With Guest
ninety-three minutes
Lindor, Alonso, McCann, deGrom, Taijuan Walker, David Peterson,
Matt Harvey, the 1978 Mets season, and so much more!
Showing posts with label John Stearns. Show all posts
Showing posts with label John Stearns. Show all posts
Friday, June 11, 2021
The Metsian Podcast: That First Place Feeling In June With Faith & Fear In Flushing's Greg Prince
From the desk: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Friday, May 14, 2021
THE METSIAN PODFEST: featuring Subway To Shea Podcast & MetsMusings Podcast
From the desk: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
This week The Metsian Podcast welcomes Anthony Rivera, proprietor of the Subway To Shea Podcast, to the show. On the docket: a seven-game win streak, injuries, stock up/stock down, RatCoon, The Dark Knight returns, and a Mets 1977 regular season rewind assist from Gary Mac of MetsMusings Podcast.
eighty-two minutes
Calling all fans! Be on the lookout for players involved with elevating the Mets into first place. Several of the conspirators are known members of the notorious Bench Mob. The rest of the team is armed with effective pitching and an increasingly dangerous lineup. They are reported to have come away with series victories against the Diamondbacks and Orioles at Citi Field and are now thought to be in transit towards the Tampa/St. Pete area disguised in surfer shorts, sandals, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
#LGM
Thursday, September 26, 2019
N.Y. Mets: The Great Jerry Koosman To Receive Long Overdue Tribute
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
With Tuesday's announcement begins the long overdue recognition and commemoration of one of the greatest and most beloved pitchers to ever don Flushing's orange and blue. The New York Mets will be retiring Jerry Koosman's #36 in a ceremony planned for next season.
Where it concerns my preteen years and baseball heroes, Jerry Koosman, Rusty Staub, and Tug McGraw are my Mets Rushmore of Three. It's rather impossible for me to differentiate one from the other, and I refuse to include a fourth.
But, Mike, what about Tom Seaver?
What about him ... he was a god to me ... I worshiped him. He and Koosman formed one of the game's most formidable one-two punches of their era. But The Franchise inspired in me a somewhat different emotion than did the aforementioned three. With Seaver it was more a matter of respect, watching with great amazement and admiration as he went about his craft, and understanding that I was witnessing greatness. He was elite, and therefore I made an unconscious differentiation. Like most, if not all fans, I was greatly angered when the Mets traded him. But I didn't love him the way a kid loves his dog. When the Mets traded Staub and McGraw I felt nothing but sadness and pain. They traded away two of my three best friends. By the time it came for setting Koosman free the Mets were a badly deteriorated club. Therefore I was relieved and happy for Koosman, but at the same time saddened again to see him go.
That being said I just can't bring myself to place a fourth Met on my Rushmore for fear of leaving someone out. And so Seaver leads my best of the rest list. He along with John Milner, John Stearns, and Keith Hernandez, David Wright, and, you get the picture ...
With great certainty I say the methodical deconstruction of the 1969/1973 Mets initiated in the mid-1970's effectively cost Jerry Koosman a golden opportunity for bettering his Hall of Fame credentials as he was one of the last of the Amazin's to be let go. In 1976 Koosman posts a 21-10 record with 2.69 ERA. Seaver gets traded the following summer and Koosman is left behind to lose 35 games over the next two seasons pitching for a last place club. In 1979, his first season with the Minnesota Twins, 36-year old Jerry Koosman posts a 20-13 record with an American League grade 3.38 ERA.
He wins 147 games in a Mets uniform, but none bigger than game five of the 1969 World Series against the Orioles at Shea Stadium. However, his 1976 campaign is one of my grandest memories as a young Mets fan. He never won the Rookie of the Year or a Cy Young award, but forever earned a place in my heart.
Today, I'm very, very happy for Jerry Koosman, a great, great New York Met.
JERRY KOOSMAN
#36
With Tuesday's announcement begins the long overdue recognition and commemoration of one of the greatest and most beloved pitchers to ever don Flushing's orange and blue. The New York Mets will be retiring Jerry Koosman's #36 in a ceremony planned for next season.
Where it concerns my preteen years and baseball heroes, Jerry Koosman, Rusty Staub, and Tug McGraw are my Mets Rushmore of Three. It's rather impossible for me to differentiate one from the other, and I refuse to include a fourth.
But, Mike, what about Tom Seaver?
What about him ... he was a god to me ... I worshiped him. He and Koosman formed one of the game's most formidable one-two punches of their era. But The Franchise inspired in me a somewhat different emotion than did the aforementioned three. With Seaver it was more a matter of respect, watching with great amazement and admiration as he went about his craft, and understanding that I was witnessing greatness. He was elite, and therefore I made an unconscious differentiation. Like most, if not all fans, I was greatly angered when the Mets traded him. But I didn't love him the way a kid loves his dog. When the Mets traded Staub and McGraw I felt nothing but sadness and pain. They traded away two of my three best friends. By the time it came for setting Koosman free the Mets were a badly deteriorated club. Therefore I was relieved and happy for Koosman, but at the same time saddened again to see him go.
That being said I just can't bring myself to place a fourth Met on my Rushmore for fear of leaving someone out. And so Seaver leads my best of the rest list. He along with John Milner, John Stearns, and Keith Hernandez, David Wright, and, you get the picture ...
With great certainty I say the methodical deconstruction of the 1969/1973 Mets initiated in the mid-1970's effectively cost Jerry Koosman a golden opportunity for bettering his Hall of Fame credentials as he was one of the last of the Amazin's to be let go. In 1976 Koosman posts a 21-10 record with 2.69 ERA. Seaver gets traded the following summer and Koosman is left behind to lose 35 games over the next two seasons pitching for a last place club. In 1979, his first season with the Minnesota Twins, 36-year old Jerry Koosman posts a 20-13 record with an American League grade 3.38 ERA.
He wins 147 games in a Mets uniform, but none bigger than game five of the 1969 World Series against the Orioles at Shea Stadium. However, his 1976 campaign is one of my grandest memories as a young Mets fan. He never won the Rookie of the Year or a Cy Young award, but forever earned a place in my heart.
Today, I'm very, very happy for Jerry Koosman, a great, great New York Met.
Sunday, September 30, 2018
N.Y. Mets: The Wright Way
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
New York Mets: Never before has the organization celebrated an occasion quite like this.
The New York Mets are poised to conclude their 56th year of operation. Looking back, it is rather surprising that prior to David Wright there have been only two players who spent their entire careers with the Mets.
The more time goes by, the more grateful I am to have seen Ed Kranepool play out his final seasons with the Mets. Eddie hit a majestic home run against the Giants at Shea Stadium one night in the summer of '76, that I swear still has yet to land. That was a pretty big deal for this nine year old. The Mets were in existence for six years the year I was born, and were around for thirteen years once I finally latched on as a die hard fan in '74. Being part of two N.L. pennants and a Word Series title made Kranepool an endearing player through his continuing years. But he was additionally beloved as a local guy from Bronx. By the late 70s we recognized we were watching his last games. Before chants in the early 1980s of Rusty! Rusty! Rusty! ... Eddie! Eddie! Eddie! was the anthem of 1979. His name still resonates with fans today. No disrespect to Jose Reyes, but when I think number seven, Steady Eddie Kranepool is the first former Mets player whom immediately jumps to mind.
By the time of Kranepool's retirement, the organization itself was only 18-years old. Five years later another career Met decided to call it quits. For twelve seasons Ron Hodges faithfully served as spot starter and primary backup to Jerry Grote, and John Stearns. Hodges began his Mets career as a rookie with the 1973 N.L. champs, and retired after the 1984 season.
The organization has certainly honored players through the years and decades. They feature Hall of Fame members as well. However, never before have they been able to properly honor and celebrate one of its own home grown, career-long great players, for David Wright is effectively their first, and easily the greatest life long ambassador they've ever had.
On September 29, 2018, Wright plays his last game with the only club he's ever known. Thus David Wright becomes only the third player to spend his entire playing career with the New York Mets. He also retires arguably with the distinction of being the greatest home grown positional product and ultimately one of the greatest players in Mets history. Darryl Strawberry still leads the Mets all-time in home runs, while Ed Kranepool still holds the club record in games played. Otherwise, David Wright has damn near rewritten the entire Mets records book. And on Sunday Citi Field fills to capacity with fans showering David Wright with fifteen years worth of thanks, appreciation, and praise for being one of MLB's greatest yet humble stars to ever don a Mets uniform.
THE CAPTAIN
5
David Wright
The New York Mets are poised to conclude their 56th year of operation. Looking back, it is rather surprising that prior to David Wright there have been only two players who spent their entire careers with the Mets.
The more time goes by, the more grateful I am to have seen Ed Kranepool play out his final seasons with the Mets. Eddie hit a majestic home run against the Giants at Shea Stadium one night in the summer of '76, that I swear still has yet to land. That was a pretty big deal for this nine year old. The Mets were in existence for six years the year I was born, and were around for thirteen years once I finally latched on as a die hard fan in '74. Being part of two N.L. pennants and a Word Series title made Kranepool an endearing player through his continuing years. But he was additionally beloved as a local guy from Bronx. By the late 70s we recognized we were watching his last games. Before chants in the early 1980s of Rusty! Rusty! Rusty! ... Eddie! Eddie! Eddie! was the anthem of 1979. His name still resonates with fans today. No disrespect to Jose Reyes, but when I think number seven, Steady Eddie Kranepool is the first former Mets player whom immediately jumps to mind.
By the time of Kranepool's retirement, the organization itself was only 18-years old. Five years later another career Met decided to call it quits. For twelve seasons Ron Hodges faithfully served as spot starter and primary backup to Jerry Grote, and John Stearns. Hodges began his Mets career as a rookie with the 1973 N.L. champs, and retired after the 1984 season.
The organization has certainly honored players through the years and decades. They feature Hall of Fame members as well. However, never before have they been able to properly honor and celebrate one of its own home grown, career-long great players, for David Wright is effectively their first, and easily the greatest life long ambassador they've ever had.
On September 29, 2018, Wright plays his last game with the only club he's ever known. Thus David Wright becomes only the third player to spend his entire playing career with the New York Mets. He also retires arguably with the distinction of being the greatest home grown positional product and ultimately one of the greatest players in Mets history. Darryl Strawberry still leads the Mets all-time in home runs, while Ed Kranepool still holds the club record in games played. Otherwise, David Wright has damn near rewritten the entire Mets records book. And on Sunday Citi Field fills to capacity with fans showering David Wright with fifteen years worth of thanks, appreciation, and praise for being one of MLB's greatest yet humble stars to ever don a Mets uniform.
Thursday, April 12, 2018
The Greatest Start in N.Y. Mets History Podcast
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Mickey Callaway and the New York Mets are off to their best start in the organization's fifty-six year history. They've jumped out to a 10-1 start, and are in the midst of an eight game winning streak. After opening the season with series victories over the St. Louis Cardinals and Philadelphia Phillies, the Mets pressed forward with series sweeps over the rival Washington Nationals and Miami Marlins.
I hosted, joined by Rich and featured guest Greg Prince from FaithAndFearInFlushing.com
This is our first podcast of the regular season, and we damn near covered everything.
Salute to Rusty Staub ~ Team's Historic Start ~ Mickey Callaway ~ Dave Eiland
Callaway vs. Terry Collins ~ Starting Pitchers ~ Bullpen ~ All Positions Players.
1 hour; 40 minutes ~ Packed Full-o-Stuff.
AMAZIN'
Mickey Callaway and the New York Mets are off to their best start in the organization's fifty-six year history. They've jumped out to a 10-1 start, and are in the midst of an eight game winning streak. After opening the season with series victories over the St. Louis Cardinals and Philadelphia Phillies, the Mets pressed forward with series sweeps over the rival Washington Nationals and Miami Marlins.
An Off-Day METSian Podcast: Is This Real?
I hosted, joined by Rich and featured guest Greg Prince from FaithAndFearInFlushing.com
This is our first podcast of the regular season, and we damn near covered everything.
Salute to Rusty Staub ~ Team's Historic Start ~ Mickey Callaway ~ Dave Eiland
Callaway vs. Terry Collins ~ Starting Pitchers ~ Bullpen ~ All Positions Players.
1 hour; 40 minutes ~ Packed Full-o-Stuff.
Thursday, July 07, 2016
N.Y. Mets: Our Latest RA Podcast with author Jon Springer
Here's our latest podcast for
Our featured guest was Mets fan extraordinaire, and author of
a comprehensive history of the Mets by uniform number,
Jon Springer, proprietor of MetsByTheNumbers.net.
Warning: If you're a die hard fan, this episode will be an easy listen.
Otherwise, you're going to need about 2 hrs:17 minutes for listening
to this wide ranging four way conversation covering of everything Mets
new, old, in between, and other stuff too.
Oh Boy!
First half impressions / a hot Jose Reyes round table / what about Wilmer?
2016 Mets All-Stars / Team MVP / Dwayne Wade!
Mets LVP ... eh hem ... De Aza.
A Jerry Koosman love fest / retiring numbers and magic wands.
Time to recognize Joan Payson at Citi Field, damn it,
and we just may have come up with the perfect way to get it done.
John Stearns - Ed Lynch - a 1978 Mets reunion?
Never ending Al Harazin criticisms - Phil Neikro?
Yoenis Cespedes - The Darkening Knight - Should Thor pitch in ASG?
What ever happened to the unintentional intentional walk?
Willie Mays - Tug McGraw - the 1936 Brooklyn Dodgers
Players who've worn #36 in Mets history - and more.
a comprehensive history of the Mets by uniform number,
Jon Springer, proprietor of MetsByTheNumbers.net.
Warning: If you're a die hard fan, this episode will be an easy listen.
Otherwise, you're going to need about 2 hrs:17 minutes for listening
to this wide ranging four way conversation covering of everything Mets
new, old, in between, and other stuff too.
Oh Boy!
First half impressions / a hot Jose Reyes round table / what about Wilmer?
2016 Mets All-Stars / Team MVP / Dwayne Wade!
Mets LVP ... eh hem ... De Aza.
A Jerry Koosman love fest / retiring numbers and magic wands.
Time to recognize Joan Payson at Citi Field, damn it,
and we just may have come up with the perfect way to get it done.
John Stearns - Ed Lynch - a 1978 Mets reunion?
Never ending Al Harazin criticisms - Phil Neikro?
Yoenis Cespedes - The Darkening Knight - Should Thor pitch in ASG?
What ever happened to the unintentional intentional walk?
Willie Mays - Tug McGraw - the 1936 Brooklyn Dodgers
Players who've worn #36 in Mets history - and more.
Friday, July 31, 2015
N.Y. Mets: Binge Podcasting
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
NEW YORK METS: !Que bruto!
This has been one of the more surreal weeks in recent Mets history.
The Mets have relied on strong, effective, consistent pitching to weave themselves into playoff contention, along with gaining a measure of league wide respect and recognition as such.
Matters away from the pitching mound, however, continue fraying the edges of this nicely woven, albeit incomplete tapestry.
I can't help but chime in on Jenrry Mejia, whom, because of all the late breaking developments emanating out of Flushing, has escaped the general public's wrath.
.....handed a 2nd suspension a mere 20 days after returning from his initial suspension for testing positive for steroids. He must now sit out 162 games as of Tuesday.
How ponderous is it, that he got busted taking old school(!) steroids? That's like still using dial up internet. Steroids...Really? Like, the basic old fashioned Canseco type? Loosy-goosy A-Rod stuff?
That's like the U-Bet of doping!
Who even knows what U-Bet is anymore? Hint: think Boscoe, or just forget it.
NEW YORK METS: !Que bruto!
This has been one of the more surreal weeks in recent Mets history.
The Mets have relied on strong, effective, consistent pitching to weave themselves into playoff contention, along with gaining a measure of league wide respect and recognition as such.
Matters away from the pitching mound, however, continue fraying the edges of this nicely woven, albeit incomplete tapestry.
I can't help but chime in on Jenrry Mejia, whom, because of all the late breaking developments emanating out of Flushing, has escaped the general public's wrath.
.....handed a 2nd suspension a mere 20 days after returning from his initial suspension for testing positive for steroids. He must now sit out 162 games as of Tuesday.
How ponderous is it, that he got busted taking old school(!) steroids? That's like still using dial up internet. Steroids...Really? Like, the basic old fashioned Canseco type? Loosy-goosy A-Rod stuff?
That's like the U-Bet of doping!
Who even knows what U-Bet is anymore? Hint: think Boscoe, or just forget it.
Now for the other stuff:
Here's out most recent podcasts at
Here's the deal:
We left off Episode #110 last Thursday putting ownership's feet to the fire.
Then, on the heels of Sandy Alderson's trade to acquire Juan Uribe and Kelly Johnson,
Sam called me around midnight seeing if I wanted to do a podcast at 1:00am.
I couldn't resist, and so on the air we went.
7/28/2015
Rising Apple Report, Episode #110 1/2: An Impromptu Metsian Exhale
7/29/2015
We held a follow-up podcast on Wednesday night, and what a show it was.
Rising Apple Report - Episode #111: 3 Days left For Another Mets Move
My guest was an impressive 13-year old Mets fan extraordinaire from Los Angeles, and, another fan of the show calling from the southwest mountains of Virginia, to whom I extended an invitation after receiving his emailing regarding our podcast. We also took several live callers which went well.
Topics:
The Mets season up until game #100, Noah Syndergaard's recent dominant performance.
Sandy Alderson's trade acquisitions, remaining trade possibilities.
The ponderous Tulowitzki/Reyes trade.
How about that Ruben Tejada? Jenrry Mejia is an idiot!
Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, and Jackie Robinson.
1969, 2010, and players who've worn #10 in Mets history,
and loads of other stuff.
7/30/2015
With a Thursday day game, why not have another...
7/29/2015
We held a follow-up podcast on Wednesday night, and what a show it was.
Rising Apple Report - Episode #111: 3 Days left For Another Mets Move
My guest was an impressive 13-year old Mets fan extraordinaire from Los Angeles, and, another fan of the show calling from the southwest mountains of Virginia, to whom I extended an invitation after receiving his emailing regarding our podcast. We also took several live callers which went well.
Topics:
The Mets season up until game #100, Noah Syndergaard's recent dominant performance.
Sandy Alderson's trade acquisitions, remaining trade possibilities.
The ponderous Tulowitzki/Reyes trade.
How about that Ruben Tejada? Jenrry Mejia is an idiot!
Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, and Jackie Robinson.
1969, 2010, and players who've worn #10 in Mets history,
and loads of other stuff.
7/30/2015
With a Thursday day game, why not have another...
This time Rich hosted, and we were joined by Rising Apple editor Danny, and The Coop!
Topics:
The 2012 season, and players who've worn #12 in Mets history.
John Stearns beat up a pitcher in 1980.
One small step forward for Mets fans; One giant leap backwards for Mets kind!
The botched Carlos Gomez for Zack Wheeler/Wilmer Flores trade,
and the whole fiasco that transpired at Citi Field because of it.
Did Terry Collins throw Sandy Alderson under the bus? Social media crap.
The Brooklyn Cyclones seize first place.
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Sunday, June 03, 2012
N.Y. Mets ~ It's High Time To Upgrade Your Opinion of Josh Thole
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
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NEW YORK METS: Behind Almost Every Great Pitching Performance, Lies a Good Receiver. Even Though He Still Has a Ways to Go, Never the Less, It's Time To Up The Love On Josh Thole.
Something has been lost on the two most recent pitching exploits of New York Mets hurlers. And that would be the return of Josh Thole. It's time this man started receiving a bit more love from the fans, and the Media for that matter. However, that's not to say he isn't generally liked already. But many still take a tepid attitude when assessing him as a catcher.
Am I about to divert too much credit toward Josh Thole for Johan Santana's no-hitter, or R.A. Dickey's complete game win Saturday? No. But I will say, behind every no-hitter, there is a good receiver. And what we do know about The Battery, is that the pitcher-catcher relationship is a symbiotic one.
Considering Friday's game was his first since suffering a concussion in early May, I'm thinking how difficult is it for a young catcher to go from receiving high octane, and change-ups all game on one night, from one of the titans of 21st century baseball, then go to catching butterflies the following afternoon against an uber-cerebral thirty-seven year old, alternative pitch specialist? And mind you, he caught both games flawlessly.
I'm not getting into catcher ratings or anything like that. To me, delving too deeply into statistical analysis is more akin to being a ancient Mayan heart specialist/slash/star reader. Statistical analysis is not needed to recognize the vast improvement in his catching skills from last year to this season. Let's not forget he was promoted, and I think we all agree, a season, or even a season and a half too early. Perhaps this season should have been his major league debut. But like a growing number of young Metsters, he too was pressed into service early.
Since his initial call-up, I have pledged my support for Josh Thole in this blog almost religiously. So if you feel I am speaking to you through blind love, meh..., so be it. I will also admit to you then, that I am partial to catchers. Therefore, Jerry Grote, John Stearns, Todd Hundley, Mike Fitzgerald, and then Gary Carter, all exist as favorite backstops of mine. The omission of Mike Piazza was not an accident by the way. He is a horse of another stable; but an under-rated catcher for toughness behind the plate.
I did say before Opening Day, Josh Thole and Ruben Tejada, were at least going to be .290 hitters this season. After going 0 for 4 in his return game Friday, Josh Thole was 2 for 4 in Saturday's game, with a run scored. He is currently batting .281 this season, but of course this is only after eighty-nine at-bats this season.
So if that doesn't work for you, maybe this does. Since his first call-up in 2009, through yesterday's game, he has played in 232 games, and has amassed 684 at-bats during his brief major league career. Currently at ninety-one, he is yet to strikeout over 100 times as he approaches 700 at-bats. As a matter of fact, as a September call-up in 2009, he went 2 for 5 in his first MLB game.
I love his attitude, his exuberance, his humbleness and humility. But over all, I enjoy his self-awareness, which makes him work exceeding hard to prove he's a major league catcher. I have no doubt he understands his craft through listening to him in the post-games. The physical portion of his game is coming along more quickly now that last season. He will turn twenty-six years old in the Fall, and there's more maturity starting to shine through his smile. I think that was demonstrated through his composure during Johan's no-hitter.
With health, I AM expecting a fine summer from the Mets' receiver, and many more seasons to come. All he wants to do is improve every day and with a tremendous enthusiasm to get it done. There are no stats to qualify that.
If you really, really, need something to judge him by, I officially declare him Jersey Worthy. But then again, I thought that long ago. So just take that and run with it.
Let's Go Mets
*wiki pic
Mike.BTB
b.jpg)
NEW YORK METS: Behind Almost Every Great Pitching Performance, Lies a Good Receiver. Even Though He Still Has a Ways to Go, Never the Less, It's Time To Up The Love On Josh Thole.
Something has been lost on the two most recent pitching exploits of New York Mets hurlers. And that would be the return of Josh Thole. It's time this man started receiving a bit more love from the fans, and the Media for that matter. However, that's not to say he isn't generally liked already. But many still take a tepid attitude when assessing him as a catcher.
Am I about to divert too much credit toward Josh Thole for Johan Santana's no-hitter, or R.A. Dickey's complete game win Saturday? No. But I will say, behind every no-hitter, there is a good receiver. And what we do know about The Battery, is that the pitcher-catcher relationship is a symbiotic one.
Considering Friday's game was his first since suffering a concussion in early May, I'm thinking how difficult is it for a young catcher to go from receiving high octane, and change-ups all game on one night, from one of the titans of 21st century baseball, then go to catching butterflies the following afternoon against an uber-cerebral thirty-seven year old, alternative pitch specialist? And mind you, he caught both games flawlessly.
Since his initial call-up, I have pledged my support for Josh Thole in this blog almost religiously. So if you feel I am speaking to you through blind love, meh..., so be it. I will also admit to you then, that I am partial to catchers. Therefore, Jerry Grote, John Stearns, Todd Hundley, Mike Fitzgerald, and then Gary Carter, all exist as favorite backstops of mine. The omission of Mike Piazza was not an accident by the way. He is a horse of another stable; but an under-rated catcher for toughness behind the plate.
I did say before Opening Day, Josh Thole and Ruben Tejada, were at least going to be .290 hitters this season. After going 0 for 4 in his return game Friday, Josh Thole was 2 for 4 in Saturday's game, with a run scored. He is currently batting .281 this season, but of course this is only after eighty-nine at-bats this season.
So if that doesn't work for you, maybe this does. Since his first call-up in 2009, through yesterday's game, he has played in 232 games, and has amassed 684 at-bats during his brief major league career. Currently at ninety-one, he is yet to strikeout over 100 times as he approaches 700 at-bats. As a matter of fact, as a September call-up in 2009, he went 2 for 5 in his first MLB game.
I love his attitude, his exuberance, his humbleness and humility. But over all, I enjoy his self-awareness, which makes him work exceeding hard to prove he's a major league catcher. I have no doubt he understands his craft through listening to him in the post-games. The physical portion of his game is coming along more quickly now that last season. He will turn twenty-six years old in the Fall, and there's more maturity starting to shine through his smile. I think that was demonstrated through his composure during Johan's no-hitter.
With health, I AM expecting a fine summer from the Mets' receiver, and many more seasons to come. All he wants to do is improve every day and with a tremendous enthusiasm to get it done. There are no stats to qualify that.
If you really, really, need something to judge him by, I officially declare him Jersey Worthy. But then again, I thought that long ago. So just take that and run with it.
Let's Go Mets
*wiki pic
Mike.BTB
Sunday, May 20, 2012
N.Y. Mets ~ My Favorite 50 Mets of All-Time
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
NEW YORK METS: My All-Time FAVORITE Fifty Players in Mets' History.
Last Thursday, as part of the Mets' 50th Anniversary celebration, SNY premiered the 50 Greatest Players in Mets History. Their list is as follows:
NEW YORK METS: My All-Time FAVORITE Fifty Players in Mets' History.
Last Thursday, as part of the Mets' 50th Anniversary celebration, SNY premiered the 50 Greatest Players in Mets History. Their list is as follows:
1-Tom Seaver
2-Dwight Gooden
3-Keith Hernandez
4-Jerry Koosman
5-Darryl Strawberry
6-Mike Piazza 7-Carlos Beltran 8-David Wright 9-Jose Reyes
10-Gary Carter 11-Cleon Jones 12-Ron Darling 13-Edgardo Alfonzo
14-John Franco 15-Mookie Wilson 16-David Cone 17-Al Leiter
18-Jerry Grote 19-Howard Johnson 20-Buddy Harrelson 21-Tommy Agee
22-Rusty Staub 23-Sid Fernandez 24-Jon Matlack 25-Jesse Orosco
26-Tug McGraw 27-Lenny Dykstra 28-Johan Santana 29-John Olerud
30-Todd Hundley 31-Robin Ventura 32-Lee Mazzilli 33-Felix Millan
34-Kevin McReynolds 35-Carlos Delgado 36-Ed Kranepool 37-Bob Ojeda
38-Frank Viola 39-Dave Kingman 40-Ron Swaboda 41-John Stearns
42-Wally Backman 43-Rick Reed 44-Roger McDowell 45-Hubie Brooks
46-Ray Knight 47-Ron Hunt 48-John Milner 49-Bobby Bonilla
50-Wayne Garrett
I would omit a few names from this list and add others. I would also tinker with the order of some players too. But instead, I thought it more fun to just go with my own Favorites List. This is harder than you think, because of the level of attachment one has with favorite Mets as a child, versus the more jaded affections we might develop as fully mature adults.
The Mets became a full time part of my life by the 1974-1975 seasons. And the guys from that era will always mean a little more to me than say, other Mets of different eras. For the purposes of this list, if I didn't see them play, they are omitted. So right off the bat, exclude Donn Clendenon, Tommy Agee, Nolan Ryan, Ron Hunt, and the rest of the earlier era Mets.
MY All-Time 50 Most Favorite Mets
1-Jerry Koosman
2-Tug McGraw
3-Rusty Staub
4-Tom Seaver
5-Keith Hernandez
6-John Stearns 7-Darryl Strawberry 8-Joel Youngblood 9-Felix Millan
10-Doc Gooden 11-John Milner 12-Jose Reyes 13-Lenny Dykstra
14-Lee Mazzilli 15-Skip Lockwood 16-Gary Carter 17-Todd Hundley
18-David Wright 19-Hubie Brooks 20-Jerry Grote 21-Dave Kingman
22-Bud Harrelson 23-Carlos Delgado 24-Ron Darling 25-Mike Piazza
26-Mookie Wilson 27-Cleon Jones 28-Edgardo Alfonzo 29-Carlos Beltran
30-Sid Fernandez 31-Ed Kranepool 32-John Franco 33-Jon Matlack
34-John Olerud 35-David Cone 36-Eddie Murray 37-Neil Allen
38-Jesse Orosco 39-Lance Johnson 40-Roger McDowell 41-Bobby Ojeda
42-Cliff Floyd 43-Howard Johnson 44-Robin Ventura 45-Craig Swan
46-Wally Backman 47-Willie Montanez 48-Bobby Jones 49-Ed Lynch
50-Mike Fitzgerald
My newest favorite player = Josh Thole.
Let's Go Mets!
Mike.BTB
Sunday, January 29, 2012
N.Y. Mets ~ Johnny Franco "Did Us Proud"
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
NEW YORK METS: Neighborhood Guy Elected to Mets' Hall of Fame.
He did the neighborhood proud. It's no secret John Franco is from Brooklyn; more specifically Bensonhurst; which happens to be my neighborhood. Lee Mazzilli's too. He graduated from nearby Lafayette High School, as did the Mets' embattled owner Fred Wilpon and Dodger great Sandy Koufax - among others. This week, John Franco was the fifteenth player elected into the Mets Hall of Fame. We're always so proud when another local kid did us good.
I was fortunate to come across Johnny three times in the normal course of my life. The first time came in the Staten Island Mall while simply doing some toy shopping. Then two more times I just happened to run into him here on 86th Street in Brooklyn. That's one thing about John Franco - he always stayed home in the city and was always very cool to the public. Stories about his affability abound, whether through encounters like mine when ever he pops back into the 'hood, or catching him at a Cyclones' game, or from his fellow Staten Islanders. He always remained a NYC guy.
Is he a legit candidate for Baseball's Hall of Fame? I doubt it. Although, there are arguments to be made on his behalf. Being fourth All-Time in Saves and second All-Time when he retired should count for something I guess. He's additionally the All-Time Saves Leader for Lefties. My one knock on him would be that he doesn't have over 1,000 strikeouts (975) for over 1,200 innings pitched.
Were the Mets wrong to trade Randy Myers for John Franco? After all, Randy Myers went on to lead the League in Saves three times after the trade. In his career, John Franco led the League three times as well, but only twice for the Mets. Franco wasn't as dominant as Myers turned out to be. Then again he was never a power pitcher. He was a lot cooler though with a slick slider. Both pitchers' relative effectiveness came to an end at basically the same time; somewhere around the 1998 season or so. But were the Mets wrong in hindsight? Nah. Johnny Franco was a great Met and an equally good leader on the team. Captains have never played much of a role in Flushing. That's something I can easily do without and so I don't get caught up with it. However, that doesn't take away from the fact John Franco was a fine one none the less.
But is John Franco a New York Met Hall of Famer? Yeah! Absolutely. It was great watching him celebrate the Mets 2000 National League Championship. And back in 1990, he and Darryl Strawberry almost willed us to another division title under Buddy Harrelson. Yes, Franco is deserving. He was emblematic of a decade of Met Baseball.
NEW YORK METS: Neighborhood Guy Elected to Mets' Hall of Fame.
He did the neighborhood proud. It's no secret John Franco is from Brooklyn; more specifically Bensonhurst; which happens to be my neighborhood. Lee Mazzilli's too. He graduated from nearby Lafayette High School, as did the Mets' embattled owner Fred Wilpon and Dodger great Sandy Koufax - among others. This week, John Franco was the fifteenth player elected into the Mets Hall of Fame. We're always so proud when another local kid did us good.
I was fortunate to come across Johnny three times in the normal course of my life. The first time came in the Staten Island Mall while simply doing some toy shopping. Then two more times I just happened to run into him here on 86th Street in Brooklyn. That's one thing about John Franco - he always stayed home in the city and was always very cool to the public. Stories about his affability abound, whether through encounters like mine when ever he pops back into the 'hood, or catching him at a Cyclones' game, or from his fellow Staten Islanders. He always remained a NYC guy.
Is he a legit candidate for Baseball's Hall of Fame? I doubt it. Although, there are arguments to be made on his behalf. Being fourth All-Time in Saves and second All-Time when he retired should count for something I guess. He's additionally the All-Time Saves Leader for Lefties. My one knock on him would be that he doesn't have over 1,000 strikeouts (975) for over 1,200 innings pitched.
Were the Mets wrong to trade Randy Myers for John Franco? After all, Randy Myers went on to lead the League in Saves three times after the trade. In his career, John Franco led the League three times as well, but only twice for the Mets. Franco wasn't as dominant as Myers turned out to be. Then again he was never a power pitcher. He was a lot cooler though with a slick slider. Both pitchers' relative effectiveness came to an end at basically the same time; somewhere around the 1998 season or so. But were the Mets wrong in hindsight? Nah. Johnny Franco was a great Met and an equally good leader on the team. Captains have never played much of a role in Flushing. That's something I can easily do without and so I don't get caught up with it. However, that doesn't take away from the fact John Franco was a fine one none the less.
But is John Franco a New York Met Hall of Famer? Yeah! Absolutely. It was great watching him celebrate the Mets 2000 National League Championship. And back in 1990, he and Darryl Strawberry almost willed us to another division title under Buddy Harrelson. Yes, Franco is deserving. He was emblematic of a decade of Met Baseball.
* * * *
This always starts the "Who Belongs To Be In" debate. If John Franco is in, then shouldn't Jesse Orosco get elected as well? His work between 1983 and 1985 goes largely under spoken. What most remember is 1986 and his glove being flung up in the air in triumph. Back in 1983, he started receiving League wide recognition winning Pitcher of the Week honors as the Mets began turning things around.
Are there any more candidates for the Mets' Hall of Fame? Certainly. But no one stands out as an absolute no-doubter. There are however, very very strong arguments for several players. Ron Darling, Edgardo Alfonzo, and Lee Mazzilli, strike me as three strong candidates for future consideration.
Mike Piazza is a given and just a matter of time. His number will probably be the next to be retired by the Mets as well. But no talk of retiring numbers however should take place without mentioning Jerry Koosman. What the Mets are waiting for is beyond most fans. Retiring any player's number before retiring #36 is an insult to this Franchise's history.
In light of the sad and latest turn in Gary Carter's health, there will be growing sentiment to retire his number too. And personally, in a similar sentiment since his passing away, I'd like to see Tug McGraw's #45 retired. I know I'm on an island with that one.
* * * *
While we're at it, this is a great time for a light Honorable Mention List:
CATCHER: "The Dude" John Stearns! - Todd Hundley - I thought Mike Fitzgerald was a fine receiver.
FIRST BASE: John "The Hammer" Milner! - John Olerud - Donn Clendenon - Eddie Murray, a personal favorite player of mine - insert Dave Kingman here.
SECOND BASE: Ron Hunt, of course - Wally Backman - Felix Millan! - Gold Glover Doug Flynn - Fonzie - Do we have to put Jeff Kent on this list?
SHORTSTOP: Yes, Jose can be on the list. - Rafael Santana was slick and had 65 RBI from the 8th spot! - Frank Tavares.
THIRD BASE: Hubie Brooks! - Wayne Garrett - Lenny Randall anyone? - Hojo - Robin Ventura - Ray Knight.
LEFT FIELD: Cliff Floydd - Bernard Gilkey - Joel Youngblood, Man I liked him!
CENTER FIELD: Lance Johnson now moves ahead of Lenny Dykstra because Lenny is proving to be such a mess. Yes, Carlos Beltran makes the cut too.
RIGHT FIELD: Doesn't anyone stand out? Or is it just too early in the morning for me to think of someone. Xavier Nady; we hardly knew ya.
STARTING PITCHERS: I know there's a great divide to include Nolan Ryan into these lists. - Gary Gentry - Sid Fernandez - Craig Swan - David Cone - How can we not include Ed Lynch?
RELIEF PITCHERS: Skip Lockwood was my guy! - Niel Allen - Roger McDowell.
MANAGER: Frank Howard deserves a good mention - Bobby Valentine too - Yogi Berra.
COACHES: Rube Walker - Joe Pignatano - Bob Gibson - Frank Robinson.
COACH/EXECUTIVES WHO GOT AWAY: Jerry Hunsicker - Whitey Herzog.
OWNERS: Nelson Doubleday - Buy us back...! Please?
Let's Go Mets
Mike.BTB
Monday, November 01, 2010
NYM ~ Pondering a Manager for the Mets, Dude.
Only now that we've hired Sandy Alderson would I even consider bringing Bobby Valentine back. Without Sandy Alderson I wouldn't even have entertained the thought. It's the old "Been there; Done that" syndrome.
I have to laugh somewhat about the clamouring for Valentine's return. In 2003 Mets' fans were calling for his head on a pike. Fans were lining up their cars on Roosevelt Avenue willing to take Bobby to the airport. Mets fans (me included) complained Bobby got too....Too everything! Basically Met fans tired of his act and ego. The downward spiral we found ourselves in 2003 only threw lighter fluid on the flames.
Today we finally find ourselves on the other side of that long dark tunnel; coincidentally it's the era I've been calling Met Year 8 A.D. (After Doubleday). What started when the Mets fired Steve Phillips and Doubleday leaving ended when the Wilpons hired Alderson. Why would we want to revisit those years? Bobby hasn't changed. C'mon....He must have said or done something to tick-off the Marlins most recently. And why haven't the Brewers locked him up yet (although they seem real close, but they seem to be moving very carefully)? What makes Mets fans think this time around would be any different? It's Ponderous. Do we want our own version of "Billy" hirings minus the Angry Water?
But I will take the time out to answer that myself.
Bobby Valentine is an excellent manager and strategist. There are few better; Period. He has the perfect personality and attitude, not to mention intelligence to engage in the harangue that is the give and take with NY media. Don't you think I know all this? Of course he'd be a good manager here. Having Sandy Alderson would serve as the perfect buffer between him and the Wilpons. Wasn't that always the problem bringing him back; the Wilpons? The two parties do not like each other. We know this.
Additionally, I never thought Bobby Valentine could co-exist with Omar Minaya, John Ricco or ANYone the Mets could have brought in as General Manager. Remember among the items of contention between Valentine and Phillips was Valentine's insistence he have a say in personnel matters. Phillips denied him outright, at every request. But Phillips regardless of his libido, was a very smart cookie who was very well equipped to handle Bobby Valentine. Not Omar, or anyone the Mets could have conjured up, would have worked well here with Bobby Valentine's ego. Valentine is too smart and would have run circles around Omar, and as is Bobby's way, Omar would have grown to feel uncomfortably dominated by Jeff on one side and Bobby on the other. Valentine would have chewed-up and spit-out John Ricco. Bobby Valentine would have been hired only to get fired for many reasons three short years later. Think to yourselves fellow Met fans. You know this to be true...Under the old system that is.
Alderson changes all that now. Alderson is/was the only man available today who has the intellect, mental strength and fortitude of character to contend with Bobby Valentine. Alderson is an excellent check to Valentine's strong will. And now I would gladly welcome back Bobby Valentine into the conversation. However, I am still not inclined to lean his way. And it doesn't look like the money is a match either.
Ken Oberkfell and Bob Melvin are complete yawners. Of the two, I'd eliminate Melvin from the list altogether. He's tainted with old regime 'cooties'. He loomed over Jerry Manuel's head like a dark cloud. That's bad karma; don't need it. Kenny Oberfell would be the next to go. Met fans, I ask you sincerely, do you really envision Oberkfell as the new manager? I didn't think so.
Why Lee Mazzilli doesn't intrigue me more, I can't answer. He was THE METS once upon a time. Man! I thought he was going to play with Seaver, Koos, Millan, Milner and...(why do I do that to myself). He has coaching experience and many years sitting next to Joe Torre. He did a remarkable job under horrific circumstances in Baltimore. However I may feel about Lee Mazzilli, who comes my neighborhood, I think there are better candidates available. I don't think Mazzilli's resume fits in with what we need right now.
Clint Hurdle and Terry Collins are very average, un-impactful candidates. There's too much at stake here to hand the controls over to the milkman. The Angels' players darted Terry Collins with a vote of no confidence when he managed there. We don't need to touch that. Clint Hurdle ~ Remember how the Rockies won 1150 games out of their last 25 +/- games of the season to make the 2007 playoffs? After you remember that, forget Clint Hurdle.
Chip Hale has my attention because the players seem real responsive to him. When people have that nature and way about them; a personality that attracts, people usually listen attentively to them. I'd give him an interview.
I'm not saying this is my choice but Tim Teufel would be a logical choice. Teufel had a lot of our new young players in Brooklyn and Binghampton. No one knows these players better than he does, in much the same way Davey Johnson managed many of the prospects of the early 80's and was promoted by Frank Cashen to manage them on the Major League level. Tim Teufel is a logical choice, and you can't disregard what I just said. He's been putting in his dues with this organization for several years now. Like I said though, he's not necessarily my choice. I'd be agreeable to him though.
I'm open to Wally Backman. I like him for all the reasons you do. I wouldn't mind seeing him get the job at all. He'd be a tremendous hit! He'd get a standing ovation on Opening Day; without a doubt! The Wilpons like him and the fans like him. The question is does Sandy Alderson like him? He might.
Backman recently took the Brooklyn Cyclones to the NYPL Championship Round. That, and his experience with the Peanuts is all there is though. Is that enough? I think there's a (again...) Billy Martin motif about him; maybe even John McGraw'ish attribute Met fans are dying to identify with and apply to Wally Backman. I do think he has great instinctual baseball intellect. He knows the game. He knows what works. Little stout guys always make great managers!
And now try this name out and see how it sits with you; John Stearns ~ The Dude! - Yes! - The former fiery Met player, catcher, all*star, former Met coach? He managed last at Harrisburg in the National's system 2 years ago and I think he's currently employed as a scout for the Mariners. John Stearns...Anyone feeling The Dude? He's tough minded and he has that 'catcher gene' going for him. I know John Stearns isn't even on any-body's radar much less Sandy Alderson's. I'm on an island of one with this pick. I get that. But if you're thinking about hiring Lee Mazzilli, John Stearns should be considered also. I'd hire him ahead of many other names.
Joey Cora? Forget Milwaukee. Picture it Met Fans ~ The Little Yankee Killer (think '95); Flushing's Little General leading his troops? Think of the possibilities ~ Close your eyes and imagine it for a moment. I guarantee you he's feisty and has a tremendous Baseball acumen. In the earliest days of his coaching career, Ozzie Guillen, who is a very close friend of his, got his hands on him and made him go to Venezuela to start managing there. He came back with some experience and managed the Mets' Kingsport Team. Joey has been with Ozzie Guillen ever since serving first as his third base coach and currently as his bench coach. As a player he was an all*star selection and has playoff experience with the Chicago White Sox and the Seattle Mariners. As a coach he earned a World Series ring with the ChiSox in 2005. If you're looking for the "Little Guy with a Big Bite" angle, this is your guy. He is smaller than Wally Backman but not as stout. They are both feisty.
My two honorable mentions are Larry Bowa and Tony Pena. Simply, I think they are two good, Baseball lifers. There's something to be said for those kinda guys. Heck, Jack McKeon won a championship didn't he?
Who knows what's going on with Lou Piniella and Joe Torre said he's out of the picture (don't believe it). But I don't want them either.
Don Wakamatsu? I'm lukewarm at best.
Does anyone think Dave Righetti is ready to take a manager's job? ~ Roger Craig anyone?
The fact that John Gibbons acted preemptively with regards to the Mets' available managerial position speaks loud and clear to me. He told us to beat it....And now I want him more. He's such a bitch!
You'd have to examine all the third base coaches and bench coaches around MLB to keep yourself from dealing in retreads. None need apply. The Mets have embarked on a whole new dynamic in their history. Let's continue forward. The old thinking is done.
Right?
Mike.BTB
I have to laugh somewhat about the clamouring for Valentine's return. In 2003 Mets' fans were calling for his head on a pike. Fans were lining up their cars on Roosevelt Avenue willing to take Bobby to the airport. Mets fans (me included) complained Bobby got too....Too everything! Basically Met fans tired of his act and ego. The downward spiral we found ourselves in 2003 only threw lighter fluid on the flames.
Today we finally find ourselves on the other side of that long dark tunnel; coincidentally it's the era I've been calling Met Year 8 A.D. (After Doubleday). What started when the Mets fired Steve Phillips and Doubleday leaving ended when the Wilpons hired Alderson. Why would we want to revisit those years? Bobby hasn't changed. C'mon....He must have said or done something to tick-off the Marlins most recently. And why haven't the Brewers locked him up yet (although they seem real close, but they seem to be moving very carefully)? What makes Mets fans think this time around would be any different? It's Ponderous. Do we want our own version of "Billy" hirings minus the Angry Water?
But I will take the time out to answer that myself.
Bobby Valentine is an excellent manager and strategist. There are few better; Period. He has the perfect personality and attitude, not to mention intelligence to engage in the harangue that is the give and take with NY media. Don't you think I know all this? Of course he'd be a good manager here. Having Sandy Alderson would serve as the perfect buffer between him and the Wilpons. Wasn't that always the problem bringing him back; the Wilpons? The two parties do not like each other. We know this.
Additionally, I never thought Bobby Valentine could co-exist with Omar Minaya, John Ricco or ANYone the Mets could have brought in as General Manager. Remember among the items of contention between Valentine and Phillips was Valentine's insistence he have a say in personnel matters. Phillips denied him outright, at every request. But Phillips regardless of his libido, was a very smart cookie who was very well equipped to handle Bobby Valentine. Not Omar, or anyone the Mets could have conjured up, would have worked well here with Bobby Valentine's ego. Valentine is too smart and would have run circles around Omar, and as is Bobby's way, Omar would have grown to feel uncomfortably dominated by Jeff on one side and Bobby on the other. Valentine would have chewed-up and spit-out John Ricco. Bobby Valentine would have been hired only to get fired for many reasons three short years later. Think to yourselves fellow Met fans. You know this to be true...Under the old system that is.
Alderson changes all that now. Alderson is/was the only man available today who has the intellect, mental strength and fortitude of character to contend with Bobby Valentine. Alderson is an excellent check to Valentine's strong will. And now I would gladly welcome back Bobby Valentine into the conversation. However, I am still not inclined to lean his way. And it doesn't look like the money is a match either.
Ken Oberkfell and Bob Melvin are complete yawners. Of the two, I'd eliminate Melvin from the list altogether. He's tainted with old regime 'cooties'. He loomed over Jerry Manuel's head like a dark cloud. That's bad karma; don't need it. Kenny Oberfell would be the next to go. Met fans, I ask you sincerely, do you really envision Oberkfell as the new manager? I didn't think so.
Why Lee Mazzilli doesn't intrigue me more, I can't answer. He was THE METS once upon a time. Man! I thought he was going to play with Seaver, Koos, Millan, Milner and...(why do I do that to myself). He has coaching experience and many years sitting next to Joe Torre. He did a remarkable job under horrific circumstances in Baltimore. However I may feel about Lee Mazzilli, who comes my neighborhood, I think there are better candidates available. I don't think Mazzilli's resume fits in with what we need right now.
Clint Hurdle and Terry Collins are very average, un-impactful candidates. There's too much at stake here to hand the controls over to the milkman. The Angels' players darted Terry Collins with a vote of no confidence when he managed there. We don't need to touch that. Clint Hurdle ~ Remember how the Rockies won 1150 games out of their last 25 +/- games of the season to make the 2007 playoffs? After you remember that, forget Clint Hurdle.
Chip Hale has my attention because the players seem real responsive to him. When people have that nature and way about them; a personality that attracts, people usually listen attentively to them. I'd give him an interview.
I'm not saying this is my choice but Tim Teufel would be a logical choice. Teufel had a lot of our new young players in Brooklyn and Binghampton. No one knows these players better than he does, in much the same way Davey Johnson managed many of the prospects of the early 80's and was promoted by Frank Cashen to manage them on the Major League level. Tim Teufel is a logical choice, and you can't disregard what I just said. He's been putting in his dues with this organization for several years now. Like I said though, he's not necessarily my choice. I'd be agreeable to him though.
I'm open to Wally Backman. I like him for all the reasons you do. I wouldn't mind seeing him get the job at all. He'd be a tremendous hit! He'd get a standing ovation on Opening Day; without a doubt! The Wilpons like him and the fans like him. The question is does Sandy Alderson like him? He might.
Backman recently took the Brooklyn Cyclones to the NYPL Championship Round. That, and his experience with the Peanuts is all there is though. Is that enough? I think there's a (again...) Billy Martin motif about him; maybe even John McGraw'ish attribute Met fans are dying to identify with and apply to Wally Backman. I do think he has great instinctual baseball intellect. He knows the game. He knows what works. Little stout guys always make great managers!
And now try this name out and see how it sits with you; John Stearns ~ The Dude! - Yes! - The former fiery Met player, catcher, all*star, former Met coach? He managed last at Harrisburg in the National's system 2 years ago and I think he's currently employed as a scout for the Mariners. John Stearns...Anyone feeling The Dude? He's tough minded and he has that 'catcher gene' going for him. I know John Stearns isn't even on any-body's radar much less Sandy Alderson's. I'm on an island of one with this pick. I get that. But if you're thinking about hiring Lee Mazzilli, John Stearns should be considered also. I'd hire him ahead of many other names.
Joey Cora? Forget Milwaukee. Picture it Met Fans ~ The Little Yankee Killer (think '95); Flushing's Little General leading his troops? Think of the possibilities ~ Close your eyes and imagine it for a moment. I guarantee you he's feisty and has a tremendous Baseball acumen. In the earliest days of his coaching career, Ozzie Guillen, who is a very close friend of his, got his hands on him and made him go to Venezuela to start managing there. He came back with some experience and managed the Mets' Kingsport Team. Joey has been with Ozzie Guillen ever since serving first as his third base coach and currently as his bench coach. As a player he was an all*star selection and has playoff experience with the Chicago White Sox and the Seattle Mariners. As a coach he earned a World Series ring with the ChiSox in 2005. If you're looking for the "Little Guy with a Big Bite" angle, this is your guy. He is smaller than Wally Backman but not as stout. They are both feisty.
My two honorable mentions are Larry Bowa and Tony Pena. Simply, I think they are two good, Baseball lifers. There's something to be said for those kinda guys. Heck, Jack McKeon won a championship didn't he?
Who knows what's going on with Lou Piniella and Joe Torre said he's out of the picture (don't believe it). But I don't want them either.
Don Wakamatsu? I'm lukewarm at best.
Does anyone think Dave Righetti is ready to take a manager's job? ~ Roger Craig anyone?
The fact that John Gibbons acted preemptively with regards to the Mets' available managerial position speaks loud and clear to me. He told us to beat it....And now I want him more. He's such a bitch!
You'd have to examine all the third base coaches and bench coaches around MLB to keep yourself from dealing in retreads. None need apply. The Mets have embarked on a whole new dynamic in their history. Let's continue forward. The old thinking is done.
Right?
Mike.BTB
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