for punk rookies lol).

I don't think Arod would say the same about the Yanks. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: TurnTwo COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 02:40:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:i actually think the Yankees organization has done almost everything they can to help arod feel comfortable to a point where he's embarrassingly coddled like a baby at times, but the backlash from the yankees fans is where the difference lies.

and i think the same stigma applies here with weaver. we all know he's not a lights out pitcher, but is he of the same group as a meche or a lilly?
surely, and has more postseason success than either of those pitchers combined, maybe making him that much more valuable.

i think most people still have 'ny yankees' jeff weaver in their heads, and unjustifyably don't give him the respect or opportunity to prove us wrong.

i think he would be best served to stay in St. Louis, where they need him to fortify their own rotation problems and can continue to grow with Dave Duncan, but he would serve just the same in a mets uniform. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 03:25:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Ryan (RE: Weaver price)

You're right, there's no way they'd give that kind of money to Weaver, but somebody will. I bring him up because he had a good postseason and is healthy, making the gamble worthwhile. However, he has been largely inconsistent since leaving the Yankees so you have to be careful.

And, you make a good point about the innings piling up for Pelfrey and Humber. That makes the bullpen even more important. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 03:28:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Turn Two (RE: Weaver's image)

When thinking of Weaver, I think most remember him with the Yankees, which isn't the whole picture. He's probably better off in St. Louis with Duncan, but if he came to the Mets he'd be in the back end of the rotation where there's less pressure. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: TurnTwo COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 03:51:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John, while i agree to an extent your argument that Weaver would be more of a front of the rotation guy in St. Louis compared to a back rotation guy in NY, there is nothing about St. Louis that says pressure.

I was in St. Louis 2 years back for a couple games on a road trip, and i've never seen such blindly rooting fans as I saw there. In fact, I think a lot of the broadcasters that you hear doing national games incorrectly label Cardinals fans as the best and most intelligent fans in the country. Those fans stunk.

Thats why i always felt if the Yankees were to ever trade ARod, I would think St. Louis is a perfect fit for his fragile mind. Sit him in front of Pujols, or vice versa, and you have the Manny/Papi of the NL, plus in the eyes of those fans, ARod could do absolutely no wrong. They could send back Scott Rolen and some of that nice young pitching (although at this pt they couldnt afford to give any pitching up) and be done with it.

not that i've thought about this at all.

but to get back to Weaver, compare that fandom where noone can do wrong to a culture in NY where he's already "failed", fairly assessed or not... and even though he's at the back end of the rotation, he's still going to be viewed under the bright lights because the mets are supposed to be the class of the NL East. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: tropicalista COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 04:24:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John, you know, a couple days ago after I made a tongue-in-cheek post that Omar should consider resigning Trachsel, I had made integrity questioned by a poster on your blog (no, I’m not a shill for Trachsel!—in fact, I used to hate watching him pitch!). However, when I consider Weaver’s record and his possible contract, it really does make me think twice about Trachsel. At the risk of being attacked again, look at the stats: Trachsel in 2006, 15-8, 4.97, .288 ba (career, 134-143, 4.28) and Weaver 8-14, 5.76, .303 ba (career 86-101, 4.58). Not to mention the fact that Weaver bombed horribly in the city while Trachsel has put together a pretty decent second half of a career there (he’s won 11 or more games 5 out of the last six years). Now, I’m sure Trachsel won’t be back, but there’s no way Weaver is worth that kind of money! (I’d actually prefer taking a chance with Tony Armas.)

Ste—ur, Robert -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 05:50:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I think in this order the Mets should go after one of these low budget pitchers.
Zambranbo
Weaver
Ohko
Armos Jr.

Or offer an invite to Claussen (DFA Cincy was NYY prospect) and Beltran Perez (Minor league FA from Wash.)

But they need a 500 level inning eater in case a vet goes down or one of the kids implodes. You know what you get with these guys and it doesn't caost too much. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Ed Ryan COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 05:52:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:thats my post above some reason haed a hard time logging in if im going to call for Zambrano im going to admit it -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:1/06/2007 08:53:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:John - I still think of Weaver as a West Coast Surfer type and that was also part of his NY trouble. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/06/2007 03:04:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:OK Trachsel....

OK Zambrano....

We get it. You guys have no offers and want to come back to the Mets. We get it. Just please stop calling yourselves Robert and Mr. Ed.

- Mike -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Steve C. COMMENT-DATE:1/06/2007 03:59:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:let pedro go.
no zambonie and no trash-el.

I rather stick with what we have then risk the season with eratic pitching. -------- 1/04/2007 11:10:00 AM|||John Delcos||| I hope you all had a great Holiday season. Got an email from the Mets, pitchers and catchers report on the 15th. Hotel reservations for the season about done. Time to book spring training flight. It will be here before you know it. Took in ``We are Marshall,'' the other night. Very well done. It could have been overdone but it wasn't. ``The Good Shepherd,'' by the way lost me. There were too many holes in it. Too many unanswered questions. I was expecting a lot more. We're re-designing the blog. The new version should be out shortly. Mostly design stuff. I hope you'll like it. My gut feeling on the Mets, by the way, is what you see is what you get for spring training. I can't see them doing anything major between now and Port St. Lucie. Assuming that's the case, how do you feel about that? Are you confident with what the Mets have now?|||116792924622818061|||Jan. 04: Hope you're all doing well COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/04/2007 03:05:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:As is they can make the playoffs in my opinion. Winnign the division and further success in the post-season will direclty correlate with Pedro and/or any major in-seaosn trades. If we get the 2005 Pedro or early 2006 we can make the WS, if Pedro is a complete non factor we maybe get to the second round. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/04/2007 05:08:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I mean, a lot of different scenarious could play out (obviously) but I see the Mets, as is, being in the postseason, and being a factor. We might not have the dominant lead in the division as last year, but just like last year before the playoffs (but because of injuries then) there will be uncertainty about our chances (now simply because of the pitching we have). However, like the other poster said, if Pedro is back and he's going 5-0 in September like he did in April "06, look out. I just think our core is too good, Willie will have everyone going, the playoff eperience last year, the winning attitude... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anthony COMMENT-DATE:1/04/2007 09:25:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I know there is a free agent bonanza next year....any chance on the mets pouncing on one of those guys before the trade deadline? Is that what Minaya might plan on doing? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/04/2007 10:00:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:i think we're in for a long season of bad pitching. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Larry COMMENT-DATE:1/04/2007 11:05:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:here's an idea for the blog:

get somebody else to do it. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Brian COMMENT-DATE:1/04/2007 11:44:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I'm feeling alright about the team, overall.

I would've liked to get younger at second and stay younger at the utiliy spot (instead of Valentin, get Loretta--or, if you have your time machine handy, Gruzielank last winter the way I wanted--and instead of Easley, re-sign Woodward).

I also have some concerns about what value we did or didn't get back for Ring, Bell, Owens, Bannister, Lindstrom, etc. I know we tend to over-appraise the value of our own prospects, but young(er) arms are obviously always good to have around, especially on July 31st. So I hope Minaya really did maximize their trade value by making the moves now.

The only move I want to see now is them signing Tony Armas to a 1- or 2-year contract for, say, $3 million/year. His numbers are respectable at that price range, and he has a high ceiling (based on his past performance and his being only 28). Ohka has a lower ceiling and, from what I've read, will cost more per year (and you might have to go 3 years and more money per year in a bidding war to get him). Weaver, despite his playoff performance, mostly just got beat up last year, and the bidding will start at at least twice the price of either Armas or Ohka and 4 years (to say nothing of his New York phobia). I think Armas is the right move as a stop-gap (even for just half of a season, if it works out that way) until Pelfrey or Humber is ready.

Oh, lastly, as far as moves I don't want to see... I still can't figure out why Minaya is (so consistently rumored to be) enamored with Rodrigo Lopez. It's not like, for ex., Armas or Vazquz or even Weaver where he was once pretty decent and he's been injured or had NY-related psychological issues, etc. Lopez has had a streaky, up-and-down, overall mediocre career--more like Lima, really (and anything said about the AL hitting and/or Camden's dimensions is mostly nonsense--he pitched worse away, and basically just as badly against the NL in interleague play). So, Minaya, I say save the trading chips, re-sign Lima for few bottles of hair dye, and give our friends in the press an excuse to run the unused clever Lima-Time-related headlines they have saved up from last season.

(Oops, sorry to have gone on so long.. Thanks, John, for the work on here--it's been good stuff.) -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Craig COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 08:45:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:I would have liked them to have inked Pineiro, personally. Now, my preference would be to resign Victor Zambrano to a one year deal as insurance while things play out in spring training. I'm fine with going into the season with the current troup and seeing what transpires.

With Alou batting 6th rather than an ineffective Floyd or when Floyd was out, Nady, the offense should be more consistent as a whole even if LoDuca and/or Valentin slip some this year. I anticipate a better year from Delgado as well.

Uncertainty scares a lot of people. That's understandable. I don't mind my organization acting both boldly and responsibily. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 10:21:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon #1 and #2 (RE: Pedro)

Remember, Pedro doesn't exist. He's a bonus if he comes back, but he can't be penciled in for anything. At his age and injury history, anything they get has to be a bonus. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 10:24:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:To Anthony (RE: Trade deadline)

Ideally, yes, they'd like to add someone by the July 31 trade deadline. However, that's harder and harder to do. Because of the wild card, more teams think they have a chance and are reluctant to deal. More teams also increases the competition for who is available. The odds of getting a headline talent are slim at the deadline, but it is possible to get enough talent to eat innings, like Dave Williams and Oliver Perez last summer. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 10:33:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:To Brian (RE: Misc topics)

1. Younger at second: Ideally, that would be the case, but the gamble was Valentin could give them close to another year like 2006, which would be fine. Valentin did a good enough job on both sides to the ball to not have the position be a worry.

2. Comparable talent: The players you mentioned were average at best, so it stands to reason most of the return talent is the same. It's like kids trading lunches at the school yard. You always hope the other guy makes a mistake and slips in a candy bar.

3: Armas/Ohka: The Mets are talking to both, but neither will be a rotation saver. Armas being younger might be the way to go because there's more time for something positive to happen with the change of scenery. But, neither one is a pitcher that will put the Mets over the top.

4. Rodrigo Lopez/Jeff Weaver: I don't know the attraction for Lopez, either. If I had the choice, I'd go with Weaver. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 10:35:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:To Craig (RE: Pineiro):

I like that signing for the Red Sox. Potentially, I think the Red Sox helped themselves more than the Yankees. And, you're right. Alou is more consistent than Floyd, but you have to remember that is by comparing him to the injured model. It would have been interesting to see what a healthy Floyd would have given the Mets last year, and what he could do this summer. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: tropicalista COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 10:53:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Overall, I feel pretty good. I think Alou was a very good pick up and the strength of the 2007 team will be the same as the 2006 team: everyday position players and bullpen. That being said, 2007 could really be a wild ride, particularly if one or both of their two veteran starters go down (i.e. Glavine or Hernandez), not an unlikely scenario! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Craig COMMENT-DATE:1/05/2007 01:39:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John, I tend to agree, I've got a judiciously gambling nature myself, and resigning Floyd may have been a buy low opportunity. But I also understand why the Mets did not want to run the risk of Floyd going down again. Alou doesn't generally play 162 games either, but Floyd's had serious issues 2 of the past 3 years.

Alou is also a better contact hitter and works well as a right handed bat to take some of the pressure from Wright to always be the primary producer versus lefties. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:1/06/2007 08:50:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Hi John - Happy New Year.

Yes, I'm comfortable with the Mets this year. I trust Omar's judgement and think he has been sensible in not throwing $$$ at some mediocre players.

Lastings Milledge seems to be on everyones list/mind. I know you felt he was not ready for Prime Time. What do you think will happen to him.

Spent a lot of time watching the Gerald Ford funerals. I think that his background in sports led to him 'playing by the rules' in all aspects of his life. Seeing the UMich band play their fight song as the casket deplaned in Grand Rapids, and Jack Nicklaus as a pall bearer was indicative of Ford's continued love of the games.

I'm glad the Yankees moved the Unit - just wish they could also move Pavano, Giambi and ARod. If they don't have Bernie Williams on their team anymore, I may not watch. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/08/2007 02:02:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Larry,

You're an idiot.

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:1/08/2007 02:03:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I think the way the mets are structured now we have a good chance to repeat last year.

In other words, we can win our division and flame out in the playoffs.

Dave -------- 12/29/2006 09:54:00 AM|||John Delcos||| The question has been raised, and rightfully so: Did the Mets have a Plan B or was it all about Zito? It's hard to believe Omar Minaya would have gone into the offseason that shortsighted. Yeah, they talked trade for Freddy Garcia. Yeah, they talked trade with Oakland. Yeah, they looked at Jeff Suppan. Yeah, they inquired into a few others. So, I can't say it was all Zito. However, all their passion was for Zito. They never really went after anybody with intensity. If they had, it stands to reason with their resources they would have come away with another pitcher. If there was a miscalculation by the Mets, it was the market price for Zito, but that only puts them in the same boat as everybody else. The Mets' gamble was to let the market come to them, figuring they had more to offer than Texas. Nobody, the Mets included, thought Zito would get $126 million over seven years. Considering the limit they wanted to spend, with the benefit of hindsight, they should have been more aggressive early in the market and signed a replacement for Steve Trachsel (they needed to replace 15 wins) and perhaps put more pressure on Tom Glavine. Even so, they are better off going into the season with inexperience at the back end of their rotation than to be saddled with a bad contract.|||116740531753209036|||Dec. 29: Was there a second plan in place? COMMENT-AUTHOR: Ed Ryan COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 11:24:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:What surprises me is this situation doesn't seem to fit Omar's MO. He usually negotiates from a position of advantage. For example: he signed Valentin early so he wasn't held over a barrel by the second base market. Then he pursued Lugo and could pass wihtout much concern. I was surprised that he didn't sign an inning eating pitcher like Suppon, Weaver, Mulder or even Armas. Ohko or Beltran Perez. Boras held all the cards he had the best pitcher available and waited late in the season so teams were desperate. More importantly teams knew the Mets were only interested in Zito so they knew they had to come big or not at all. Even Tx moved on with McCarthy while Omar held. Now if he goes after a pitcher he there licking there chops. The kids do look good but who knows what a fullseason will bring. Not an Omar basher in fact i'm a fan but this one surprises me. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 11:54:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:I have to think Omar's restrained behavior here was a reflection of him having a fallback option in place. His reported offer to Zito was reasonable without being aggressive, which seems to suggest that Omar was only interested in Zito at the right price. If that's true, I have to believe he has something up his sleeve to address this unmet need. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Ryan COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 12:03:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hey John,

I was thinking this morning that the end of the Zito saga seems like the perfect opportunity for Omar to get to work on Willie's extension. Is there anything going on on that front?

Though I think news of it, if it comes, will come out of the blue (sort of like the Reyes and Wright extensions), I'm a little nervous that it won't get done... the fear in the back of my brain is that it's actually Willie who's dragging his feet because he thinks there will be an opening in the Bronx next year. (this may just be Mets fan paranoia, though - borne of fear from the bully across town taking away our toys).

Thoughts?

thanks,
ryan -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 02:00:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Mr. Ed (RE: Omar holding pat)

I am surprised at a few things, too. For example, I never saw the attraction with Lugo. I would've gotten a somebody who would have given me at least 170 innings, then worried about the star later thinking my immediate priority was met. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 02:05:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala (RE: Fallback)

You could look at it that Omar has something cooking. I can't discount it. Omar did approach Zito certain financial paremeters and didn't waiver. As it turned out, the Giants' deal was so overwhelming that Minaya had no chance.

Minaya did say Boras told him the Friday before Christmas that he had seven years on the table. Given that, the Mets could have gone hard after Jeff Suppan, but obviously they didn't value him at the tune of four years and $40 million that he got from the Brewers. That Omar didn't chase Suppan would seem to back what you suggest that he's working on something else. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 02:08:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Ryan (RE: Willie's contract)

I believe Willie will have a new contract prior to Opening Day, and most likely before spring training.

I don't see Randolph leaving for the Yankees. I think they have Don Mattingly earmarked for that job. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: dan COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 04:42:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:im not worried yet,there is still too much time left between now and the end of spring training. lets talk worry at the end of march -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 04:43:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I actually think Zito WAS Plan B this offseason. Look at their bid for Matsuzaka, which was very agressive and above the high end of all projections prior to the bidding itself. Hard to anticipate the stupidity of the Red Sox and Giants on your Plan A and Plan B. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Ryan COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 04:53:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John,

You're probably right; the mind tends to wander towards unpleasant thoughts during a quiet offseason. :)

Thanks for your reply, and have a happy new year!

- ryan -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Craig COMMENT-DATE:12/30/2006 11:27:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Echo the comment about D-Mat. As for signing any of these other 4th or 5th starter types for long money, it's much more likely the signing would be regretable than shrewd. Schmidt did not want to come to NY.

You employ a pitching "guru" in order to take advantage of that benefit. Much like Atlanta with Mazzone and St. Louis with Duncan, the idea should be to provide them with projects and retreads to buy low and sell high.

This isn't 2000. The 2007 Mets likely aren't a culmination. You've got two young cornerstones in Reyes and Wright and the idea should be to build the strongest team around them for a long term run. I applaud Omar, to this point, for taking the long term view and suppliment the short term with proven stopgaps on short contracts in the meantime.

Resign Zambrano if you can't lure one or two pitchers of the Pineiro or Armas ilk on a one or two year "show me" contract. Otherwise, let Peterson continue to earn his money, keep the guys who may be front line starters, deal others once they have built or rebuilt their MLB resume. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/30/2006 03:00:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Craig (RE: Schmidt)

Yes, Schmidt didn't want New York, but the Mets didn't throw the bucks at him that could have tempted him. We'll never know.

They'll probably end up signing Zambrano as you suggested, and if he rebounds enough to give them maybe 10 wins that's good enough for a No. 5 starter. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/30/2006 04:43:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I agree Zambrano is an option, but I still believe that if you don't panic things will settle in.

Maybe not this year, but I believe we are better off not being stupid this offseason.

We do have a good offense and defense. that still counts for something :)

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/30/2006 09:06:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I gotta disagree with the idea that the 2007 Mets aren't a culmination. Yeah, I'm excited about the young foundational building blocks who stand to be around for, at a minimum, the next five years. But, that said, the Mets have invested a ton of money in guys who don't figure to here all that much longer: Delgado, Glavine, Pedro, Wagner, Lo Duca, Alou.

While Omar has to continue to look at the long-term picture, he's got to maximize the closing window for his veterans, too. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/31/2006 01:40:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John you better be careful. Just suggesting a possible Zambrano signing could be grounds for your dismissal from the Journal News.

Mike -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: bdiD COMMENT-DATE:12/31/2006 04:07:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hey John,

What do you make of the rumor out of Cali today? Blanton for Milledge? Seems like we'd be giving more there. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Steve C. COMMENT-DATE:1/02/2007 12:28:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John,

been at a job where this blog is blocked. Minaya did the right thing zito wanted way too much and thats because of the manager and the deal he made with the sox. ZAMBONIE! NOOOOO!
we have no one in the farm system that could be a 5th?! also i say get rid of pedro and cut our losses. he is a liability. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JR COMMENT-DATE:1/02/2007 02:54:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:"we have no one in the farm system that could be a 5th?!"

HUH??? That's all we have, a bunch of potential 5th starters. What we don't have is a legitimate #1.


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http://mail.gymzv8rocne.edu.sk/skola/foto/img/Crestor.html -------- 12/29/2006 09:47:00 AM|||John Delcos||| I hope you'll include Bobby Murcer in your thoughts and prayers for a speedy and complete recovery. When I covered the Yankees, he was always one of my favorites to talk with. Was always in a good mood. Always had something positive to say. Just a good man.|||116740378180747448|||Dec. 29: Thinking of Bobby 12/28/2006 05:27:00 PM|||John Delcos||| First things first, the Mets were never in this. GM Omar Minaya has gotten a lot of high marks from a lot of you, but this might be one of his better decisions. To tell ownership not to cave in on the years, even though the Mets probably have the resources, was the responsible thing to do. Seven years is way too much for a pitcher, and despite Barry Zito's durability history, I'm willing to bet he won't have a breakdown or two, or maybe more, during this contract. The Mets are going into next season with a questionable rotation, but that's far better than possibly going into the next seven years hamstrung. The remaining free agent market is thin, with Jeff Weaver maybe the best available. The rest? Tony Armas Jr., Russ Ortiz, Mark Redman and Tomo Ohka, not to mention Steve Trachsel. There's not much available in the trade market either. They looked at Javier Vazquez, but with the White Sox already dealing Freddy Garcia and Brandon McCarthy, they won't deal a third starter. Don't look for the with Oakland for either Dan Haren, Joe Blanton and Rich Harden to be revived. The A's wanted a lot then - Lastings Milledge, Aaron Heilman and Phil Humber - but with the market even thinner now, they aren't likely to back off those demands.|||116734576153675249|||Dec. 28: Putting things into perspective COMMENT-AUTHOR: Ed Ryan COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 05:58:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I'm surprised there wasn't a back-up plan in place. It seems like it was Zito or nothing. There were a few a starters they could have looked at. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 06:06:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Mr Ed (RE: Other options)

It does look that way. They went after Freddy Garcia, and that didn't work. But, it looks like you are right. They didn't pursue anybody the way they did Zito, -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: sad-cuz-no-zito COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 06:33:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Do you think he would have come if the Mets offered 5 years at 90 and then options? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JB COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 06:36:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:problem is, in a rotation sorely needing an "ace", there were only two pitchers even worth looking at..and one we lost out by not having a bid QUITE as absurd as Boston's...the other was suckered upon the hapless Giants...I just dont know if any of the "Plan B" material would have been worth the length or size of the contract the received..they each would have hamstrung the Mets in ways similar to Zito's deal with SF -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 06:46:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I can see the Mets first half of the season as being an audition for the young arms. The Mets will have had a good look at the prospects and decided if a trade is needed by the trade deadline. Perhaps in early July a stud pitcher will be available that nobody now can forsee. The Mets are a team that can get away with some less than average pitching for a little while. With their offense I do not think they need to sign just another #4 guy and end up over spending. Omar has not done anything up until now and I do not think he is going to panic try to make a trade. Way to stick to your guns Omar! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 07:09:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:yeah, i'm liking that Omar is sticking to his guns, and I think he should continue to, i agree with you JB, any of the B options wouldn't have been that much of an upgrade and in addition, would have hurt us in years and money, just as any deal for Zito would have. I just didn't see anything else worth it out there, especially if Omar is confident in giving some of his young guys a chance. It may be risky, but with this offense, and a couple veterans leading the way, I'm thinking we can definitely hang tough in the division until either some of the young pitchers emerge, we make a trade, or Pedro comes back healthy. The market right now would just be too ridiculous to make a trade for a stud pitcher, and if we think we may not need him, well give it a shot, we could always try a trade later on. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BDID COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 07:29:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John,

Our rotation is no better than 3rd, no worse than 4th...unfortunately, I'm not talking about all of baseball, but the NL East. Our bats better be VERY healthy this year. Otherwise, forget our run of greatness. Will Omar be able to stun us? He'd better. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 07:54:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Some of you seem to panic way too easily. How does Glavine, Maine, Hernandez, Perez, Pelfrey/Humber differ considerably from what we threw out there for most of 2006? We will have a healthy and rested Pedro for the second half, and there's actually a possibility he will be throwing slightly better than he did at any point in 2006.

Having the nice new shiny star pitcher to trot out is fun, but it's just not responsible from a business standpoint.

No, we won't start as fast as last year...but I think this team could be a lot more frightening come the fall of 2007 [don't forget we now have the financial flexibility to take on contracts mid-year]. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: clm COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 09:01:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:John,


Here's what we need to be realizing -- We are replacing Steve Trachsel here, not Pedro. Pedro was non-existent for us last year.

I would think personally that a 2 year contract for Jeff Weaver would bridge us to the young guys (Pelfrey, Humber). Pedro comes back mid-year so a rotation of Glavine, Hernandez, Weaver, Maine, and Pencil In one or more of the others until Pedro's return.

If Pedro isn't back strong get someone before the trade deadline. Omar was smart not to do this crazy deal.

My prediction -- Of the highest contracts Boras has worked on -- Beltran is the only one considered a success at its close.

Thanks and Happy New Year,
CLM -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: clm COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 09:02:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Oh yeah, I think Weaver would be fine. He has playoff and WS exposure now. He would not be coming here with high expectations and c'mon, he's gotta do a little better than Trachsel.

CLM -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 02:19:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:A couple of thoughts to your responses:

1. Sad-cuz-no-zito: Nope, five years and $90 million wouldn't have gotten it done, even if the Mets put that on the table early. It was clear Boras wanted at least six years and $100 million was always the bench mark.

2. To JB (RE: Ace): True enough, Zito and Matsuzaka were considered the aces. But, are they really? Zito was the best, but four years removed from his best year and Matsuzaka is still a gamble. Perhaps Jason Schmidt would have been the best, because you are right, nobody else was worth getting that excited about.

3. To BDID: You're right. The Mets' rotation is more promise than proven after Glavine and Hernandez. The Marlins have the best pitching in the division, and Philly and Atlanta also have better rotations. The Mets, however, have potentially the best bullpen.

4. To CLM (RE: Pedro): You're right, the wins and starts that must be replaced are Trachsel's. That's why I would've gone after a middle-line pitcher just to fill that void. Pedro, it can't be stressed enough, can't be counted on for anything. -------- 12/28/2006 01:01:00 PM|||John Delcos||| WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Word is Barry Zito just agreed to terms with the Giants on a seven-year, $126 million contract, which just goes to show Scott Boras is leading a charmed life. That's roughly two years and $51 million more than the Mets wanted to pay. All this brings me back to a post I made a week or so ago. It is about the MONEY. Your thoughts?|||116732898966116572|||Dec. 28: The leaves say San Francisco COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:07:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Considering that the Giants' bid was considerably stronger, in both money and length of contract, than anyone else out there, it would appear that this is A-Rod Redux. I mean, even when the Rockies signed Hampton they only bested the Mets by an extra year.

Before you say it's only about the money, though, do note that Zito resides in the Bay Area and now gets to stay there. If he had gone to, say, Cleveland for this type of money, I would agree that it was all about the money. But this seems a little different. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:11:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I'm not sure which contract is worse Soriano's or Zito's. Well no one can fault the Mets on this, it was questionable to give him 5 years and $16 million per. What he got is simply idiotic and I am absolutely fine with us missing out on him. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:It does seem to be about the money here. That is an awful lot of money to say no to. I guess that is the price for not wanting a ring. I thought Zito would not be bought like that. I thought he wanted to win multiple world series and all that BS. So what is Omars next plan? I guess he is happy with his current starters. They still need another body in that rotation to take the load off the young guns. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:28:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:that is fine.

we go to plan c. I beleive in Omar.

as for the question of $$, is there really a debate on this?

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Gil COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:36:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hey, God bless Barry Zito. But part of me is chortling and yelling at the Giants:
SUCKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I like Zito, but glad the Mets didn't go nuts here and give him that many years and that much loot - he ain't worth it.
The Giants are following in the tradition of giving the Chan Ho Park (remember him?), Kevin Brown (remember him?) and the Mike Hampton (remember him?) contracts. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BDID COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:54:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Well, my first thought is... WHAT NOW???? John, do you think they reopen those Haren/Harden talks? How about Willis? We are in trouble now. Even if our young guys live up to the highest of their Ceilings, we'll be lucky to win 85 games with this staff. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 02:34:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I am so glad the Mets didnt get that softball tosser. 7 years for a #2 Starting Pitcher, unbelievable. Can someone check whether the Giants front office received a BALCO like substance that makes their mind delusional.

Camilo -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JB COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 02:59:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:The scary thing too, is how easily the 2014 option vests, which puts the deal with within the realm of 8/144. For Al Leiter Jr basically. I think 2007 will not be our best season, but at this point i would rather see what we have then mortgage the future of a guy who would probably be a #4 guy by the end of his contract....

Perhaps in this insane deal the Giants saved us from a big mistake
jb -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Greg W COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 03:33:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:It does seem to be about the money, but maybe it's also about a comfort level. Zito gets to stay in the same area, probably trading up in real estate and San Francisco is a big city.
I wonder if the Giants got wrapped up in the Yankee rumblings - since they were one of the teams the Yankees spoke to about R Johnson? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JoeC COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 03:37:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Zito got a complete no trade clause and there is an option for an eighth year at another $18 million, bringing the total potential value at 8 years $143 million. Who's the next true ace to go on the FA market . . . Johan Santana? Should we place bets now? I say 10 years at, (finger to mouth a la Dr. Evil), ONE BILLION DOLLARS! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Jonas COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 03:38:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I thought this was about his "Legacy" and wanting to be part of an organization that wins World Series rings? Good luck with that with the Giants. They have a 1 year window to MAYBE have a shot a title, and then after that they have to rebuild as they're team is the oldest in MLB (I think). Good choice Zito. Why dont you ask AROD how he liked picking money over championships... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Raincntry COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 03:47:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Abviously you were right. What kills me is that Zito made those clearly false statements in the paper about wanting to win multiple championships, yet his current contract will really hamstring the Giants ability to add sorely needed talent. They are one of the few teams that is older than the Mets, but they don't have their own cable network to fill their coffers.

Zito will realize he made a poor choice, maybe next year, maybe in 3 years, but the Giants won't challenge for a division title, let alone a WS, for a long time. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 04:41:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:i've come over to the dark side John, it is all about the money...and wow is right. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: jc COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 04:46:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hi John - The Mets dodged a bullet here - Omar stuck to his plan. I see an ARod effect for Zito with the Giants = and I'm sure he'll love having Bonds around. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Designated Blogger COMMENT-DATE:12/30/2006 04:35:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Scott Boros must have blackmail pictures of someone in the Giants' front office. Like other people here said, Who exactly were the Giants bidding against, themselves? The Mets were interested but wouldn't go past 5 years, if even that. The Yanks were never interested. No one else could afford him. 7 years for a pitcher is insane. -------- 12/28/2006 11:05:00 AM|||John Delcos||| There's no need any more for the Mets to give Boras because the Rangers did. One team is enough. Boras won't be intimidated by a deadline. I don't expect Boras to cave and grab the Rangers' offer, without first giving the Mets and the other players a chance to beat it. Given that, the Mets will have a safety net. If Boras doesn't bite on the Rangers, that narrows the field for the Mets. Then it's only San Francisco and Seattle. I would worry more about the Giants because they have some flexibility with Bonds getting a lot of his salary deferred, and with Jason Schmidt and Moises Alou gone. Plus, the Giants are a Coastal team as Zito wants, and he doesn't have to leave home.|||116732224098282350|||Dec. 28: Reading the tea leaves COMMENT-AUTHOR: metfan COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 11:13:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:mlb.com is reporting that the Rangers have been informed that Zito has declined their offer and they expect him to sign with the Giants.


http://mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061228&content_id=1768001&vkey=hotstove2006&fext=.jsp -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: jb COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 12:56:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:7/126 with an option for year 8? on a team that may not win 75 games WITH him? Holy moses, this is one screwed up offseason..thank you omar for being patient on this one...it woulda been nice to have him, but when you need more than one starter, this was not the guy to blow a seven or 8 year load on...

jb -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:05:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To JB ...

No way he's worth that. The Mets will be fine without him. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 04:25:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I was all for getting Zito, but I'll agree that he's not worth $126 million ($144, if the option kicks in for Year Eight).

As for whether the Mets will be fine without him, they still need to find a way to make up the 300 innings covered last year by Trachsel and Pedro. That's about 20% of their entire workload. -------- 12/27/2006 05:31:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Here's something the Mets should consider before throwing millions of dollars at Barry Zito. His career record is 102-63, which is 39 games over .500. Pretty good. However, his record over the past four years is only nine games over .500, which you'd take from a No. 4 or No. 5 pitcher. It is not what you would expect from a supposed ace.|||116725886256443750|||Dec. 27: A Zito stat to remember COMMENT-AUTHOR: RyanMcC COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 06:30:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John,
Love the blog and your insiders' perspective. You're by far the best of the NY area beat writers at understanding blogs and its readers.

However, I have to disagree with your characterization of Zito's performance in the last four years as that of a "No. 4 or No. 5 pitcher." First off, No. 4 or No. 5 starters are *a lot* worse than you likely think they are -- this article ("How Good is Your #4 Starter": http://tinyurl.com/yeb3ng) shows that MLB No. 4 starters averaged a 5.10 ERA while No. 5's sported a 6.24 ERA. Zito's 3.86 ERA from 2003 - 2006 lands him squarely between a #1 (3.60) and a #2 (4.14).

Furthermore, evaluating a pitcher strictly on his won/loss record may have made sense at one time, but it's beyond silly now. As you no doubt know, a pitcher's won/loss record is highly dependent upon his team's offense. Though Zito still won 55 percent of his decisions over the last four years, he likely would have won 60 or 65 percent had the A's offense held up their end of the bargain -- they've ranked 9th, 6th, 9th and 9th out of 14 teams in the AL the past four years. As it was, he was still 20th in the league in wins over the last four years.

It's certainly true that Zito doesn't *feel* like an ace worthy of $100 million. But it's clear he has been, at worst, a #2 starter over his career any way you measure it. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JoeC COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 06:56:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:C'mon John, you know just quoting a guys wins, or lack there of, in a vaccum without context is prett useless. Over the same 4 years span you quote, Kenny Rogers was 62 and 33 . . . should we persue him instead, despite his 4.17 ERA (and despite his surly attitude and "muddy" hand)? How 'bout Mark Mulder (54/32 4.20 ERA)? Estaban Loaiza had a spectacular .602 winning percentage (4.21 ERA) over that span, so is he an "ace?"

Over that same 4 year span, Zito had a solid 3.87 ERA (17th among pitchers with at least 700 IP). This 4 year ERA was better than other supposed "aces" or supposed solid #2 guys, such as Mussina, Buehrle, Colon, and Freddy Garcia. Over this 4 year span he was also 2nd in games started and 3rd in innings pitched. So, while the wins might not have been there (although we're still talking about a "winning pitcher" in this time period) seems to me the guy stepped up and did what an "ace" or solid #2 guy is supposed to do . . . he took the mound every 5th day, went deep into games, and kept runners from crossing home plate. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 08:30:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To RyanMcC and Joe C. ...

Thanks for your posts. You both made terrific points that made me realize just quoting wins and losses is an oversimplification. Ryan, thanks for giving me that link, it was very helpful.

I should have been more precise in what I was trying to. Nine games over .500 is not ace material as I suggested, it is roughly two games over .500 a year. He is four years beyond his best year, which is a concern to me, with increases in his ERA.

That said, your points are correct. A team's offense plays a huge part in a pitcher's record and Oakland's has consistently been poor. He has, as you say, kept his team in games. Put his same ERA, opponent's average, etc., with the support he'd get from the Mets, and even Texas, and there would likely be better W-L record.

And Joe C. ... no, I wouldn't go after Kenny Rogers, but I think Mulder would be a good risk because his contract would weigh heavy with incentives. And, no, Loaiza isn't an ace.

Again, thanks guys for your input and taking the time to write. It is greatly appreciated. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Gil COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 08:35:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:...Precisely why instead of chasing Barry, I'd instead offfer a package of Lastings Milledge, Aaron Heilman and Philip Humber to the Padres for pitchers Jake Peavy and Scott Linebrink. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 08:37:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Gil ...

I'd make that deal, but I think the Padres would want more. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: tropicalista COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:04:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Interesing link on #4 pitchers, Ryan, but the thing that most stands out from that article to me has nothing to do with Zito. It's that Omar should immediately run out and resign Trachsel! With his 4.97 ERA, 15 wins and perhaps a one-year, 2 million dollar contract, he would be a steal as a #4 or #5 starter! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: CLM COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 08:47:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:John,

I agree and disagree with you and the other writers. While I agree that there is more to pitching than wins and losses in reality that is the bottom line as you said.

Steve Trachsel used to get killed as someone that pitched just well enough to use then he got killed for winning badly. I prefer a bad winner to a good loser.

When it comes to an ace? That is a different story -- an ace wins whether he has run support or not. He wins games 1 - 0, or 3 - 2. Think Tom Seaver!!! Roger Clemens!!! All the pitchers that blew the opposition away.

As far as worth? That is determined by the market and what the teams are willing to pay. Personally I don't want another junk baller, crafty lefty, whatever you want to call Zito. I want a hard thrower. However since there is not one available and Zito is the best available I am glad the Mets are going after him. I am equally as glad that they are not willing to throw the bank at him.

Omar is smart and something will happen. But not something foolish. He is not Steve Phillips.

Thanks,
CLM -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 09:47:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:John,
Is there any way you can find out from your IT people if "tropicalista" is Steve Trachsel himself?
Appreciate your help! Thanks!

Mike -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 09:56:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Don't forget in those earlier years Zito had an offense. Giambi on steriods was there as well as Tejada, Ramon Hernandez, Eric Chavez, Jermaine Dye, Johnny Damon, etc... There was another stat I read yesterday that you need to remember too...When Zito has 4 or more runs scored for him his record is 85 - 4. I don't think it's a coincidence that his record became more mediocre as his offensive support dwindled. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JoeC COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 10:33:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:I noted earlier that over the previous 4 years, Zito had a 3.87 ERA, which ranked him 17th among pitchers with at least 700 IP. I just realized that this list is littered with NL pitchers. Looking at predominently AL pitchers, Zito is 5th or 6th. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 11:00:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:To Mike (RE: Trachsel)

Thanks for that post. It's great to laugh. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 11:05:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:To CLM (RE: The bottom line)

I agree W/L is the most important. The other pitchers made me consider offensive support more than I had. But, I remember a conversation I had with Roger Clemens, and he said ``great pitchers find a way to win.'' If they don't get the runs, they have to shut the other team down. Zito's ERA has increased since his best season four years ago. Sure, a lot of that is the AL, but I have to wonder, is lack of run support the only reason for the disparity in Zito's W/L record? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JoeC COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 11:42:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Roger Clemens, and he said ``great pitchers find a way to win.''

That's easy for Clemens to say, he has played his entire career on mostly stacked offensive teams. Actually, I have no real evidence of that I just hate Clemens and have a knee-jerk reaction to disagree with whatever he says. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:06:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To JoeC. ...

I love it ... thanks for making me laugh. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:36:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John,

You are saying what I have been saying for quite some time. Zito is good but not an ace and should not get that money.

For a #1 pitcher we really need a fireballer.

As for Trachsel, he is done, won't be back even if what we end up with is not much better.

The comments about era's of #4/5 pitchers; in the 80's when the Mets were good pitchers who came with that stuff would have been cut from the team let alone be on the rotation. The minors would not have em.

Our #4/5 was El Sid who had I think a mid 3 era. Wonder what he would get in todays market.

How times have changed.

Dave -------- 12/27/2006 05:14:00 PM|||John Delcos||| A federal appeals court ruled this afternoon government investigators are entitled to names and urine samples of nearly 100 players who tested positive in 2003. Undoubtedly, the names will soon be leaked to the media and it should be an interesting summer. The samples were collected by MLB to ascertain the level of steroid use and were to remain confidential. However, the court rejected the agreement between MLB and the Players Association. It is believed since these positive tests were prior to MLB's substance abuse policy that there won't be suspensions. In short, we're not going to see 100 players suspended during the season.|||116725771135696362|||Dec. 27: Let the guessing begin COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 07:32:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John - I think this is promising news because the court rejected the agreement between MLB and the Players Association. Do players really believe that the MLB and the Players Associations rules supercede the laws of the country? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Gil COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 08:31:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I bet both Albert Pujols and Mike Piazza are on that list. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 08:39:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Gil ...

I wouldn't be surprised with either. I'm waiting for a stunner. A guy you'd never suspect. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 07:24:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Timo Perez will be the stunner.

Seriously, I'm placing my bets on Curt Schilling. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:41:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hopefully this all leads to a saner world where a guy goes out and pitches or hits and baseball is not WWF nor UFC.


Get rid of the bums erase the records for the past 15/20 years. Restore Babe, Aaron, et al to the record books and get rid of these pretenders.

I have doubts about hojo and company also.

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/29/2006 02:23:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Dave ...

I want anybody linked to steroids to have their records come with an asterisk. It sickens me to think Bonds could break Aaron's record. And, for McGwire to hug Maris' kids the night be broke the record knowing about steroids is sad. -------- 12/27/2006 04:33:00 PM|||John Delcos||| I just scanned the list of available free agents and I noticed Steve Trachsel's name. He hasn't been linked to anybody. Fifteen wins, you'd somebody would talk with him.|||116725529369537821|||Dec. 27: Remember him? COMMENT-AUTHOR: RyanMcC COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 06:41:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Fifteen wins or not, Trachsel was pretty bad last year. In fact, Baseball Prospectus calculated that he was the luckiest pitcher in the NL in 2006. They found that if he received league-average offense support, he would have finished with a 9-10 record (instead of 15-8).

And, at 36-years-old, he's not likely to get better. Still, he should be able to get at least a one-year, $2 million deal, no? If nothing else, he can be relied upon to provide 150-175 (extremely boring) innings with a 5.00 ERA. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 08:34:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To RyanMcC.

I answered your other post regarding wins and losses and thought about mentioning Steve Trachsel in agreeing with you that W/L is painting with a broad brush. He's as good as he's ever going to be, and a one-year contract is probably the most he'll get. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/28/2006 01:45:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I think he will do better and may get a multi year $8/yr deal.

The big name is off the books. ppl still need pitching and he doesnt get hurt and takes the ball.

he is not good, but he is a vet who can handle the ups and downs and you plug him in.

he also tosses the occassional gem. if you think he gets less than a journey reliever you are mistaken.

Dave -------- 12/27/2006 03:54:00 PM|||John Delcos||| I suggested yesterday the Mets issue a deadline to agent Scott Boras on Barry Zito. They have not, but the Texas Rangers did, saying they want something done by this weekend. In an email to the The Ft. Worth Star-Telegram, owner Tom Hicks wrote: ``We've made a very strong offer. If we don't have agreement with his agent by this weekend, we will pursue other alternatives.'' Evidently, the Rangers fear the Yankees getting involved. If the Mets really want Zito, they should have the same fear. The only way Zito gets $100 million is in a bidding war, and the way to avoid that is to force Boras to a deal before the Yankees become an issue. But the Mets have to play this carefully. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, and right now Boras only has one offer. If the Mets fear losing Zito to the Rangers, they should make a take it or leave it offer now. If not, and they believe Zito wants to come to them, they should wait out the deadline, then make one of their own.|||116725319775915055|||Dec. 27: Rangers place Zito deadline COMMENT-AUTHOR: Greg W COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 05:00:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I agree with you to the point of making the offer. I would then let them know that the team will start looking at other options at particular point and the offer could be taken of the table at that point.
I wouldn't worry about the Yankees get involved. If they do and the price goes out of the Mets range then so be it. We know that Boras will try his best to get them involved even if they are not really interested - isn't that what he did with Carlos Beltran? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: tropicalista COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 05:16:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I think this is the smartest move by Tom Hicks in recent memory--of course, that is not saying a whole lot. I agree with you John that Omar should do the same and I'm wondering why more owners don't take this kind of proactive stance with free agents and in doing so undercut the leverage of agents like Boras. Of course, it is a gamble, but is it worse to lose out on a free agent or two, or fork out a ridiculous amount that will cripple your team for seasons to come? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 05:19:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Greg W.

That is correct, and it didn't work then, either. I'm with you. I don't see the Yankees getting into it for Zito. Personally, I know Zito is the best pitcher out there, but he's far from a dominating ace. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 05:21:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Tropicalista ...

I think most owners are afraid to issue deadlines because they are afraid of being wrong. And, you're right. There have been a lot of teams hamstrung by a large contract that prevents them from doing other things later. The Yankees are one of the few teams with the resources to be able to live with a free-agent bust. So far, that's what they've done with Carl Pavano. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 05:32:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:It makes me sick to my stomach just hearing the Yankee name attatched to the Zito talks. Anyway, I just do not see the Yankee's going after Zito. I thought they were dumping Johnson's contract to take on Sexson's. I hear Sexson's name linked to some trade talks. I also think the Mets and Omar should put out a competitive offer on the table and go after Zito now! I am not saying over spend like the 100mil rumored, but it has to be more than the "Oswalt" deal. If they have not got the offer out by now, I would hope to hear about it soon. Omar does not seem to be rushing this off season. He did say he was happy with the starters he currently had. How could you? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 05:36:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon ...

Omar has to say he's happy with his current rotation, even if he's not. To say otherwise would create a tone of desperation and make bargaining more difficult. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 06:24:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:True, but other GM's and agents can see right through that as well. The fact is Omar seems to be in no rush and playing it cool. I do not see the Mets doing what the Rangers have did with the quick deadline. They need to be patient and if Zito wants to be a Met it will happen. If not then they will have until the trade deadline to get their man. -------- 12/26/2006 06:29:00 PM|||John Delcos||| The more I think about it, and the more I read, the less I am inclined to think the Yankees are interested in Barry Zito, even if they unload Randy Johnson. Again, if the Yankees really want him, they have the money to get this done right now. Meanwhile, the Mets are either dragging their feet or playing chicken with Scott Boras. Jeff Suppan is off the market, which takes away an option, but even without that, the Mets seem to hold most of the leverage. Reportedly, the Giants and Seattle are interested, but neither has made an offer, and neither want to give six years for a pitcher. No other teams have been mentioned, but then again do a roll call and see what teams are willing to pay that much. Right, not many. If I'm the Mets, I put my best offer on the table now and say ``take it or leave it.'' If Zito really wants the Mets, he'll come. As of now, Boras hasn't been able to play one team against another, and there's no guarantee he'll be able to entice the Yankees. If the market is coming to the Mets, they should push the envelope now.|||116717620984777399|||Dec. 26: Time for the Mets to issue deadline COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 07:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John -
I read an interview where Zito seemed to compare himself to Koufax. He also mentioned wanting to have a conversation with the owner - Fred Wilpon is the owner, not Jeff. Is Zito just a bit too arrogant? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Bdid COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 08:43:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John,

I totally agree with you. Set the deadline, if he doesn't sign, forget him. Go on to plan B, which might be waiting until the Trade Deadline, and picking up an Ace for a good minor leaguer...whatever. But, to me, Zito just isn't worth wasting the entire offseason on. John, give Omar a call, tell him that BDID agrees, and he'll listen! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: TurnTwo COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 10:59:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:If the Yankees trade RJ, i think offering a deadline would be a major mistake by Omar.

I've read reports from both camps about how trading Randy Johnson is or isnt directly related to Cashman's interest in Zito.


At this point, we don't know what to expect, but if Omar puts that type of pressure on Boras and Zito when they've shown the will to hold out the negotiations until they get the deal with the team they want, you can hear Mets fans around the country scream in agony when he slots in behind Wang in the Bronx. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 04:24:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John,

I agree with you.

You don't want to get dragged into an auction. Evaluate what he is worth and what you want to pay.

Put it up and say here it is. Do you want it? If they don't you pull the offer, don't make a scene but pull it nevertheless.

Then start looking elsewhere. If they come back fine if not you have moved on.

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 05:24:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Dave ...

And, if they come back later you'll have the leverage and perhaps the offer will go down. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, and Boras only has one offer. -------- 12/26/2006 04:45:00 PM|||John Delcos||| If the Yankees are successful in dumping Randy Johnson (give GM Brian Cashman kudos if he does) and they make a run at Barry Zito, they will get him. The Yankees have the resources not only to make an offer, but take the hit if it doesn't work out. The Yankees, however, have given no indication they want Zito. With Texas trading for Brandon McCarthy and Jeff Suppan off the board, the Mets have appeared as front runners for Zito. However, for a team in dire need of pitching, they don't seem that aggressive. If they are waiting for the market to drop and Zito to come to them, that's a gamble. The Mets say they are serious about Zito, but they've dragged their feet. The last thing they needed was to get in a bidding war for him with the Yankees.|||116716987020588055|||Dec. 26: The Zito and Johnson scenario COMMENT-AUTHOR: BDID COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 06:20:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:As a Mets fan...this stinks. I'm so sick of this junk. Just give up a couple of players and get Haren/Harden/Blanton. Zito will not be near the top of my favorite Met list. I really thought he wanted to be a Met. Now, you're right, it is all about money to the "hippie" dude. Very frustrating. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 06:26:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:From what I'm hearing, the Zito market is now coming to the Mets. The Rangers are reportedly out of it; the Giants aren't likely to offer more than four years; and the Mariners simply don't have the money for a competitive bid.

The Yankee speculation, I think, is a stock move from the Boras Playbook: Create the illusion that some other team is interested when the actual field has been limited to one.

Boras' real decision here is whether to sign the pitcher to a long-term deal that might not be to his liking (e.g., maybe only five years rather than the six he's been seeking) or take a one- or two-year deal and try the market again in the near future (a la JD Drew). -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 06:28:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BDID ...

I agree. Zito and his agent are playing this for all its worth. If Zito wanted the Mets, this would have been done a while ago. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 06:29:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala ...

You are right. Boras wants nothing more than to pit the Mets and Yankees against each other. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: dan COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 07:08:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:to me this all seems like writers and analysts who are bored by the lull in the offseason and seem to be almost just making stuff up. The little i have read on this has been writers speculating that its to "possibly" go after zito.

Is it possible the yankees go after zito? sure i guess,but it seems more likely they go after clemens than zito. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 07:11:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hi John = I heard that Johnson was more amenable to a trade now that his brother has died and he needs to be nearer to his family.
Did you hear this? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 04:02:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Dan ...

Agreed. Clemens is who they want. The thinking would be to get him for this season, than go after Zambrano next winter. -------- 12/26/2006 01:20:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Greetings ... I hope you all enjoyed the Holidays. The Mets were quiet over the weekend and figure to be slow this week, also. That's not to say things haven't happened. Texas acquired pitcher Brandon McCarthy from the White Sox and Jeff Suppan is off the board, headed for Milwaukee. Both impact the landscape for Barry Zito, in favor of the Mets. Rangers GM Jon Daniels said, ``I'm not terribly encouraged,'' when asked about Zito, and, obviously, not having Suppan available has to put the focus on Zito. Meanwhile, the Yankees would like to trade Randy Johnson, and if they can, that frees up money to go after Zito without adding to their luxury tax bill. Then again, if the Yankees were really interested, nothing would stop them.|||116715761513012578|||Dec. 26: Back to work COMMENT-AUTHOR: Judy COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 01:49:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hi John, happy holidays!

Do you think the Yankees really want Zito? I would hate seeing him go over there after flirting with the Mets. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 01:56:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hi Judy ...

They don't want him as much as the Mets do, but the Yankees are like a little kid. They want everybody else's toys. I believe the Yankees will make a run at Roger Clemens. They'd like to dump Johnson's contract. But, the truth is if the Yankees want somebody they won't let a little thing like a luxury tax stand in their way. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: jb COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 02:55:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I gotta think the Johnson thing is just dumping a semi-useless player...I think they still dream of Rocket not Zito....

jb -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: taymitsan COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 03:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:What a relief to see that Jeff Suppan is off the board. The problem I have with Suppan is not that the Mets suddenly forgot how to hit and made him look like Pedro in his prime, its that he just isn't a very good pitcher. Don't look at what a guy did in a couple of games or over 2 weeks. He's been in the majors for years now and he just plain isn't that good. Breath a sigh of relief Mets fans because this guy would not have helped us. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: tropicalista COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 03:30:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I had the feeling the Mets weren't really interested in Suppan, but were merely using him a negotiating ploy to hold down what they would have to pay Zito (in the same way, Boras is using the Giants and Rangers to drive up the salary). Suppan signing with the Brewers I think hurts them in this respect (who else can they now conceivably hold up as an alternative to Zito--Chan Ho Park?) And now with the lastest news in the NY Times about the Yankees' possible interest in Zito, I think Zito's contract could well skyrocket beyond the Mets' permissable range! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 04:42:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Tropicalista ...

You're rght. Zito's price has to go up now, with or without the Yankees. If it leaps beyond their budget, they have nobody else to blame but themselves. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 04:44:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Taymitsan ...

Suppan was never more than a No. 4 guy in the Mets' eyes, which could have been enough if Glavine and Hernandez don't show their age and Maine wasn't a fluke. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 04:44:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To JB ...

I agree. As long as Clemens is out there, he's the Yankees' first choice. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/26/2006 06:11:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Taymitsan,

Suppan is actually a good pitcher. You may want to look at what he's done during the past few seasons as well as his entire body of work in the playoffs. ERA of 3.95 over the past 3 seasons. 9th most wins in the majors during that time. 2.39 era since the 2006 all-star break in 15 starts. 3.00 era in the playoffs for his career. 30+ starts every season beginning with 1999. Won 16 games 2 of the past 3 seasons, and last year won 12 on a 83 win team. He excelled against the Mets in the NL championship series in games 3 and 7...2 of the 4 they lost while they didn't have problem with Cy Young winner Chris Carpenter. He also pitched a great game 7 in the NL championship series in 2004. The numbers speak for themselves as well as his demeanor which is all professional. People need to stop judging this guy by what he did earlier in his career. He's not the same picher...but rather has morphed into a very reliable one. He would have done well as a Met, with no reason to think he couldn't win 15+ as one, year after year. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: tropicalista COMMENT-DATE:12/27/2006 01:17:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Anonymous,
You make a good argument on Suppan's behalf, but on the other hand, hitters hit .277 off him last year with an OBP of .343 (about his career average in both departments). This is not a pitcher who strikes fear into the heart of hitters. But you are right, he pitched extremely well down the stretch and came up with some big, big wins in the playoffs. -------- 12/23/2006 12:48:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Thanks for the well wishes. I wish you and your families nothing but health and happiness during the holiday season. Enjoy this time together with those you love. John|||116689625032907364|||Dec. 23: Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/23/2006 01:32:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:What will be under your tree this year, John? A Get Smart DVD? I Dream of Jeanie? F Troop? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Greg W COMMENT-DATE:12/24/2006 03:26:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John,
Happy Holidays to you and your family. Greatly appreciate the updates. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Gil COMMENT-DATE:12/24/2006 05:04:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Thanks, John, for your hard work on the blog and keeping rabid Mets fans like me updated.
Looks like Jeff Suppan - thankfully - is a moot point, now that he's signed with the Brewers. I look forward to the Mets beating the hell out of him when they play Milwaukee. -------- 12/21/2006 02:15:00 PM|||John Delcos||| If the Mets are serious about Jeff Suppan they'd better hurry. Milwaukee made a four-year offer this afternoon, thought to be around $10 million a season. Here is a telling comment from Brewers' GM Doug Melvin: ``My gut feeling is, they're going to wait until Zito.'' Melvin could be miscalulating, but what if he's not? If their interest in Suppan is sincere, they'd better move. If it was only for leverage in the Zito negotiations, then their bluff has been called by a third party. Once Suppan goes off the market, it will drive the price for Zito. Suppan, 31, was 12-7 with a 4.12 ERA for St. Louis last season. He had a 0.60 ERA in two starts against the Mets in the NLCS and was MVP.|||116672903065930633|||Dec. 21: Suppan update COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 03:23:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Who would have thought the Mets would be in this situation where they might have to hurry and sign Suppan. Crazy! Who else is available on the FA market that might fit the Mets needs? I am hopefull they stay away from Mulder. To much of a wild card. I am sure they can get a good deal money wise but he is not the solid 200 inning pitcher they are looking for. I also have been saying all along they still need another #3 type starter even if they sign Zito. If Glavin and Hernandez pitch 200 innings each next season,it would be a miracle.
Who knows what we will get out of Maine, Perez, Pelfrey and Humber next year. They need some insurance. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 05:45:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hey John, I appreciate your blogging, I really do, I love as much information on my Mets as possible, but please, realize one thing, you're not always right. You're responses to many disagreements people have with you in the comment sections are blind to any thinking but your own. Realize you have an opinion, and others have them as well, however, just because it's your opinion, does not make it fact, even in your own head. Be a little more open minded and accepting of others opinions, and thats just my unsolicited advice...or opinion I suppose... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 05:55:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:espn is reporting that the mets have offered suppan a contract. ugh. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 09:00:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Anon #1

No question about it ... Zito is not the only answer. Even with him, there are questions. Much the way it was last year, everything will have to break right for them. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 09:00:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Anon #2 ...

Thanks for the constructive criticism. It is well-taken and respected. Stay in touch. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 09:18:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:So do you think the Mets would spend the money and sign Suppan and Zito (hopefully). That would be a strong starting pitching staff with experience in winning ball games. The Mets would have the starting four firmly in place and tinker with the #5 slot with Maine & Perez. I think Pelfrey and Humber should start the season at AAA, why rush them if you do not have to. I personally would like to see a rotation of Zito, Suppan, Glavin, Hernandez, Maine /Perez. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 10:42:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon (RE: Signing both)

That's a potentially good staff you've described, but I don't think they'll sign both Zito and Suppan. The Mets would agree with you in wanting both Pelfrey and Humber to start the season in Triple-A. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/22/2006 10:47:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Dontrelle might be available now... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: TurnTwo COMMENT-DATE:12/22/2006 11:16:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:that is a poor assumption. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: tropicalista COMMENT-DATE:12/22/2006 12:03:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I know the adage is that you can't get enough pitching, but I don't think it would be wise to sign both Suppan and Zito. One, preferaby Zito, would be enough. Glavine and Hernandez will certainly have slots. I think John Maine has earned a slot in the rotation and I would think the fifth slot could and should be left open for competition (Perez, Soler, Humber, Pelfry, Williams). There are a lot of good candidates there and I'm sure at least one of them would step up. And don't forget Pedro will probably be back too. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/22/2006 01:18:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Anything Pedro gives in '07 is a bonus. I would not pencil him in just yet. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Dr Mesmo COMMENT-DATE:12/22/2006 01:30:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Merry Christmas John! And a Happy New Year as well.

Thanks for all the terrific reporting this past year. I look forward to reading your blog and column throughout the post-season and beyond.

I wouldn't mind letting the young pitchers continue learning at the major league level. At least you don't wind up over-paying for mediocrity and getting tied up for too many years in a bad contract that blocks the progress of someone deserving. Zito has options and so do the Mets.

Omar promised us a youth movement. I have yet to see it. You have to start grooming these younger guys to take Glavine's, El Duque's and Pedro's place.

Happy Holidays and Let's Go Mets! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: CLM COMMENT-DATE:12/23/2006 06:25:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Whomever they sign, whatever they do, it's just 2 months and a little bit until --


--pitchers and catchers report!!!

Thank God and pass the gravy.

Merry Christmas to John Delcos and all the Mets fans and team. Let's hope there is a new Zito in our stockings and a healthy Mets team in our future.. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:12/23/2006 07:32:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Merry Christmas to John and all the bloggers.

I've enjoyed the blog with Johns' terrific reports from the clubhouse, the road and various restaurant reviews along the way. John, you really bring the Mets home to us. Thank you.

Also to the bloggers for all the discussions we've had together - I always learn something from reading this blog.

Some sports writer once said that the two loveliest words in the English language were "Spring Training". I agree and am looking forward to it. -------- 12/21/2006 09:47:00 AM|||John Delcos||| The Mets' Zito Posse is home, and it is unlikely they've made an offer. They are digesting Boras' salary demands, which we know will be excessive. Jeff Suppan is the best FA pitcher left on the market other than Zito, so it makes sense the Mets would check him out. He's a little better than .500 lifetime, which would make him an ideal No. 4 or No. 5 starter. He had a good playoff run, so you know he's able to pitch under pressure. The back end of the Mets' rotation was a mess last season, and Suppan would provide expensive stability. That's the key. More often than not he'll provide quality, which translates to at least six innings. Where that is important is in preserving bullpen innings.|||116671295735310298|||Dec. 21: Mets in the Morning: Suppan a back end option? COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 10:31:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Yes.

It is also a good bargaining chip.

But for the reasons you stated. I would rather pay him half what they want for Zito and let the young guys prove themselves.

We won't win, probably wont with Zito either. but should repeat last year and see what the season brings.

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: jairo COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 10:53:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Hi, I was out blogging and found your site. It certainly got my attention and interest. I was looking for Travel Airfare information and even though this isn't a perfect match I enjoyed your site. Thanks for the read! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 12:07:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:jairo - get lost. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Gil COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 12:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:$#%$ that *&^%$%^$%#&* Jeff Suppan!!!
I would NEVER accept Jeff Suppan as a Met. The wound administered by the enemy is still too fresh.
Hell, why don't we try and land Yadier Molina and Ronnie Belliard while we're at it? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 12:33:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:According to one source, the Mets yesterday offered five years and $78.5 million, which supposedly tops the 5/$75 offered by Texas.

Additionally, it seems that the Mets want to get this finished ASAP; i.e., they might be willing to offer a sixth-year option if Boras is willing to close the deal this week. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 12:54:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon (RE: Offers)

The offers you mentioned are barely off the starting line. It's going to take more than that for Zito. And, no way I see it being wrapped up by the end of the week. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 12:58:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Gil (RE: Courting the enemy)

C'mon ... time to let it go. If you don't want any player who toasted the Mets at any time last year, does that mean NO to Dontrelle Willis? Or Ryan Howard? Or Albert Pujols? You know what I mean. If Suppan is good for 14 wins, you wouldn't take that from your fourth or fifth starter? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Gil COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 02:35:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:So, John, according to your logic, all Mets fans should warmly embrace Roger Clemens, too, if management signed him?
Absolutely NOT.
Dontrelle's a different case than Suppan. He's battered us during the regular season, not in Game 7 of the NLCS.
I don't believe if you can't beat 'em, sign 'em. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 09:09:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Gil ...

Are you telling me if somehow Clemens called the Mets and said, ``You know, I'd like to play another year, and I want it to be with the Mets,'' you'd have a problem with that?

Suppan's numbers would fit in at the back end of the rotation. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Gil COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 10:16:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hell yes, I'd have a problem with Clemens joining the Mets, the same way I'd have a problem with Osama bin Laden sending the U.S. government a message tomorrow saying:
"Hey guys, y'know what? That attack five years ago? I just lost my head and acted out of anger. I really didn't mean to hurt anyone. I've had a change of heart. I really wanna be back on board the team the way I was when you gave me weapons and cash to fight the Soviets in Afghanistan."
Please those words with a grain of salt.
Clemens isn't bin Laden, but he made himself a mortal enemy of the Mets franchise six years ago. Clemens is a disgusting person and it wouldn't surprise me one day to learn he too abused steroids and cheated to prolong his career.
And while Suppan didn't throw a bat shard at any Met hitters the way Clemens did, I don't want him, or any other hated rival playing on my team. I want the satisfaction of getting even against him.
Granted, Orel Hershiser and Tom Glavine both became Mets after inflicting wounds against us, but at least some time passed, allowing playoff losses to heal. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 10:46:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Gil ...

I appreciate your passion and understand where you're coming from. In some ways it was like Jackie Robinson retiring rather than accepting a trade to the Giants. -------- 12/20/2006 10:37:00 PM|||John Delcos||| I wrote, that it is always the money, and despite several posts in disagreement, I stand by that. Yes, there are other reasons why a player would leave a team as a free-agent. Among them: 1. A chance to play fulltime, but playing fulltime over part time would always entail a bump in pay. How could it not? 2. A chance to play at home at the end of one's career. Well, that's what Andy Pettitte said. But, for a couple of million more - even though he already is set for two lifetimes - he's leaving Houston again. 3. Leaving a bad situation. What's a bad situation? Not enough money? Not playing fulltime? Playing a position you don't want? All these reasons could prompt a player to leave, but I'd bet they'd suck it up and stay if the money were right. Maybe I'm too jaded, but few players pass on the money. Cal Ripken and Kirby Puckett gave up more on the open market to stay home, but they were exceptions and special players. Both achieved icon status in their cities and had other avenues of revenue for staying home. I'm talking the routine free-agent, and in the end money talks loudest.|||116667279995339692|||Dec. 20: Is it always the money? COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 10:29:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:I agree.

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 12:34:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Bobby Bonilla wasn't about the money. When he played, it was for the love of the game and the admiration of the fans. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 01:01:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala (RE: Bobby Bo)

Sorry Benny, can't agree with you on that one. When Bonilla bolted the Pirates for the Mets, he left a winning team for a losing one. He also left for $30 million, which at the time was a monster contract. That's nothing now. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/22/2006 06:14:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:But Bobby did it, not for the love of money, but for the love of the fans. Everything Bobby did, outside of cashing those hefty paychecks, he did for others. He was perhaps the most caring, loving man ever to don a big-league uniform. And if you don't agree with me, I'll show you the Bronx to prove it. -------- 12/20/2006 10:02:00 PM|||John Delcos||| The Mets' delegation had productive talks with Scott Boras and Barry Zito, which is to say they'll talk again. In case Zito falls through, or to give Boras something to think about, they also spoke with the agents for Mark Mulder and Jeff Suppan. The Rangers say they have not offered Zito a $100-million package, but that doesn't mean they won't later. The Mets' parameters are five years and $73 million. After talking with Boras they could bump that up, but by how much we don't know yet.|||116667069576545215|||Dec. 20: Mets contingent heading home COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 11:28:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I'm comfortable with either of these two alternatives but would prefer Suppan given he'd be available for the full season and as far as we know, is healthy. With Pedro out until the latter part of the year, and Mota not available for the first 50 games, plus Sanchez coming back from shoulder surgery, can the Mets really afford to gamble on another pitcher not available from the get-go? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 01:05:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon (RE: Taking a chance with damaged goods)

You mean Mulder, and you have a point. The Mets have little margin for error when it comes to pitching, but with Mulder you'd probably get him for a decent contract loaded with incentives. That means a minimal risk, so I'd think about that. -------- 12/20/2006 12:58:00 PM|||John Delcos||| The Mets and agent Scott Boras are talking today in LA. The Giants and Seattle are believed to have had discussions with Boras at the winter meetings, but nothing formal since. It stands to reason if they have interest they'll be some sort of meeting, which means it doesn't get done this week. After that come the offers. As of now, the Mets haven't made one but are discussing parameters. They like five years and $73 million; Boras is thinking six and $100 million. Anything over three years is a considerable risk for a pitcher. The Yankees did it with Mike Mussina and weren't burned, even though he had a few DL stints. There was nothing blowout major with Mussina, which is always the fear. Since Zito is single, it stands to reason he'll take an apartment in the city he plays in, including Manhattan, so scouting the town isn't as much a priority. David Wright can always get him a unit in his building. It has been reported Zito wants to play in a major city, preferrably on one of the coasts. This precludes the Rangers, but if the priority is a big city, presumably with a night life, then Dallas is right there. You don't think he can't hook up with a Cowboys cheerleader or model in Big D? The Rangers are reportedly more willing to go closer to the magic $100 million figure than the Mets. If there's a $25 million difference in the offers, why wouldn't he take the money and go with the Rangers? Please, don't say anything about having the best chance to win. That's a lot of smoke. If that were the case, he'd stay in Oakland, which has been pretty much a playoff fixture, with more October appearances over the past five years than any of the other teams interested, including the Mets. Remember: IN THE END IT IS ALWAYS ABOUT THE MONEY.|||116663846320851799|||Dec. 20: Mets, Zito talks COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 01:27:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hey John, great work! How close do you think the Mets have to be to get him? If they go five years/$85mill with some sort of vesting option for a sixth year, do you think that's close enough? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 02:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Hi John, This is exciteing. I to would like to know what you think would get it done or what the Mets line drawn in the sand would really be? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Greg W COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 02:22:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Looking at the current marketplace 5 yrs at $75M looks low. I would expect it to be int the range of 6 yrs at $96M.
I think that an avg $16M is not too large in this market and with the length of the contracts being given out 6 yrs is not overly generous especially if the 6th year is an option with reasonable attainment goals. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 02:48:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Yes, understandable that it always does come down to the money....this being true, Oakland is already subtracted from the equation bc they won't hand out the cash...Out of the remaining suitors, the mets stand the best chance to win..so while it mostly depends on how close the Amazins' get to Boras'/zito's magic number, the winning factor CANNOT be overlooked -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 04:10:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John -

Great work on the constant updates. As much as we fans try not to believe it, the money is always first priority. Don't think Wright and Reyes wouldn't be shopping around if those contracts weren't given during the season. Anyway, I think Mets fans need a Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa present this year and a nicely wrapped Zito would be perfect. Minaya and the Wilpons haven't been shy about writing the checks and after Zito the team will have enough strength to get them to the World Series. It's gotta get done - no matter what the cost. And isn't that what Rick Peterson is here for anyway? He should be included in the talks as a persuasion tactic. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 04:45:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Here's some examples from our very own team...Moises Alou chose to come to the Mets for 1 year, instead of more guaranteed money from other teams, for a chance to win. David Wright wanted to sign a lifetime deal with the Mets, but Omar just couldn't do that for him. Tell me thats about the money... While most of the time, it's about the money, saying it "always" is, is just naive. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 06:08:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Outside of the immediate issue of Zito if the Mets cave and go for this ridiculous amt for a pitcher on the decline who is not a stud A1 pitcher for that amt of money and that length of time ( 20 mill /yr for 2 yrs i could live with ) then they have to worry about the rest of the team.

You always compare yourself to your peers. So if they sign him for 6@100 what do Wright/Reyes/Delgado/etc feel a year from now where their contributions are more relavent to the team than someone who wins 12 games a year and doesn't scare the opposition the way Rocket does or Doc did in his prime?

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 07:29:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I think it's silly not to adjust to the escalating market this off-season. I mean, if Ted Lilly is now worth $10-11 million per year, how can you try to put a $14-15-million ceiling on Zito?

So, here's the question: Do you go 6/96 for Zito or 4/40 for Suppan? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 07:49:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I say sign them both...Give Zito the 6/90 and offer Suppan a 2/20. Suppan will be an insurance policy on the old guys and will continue to take the pressure of the young arms. Either way, it is ridicules money being spent on starting pitcher, but that is how the market is. The Mets need another proven starter even if they get Zito. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 08:06:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:if that was an option that would be the best situation. Suppan = Trachsel, maybe a little better. But if it can only be one you have to make Zito happen. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 10:18:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon (RE: Alou)

Who's being naive? Alou came to the Mets because they gave him one year ($7.5 million) with an option. To say he came to the Mets to win isn't seeing the whole picture. Alou's phone wasn't ringing off the hook. He is a 40-something, injury-prone with a chance to make another $15 million. That's why he signed with the Mets. A chance for the playoffs is a bonus, not the reason. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 10:21:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon (RE: If they had only one)

If the Mets could have taken only one pitcher at the start of the offseason, I probably would have gone with Jason Schmidt. With who is left, sure, it has to be Zito. But, I still believe he won't go six years without a scratch. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 10:24:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon (RE: Signing Zito plus another)

I can't see them getting both Zito and Suppan. But, I do agree that Zito might not be enough. Even with Zito there's reason to be concerned. Who is to say something won't happen to 40-somethings Glavine and Hernandez? And, don't forget, even with Zito you would have unproven questions at No. 4 and No. 5 in the rotation. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 10:26:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala (RE: Zito v. Suppan)

Wow. That's interesting. I think $96 million would get Zito and $40 million would definitely get Suppan. I just don't like the sixth. Neither price is a bargain. But, gun to my head, I'd give it up for Zito rather than give four to Suppan. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 10:29:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I don't believe for a second that it's "always about the money," though I would concede that it is for some people. Aside from being on a winning team, don't you think guys want to play with other players they like or admire. Doing even the most boring job can be fun if you're doing it with people you like. These are young guys we're talking about. They're not machines. They want to have fun just like anybody else.

As for adding both Zito and Suppan, ... Do we really want to do that? If we did, when would we ever get a chance to see what our young guys can do? We'd have 5 or 6 guys (including Maine, Perez, Pelfrey, Humber, Vargas and Williams) competing for 1 roster spot! (And that one spot very well might be given to Pedro after the All-Star break.) Sound like a recipe for unhappiness for our young guys. Don't like it. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 10:30:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon #1 (RE: What's close enough?)

I'm not sure $85 million would be enough because I think Texas can beat that. But, the sixth year as an option could work if the yearly salary was higher. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 10:31:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:RE: On what it would take to get it done

Zito is theirs if they agree to six years at $16 million. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: jb COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 10:46:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:16 mil per for what amounts to a younger version of an Al Leiter in his prime-level starter? Wow...with that number out there, i'd love it if they did it, but i would be content if they told Boras to leap with that one....

JB -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 11:10:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:We have to be realistic with the amount of money. Sure it seems high now, but at one point Kris Benson's contract seemed high. Beltran's deal seemed like a lot, and now it seems reasonable compared to Carlos Lee and Soriano. The point is that the contracts keep going up. We can't compare the price we pay now for what we paid in previous years. It's like my dad telling me that in 1978 they bought a house for $20k. We have to look at the prices now, and we want to win. So lets just pay the guy and get it done. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 10:27:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:i read that Texas really isnt going to 100.

that said. I think you adjust to the market but not for the years. and if you have to sink this season u do so.

the reason for the $$ is the free agent market sucks.

lot of stupid people chasing junk this means big $$.

i dont know who is off contract next year, but you may have a better market and less competition when those that got burned stay away.

i dont think baseball could support these contracts anyway. it is not that popular and they have issues they have to deal with which they aren't because there is an idiot leading MLB.

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 12:38:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Regarding a sixth year for Zito, I don't think anyone will fixate on this if and when he helps deliver a championship to the Mets. To me, the length of the contract is simply a cost of doing business, the same way it was with Piazza (who in their right mind would give a 30-yr-old catcher a seven-year deal?).

The Mets have already overpaid, especially in terms of years on contracts, to Pedro, Wagner, Glavine and, perhaps, Beltran. They have too much at stake to lose out on a championship, simply because they want to be frugal in the eleventh hour. Omar has come this far -- he's got to go all the way now. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/21/2006 09:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala (RE: Overpaying)

If the Mets do land Zito they will probably overpay. I don't think there's any way around that. The Mets have some age on them and consequently a closing window. That's why they'll overpay for Zito. -------- 12/19/2006 11:14:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Went out to dinner tonight with friends, and halfway through somebody asked me, ``I have to ask you something.'' Before he got his question out I said, ``I don't know if they are going to get Zito or not, but if they want him they can get him.'' Point being, if the Mets want to spend Zito is theirs. The Mets have the resources, but Texas has the history of caving when it comes to dealing with Scott Boras. I know the Mets don't want to go as high as $100 million, but I have a feeling will take something in that neighborhood to get it done. They met today and will talk again tomorrow. That's when they'll talk money. Boras wants six guaranteed, and the Mets prefer four, but could go to five. They might get around this by offering option years. They have the money now, and will definitely have no problem at the end of the contract, regardless of the length, because of their new stadium and the naming rights.|||116658870192934727|||Dec. 19: Meeting again in the morning COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 07:46:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Good point about the naming rights John. Hard to argue against them selling out for $20 million a year when we can start talking about what exactly that can get us. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Ryan COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 08:52:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:John,

Isn't naming rights money usually used by teams to pay off debt service on their new arenas? I always thought that was a pretty standard practice, and I could have sworn I read somewhere that that's what the Mets are going to do. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 12:35:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Ryan (RE: Naming rights)

Part of it could be used to pay off debt service. However, if the Mets are getting $20 million from CitiCorp to pay off debt service, that's $20 million they don't have to come up with. The money they save can be used to pay off other things, such as lefthanded free-agent pitchers. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 12:49:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:The naming rights is chump change compared to the vertical integration opportunities provided by having your own cable TV network.

That network is going allow them an economic advantage over most competitors; the question is whether the Wilpons will funnel the revenues back into the operation or into their pockets. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 01:15:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala ...

You are absolutely right, but $20 million a year is nice to have as chump change, don't you think? -------- 12/18/2006 08:46:00 PM|||John Delcos||| It's on. Mets VP Jeff Wilpon, GM Omar Minaya and executives Tony Bernanzard and John Ricco will fly to LA tomorrow to meet with Scott Boras and Barry Zito. They'll talk tomorrow, have dinner, then talk again Wednesday. I would think if Zito were really interested, there would be a trip to NY to scout out homes. It's one thing to come here as a traveling player and stay in hotel. It's another to come here looking for a place to live for five or six years. So, how should the Mets play this? Should they go back and forth with Boras or should they put their best offer on the table right away and say take it or leave it?|||116649304676721658|||Dec. 18: Mets to meet Boras tomorrow COMMENT-AUTHOR: Alex COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 09:13:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Good sign, John. Boras needs Hicks, and he won't have Hicks if Barry goes touring homes in Westchester County. Barry has visited the Yankees enough times and presumably read a few books/articles to know all he needs to know about NYC. He knows the Mets and NYC are the best thing for his career at this point. The only question is whether Omar and Jeff offer enough guaranteed money in comparison to The Idiot Roman Emperor Hicks. If they're pretty close, the Mets get their man.

It's about money and details right now, John. That's my read of this trip, and I think it's a good thing. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: dan COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 09:15:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:call me crazy,and maybe im just assuming alittle too much,but barry zito doesnt strike me as the guy who would be in n.y. to look at homes. I think he just wants to get this money thing out of the way,be it n.y. or wherever and then move on from there.

Again thats just a total assumption on my part,what the hell do i know -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 09:22:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:My sources say Zito will be a Met either Thursday or Friday. Everything will be taken care of by Thursday, but may only be announced Friday. My source? A pretty bad blog who claims he has a source...of a source...of a source... But if it happens, You better say Dang!!! Your sources are awesome! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Steve C. COMMENT-DATE:12/19/2006 07:27:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Salary Caps anyone? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Greg W COMMENT-DATE:12/19/2006 08:21:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I would make an offer - let it be known that it is not going to change by much if any; other than options, incentives, etc.
Then let Zito make his decision, whether it be Texas or NY. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 12:38:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Steve C. (RE: Salary cap)

You really don't want a salary cap. Steinbrenner views the luxury tax as another salary to pay and doesn't flinch. I have a feeling Wilpon won't look at it the same way. At least not to the degree GMS does. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 12:40:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Greg W. (RE: Take it or leave it)

I would do the same. I would make my final and best and tell them that's it and give them a deadline to make a decision. The reason Boras seems unbeatable in these things is that the teams always flinch. You might lose Zito, but if you did then you knew he would take the most money anyway. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/20/2006 12:56:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:But if you're the Mets, money is your strong suit, no? While I understand that the Mets don't want to bid against themselves, they can't approach these negotiations with a small-market mentality.

At the end of the day, the Mets need Zito more than he needs them: He's more likely to find another team willing to go six years and $90-100 million than the Mets are to find another 200-inning pitcher without surrendering top prospects.

I'm all for employing tactics to limit Boras -- like making one offer and setting a deadline for acceptance -- but I'm leery of any talk about modeling this on the Oswalt contract or acting as if the opportunity to play in NY should somehow result in 10-20% reduction in the purchase price. -------- 12/18/2006 11:50:00 AM|||John Delcos||| To monitor the progress of the Mets new ballpark, go to StadiumPage.com.|||116646071158187446|||Dec. 18: New stadium update 12/18/2006 11:38:00 AM|||John Delcos||| GM Omar Minaya said he'll have a sit-down with agent Scott Boras and Barry Zito sometime this week. When? We could know that some time to day. Again, a meeting. Maybe a day or two. Perhaps an offer. Boras to use that offer vs. Texas. Maybe a counter. Count me surprised if it gets done this week. And, I don't see it happening X-Mas/New Years week. Logic says early January. What I can see happening is Minaya re-visiting the trade market, if for no other reason that to tell Boras he has other options. Other than that, there's nothing pressing with the Mets. They might tinker with their bench, but nothing substantial on the horizon.|||116646019455509130|||Dec. 18: Mets to meet Zito this week COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 06:43:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I can see this meeting as the start of a long drawn out process that will finally put an end to the Mets questions about their starting rotation. In one way or another the Mets will know if they have signed, what they think is the best FA on this years market. Or, if they do not sign Zito they know they have to pull the trigger on a trade. I do hope the Mets stick to their guns and do not give Boras and Zito the 100 million they seek. He is not that special, high caliber pitcher that may demand those types of dollars. There is no doubt he can pitch and has had success early in his career, but he seems to have leveled of in the past few years. I do not see how "Oswalt" type of money should not be good enough to sign Zito. Let the Rangers be that team that over pays for talent, they seem to like it. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JB COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 07:51:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John are you hearing the same rumblings that the Mets will meet with Zito and Boras in Cali tomorrow night?

jb -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 08:46:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To JB ...

Yes. Omar, Wilpon, Tony Bernanzard and John Ricco are flying to LA in the morning to meet with Boras. -------- 12/17/2006 05:11:00 PM|||John Delcos||| The Mets are sure to meet with Barry Zito this week. Probably early. Even after they meet, I can't see a signing this week. The Mets might make an offer, but Scott Boras will play the teams against each other. As of now, the Mets, Texas and San Francisco have stated an interest. The Giants' might be more able to make a deal with Barry Bonds deferring a large part of his salary. If three teams are interested, one week isn't enough time to get it all done. My guess is still in January.|||116639356188362671|||Dec. 17: Zito meeting imminent; deal not COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 06:56:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Hi, I've enjoyed visiting your blog. I am trying to get a site up and running similar the Travel Brochures blog. -------- 12/15/2006 03:45:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Both Omar Minaya and Willie Randolph said getting Pedro Martinez back late in the second half would be like making a deal at the trade deadline. Make sense in theory, but only if you can guarantee a half-season of quality starts. Neither would. The Mets aren't saying it, but they must look at Martinez as a non-entity in 2007. They can't plan on one win out of him, much less eight or nine. That has to be one of the variables they'll weigh when they consider how much they might offer Barry Zito. As it is now, the Mets have two proven starters in their rotation, and both of them are 40-plus. There is no track record for John Maine, Dave Williams, Oliver Perez or Mike Pelfrey. At least none that suggests you can pencil in 30-plus starts and 15-plus wins.|||116621586363172006|||Dec. 15: The way one must look at Pedro 12/15/2006 10:14:00 AM|||John Delcos||| Looks as if it will be a quiet day. Team trying to set something up with Barry Zito before next week. This figures to drag into January. Zito visits sometime next week. He gets an offer. Scott Boras won't take it. He'll play the offer against Texas. Then maybe Zito visits San Francisco or Seattle. Don't expect anything Christmas week. That takes us into January.|||116619616443807142|||Dec. 15: Mets in the Morning COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 10:51:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Even if the mets sign Zito don't think they need one more solid starter. A rotation of Zito, Glavine, Hernandez, Maine, Perez/Humber/Pelfrey? They seem to be OK with the first three but the last two starting spots are going to be filled with unproven talent. What if the old guns (Glavin/Hernandez) run out of gas in the second half. It is asking alot for the young kids to step up and take the team to the playoffs. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 01:10:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon ...

Absolutely. With or without Zito, the Mets will go as far as their pitching takes them, and there's a lot of reason to be concerned. A lot of 8-7 games this summer, no doubt. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 02:19:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:So with that said if the Mets go and trade for a pitcher who do you think would be more likely to be put in a deal; Humber or Pelfrey? I am hoping neither. I wouldn't mind Soler and Maine rather than one of the two previous pitchers named. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 03:35:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Don't forget that Pedro is due back in the second half of the year... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: TurnTwo COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 03:38:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:but what pedro are you going to get? that is the question... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 03:53:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon (RE: Pelfrey or Humber)

Agreed, they don't want to give up on either, but if I had to guess, they'd part with Humber first. Because of Humber's injury, Pelfrey is probably ahead in progress, and with the way their rotation stacks up they might need him. -------- 12/14/2006 08:40:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Mets GM Omar Minaya placed third and the Yankees' Brian Cashman ranked fifth in an ESPN poll ranking the 30 general managers. Here's the top 10: 1. Billy Beane, Oakland 2. John Schuerholz, Atlanta 3. Omar Minaya, Mets 4. Theo Epstein, Boston 5. Brian Cashman, Yankees 6. Kenny Williams, White Sox 7. Walt Jocketty, St. Louis 8. Dave Dombrowski, Detroit 9. Terry Ryan, Minnesota 10. Mark Shapiro, Cleveland Any thoughts?|||116614699272309212|||Dec. 14: Ranking the GM's COMMENT-AUTHOR: dan COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 10:35:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:minaya is good,im not sure top 3 though. Terry ryan should definitely be top 3 in my opinion. And theo epstein has left me very underwhelmed the last couple years. He's good at signing the big stars,but when it comes to putting together bullpens and stockpiling bench players and pitchers,hes been at best mediocre.


overall,a decent top ten -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 11:13:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Dan ...

Theo is on here for 2004, but you're right, he's done little since. No way he's ahead of Cashman. My choice for No. 1 is Schuerholz. To sustain winning for that long was an amazing feat. I go with Cashman at No. 2.

Omar is good, but what's he won? One Division Series vs. the Dodgers. Terry Ryan has done more with fewer resources. He's got to be higher. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Russ COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 11:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Beane and Schuerholz are heads and sholders above the rest because they are in such small markets...terry ryan is good too...but omar does deserve to be way up there because he had such a big impact on changing the franchise but not only for one big play off push...hes starting to stock pile the farm system ala beane and schuerholz which i think differentiates him from cashman...epstein is good too but he just signed drew for 70 mill..turns out the one move he didnt make will be the best as he didnt get rid of manny -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 10:03:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Before long Omar will be at the top. Lets not forget he was Montreal's GM back when all MLB owners owned the franchise. He was restrained both financially and strategically by these owners. Yet he managed to put a competitive team out there via remarkable trades at the time.

As GM and VP of Operations, Omar has brought credibility to a franchise that was struggling.

I would also place Terry Ryan at #4 and Kenny Williams up a spot. Brian Cashman should not be in the top 10. It does not take a genius to build an all star team with all the money and resources the yankees team has. Carl Pavano, Jaret Wright, Tony Womack, Kyle Farnsworth, not resigning Petitte, there are a number of other mistakes made. The difference is they have the money to cover their mistakes.

Camilo -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: TurnTwo COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 10:31:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:I agree... Theo gets credit for 2004, but if you look at some of the moves since (biggest in my mind in recent memory is Renteria, who they basically paid something like $23 million when all was said and done to play 1 year at SS), he's really got a mixed track record. His rep is still held high because, similar to Cashman, when they make a mistake, they can go out and fix it w/o much financial consequence.

Listening to Home Plate on XM, they were actually rather critical of Boston as an organization, because along with Texas, they don't seem to have a plan in place.

Beane, Schuerholz, and Ryan get my top 3 votes. Year in and out, they put a great product on the field using a nice mix of farm system and free agency the right way.

and i do like what Dombrowski has done in his track record, with the Marlins and Tigers, and what Cashman has done since getting through his power struggle with the Yankees organization. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Chris Gant COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 10:42:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Cashman should not be anywhere near that list. He doesn't think outside the box or get creative with deals. He just uses a $200 million payroll to overpay players with back-loaded contracts that will come back to bite the team in the ass. And, so much for team chemistry. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 11:01:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Dombrowski, all the way. He built that Expos team that was robbed of a title due to the strike; he built the Marlins title team; and he has now built a WS team in Detroit. None of these teams were "big market" spenders, and, when asked to dismantle teams due to expenses, he's consistently procured top-rate talent in return.

Beane is a revolutionary who really hasn't won anything. And it's not clear whether that outcome is a reflection of his small budget or the limitations of his overall approach.

As for Schuerholz, I'd definitely put him near the top, but I have to think any GM blessed with Maddux, Smoltz and Glavine begins to look infinitely smarter. But when's the last time the Braves developed a true, first-rate pitcher from within their organization?

Cashman? It's hard to judge a guy who's got the financial werewithal to write off a $40-million investment like Pavano or a $21-million one like Jaret Wright. If he were operating on a limited budget in a small-market town, those types of moves would absolutely decimate his organization for years to come. (I personally put my money on Gene Michael as the brains behind the Yankee operation that was so successful all those years.)

I'd probably be looking at a list of:

1. Dombrowski
2. Schuerholz
3. Ryan
4. Beane
5. Coletti/Minaya -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: TurnTwo COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 11:11:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Before bashing Cashman, people have to understand that while he was in charge, he didn't seem to be in charge. Up until the offseason last year, he was in a constant struggle with other factions within the organization.

and people point to Pavano as one of a number of bad signings, but at the time, he was being courted by up to 5 or 6 different teams, and actually took less money to play in the Bronx.

now that he's flewed his GM muscle, he's actually lowered payroll with other contracts to come off the books after 2007, and placed focus back upon developing youth through the draft and keeping young talent rather than trading it in risky moves. The first jewel of his, Phillip Hughes, should arrive sometime this season, with a number of young arms to follow behind him.

I wouldn't say Cashman is at the top of that list, but for the owner he works for, and the demand of the fans he deals with, he arguably should be considered top 5, at least top 10. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 12:05:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Don't know about the other guys but..

Omar turned this team around. True the stars reyes/wright were here already, but the team scouts/coaches did not tag wright as being a top player until he got a shot at the majors.

Omar got Pedro which in turn got the other players in. He is also adept at getting the minor players who play such a big role on the team. The biggest examples maine/endy/valentine.

Also he did a lot with nothing in canada.

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 01:16:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Yeah, he has the money, but one of the things that must be considered about Cashman is his longevity under tremendous pressure. One can't underestimate the Steinbrenner factor and his ability to survive despite backstabbers in the organization. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 02:08:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I thought we were going to keep Clyde King out of this conversation? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 03:59:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala

Nice touch. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 12:07:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:while i think it gives Omar the props that some fans seem to be reluctant to give out of impatience, I think the reality is the top 3 should easily be:

1-Schuerholz
2-Ryan
3-Beane

The rest of even the top 5 or top 10 are simply a level down from those three, and Ryan consistently makes a case to be ranked higher than John S, and in due time may get there, but the ranking ESPN puts Ryan in casts a shadow of doubt on the entire list

JB

PS i would rank Omar somewhere in the 5-7 area personally -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 12:15:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:stop sucking cashman's d*%k delcos, the guy has the most resources in the game, and some of the contracts he's given (Big Unit, Pavano, etc.) are total failures, yet no one seems to care, or notice, because they can always buy their way out of the problem. Must be really hard to do.... I mean, c'mon, Steinbrenner ain't what he used to be, and everyone knows that, you know Torre would have been fired 15 years ago. Omar has single handidly turned around the Mets organization, we're a winner now. And it's not money, because Phillips spent money, we sucked anyway. Omar knows what he's doing, and he's building this team to win, now, and for the future. Not just anybody can turn around an entire organization in a couple years. We went from percieved losers, to winners, in that period, and I credit that to Omar. -------- 12/14/2006 11:55:00 AM|||John Delcos||| Yankees outfielder Johnny Damon said Barry Zito has the temperament to play in New York. Speaking on a conference call this morning, Damon said Zito: ``I think he'd adjust well. He doesn't let much phase him.'' Damon also described his former Oakland teammate as a big-game pitcher. ``He knows how to pitch in the postseason,'' Damon said. With the Matsuzaka deal done, agent Scott Boras will turn his attention to Zito, whose only offer so far comes from Texas. San Francisco also has interest, and with Barry Bonds saying he would defer much of his $16 million 2007 contract, the Giants might be able to make a serious run at Zito.|||116611560865030786|||Dec. 14: Damon endorses Zito for NY COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 12:10:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Isnt Damon represented by the same agent? Sounds like Boras told Damon to say this. -------- 12/13/2006 09:34:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Tell me. Is that a deer in the headlights look or what? By both player and agent.|||116606381909156140|||Dec. 13: Look at the eyes COMMENT-AUTHOR: Designated Blogger COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 11:17:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:DMat looks like Costanza in that gore-tex coat he had. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Larry COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 01:43:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:haha, i was going to say the same thing. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 07:01:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Hi John - MLB has just gone crazy with $$$ and long contracts. I'm glad the Mets are using some restraint. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 12:12:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I guarantee he's going to suck. All these overhyped Japanese players do.

Mike -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 01:52:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:you're an idiot. he just got off a cross-country plane flight and had been up until 3 a.m. negotiating. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 02:07:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:yeah.

matsui of the yanks was a big bust

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 02:21:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:While Matsui of the Yankees can't be called a bust he's hardly the player he was hyped up to be. I don't see the Godzilla-like numbers he was putting up in Japan. He's a nice player but no way is he elite. Other than him, Ichiro, that closer up in Seattle and a couple of decent years out of Nomo none of these Japanese players has been any good. Just a few years ago there was a bidding war for the rights to Kaz Ishii. How'd that turn out? How'd Hideki Irabu the "Nolan Ryan of Japan" turn out? How about the guy who was then the best player in Japan, Kaz Matsui?

Look, when Benny Agbayani and Matt Franco can go to Japan and become star players that just goes to show you the level of talent they have over there.

Matsusaka has no business getting $50 million based on what he did in Japan.

Mike -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 08:03:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:yeah those looks are pretty much "just got off a plane and been up too long thinking about money and am being surprised by an annoying photographer" kind of looks, more than deer in a headlights. Come on, have some empathy. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 12:17:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Mike,

You have a point, but both the players in Seattle and NY are elite.

Both are widely lauded as having exemplary fundamentals and playing the game correctly.

Others' may have better power numbers but both players have all around solid games.

Irabu was a bust certainly as well as the others' but how many can't miss prospects in the minors or college or HS never pan out? If you want to stick with the Yanks there was a pitcher they signed for big $$ he threatened to play football signed in ny then got switched to 3rd i think then finally went into the NFL and became a bust in two sports.

You just don't know. Yes Japan is not MLB, but what is? As for Nomo, I agree he ain't much, but he did have a knack for showing up on one team or other after horrible years. What does that say?

Dave

ps.

do we wanna get into the roids debate which makes almost all numbers moot? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/15/2006 12:20:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:The points about all the Japanese players makes Boston's 51mil payment to negotiate a waste.

This guy will never live down the contract.

Of course this free agent season is a farce too. All those mediocre players getting paid like the babe should be.

Dave -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/17/2006 11:59:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:not sure what the point is, are you having your picture taken after a flight, late at night when you're not expecting it? if you did, would you have a big smile across your face? would you be super photogenic? cut these guys some slack man, and be more respectable in your reporting -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 12:02:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon ...

If I'm landing in the city where I'm going to work and get $52 million, even after an all night flight, I'm all smiles.

So would you. if you say otherwise, you're either stupid, naive, or both.

Besides, he didn't travel coach, either. Plus, he had to know there would be people waiting for him. They aren't stupid enough to expect nobody would be there waiting for him.

He looks intimidated to me. And, I'll be there will be more than a few times where he's intimidated on the mound. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/18/2006 02:12:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:so in one shot, one single photo, he looks intimidated to you, and that means something to you? that actually means something to you? give me a freaking break, it's one photo, have you seen the dozen others where he's smiling like crazy? the one's of him at the bruins game? the story where he told the car to stop so he could wave at some of his adoring fans? sounds like a happy camper to me, and if you knew anything about matsuzaka, you'd know the guy is one tough mother. Of course it'll be a big change for him, but don't expect him to be scared, or intimidated, the guy brings it, bottom line, and he doesn't back down. -------- 12/13/2006 09:10:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Both Omar Minaya and Willie Randolph said today they like their pitching as is, that Barry Zito would be a nice addition? Do you believe them? If the season were to begin tomorrow, this is your rotation: 1. Tom Glavine: 40 plus, throws soft. 2. Orlando Hernandez: 40 plus, junkballer. 3. John Maine: little more than half a season experience. 4. Oliver Perez: a few good moments; a few bad ones last year. 5. Mike Pelfrey: unproven rookie. 5. Dave Williams: journeyman. 5. Alay Soler: unproven; one great game last year. How do you like it? Does it inspire confidence?|||116606249350750932|||Dec. 13: Do you believe Omar and Willie? COMMENT-AUTHOR: dan COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 10:19:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:in el duques defense,he did strikeout 164 batters in 162 innings. So i dont think its entirely fair to call him a junkballer. He still throws high 80's low 90's. But still i understand where you are coming from -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 10:20:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:The Mets don't necessarily need Zito, but they do need a proven starter to slot in between the two veterans and the two youngsters. Because with any of those No. 5's, the confidence in that rotation plummets. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 10:46:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:They need an ace bad, in fact I'm becoming extremely nervous that they've put all their eggs in one basket. Don't like the rotation as is and the asking price for trades is ridiculous!!! I can't believe they went into this off season with the priorty being pitching and they still haven't picked up one starting pitcher yet. Glavine and El duque were always the plan I thought they would have picked up one end of the rotation type and an ace... Now all thats left is Zito and projects... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Evan K COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 10:48:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:theres only one answer to this question, NO!!! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Designated Blogger COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 11:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Ouch, when you put it like that...

The Mets are in serious trouble with that rotation. Even if they get Zito. Maybe they can take Pavano off the Yanks hands... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JB COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 12:06:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:the problem is, they have a stable of potential aces (including Pelfrey, Humber, Perez)...but no ace..and the closest things to an ace were a Japanese import with no MLB exprience and a borderline ace who will live or die careerwise with the stadium he calls home (ie Zito)...it's a terrible free agent crop and an ever more ridiculous trade market, so in a lot of ways, as much as i want to see winning ball...i would rather see quality over a long period of time, and no one available at all this off season save for the two i mentioned even indicates the possibility of. In other words, i would rather lose this year and examine FA's,trades and see what 2007 does for the unprovens than have a rotation including Suppan and Weaver types that will only hold back our rookies and suck up payroll...its a heckuva quandry that Omar is in, but if Zito doesnt happen, maybe they should wait for the trade deadline. Sure, us Met fans arent patient, especially after the lofty expectations set last year, but maybe the big picture needs to take precendence over 2007...

JB -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 12:36:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:lose this year??? Not me, not with this payroll. SOmetimes Met fans need to think before they write.


Fact the Mets NEED and ace.

Fact #2 ZITO IS AN ACE!!! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 07:05:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Honestly, though, what do you expect Omar to say -- "We've got a rotation of has-beens and would-bes, and we're not sure we want to spend big dollars on a could-be"?

Omar has virtually no incentive to publicly announce what he's actually thinking. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Greg W COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 08:49:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:My definition of an ace is a pitcher who can go up against the oppositions No. 1 and match or surpass their performance. Zito has been that in Oakland and should be able to do so in the NL for a few more years.
Do the Mets need him? I believe the Mets need to get their bats to be more consistent. Not take days off against unknown young pitchers that you never hear from again.
I've said it before... the reason they didn't make it to the World Series wasn't because of Maine and Perez. It was the inabilityh to drive home key runs. If they can get proficient starts from their staff they should still win the NL East, maybe not as easily as of last season. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Craig COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 08:51:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:JB, you are 100% on point, my perception exactly. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Ryan COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 10:09:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:To my mind, the Mets need one more proven starter - preferably a legit #1, which Zito is not.

If there's not one available, and if Zito is prohibitively expensive - and there IS a point at which Zito's production and his salary reach a point of diminishing returns (I won't lose sleep if he goes to Texas for six years, $115 million) - then I don't have a problem going with unproven talent in the rotation IF Omar and Willie feel that the Mets' unproven talent has the ability and the desire to succeed at the major league level.

The good teams - the teams with sustained success, IMO - have no fear when it comes to going with unproven talent. They have complete confidence in their ability to evaluate talent and character.

The bad teams - the teams with front offices who either don't have confidence in their talent evaluation skills or have no talent evaluation skills - overpay for mediocre, "proven" major league talent.

The mere fact that Omar didn't even sniff in Gil Meche's or Ted Lilly's direction tells me the Mets at this point in time are not the latter. Now they need to be the former. Maine, Perez, Humber and Pelfrey - these are all their guys. They're ready for the major leagues (some more than others, obviously).

The Mets need to go after Zito, no question. He's a really good fit for the rotation at the right price. But if it's clear that buying Zito now will hurt the Mets down the road, then the team has to have confidence that they chose wisely when they acquired each of their collection of young, Major League-ready power arms. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 02:15:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I agree with JB and others'.

The rotation sucks, but the other parts of the team are above avg.

We can deal with a weak rotation like we did last year. It won't get you a ring, but neither will Zito.

He is 5 years past prime and in no way is a #1.

I say get a lower tier FA who does not have the press to break the bank. Get them for 2 or 3 years at around 5 mill or so a year.

That will keep you for the early part of the season.

Perhaps you get lucky and pounce on a team that panics and can upgrade the rotation before the all star break.

If not ride out the season and try again next year.

Dave -------- 12/13/2006 05:12:00 PM|||John Delcos||| The numbers coming out of Boston on a Daisuke Matsuzaka's contract is $52 million over six years. The most important number there if you're thinking about relating this to Barry Zito is the six years. The Mets don't want to go that long, prefering instead to go shorter with option years at the end, but Boras wants six guaranteed. If he can get it from somebody who has never pitched in the major leagues he no doubt thinks he'll get it for Zito, who has long been an innings eater.|||116604815051803333|||Dec. 13: What does Matsuzaka deal mean? COMMENT-AUTHOR: Greg W COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 06:01:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I think it will take six years to sign Zito - unless you are willing to give him an early out after 3 years. Or if you make the options years so easily obtainable so that the only way they don't kick in is if he is really hurt.
If the dollars per year are in your range; in this market I'd give him the years. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Steve C. COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 07:53:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Boston can have that guy, only the yankees learned that lesson .. every team has tgo learn their's.
I am not sure Zito is worth 6 years. Not at that kind of money either. 3 is a good number.
We need pitching so damned bad, but do we need it this bad?
*sigh* -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: dam COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 08:34:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:if the mets are willing to invest what will now be 5 years in tom glavine,and with the option potentially six years. Well then,i see no reason to not give 6 years to a 28 yr old barry zito. Barring something flukey,he should be reliable and consistent for the duration of his contract.

Is zito a true ace in the strikeout fashion? no not really,but hes still really good,and his style of pitching is ideal for shea stadium.

Forget the option,just give him the sixth year a ton of money and tell him where the best place in the city to do yoga is if you have to. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 10:02:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Greg W.

With Matsuzaka getting six years, it's a good bet that's what Zito is going to get. I still think that's too much for a pitcher. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 10:04:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Steve C.

I would be willing to bet that after three years there's going to be questions about Zito. He's four years removed from his best year. That's a long time. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 12:46:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Zito in the NL is a Cy Young type of front line starter. The guy puts sub 4 Era's in the AL year in and year out.

Ohh yeah and four years ago guess who his pitching coach was??? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 07:02:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:I think the most important numbers were six -- as in the term of the contract -- and $103 million, which represents Boston's total outlay for the pitcher.

As for it being four years since Zito's best season, how long has it been since he last worked with Peterson? Coincidence? -------- 12/13/2006 05:01:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Mets GM Omar Minaya, speaking at the Mets annual holiday party, said the team is in it for Barry Zito if the deal ``makes sense.'' Translation: It's all about the bucks. The Rangers are the only team believed to have made an offer, and it's reportedly over $100 million. San Francisco and Seattle aren't really the players they led one to believe. So right now it's Mets and Texas. Minaya said things should heat up after the Daisuke Matsuzaka negotiations are completed in Boston. It looks like it will get done if it hasn't already. Like I said, there was too much to lose by all parties for things to fall through.|||116604753939301957|||Dec. 13: Omar: ``Mets in it for Zito'' COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 07:51:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:what will get it done ?

5 years at 95 million with 6th year option ?

I dont think Omar will go 6 years but this guy would be a nice addition - he eats innings, is effective and is still young. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 10:07:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon ...

I don't $95 million over five years will get it done. More money and more years. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 02:19:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:20 mil for zito?

i dont think so.

Dave -------- 12/12/2006 08:40:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Matt Cerrone, who operates the highly popular and comprehensive MetsBlog.com, had an interesting comment regarding Miguel Batista to Seattle for $24 million. `` ... ah, yes, the Kris Benson contract ... remember when this type of deal was considered expensive ... '' I do, Matt. I also remember the Mets taking a little heat for that signing.|||116597417712520810|||Dec. 12: Remember when? COMMENT-AUTHOR: taymitsan COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 02:48:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:This comment has been removed by a blog administrator. -------- 12/12/2006 08:29:00 PM|||John Delcos||| The Mets opted not to tender Victor Zambrano a contract for next year, which I'm sure makes a lot of you happy. However, they'll keep negotiating with him. The team did sign lefty Dave Williams to a one-year contract and tendered contracts to Endy Chavez, Duaner Sanchez, Ramon Castro and Oliver Perez. No surprises there.|||116597352021303025|||Dec. 12: Mets think twice about Zambrano COMMENT-AUTHOR: taymitsan COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 03:12:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Does that mean he's a free agent? Are they negotiating with him on equal footing with all other teams right now? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 05:07:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Taymitsan ...

He is a free agent, but I think he's soured on the Mets for not giving him a contract for $2.4 million. Not that he deserves one. Zambrano will look elsewhere first. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/14/2006 02:21:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:in this mkt 2.4 is pocket change.

of course with the elbow/surgery thing its a lot.

Dave -------- 12/12/2006 06:45:00 PM|||John Delcos||| One pitcher that was on the Mets' radar is off the market and another soon will be. Colorado sent Jason Jennings and pitcher Miguel Asencio today for outfielder Willy Taveras and pitchers Taylor Buchholz and Jason Hirsh. Meanwhile, Seattle will sign Arizona free-agent Miguel Batista on a three-year, $24-million deal pending a physical. The Mets began the offseason with a stated need for pitching, but so far this winter the following pitchers have gone elsewhere: Jason Schmidt, Freddy Garcia, Ted Lilly, Gil Meche, Jennings and Batista. And, of course, Andy Pettitte. They were never in it for Pettitte, but the others were under consideration.|||116596752546350152|||Dec. 12: Pitching market getting thinner 12/12/2006 05:30:00 PM|||John Delcos||| I know, I know ... you're not going to be pleased with this, but the Mets are seriously considering tendering him a contract for 2007. They have until midnight to do so. Zambrano never has endeared himself to Mets fans because he came at the cost of Kazmir. Zambrano blew out his elbow in a May 6 game against the Braves. Three times during a trip to the mound Willie Randolph asked him if he was hurting and three times Zambrano said no. Two pitches later he ran off the mound. He underwent Tommy John surgery in a week later and has been rehabbing in Venezuela since. The Mets' offer has to be at least $2.4 million, which is 80 percent of the three million he made last year. The Mets are doing this not because they think Zambrano is the answer if they don't get Barry Zito, but at $2.4 million he's worth the gamble.|||116596340035098348|||Dec. 12: Mets thinking about Zambrano COMMENT-AUTHOR: dan COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 06:13:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:as frustrating as he is,he might be relatively harmless as a long man out of the pen,or pitching in games that are not very close. Im not really going to care either way,but theres strength in numbers,so i wouldnt mind him coming back -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: JoeC COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 06:33:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:"Zambrano never has endeared himself to Mets fans because he came at the cost of Kazmir."

Zambrano got off on the wrong foot because of the Kazmir deal, but beyond that, he earned the despain of the Flushing Faithful with his lack of durability and his erratic (the most polite adjative I can think of) performances when he did manage to keep himself on the mound. Beyond that, what it comes down to is that the guy simply looks like he's pitching scared . . . no heart . . . no emotion . . . to put it bluntly, he just looks like a loser. There are times when the financials need to be put aside when making a decision. The Mets need to cut bait on Victor "the wrong" Zambrano. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 06:50:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Just his name makes my face pucker like I'm eating lemons... But as much as I can't believe I'm writing this in todays market he's a bargain as a middle reliever. He might actually be effective once through the order or to save the pen in blow outs. A little confidence and who knows. Now after writing this I need a shot. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 06:54:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Dan

The more the merrier is the Mets' philosophy when it comes to pitching. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 06:56:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To JoeC.

Not a big Zambrano fan, I can't argue with you. Even so, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised to see him brought back. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 06:57:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon ...

When you talk about today's market, remember when the $21 million deal the Mets gave Kris Benson was considered outrageous? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 08:29:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John -- Did you get to see Zambrano in your days of covering the AL? I ask because the pitcher has claimed (I believe he told Pedro, who, in turn, told the media) that his elbow has hurt since the day he joined the Mets and that this pain has precluded him from being able to throw that nasty slider that was his "out" pitch.

Rick Peterson has proven to be an astute judge of pitching talent. The idea that he liked this guy so much suggests to me that we haven't seen the real Zambrano in a met uniform. (I kind of like that -- "Real Zambrano" -- sounds like a magic act or something.) -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 08:34:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala

I do remember seeing Zambrano. He had his moments, but I never thought of him more than being average. Then again, he had some elbow problems before coming to New York, and it's hard to tell about a guy if he's not 100 percent. -------- 12/12/2006 01:47:00 PM|||John Delcos||| I wrote yesterday if the D-Mat negotiations fell through his rights could fall to the team that's next in line. That's true, but I don't want to mislead you so I must stress how highly unlikely this would be. It's like the seventh tiebreaker in the NFL playoff system. It's there, but you're not going to see it. Why is this unlikely? * The burden of proof would be on the commissioner's office to prove the negotiations were not proper. * Everybody wants this to work, and while the posting process has flaws, they are worth it to keep the working agreement going. An investigation would damage the working relationship, and theoretically cost MLB millions in marketing in Japan. However, according to the Japanese-American agreement, if commissioner Bud Selig has reason to believe the negotiating process was compromised, or if he believes the Red Sox negotiated in bad faith, he has the authority claiming the ``Best Interest in Baseball,'' clause to award the rights to the next team in line. While this is highly unlikely, the avenue, although remote, does exist that could enable the next team in line, which reportedly is the Mets, to have a crack. Here's the link to this agreement: http://jpbpa.net/convention/2001_e.pdf (Paragraph 13) All sides want this to happen by Thursday's deadline and here's why: * The Red Sox obviously want the pitcher. * D-Mat wants to play in the US, and it's up to agent Scott Boras to make it happen. * The Japanese market is rich in potential clients for Boras, and he doesn't want to jeopardize that by not letting this deal happen. * MLB obviously wants a deal in the interest of peace and maintaining its relationship with Japan.|||116594946982891909|||Dec. 12: Matsuzaka clarification COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 03:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:John, I am so glad you posted this. It is the truth. Pete A. over on the Yanks blog was misled by some MLB source, and posted incorrect info on all this, which irritated me.

Yes it is highly highly highly unlikely, but it is technically possible, and that's what counts. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 04:40:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:This comment has been removed by a blog administrator. -------- 12/12/2006 12:28:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Scott Boras represents Barry Zito and Daisuke Matsuzaka, which is why their negotiations are strategically linked. Zito isn't going to get done this week because Boras is tied up with the D-Mat negotiations with the Red Sox, which have a Thursday midnight deadline. It stands to reason Boras doesn't want to finish Zito until after D-Mat, because Matsuzaka would help to justify his asking price for Zito. If he can get closer to the $14 million a year he's asking for Matsuzaka, who has never thrown a pitch in the major leagues, then what's a guy like Zito worth? And, with Freddy Garcia, Ted Lilly, Jason Schmidt and Gil Meche off the market, the scarcity for pitching becomes even more acute. That drives the price for Zito. The Mets are saying the won't match Texas at $102 million for six-years, or even how close they would approach it. They are saying they are happy with whom they have, but you'd expect them to say that and not appear desperate. As of now, there are no plans to bring in Zito. But, there's time.|||116594498978819874|||Dec. 12: Zito v. Matsuzaka COMMENT-AUTHOR: JoeC COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 02:06:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Isn't Boras a lawyer? Even if he's not practicing law as an agent per se, if he's admitted to practice he must adhere to that state's ethical rules for attorneys where he's admitted. I think many states' rules and ethical commisions would frown upon, or outrights preclude this conflict of interest whereby Boras is playing one client against the other, which is essentially what's going on here. Just a thought. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 02:17:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:JoeC. ...

You raise an interesting point. I'm not a lawyer, so I don't know the ethics involved. I would surmise since he's not negotiating with one team for the two pitchers, that's there's no conflict. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/13/2006 08:00:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:NY Sports Dog has some news on this that sounds promising...they agree with you, but differ on timing, etc.

http://nysportsdog.blogspot.com -------- 12/11/2006 05:18:00 PM|||John Delcos||| The Mets say there are currently no plans yet to bring in Barry Zito for the dog-and-pony show. That doesn't mean there won't be in the future. Zito is supposed to be in the NYC for a charity function, but his agent, Scott Boras, is currently wrapped up in the Matsuzaka negotiations with Boston. The deadline is Thursday midnight. Omar Minaya returned to New York this afternoon after a scouting tour of the Dominican Republic.|||116587555798385865|||Dec. 11: No visit plans yet for Zito COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 09:54:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:When do you anticipate Zito signing with a team, before or after Christmas? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 12:14:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon (RE: Zito timetable)

It won't be this week. Scott Boras is waiting for the Matsuzaka negotiations to be concluded by midnight Thursday. He's also a Boras client, and I believe he's waiting to see what he could get for him to help justify the Zito price which is over $100 million. If the Red Sox cave and give $10-plus million for a pitcher who's never pitched in the majors, what's Zito worth?

It is a guess, but I think it will be after Christmas. That's based on nothing this week and spending next week playing teams off each other. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Pete COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 02:38:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:C'mon Omar get it done!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! -------- 12/11/2006 05:11:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Mets free-agent lefty reliever Darren Oliver reached agreement with the Los Angeles Angels on a one-year contract for $3.5 million with an option for 2008. Oliver was 4-1 with a 3.44 ERA in 45 games. Although he played a big role for the Mets, there were no plans to re-sign him, with the club's thinking that Dave Williams could fill that slot. Oliver is 91-80 record in 13 seasons with Texas, St. Louis, Boston, Colorado, Florida, Houston and the Mets.|||116587540223112265|||Dec. 11: Oliver agrees to deal with Angels COMMENT-AUTHOR: Bernard COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 12:22:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:No loss here. He's not going to have the same year he has last season. -------- 12/11/2006 02:49:00 PM|||John Delcos||| Should the Daisuke Matsuzaka negotiations with Boston fall apart and MLB deems the Red Sox dealt in bad faith in trying to sign the Japanese pitcher in the attempt to block him from going to the Yankees, the bidding could fall to next in line in the bidding, which would be the Mets. MLB would have to investigate a complaint, but who would initiate it? The primary wounded party would be Matsuzaka, who would lose out on a potential deal. Reportedly, the Red Sox are offering $7 million, and assuming four years, that's $28 million. Add that to the $51 million bid for the rights to talk and we're talking $79 million for a pitcher who has never thrown a pitch. If the Red Sox were bluffing just to keep him from another team, who is to say Scott Boras wouldn't force them to show their cards. If Boras said, ``we'll take it,'' then the Red Sox would be out $79 million for a pitcher they didn't want. That's a huge gamble, which makes the bad faith argument by the Red Sox unlikely. If this falls through, Matsuzaka could post again next winter. Should that not work, he would be a free-agent (the way Hideki Matsui came to the Yankees) in 2008 and be allowed to talk to any team. More likely is Boras is holding out for the bucks and using the deadline as leverage to up the ante because there are no competing teams. There are too many people with something to gain here, which is why I think this should eventually get done.|||116587220604028644|||Dec. 11: Matsuzaka update COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 06:39:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:as far as I can tell though, there is no legal precedent that can be used to make the argument that the bidding rights should default to the Mets. Me being a diehard Met fan, of course I would like this to happen, but realistically, this cannot. the bidding stipulates that 51.1 mil says the sox can negotiate within 30 days. if no deal is done, the 51.1 mil goes nowhere and dmat goes back to japan. there is no real way to "prove" that the bid was meant to block the yankees, only hearsay. so if he doesn't sign, and the bid gets grieved with the player's union, who don't really represent dmat yet since he isn't a contracted player, selig will probably just send him back to japan because anything else would be seen as unfair. if it was possible to prove that the sox bid was "immoral" in nature, then we might have some hope to cling to. the only way dmat is a met this season is if the sox, mets & boras sit down, negotiate a contact and a fair amount of money & milledges changing hands, and we have our ace. but that is about as likely as the royals winning the series. so as much fun as it may be to speculate, we must all temper our emotions and realize that having the second highest bid gets us nothing. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 09:50:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon ...

The rules dictate if the Red Sox are found to have dealt in bad faith with Matsuzaka, bidding just to keep him away from the Yankees. But, it would only be for one season and would be difficult to prove. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 07:27:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Theo Epstein has publicly agreed with Boras that D-Mat is a "$100 million" player; so, signing him for $79 million wouldn't be the worst thing in the world for the Sox.

So, I don't think it's so much that Boston doesn't want him -- I think they're more interested in blocking the Yankees from getting him than paying market value to have him on their team.

The telltale sign, to me, was the quote from Lucchino in regard to the chartered plane stunt: We're doing this to show that we're not just trying to block other teams from negotiating with the pitcher. If the Sox were really negotiating in good faith, they wouldn't be pulling publicity stunts like this.

Finally, in regard to the reported $7-million-per-year figure, let's not forget that's the exact yearly salary given to the first Japanese player to go through this system -- Ichiro -- six years ago. If Ted F'ing Lilly is getting four years and $40 million, why would D-Mat, the MVP of that recent int'l series (can't remember the name, too lazy to look it up), warrant significantly less? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 12:28:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala (RE: Market price/Red Sox)

I don't think the Red Sox are doing this to block the Yankees. It's just too big and expensive a gamble to do so.

And, you're right. If Lilly and Gil Meche get at least $10 million a season, I don't see why D-Mat will get much less. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 01:48:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Reportedly, the Sox tried to send Lucchino to Japan to try to do some negotiating with Seibu regarding the $51 million, which would have been counter to MLB policy. In addition, they're reportedly telling Boras to include the $51 million in any contractual computations. Taken together, these are not the acts of a team negotiating in good faith; rather, it appears that they're not that interested in having to fulfill that $51-million bid.

As for it being an expensive gamble, I don't see it. They're not committed to the $51 million unless they sign the player -- and there's nothing to prevent them from lowballing the player during their negotiating window. I don't see the gamble: Either they get D-Mat at their reduced price or they recoup their $51-million investment.

Now, if a sizable portion of that bid was non-refundable, then you would have a gamble...

P.S. I would fully expect Boras to challenge the system should the Sox succeed in this game. His client has a right to make a living and it's not clear whether MLB can legally restrain his options to one organization. -------- 12/11/2006 02:10:00 PM|||John Delcos||| The Mets just released their spring training schedule. The times will be announced later. 2007 NEW YORK METS SPRING TRAINING SCHEDULE Note: Times to be announced February 28: Detroit at Port St. Lucie March 1: St. Louis at Port St. Lucie 2: St. Louis at Jupiter 3: Los Angeles at Port St. Lucie 4: Baltimore at Ft. Lauderdale 5: Cleveland at Port. St Lucie 6: Houston at Kissimmee 7: Boston at Ft. Myers 8: Baltimore at Port St. Lucie 9: Detroit at Port St. Lucie 10: Washington at Viera 11: Detroit at Lakeland (split squad) 11: Florida at Port St. Lucie (split squad) 12: Washington at Viera 13: Cleveland at Winter Haven 14: Detroit at Lakeland 15: Boston at Port St. Lucie 16: Florida at Jupiter 17: Washington at Port St. Lucie (split squad) 17: Baltimore at Ft. Lauderdale (split squad) 18: St. Louis at Jupiter 19: No game scheduled. 20: Baltimore at Port St. Lucie 21: Los Angeles at Vero Beach 22: Atlanta at Disney 23: St. Louis at Port St. Lucie 24: Florida at Jupiter (split squad) 24: Baltimore at Port St. Lucie (split squad) 25: Houston at Port St. Lucie 26: Los Angeles at Port St. Lucie 27: Washington at Viera 28: Atlanta at Port St. Lucie 29: Los Angeles at Vero Beach 30: Florida at Port St. Lucie 31: Tampa Bay at Tampa|||116586433288719252|||Dec. 11: Mets release spring training sked 12/11/2006 01:14:00 PM|||John Delcos||| SportsNet New York announced just a few minutes ago that it hired former Met Mazzilli to work as a studio analyst for at least 85 games this summer. SNY said hiring Mazzilli allows Ron Darling to work more games and to go with a three-man team more times. As far as being critical of Willie Randolph, Mazzilli said: ``I have to be honest. If I can't say what I feel and think I would be shortchanging the viewers.''|||116586109749479694|||Dec. 11: SNY hires Lee Mazzilli COMMENT-AUTHOR: George COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 04:40:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I've always liked Mazz ... and Darling and Keith together sound great, so I'm all for that. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: lj COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 08:35:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:That's the end of Mazzilli for me and a lot of other CT fans - no SNY here. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 12:21:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To LJ (Mets cable)

You're not the only one to complain about this. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/12/2006 12:39:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I want my M(azz) TV. -------- 12/11/2006 12:10:00 PM|||John Delcos||| It looks as if the Mets could meet with Barry Zito sometime this week in New York. Will keep you posted. Trade talks with Oakland seem to have cooled. Their roster of position players seems set, at least that of the starters. They could tweak their bench. Someone with pop would be nice for the late innings.|||116585724236618331|||Dec. 11: Mets update COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 01:03:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:What are the possibilities of the Mets receiving permission by the Commissioners Office to negotiate with Matsuzaka. The Mets were the second highest bidder and the terms of the bid would allow this. Since Matsuzaka and the Red Sox are far apart it looks like this could be a possibility.

John, any thoughts?

Camilo -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 01:19:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Camilo ...

I would like to see it happen, but the rules say he would go back to Japan. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 02:44:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:In the Japanese Player Associations Player Contract Agreement (Pg 4 Clause 13) there appears to be a chance the Mets could be awarded the bid since they are the second highest bidder.

I have provided the link below.

http://jpbpa.net/convention/2001_e.pdf

Camilo -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 02:49:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:It comes down to a few things in my mind.

1) Is the lowball offer from Boston truly bad faith? Personally I think it is. But that's a pretty subjective analysis lol.

2) Image-wise does D-Mat being sent back to Japan have a severe and negative impact on MLB as a whole? I'm not so sure about that (although Boston is not going to have too many fans in Japan).

If you can convince Bud & Co that Boston acted in bad faith and that it would be really bad for baseball if D-Mat had to return to Japan then I could see him awarding the Mets negoitation rights (assuming his Japanese team accepted our bid). That's quite a longshot, but not impossible. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 04:25:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To Anon (RE: Bad faith)

I can't see Bud siding with an agent over another team, which is what it would amount to. -------- 12/10/2006 05:27:00 PM|||John Delcos||| The Boston Herald reported negotiations between the Red Sox and Japanese pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka have broken down and he might not sign by Thursday's midnight deadline. It's not the last minute yet, so don't be surprised if this still gets done. The Red Sox put a $51 million deposit for the right to negotiate, so they want to get this done. Matsuzaka has already gone through the posting process, he has bid farewell to Japan. He's not going to want to go through this again next year. Reports are agent Scott Boras is the cause for the snag. However, dragging out negotiations to get the last dollar is what Boras does. There's no other team he can use against the Red Sox as leverage, so he's using the deadline. That's something that has to be remembered in the bidding for Barry Zito. He has one offer on the table, and that's from Texas. The Mets are interested, but so is San Francisco and possibly Seattle. We're not at the point yet of teams bidding against each other. All this means Zito signing isn't imminent.|||116579218656886457|||Dec. 10: This is how Boras plays it COMMENT-AUTHOR: MealTicket COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 09:47:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:John: Is there any chance at all Seibu could re-offer D-Mat to another ML team if Boston continues to lowball Boras? I know these are uncharted waters, but if nothing explicitly forbids it, then why not?

It always seemed to me a fatal weakness of the posting system that one team could sabotage a division rival's play for D-Mat by lowballing Boras in contract negotiations. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 10:08:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:The $51-million deposit is refundable, should the two sides fail to reach an agreement; hence, in and of itself, it is no indication that Boston wants to get this done. Rather, both their outrageous bid and their subsequent negotiating posture (that Matsuzaka should accept less because Boston paid more) suggest more of a blocking stunt than anything else. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 12:07:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:MealTicket ...

My understanding is that the way this works is if Boston doesn't sign him he'll go back to Japan and can go through the process next year. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 12:09:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala ...

You could say it is a block by Boston, but if the numbers are correct, they are offering $8 million a year for somebody who has never pitched in the major leagues. If they were blocking and Boras takes it at the last minute, they would lose the $51 mill plus the salary. That's a gamble. I suppose, however, if that happened they could get out of it by failing his physical on purpose. Then Boras gets a second opinion and this whole thing becomes a mess. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: BennyAyala COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 12:46:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I think it's likely a block based on their attempt to effectively "tax" Matsuzaka the $51 million. From what I've read, they're essentially saying, "Whatever you think you should be getting, subtract $51 million from it." That just doesn't seem like a realistic, good-faith bargaining position. Instead, it looks like an exit strategy. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 01:02:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:To BennyAyala ...

Your argument makes sense. As of now, he'll go back to Japan. This is no doubt a bad system. Japan does not have a true ``free agent'' system, so to placate the Japanese and not risk losing millions in marketing, it goes along with it. -------- 12/09/2006 10:53:00 PM|||John Delcos||| While in the Dominican Republic today, Mets GM Omar Minaya visited Jose Reyes and prohibited him from playing winter ball with the Cibao Gigantes. ``Reyes is an important part of our team,'' said Minaya. ``That's why the Mets' organization decided that he will not play. We want him to keep healthy for the next season.'' Wise move. Reyes was prone to injuries early in his career, and after his breakout year last summer they need to protect their investment.|||116572315445620397|||Dec. 09: Reyes barred from winter ball COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:12/10/2006 07:44:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Hi John - Sorry, I don't really want to hear about Omar anymore. I still can't believe he actually paid to have Mota come back -- what is that telling everyone???? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/10/2006 10:28:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:It says confess, repent and forgive. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/11/2006 09:13:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Joan, the rules don't say 1 failed test and you're out of baseball. It says do the time and you can still play. It's not like he committed some unforgiveable offense against humanity. He was struggling in his career, and desperate to keep his job did what desperate men do...anything he could do.

I'd much rather give someone like him a second chance than the large number of cheaters out there who refuse to take responsibility and fess up. -------- 12/08/2006 10:52:00 PM|||John Delcos||| I've always liked Andy Pettitte. He's been one of my favorite players to cover. A true gentleman. When he stinks he admits it. When he's great he has a sense of humility. He's one of the good guys. That said, c'mon Andy, time for a reality check. In making his decision to come back to the zoo, he said, ``It's been a brutal several days trying to come to this decision.'' Brutal? It's brutal to face the choice between $16 million and $12 million? And, his agent Randy Hendricks said they would have taken $14 million to stay. Can Roger be that far behind?|||116563677087072693|||Dec. 08: Pettitte goes home - again? COMMENT-AUTHOR: Joan COMMENT-DATE:12/09/2006 07:09:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Hi John -
I've had a great week with the Supreme Court school segregation cases, Confirmation of a new Defense Sec. Gates, Bush/Blair news conference, The Iraq Study Group, and the Foley mess revisited. Finally, at the last minute on Friday -- Andy Pettitte.

Although I seem to remember that he left for both personal and professional reasons, I don't question his return. He's coming home and will be with Jeter, Jorge and Mariano (Sweeny is calling them the 'Lords of the Rings'). I understand that he has already spoken with Joe Torre. The Yankee fraternity is alive and well. Now, if the Yankees would only sign Bernie....... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Designated Blogger COMMENT-DATE:12/09/2006 02:32:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:I think signing Pettitte is a great move for both parties. Andy isn't locked into a long-term deal and can still retire early, and the Yanks aren't locked into a long-term deal) the kind that other free agents like Zito, Lilly, and Schmidt were looking for), and can move up their young kid pitchers when they're ready.

Pettitte will slip right back into the rotation without the adjustment period usually needed by players new to New York (Yanks or Mets). He'll give them 200 innings, reducing some of the workload of the bullpen. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: John Delcos COMMENT-DATE:12/09/2006 10:49:00 PM COMMENT-BODY:Designated Blogger ...

I thought Pettitte would stay in Houston, but if he stays healthy he's perfect for the Yankees for all the reasons you mentioned, plus one more -- he's played in NY and knows the drill. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR: Anonymous COMMENT-DATE:12/10/2006 12:07:00 AM COMMENT-BODY:Pack of losers. --------