Die Hard Sports Fan

Bart Hubbuch of the New York Post reported that the Mets made a bunch of roster moves today in their Mets Blog.  The Mets activated Matt Wise, and they purchased the contracts of Claudio Vargas and Fernando Tatis from Triple-A New Orleans.  To make room on the roster, the Mets designated Jorge Sosa and Nelson Figueroa Jr. for assignment and put Angel Pagan on the DL.

Mets.com:

Highlights aplenty, but no win in end - Marty Noble summarized last night’s game between the Nationals and the Mets.

Mets play on until Pedro’s return - Marty Noble put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Nationals and the Mets.

Alou psyched about Cathedral trip - Marty Noble found out that Moises Alou is pumped up about playing at Yankee Stadium this weekend because he never played there before.

Castillo sits with quadriceps injury - Marty Noble reported that a strained left quadricep muscle kept Luis Castillo out of the lineup last night against the Nationals.

Mailbag: How are Mets doing so far? - Marty Noble answers questions posed by Mets fans’.

Education is power - Howard Kussoy pointed out that some Mets players are taking part in a program called ‘School is Amazing’ around the city.

Newsday:

Nationals get under Figueroa’s skin in Mets loss - Anthony Rieber also summarized last night’s Nationals-Mets game.

Ex-Met Milledge always at center of controversy - Lastings Milledge had a pretty good game last night, and Erik Boland tells us all about it.

Looks like Mets’ Santana will start Subway Series

THIS DAY AT THE OLD BALLPARK - Newsday lets us know what happened at Shea Stadium and Yankee Stadium on May 13th of another year.

New York Daily News:

Photos: Surfing the Mets tours Citi Field

After Mets’ loss, Nelson Figueroa calls Nationals ‘bunch of softball girls’ - Adam Rubin summarized last night’s game between the Nationals and the Mets.

Sideshow takes over in latest act of Shea circus - Filip Bondy described the situation where the Nationals were singing in the dugout last night.  It really upset Figgy.

Say it ain’t so on Joe Smith - Sean Brennan offers a few suggestions for the Mets to make regarding their pitching dilemma.

Pedro Martinez is starting to show progress - Adam Rubin tells us what the Mets have Pedro Martinez doing down in Port St. Lucie.

New York Post:

‘FIGUER’ HATER - Mike Puma revealed what Nelson Figueroa Jr. had to say about the Nationals after last night’s game.

INJURED DUQUE MAKING PROGRESS

PITCH & MOAN - Mark Hale found out that Pedro is frustrated about having to rehab and not being on the team.

PEDRO PREPARED FOR SIMULATED GAME

New York Times:

Only Applause for Mets Comes From Nationals

Santana Receives an Extra Day of Rest and a Date With the Yankees

The Star-Ledger:

Progress at Citifield

Mets drop Figueroa, Sosa in flurry of moves

Will they clap for John Maine?

Nats frustrate Figueroa, Mets

Pitcher chides cheers - Colin Stephenson also examined the Mets pitching options.

Valentine’s success well-documented - Lisa Kennelly also wrote an aritcle about the three NYU students that made a documentary about Bobby Valentine titled, “The Zen of Bobby V”.

Mets bow to Nationals, 10-4

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For one day, the Metropolitans were able to put it all together.  They came home from their west coast trip with a 3-3 record.   The Mets are sporting a 17-15 record now.  Kinda boring, huh?  It seems like they are always around .500.  My expectations of the ‘08 season are dwindling because they aren’t showing me anything special.  Something isn’t right with the team, and it doesn’t make sense because I thought they had a shot at winning the World Series a month ago.

When I just watched the Giants win the Super Bowl, they did it by having a chip on their shoulder.  They got into that ‘us against the world’ mindset in Week 3 in Washington when they had the goalline stand, and they carried it through the Playoffs.

The Mets don’t have that chip on their shoulder, and they should because they never won anything yet.  Except their division in 2006.  When Beltran stared at strike three in game 7 of the NLCS, the team should’ve had a chip on their shoulder to do it again in 2007 and gone even further.  That didn’t happen because of the collapse.  By now, they should have a chip on their shoulder for ‘06 and ‘07, but they appear content playing .500 ball.  These are the four players that have been in the lineup since 2006: Beltran, Delgado, Reyes, and Wright.  These are the players that should have the most to prove now.  Beltran declared that the Mets are the team to beat, but hasn’t backed it up on the field.  Delgado appears to be in the twilight of his career.  He was bored in ‘07 with a .259 average, and it’s even worse now.  Reyes has all of the skills in the world, but he appears to be too soft mentally to play the game.  Wright has been the only one of these four to play at a high level consistentely since ‘06.  On the mound, the Mets mostly have the same rotation: Martinez, Hernandez, Perez, and Maine.  Pedro and El Duque have barely pitched since going on the DL a few days prior to the Playoffs in 2006.  Perez has remained inconsistent since then, and Maine has improved a great deal since then.  These players need to communicate how pissed off they are for not winning the World Series in ‘06 and/or ‘07 in order to motivate them to play at the highest level each and every game.  Nothing less than the best should be tolerated.

Mets.com:

Beltran waiting for something to click

Mets run on all cylinders in LA blowout - Anthony DiComo summarized today’s game between the Mets and the Dodgers.

Mets return home, aim to impress fans - Anthony DiComo put together a pregame analysis for Friday’s game between the Reds and the Mets.

Mets cautious with Pagan after catch - Anthony DiComo reported that Angel Pagan will have an MRI on Thursday to determine the severity of the injury.

El Duque cleared for next step - Anthony DiComo informed us that Orlando Hernandez had the protective boot removed.  He will begin a rehab program soon.

Beltran fights flu, returns to Mets’ lineup

Mets falter against Dodgers - Anthony DiComo summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Dodgers.

Mets anticipating Castillo surge - Anthony DiComo wrote up a pregame analysis for today’s game between the Mets and the Dodgers.

Boras: Perez, Mets on good terms

Newsday:

Mets’ bats wake up, back Maine in rout of Dodgers - David Lennon also summarized today’s Mets-Dodgers game.

Maine goes into 9th on eve of 27th birthday

Mets’ Pagan may have to pay for hard-nosed play

Mets fall to Dodgers, 5-4 - David Lennon also summarized last night’s Mets-Dodgers game.

Mets’ Martinez shows some progress

Agent Boras shows up to support Mets’ Perez

New York Daily News:

John Maine dominant as Mets deck Dodgers in Los Angeles

Angel Pagan hits seats and maybe DL

Ryan Church brushes off Brad Penny’s brushback

Inside-the-park homer, strikeouts doom Mets in loss to Dodgers

Omar Minaya sees Pedro’s progress

New York Post:

AMAZIN’S AWAKE FROM LUMBER SLUMBER

PAGAN HURTS SHOULDER AFTER GREAT CATCH

METS, MAINE MAUL DODGERS - Bart Hubbuch summarized yesterday’s Mets-Dodgers game.

IT’S AN INSIDE JOB - Bart Hubbuch describes the inside the park home run that Blake DeWitt hit on Wednesday night.

WISE WILL SHAKE UP WILLIE’S PEN

New York Times:

Hitting the Wall and the Ball, the Mets Lack for Nothing

Randolph Preaches Patience While Rotation Tests His

The Star-Ledger:

Mets put it all together

acrobatic catch bangs up Pagan

Final: Mets 12, Dodgers 1

Church can’t corral ball as Mets drop another

Dodgers catch Mets napping

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With Pedro on the DL and with El Duque out indefinitely, Omar Minaya felt like he had to bring in a starter ASAP.  Minaya signed RHP Claudio Vargas to a minor-league contract today.  Vargas, 29, was released by the Brewers on March 25 earlier this spring which means that he was available.  In his career, Claudio is 43-38 with a 4.95 ERA in 153 games.  This isn’t a spectacular signing, but it is a body…And bodies are what the Mets need right now.

Mets.com:

Robinson’s legacy a major part of Citi - Anthony DiComo noted that Major League Baseball has chosen to anchor its Jackie Robinson Day festivities at Shea Stadium this year.  Am I the only person that doesn’t understand why the Dodgers doesn’t handle all of Jackie Robinson’s festivities?  Am I the only person that doesn’t understand how it defaulted to the Mets?  From the retired number to the 50th Anniversary to the festivities, I don’t understand it at all.  I know Robinson played for the Dodgers in NY fifty years ago.  Is there any other player in the majors that has another organization celebrate his achievements?  Please let me know if you know the answer.

Patient Mets end Phillies’ hex at Shea - Anthony DiComo summarized last night’s game between the Phillies and the Mets.

Mets take aim at series win over Phils - Anthony DiComo put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Phillies and the Mets.

El Duque suffers setback with hurt foot - Anthony DiComo reported that Orlando Hernandez suffered a tendon strain in his right foot, and he has to wear a protective boot for about two weeks.  DiComo believes that El Duque may still be months away.

Randolph hopes to share No. 42 tribute - Anthony DiComo pointed out that Willie Randolph wore No. 42 during last month’s annual Jackie Robinson Day, but Willie would rather a player on his team wears it during next week’s Jackie Robinson Day festivities.

Mets play it safe with Castillo - Anthony DiComo reported that Luis Castillo will most likely not play tonight against the Phillies.  Castillo is still listed as day-to-day.

Newsday:

Mets’ Castillo to miss a “couple” more days

Duque out; Vargas on way in? - David Lennon reported that the Mets may sign Claudio Vargas to a minor-league contract due to the status of El Duque.  Last night, SNY stated that the Mets may sign Vargas as soon as today.

Give Phillies most of the credit for Mets’ win

Pelfrey gets win; Mets helped by sloppy Phils

New York Daily News:

Bumbling Phils make it easy for Mets

Bruntlett comes up short for Phillies

Knee has Luis Castillo in tight spot

Mets snap Phillies’ dominant streak

New York Post:

NOW THAT’S MORE LIKE IT

THIS WIN WAS JIMMY-RIGGED

VARGAS MAY NOT BE FAR OFF

TIME OFF IS WHAT CASTILLO NEEDS

SLOPPY PHILS HELP SNAP AMAZIN’ SKID

New York Times:

For One Night at Least, Mets and Phillies Trade Places

The Star-Ledger:

Mets sign RHP Claudio Vargas - Joel Magaraci reported that the Mets signed Claudio Vargas to a minor-league contract.  Vargas will report to extended spring training in Port St. Lucie, Fla., before joining Triple-A New Orleans of the Pacific Coast League.  Vargas hopefully will eat some innings due to the loses of Pedro and El Duque.

It’s ugly, but Mets take it

El Duque shut down; Vargas deal close

Mets Win.

What’s that smell? - Dan Graziano explains how poorly both teams played last night.

Mets close to signing Claudio Vargas

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Tonight’s game might not take place due to tornado warnings in and around Atlanta.  They mentioned that the start will most likely be delayed, but they will try to squeeze it in between storms.  This means they may not get enough innings in to make it a game.  I hope they play because I’m looking forward to the pitching dual between John Maine and Tim Hudson.  I’m really excited about these two three-game sets between the NL East rivals that are supposed to be Playoff contenders.  Play ball!

Mets.com:

Mets-Braves series to set tone in East

Shea family to be honored at home - Anthony DiComo noted that, “The Mets will honor the legacy of William A. Shea in a ceremony before their final home opener at Shea Stadium on Tuesday. Thirty members of the Shea family will be on hand to help unveil a new Shea logo, which will hang alongside the team’s three retired numbers, and travel with the Mets to Citi Field next season.”

Glavine to face former mates on FOX - Mark Bowman pointed out that Tom Glavine will pitch against the Mets on Saturday, and Bowman captured Glavine’s thoughts about facing his former team.  I only remember Tommy beating the Braves once as a Met so it’s a good thing he’s not pitching for us this weekend.

El Duque makes Minors rehab start - Marty Noble explains how Orlando Hernandez pitched last night in a Minor League start.

Newsday:

Minaya in no hurry to go outside for rotation help

After great spring, Mets’ Maine starts tonight - David Lennon points out that John Maine is making his 2008 debut tonight against the Braves.

New York Daily News:

Under any name, it’ll still be Shea

Mets, Yanks obsessed with farewells

Brave new world for Glavine, Gotay

El Duque may fill in for Pedro

New York Post:

HERE COMES THE REAL SEASON - Bart Hubbuch is looking forward to the Mets-Braves series this weekend.

WAIVING HAS GOTAY STEAMING - If I was a Met, and they traded me to the Braves I’d be pretty pissed too.  Who would ever want to listen to that tomahawk chop crap?

NEXT WEEK BRINGS AMAZIN’ TEST - Mike Vaccaro wants to know where the Mets will be after playing the Braves and the Phillies.

FIGUEROA CAPS HAPPY JOURNEY BACK TO BIGS

New York Times:

As Goes Maine, So Mets Could Go This Season

The Star-Ledger:

Bunkered down at Turner Field - Jeremy Cothran tells us about the tornado warnings expected tonight in Atlanta.

Mets’ John Maine striving to join baseball’s elite

El Duque solid in rehab stint

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The Mets announced the Pedro is on the DL and is expected to miss 4-6 weeks.  Due to this, the Mets activated Nelson Figueroa Jr. to fill in for Pedro.  The Marlins are hosting the Mets in the rubber game of the opening series of 2008.

Mets Lineup: Perez, Castillo, Wright, Beltran, Delgado, Pagan, Church, Schneider, Perez.

Marlins Lineup: Ramirez, Uggla, Jacobs, Willingham, Cantu, Ross, Carroll, Hoover, Miller.

At the Plate

Andrew Miller was the starting pitcher for the Marlins.  Miller gave up 1 Hit and 0 Runs in the Top of the 1st.  In the Top of the 2nd, Beltran hit a leadoff double to the gap in left center.  Delgado followed by hitting an opposite field RBI single to bring Beltran home.  With one out, Church pulled a 2-run homer to the right field corner which scored Delgado and himself.  Miller was able to get out of the 2nd Inning leaving two Mets stranded.  Miller gave up 3 Hits and 3 Runs in the 2nd Inning.  In the Top of the 3rd, Wright hit a leadoff opposite field single into right field.  Beltran rocketed a double off the wall in left field, but the Marlins threw Wright out at home plate while Beltran advanced to third.  With two outs, Pagan lined an RBI double into the left field corner scoring Beltran.  Miller gave up 3 Hits and 1 Run in the 3rd Inning.  Miller retired the side in order in the Bottom of the 4th.  In the Top of the 5th, Wright crushed a 1-out double off the wall in left center.

Gonzalez made a pitching change during the Top of the 5th by replacing Miller with Matt Lindstrom.  With Beltran in the batters box, Lindstrom threw a wild pitch and Wright advanced to third.  Beltran hit an RBI Ground Rule Double to right field which scored Wright.  (The Umpires cannot call the plays accurately because that’s the third time the Mets hit the top of the wall).  Lindstrom gave up 1 Hit and 1 Run (But the 1 Run is charged to Miller) in the 5th.

Gonzalez replaced Lindstrom with Lee Gardner to begin the Top of the 6th.  Church blooped a leadoff single into shallow left.  Gardner walked Schneider.  Perez dropped down a sacrifice bunt to advance both runners.  Reyes lined an RBI double into the right field corner scoring Church and Schneider.  Castillo lined a single up the middle to advance Reyes to third.  Wright belted a 3-Run shot to left field scoring Reyes, Castillo, and himself.  Gardner was able to get out of the 6th Inning after giving up 4 Hits and 5 Runs.

Gonzalez replaced Gardner with Taylor Tankersly to begin the Top of the 7th.  Pagan popped up along the right field line, but Carroll dropped the ball so Pagan had a leadoff single.  Church grounded the ball to the pitcher, and Tankersly made the out at first as Pagan advanced to second.  Schneider lined an RBI single into right field to score Pagan.  Clark is pinch hitting for Perez, and Clark grounded into a double play.  Tankersly gave up 2 Hits and 1 Run in the Top of the 7th. 

Gonzalez replaced Tankersly with Justin Miller in the Top of the 8th.  Miller sent the Mets down in order.

Gonzalez replaced Miller with Kevin Gregg in the Top of the 9th.  Delgado lined a 1-out hit to right field.  Gregg walked Pagan.  With Church in the batters box, Gregg threw a wild pitch and both runners advanced.  Church grounded to second, and Uggla couldn’t make the play so Church arrived safely at first while Delgado scored and Pagan advanced to third.  Scheider line a sacrifice fly to left field which scored Pagan.  Anderson is pinch hitting for Feliciano, and Anderson flied out to left to end the inning.  Gregg gave up 2 Hits and 2 Runs in the inning.

On the Mound

Oliver Perez was the starting pitcher for the Mets.  Perez gave up 2 Hits and 0 Runs in the Bottom of the 1st.  Perez retired the side in order in the Bottom of the 2nd.  Perez gave up 1 Hit and 0 Runs in the Bottom of the 3rd, and he racked up 5 K’s so far.  Perez gave up 1 Hit and 0 Runs in the Bottom of the 4th, and he got 1 more K to put him at 6.  In the Bottom of the 5th, Ross hit a leadoff single through the hole on the left side.  Carroll lined out to Castillo, and the hitter was out, but the ball came out of Castillo’s glove so Castillo thought it wasn’t a catch and flipped it to second, but it went over Reyes’ head, and Ross advanced to second.  The Error was charged to Castillo.  Hoover grounded out to short, and Reyes made the out at first while Ross advanced to third.  Wood is pinch hitting for Lindstrom, and Perez walked Wood to put runners at the corners.  Perez gave up 1 Hit and got out of the inning without any damage by Striking Out Ramirez for his 7th K.  In the Bottom of the 6th, Perez gave up 0 Hit and 0 Runs and Struck Out 1 to get his total up to 8.

Randolph replaced Perez with Nelson Figueroa Jr. to begin the Bottom of the 7th.  Figueroa retired the side in order.

Randolph replaced Figueroa with Pedro Feliciano to begin the Bottom of the 8th.  Feliciano gave up 1 Hit and 0 Runs in the inning.

Randolph replaced Feliciano with Billy Wagner to begin the Bottom of the 9th.  Wagner sent down the Marlins in order.

Final Score: New York Mets 13 - Florida Marlins 0.  The MLB.com Box Score is attached.

Mets.com:

Mets awaiting word on Pedro’s status - Marty Noble figures the Mets are looking into alternative options to fill the void in the rotation.

Pedro on teammates’ minds after game - Charlie Nobles captured the thoughts of Pedro Martinez’s teammates after Pedro had to leave the game due to a hamstring injury.

Mets hope Church has solved lefties - Marty Noble explains how the Mets will monitor Ryan Church’s at-bats against lefties.

Injury KOs Pedro in first Mets start - Marty Noble says that Martinez went to New York to get an MRI to determine the extent of the left hamstring strain.

Newsday:

Pedro hurts hamstring as Mets lose to Marlins

Pedro hurt immediately, and who’s surprised?

Even if Pedro is out indefinitely, Mets can cope - Wallace Matthews reminds us what the Mets have done without Pedro the past few seasons to help us understand that it isn’t as big of a deal as it seems.  Matthews is correct because Pedro is well past his prime, and I thought he should be the 4th starter anyway because he’s old and injury prone.  Since Martinez hasn’t pitched in so long, I had no expectations.  Pedro said how healthy he felt, but like I said, “Will he walk the talk?”.  I said the same thing about El Duque who is on the DL.  I’m more upset that the Mets bought into what Pedro told them and didn’t bring in more inning eaters.

Mets’ El Duque feeling good, but not ready to return

New York Daily News:

Pedro Martinez’s status in doubt after hamstring injury, Mets fall in extras

Pedro Martinez’s injured leg puts season on shaky ground

El Duque to start for St. Lucie

New York Post:

‘DRO, NO!

OLLIE KEYING ON SEASON, NOT PAYDAY - Bart Hubbuch pointed out that Oliver Perez may be pitching in his first game in his final season as a Met tonight.

GOOD FEELINGS GO POP! - Mike Vaccaro takes us through Martinez’s injury.

New York Times:

Martínez and the Mets Are Left Limping in Miami

Martínez Makes Early Exit on an Injured Leg

The Star-Ledger:

When words lose their meaning…

Breaking (if not surprising) news: Pedro to DL

Update, Big Willie Style

Look, Watson — a clue! - Dan Graziana tells us why Nelson Figueroa could be a good replacement for Martinez.

Last day at The Beach - Dan Graziano expresses his thoughts about Pedro from South Beach.

Fly, fly away - Dan Graziano also has suggestions for the Mets to get by without Martinez.

A new day, hopefully, for the Mets - This morning, Jeremy Cothran jotted down some suggestions for the Mets to get by until Pedro returns.

Pedro Martinez injured in Mets loss

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Today is Opening Day for the New York Mets.  The Florida Marlins are hosting the Mets at Dolphin Stadium.  When I was walking my dog, I walked onto the overcross to see Shea Stadium on Opening Day even though the Mets are out of town.  It is the final year at Shea which is somewhat upsetting so I went to catch a glimpse of it.

Mets lineup: Reyes, Castillo, Wright, Beltran, Delgado, Pagan, Church, Schnieder, and Santana.

At the Plate 

Meanwhile, the Mets didn’t do much with the bat early on.  Hendrickson was the starting pitcher for the Marlins.  2 Hits and 0 Runs through the first 3 Innings.  In the 4th, Beltran lined a double to the corner in left to lead off the inning.  Hendrickson walked Delgado to put runners on first and second.  Pagan pulled an RBI double over third base to drive in Beltran and Delgado advanced to third.  Church pulled an RBI single through the hole on the right side to drive in Delgado and Pagan advanced to third.  Schneider lined out to first, and Church ran around Jacobs to get back to the bag safely for the first out.  Hendrickson fanned Santana for the second out.  Reyes lined an RBI single to left to score Pagan and advanced Church to second.  Hendrickson walked Castillo to load the bases.  Wright lined a base clearing double into the gap in left to score Church, Reyes, and Castillo.  Beltran lined out to center field to end the inning.  The Mets scored 4 runs on 5 hits in the 4th inning.

In the 6th inning, Nolasco came in in relief.  With 2 outs, Reyes hit a single through the hole on the right side.  With Castillo in the batters box, Reyes got caught stealing second to end the inning.  With one out in the 7th, Wright hit a double to the gap in right center.  With Beltran in the batters box, Wright was thrown out trying to steal third.  Nolasco struggled a little bit in the 8th, but got through it without giving up any runs.

In the 9th inning, Lindstrom came in for the Marlins.  Anderson, pinch hit for Sosa, had a leadoff flair to center over the second baseman’s head.  Reyes dropped a sacrifice bunt to move Anderson to second while the Marlins through out Reyes at first.  Lindstrom threw a wild pitch which allowed Anderson to steal third, and a bad throw to third allowed Anderson to score.  Castillo grounded out.  Lindstrom walked Wright.  Beltran grounded out to second to end the inning.

On the Mound

Johan Santana was on the mound, and he retired 9 straight before walking Ramirez in the 4th inning.  Willingham hit a 2-run shot to score Ramirez and Willingham.  The Marlins put up 2 Runs on 1 Hit in the 4th inning.  After giving up the homer, Santana stuggled a little bit in the 5th but didn’t give up any runs.  Johan went through the 6th in order.  Santana gave up 1 Hits and 0 Runs in the 7th.  Johan pitched 7 Innings giving up 2 Runs, 3 Hits, and 2 Walks while Striking Out 8 in his Mets debut.

In the 8th inning, Wise came in in relief.  Wise struggled in the 8th so Randolph brought Schoeneweis in with runners on first and second.  Schoeneweis gave up a ground ball where the Mets got the out at first, but the runners advanced to second and third.  Willie replaced Schoeneweis with Sosa.  Sosa fanned Willingham to end the 8th without giving up any runs.

In the bottom of the 9th, Randolph put Heilman in.  Heilman struck out the first two batters.  Gonzalez grounded to Heilman, and Heilman made the throw to first for the final out.

Final Score: New York beat Florida 7-2.  The MLB.com Box Score is attached.

Mets.com:

Facts and figures: Mets Opening Day

Mets ready to put ‘07 in the past 

Newsday:

Mets are anxious to bury memories of fall - David Lennon believes that the Mets are anxious to put 2007 behind them.

Johan Santana’s a Met for one thing: Ring!

Duque on DL; Pelfrey gets spot

New York Daily New:

Johan Santana starts new era for Mets

Remember to forget 2007 collapse

New York Post:

LET’S ROCK ‘N’ ROLL - Bart Hubbuch points out that Johan Santana is the starting pitcher on Opening Day.

PELFREY GRABS DUQUE’S SPOT

‘TIS THE SEASON TO FORGET 2007

New York Times:

From Views to Fastballs, Wagner Won’t Hold Back - Ben Shpigel chats with Billy Wagner about the ‘08 season.

Pelfrey, With 8.14 E.R.A., Gets the Nod for the Mets

The Star-Ledger:

Manatees

That’s right

Shea Stadium South…Part II

Santana!

Moments away…

Game 1: Mets at Marlins - Jeremy Cothran provided the Opening Day lineup between the Mets and the Marlins.

Shea Stadium South - Jeremy Cothran discovered that Dolphin Stadium filled with Mets fans wearing Santana jerseys.

Live from the clubhouse

It’s time to get the Mets season underway

Pelfrey named fifth starter; El Duque to the DL

Mets moved by visit to Civil Rights museum

The heat is on Mets manager Willie Randolph

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The Florida Marlins will host the New York Mets at 4:10 PM tomorrow.  The game will be aired on SNY.  It was those same Marlins that kept the Mets out of the Playoffs.  Once the fight broke out, the Marlins used the anger to stomp the Mets when it mattered most.  The Mets need to sweep the three-game series just like they did when they opened up the 2007 season against the Cardinals.  After the Mets play the Marlins, they head to Atlanta for a three-game series.  After that, they host a three game set with the Phillies at Shea Stadium.  Nine straight NL East games to kick off the season.  It will be interesting to see where the Mets are after that.

Mets.com:

Mets roster moves - MLB.com reported that the Mets added Brady Clark and Raul Casanova to the 25-man roster.  Duaner Sanchez, Orlando Hernandez, and Ramon Castro, was placed on the DL.  Brian Stokes was added to the roster while Fernando Tatis, Nelson Figueroa, and Ricardo Rincon were sent down to the Minors.

Last few Mets roster spots up in the air - Late last night, Anthony DiComo reported that the Mets reassigned backup catcher Gustavo Molina to Minor League camp.  The Mets had to make their 25-man roster by 3:00 pm today.

Memphis sees a slice of Cooperstown - Anthony DiComo noted that Major League Baseball brought the Hall of Fame plaques for Larry Doby and Jackie Robinson sent down to Memphis from Cooperstown so fans can check them out. 

Aaron a perfect stand-in in Memphis - Barry M. Bloom loved the idea that Hank Aaron stood-in for Commissioner Bud Selig at the Civil Rights Game.

Newsday:

Morris to Santana: Ease up on changeup - Ken Davidoff found out what Jack Morris, a Twins television analyst, thinks of Johan Santana.

Mets cherish experience from Civil Rights game - Mark Herrmann captured the thoughts of various Mets players about playing in the Civil Rights Game and about the extracurricular activities they attended.

Will things ever be right in left? - David Lennon asks and answers four questions about the Mets.

Mets’ Smith escapes jam; will he make team?

New York Daily News:

Mike Pelfrey becomes Mets fifth starter; El Duque starts season on DL

Mets can finally put 2007 to bed - Since Opening Day is tomorrow, Adam Rubin says that the Mets can forget about 2007.

El Duque might start season on DL

Mets moved by visit to Lorraine Motel

New book lets the Mets down - David Hinckley criticizes the author, David Green, of a new book about the Mets titled “101 REASONS TO LOVE THE METS”.

New York Post:

Pelfrey is No. 5 starter

OUR NEW BASEBALL BARONS - Kevin Kernan lets us know that we are in a new era of baseball in New York now that the children of the Steinbrenner’s and the Wilpon’s are running things.

METS’ PAIR PITCHES PERFECTLY - Mike Vaccaro described the performance of John Maine and Smith in yesterday’s Civil Rights Game.

SAINTLY PITCHER HAS DEEP ROOTS - James Fanelli and Katie Orlinsky say that Santana owes his success to his childhood.

THE WRIGHT THING TO DO - Kevin Kernan tells us why David Wright cut down on endorsement deals and promotional activities.

DARRYL WATCHES HIS SON THE SON - Brian Lewis told us that Darryl Strawberry went to see his son D.J. play an NBA game last night.  D.J. Strawberry plays for the Phoenix Suns who were in town to play the New Jersey Nets.

The Star-Ledger:

Sunday afternoon musings - Dan Graziano tells us what he thinks about the 2008 Mets.

Mets Keep Ducks On Golden Pond - Matthew Artus offers his thoughts on the ‘08 season.

Mets moved by visit to Civil Rights Museum

Still no decision on No. 5 starter

Mets are eager to answer the bell

Lisa Kennelly’s Mets preview

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I apologize for not writing the past two days.  One of our Giants Bloggers on Die Hard Giants Fan, Phessional, came up from Jacksonville, FL and stayed at my place for two days.  He moved down there about a year and a half ago and barely comes up here.  We partied like rock stars for two days.  He has to go to an engagement party tonight which is the reason he is here.  Anyway, I went back and got all of the news that I missed in case you haven’t heard it already.

The Mets won their final Spring Training game today and beat the White Sox 3-2.  The Mets will play for real on Monday…finally.

Mets.com:

Mets edge Sox in Civil Rights Game - Justice B. Hill recapped the Civil Rights Game between the White Sox and the Mets.  New York beat Chicago 3-2.  John Maine got the start.

Fans enjoy being part of history - Justice B. Hill gathered the thoughts of baseball fans who attended the Civil Rights Game.

Mets Opening Day outlook - Marty Noble tells us what he thinks about the Mets as they get ready to begin the 2008 season.

Aaron headlines roundtable discussion - On the eve of the Civil Rights Game, a dinner was held to discuss why black athletes are not playing Major League Baseball as much as they used to.

Johan has low-key take on hyped debut - Marty Noble found out that Johan Santana excited, but not nervous, about pitching on Opening Day.

Reyes scores pair of runs for Mets - Spencer Fordin summarized yesterday’s game between the Mets and the Orioles.  Baltimore beat the Mets by a score of 4-3.  Orlando Hernandez was the starting pitcher.

El Duque’s right foot a wild card - After yesterday’s game, Marty Noble believes that El Duque has the edge over Mike Pelfrey for the final spot in the rotation.

Mets announce three roster moves - Marty Noble reported that the Mets optioned Anderson Hernandez to Triple-A New Orleans, Steven Register was returned to the Rockies, and Ruben Gotay was claimed off waivers by the Braves.

All ends well with Mets’ limo ride - Marty Noble tells us about a voyage that Billy Wagner, Matt Wise, and Jorge Sosa took.

Mets represent diversity - Anthony DiComo discusses the diversity of the Mets as they are about to play in the Civil Rights Game.

Going down to the wire - Anthony DiComo points out that the Mets still have to decide who the bench players will be and who will win the bullpen spots after the next two games.

Perez looks sharp in final spring start - Mark Bowman summarized Thursday’s game between the Mets and the Braves.  New York stomped Atlanta 9-4.  Oliver Perez got the start.

Civil Rights Game special to Randolph - Anthony DiComo explains how Willie Randolph feels about the Mets participating in the Civil Rights Game.

Perez gives Mets a brief scare - Anthony DiComo describes that fall that Perez took on Thursday.

Gotay’s Mets career nearing an end - Anthony DiComo reported that the Mets placed Gotay on outright waivers on Thursday which may be a hint that his tenure as a Met is coming to an end.  DiComo pointed out that the final bench spot may go to Brady Clark or Fernando Tatis.

New parks pay tribute to the past - Marty Noble compliments the Mets and the Yankees for the stadiums that they are building in New York.

Newsday:

Mets’ El Duque scrubs new windup, looks better

Mets cut Gotay, guess who picks him up? Braves

METS SCOUTING REPORT - David Lennon analyzes every aspect of the 2008 Mets.

Randolph’s high-wire act - Johnette Howard believes that Willie is on a short-leash this season.

Yankee Stadium, Shea make their final turns for home in 2008

PRESSURE FROM DAY 1 - David Lennon talks about the expectations of the Mets as they head into the ‘08 season.

CATCHING ON QUICK - Anthony Rieber explains how Brian Schneider is quickly getting used to the fast pace of New York.

ACE OF ACES - David Lennon had a Q&A with Santana.

Pelfrey vs. El Duque for Mets’ fifth spot

WRIGHT ATTITUDE - Jim Baumbach discusses David Wright’s career with Wright.

Devastated Ruben Gotay is put on waivers by Mets

Mets’ Pedro avoids collision, then throws perfectly

Hopeful singers audition to sing anthem at Shea

Late-arrival Tatis may have right timing for Mets - David Lennon believes that Tatis can make the team.

New York Daily News:

El Duque brings back high leg kick

Memories hit Tom Glavine hard

Keith not dialed in on SNY’s plan

Mets might bid Ruben Gotay goodbye

Pedro Martinez to start final home opener at Shea Stadium

Nelson Figueroa is following his dream of being a pro ball player - Vic Ziegel wrote up a Bio on Nelson Figueroa.

Hundreds line up for chance to sing national anthem at Mets game

Mike Pelfrey, El Duque still battling for 5th spot in rotation

New York Post:

KICK BACK - Bart Hubbuch pointed out that El Duque went back to his old form.

GOTAY GOES TO BRAVES

TATIS HAS SHOT AT REDEMPTION

DUQUE CAN NAIL DOWN FIVE SPOT

METS ARE READY FOR REAL THING

RADIO GIG WILL MAKE WAGNER A SHOCK JOCK - Phil Mushnick found out that, “ESPN 1050 Radio has signed Billy Wagner to a weekly say-for-pay spot on Michael Kay’s late-afternoon show, and that, by no later than Aug. 15, is going to cause a problem. Or two.”

THE HUMAN ERASER - Justin Terranova believes that Johan will help the Mets forget about the collapse.

FINAL 25 WON’T BE RUSH JOB

PEDRO’S GOING TO SPEAK UP - According to Bart Hubbuch, Pedro vows to be the vocal leader that the Mets lacked down the stretch during the collapse in ‘07.

IT AIN’T OVER … - Jay Greenberg discusses the glory days.

IF IT’S ‘08, IT’S CUBS’ YEAR - Kevin Kernan wrote up an National League preview.

The New York Times:

Glavine Says He Retains Emotional Bond With the Mets

A Break From the Game for an Inspiring Lesson - Ben Shpigel discusses other aspects of the Civil Rights Game.

Shea in ’64: The Planes Above, the Mets Below

You Can’t Just Blow Up History - Richard Sandomir doesn’t want to see Shea Stadium and Yankee Stadium get blown up.

The Star-Ledger:

Walking (and shivering) in Memphis

Pelfrey v. Hernandez: Deciding Round

El Duque looks sharp

Braves scoop up Gotay off waivers

El Duque, Pelfrey to get final look

Gotay placed on waivers

Final decision would be a relief - Jeremy Cothran explains who can fill the last spot in the Bullpen.

Pedro aces stint, vows to be more vocal

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The Mets didn’t have such a good weekend, in terms of wins and losses.  Another loss to the Cards, and that was a spanking, not a loss.  However, they got right back on track today with a 1-0 win over the Orioles.  Even better news, Opening Day is one week away…finally.  I, like all of us, have high expectations for the ’08 Mets and I cannot wait for it to begin, and maybe even end.  There are more concerns now than prior to Preseason, but as a Mets fan, I hope they can win it all.  7 Days!!! 

Mets.com:

Mets cruise as Maine stifles Orioles - Spencer Fordin summarized today’s game between the Mets and the Orioles.  New York beat Baltimore 1-0.  John Maine was the starting pitcher.  The Mets are 17-9-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

Classic on mind of Pedro, Mets - Marty Noble discusses the 2009 World Baseball Classic with Pedro Martinez.

El Duque struggles in debut vs. Cards - Marty Noble summarized Easter Sunday’s game between the Cardinals and the Mets.  St. Louis beat New York 14-4.  Orlando Hernandez got the start.  The Mets are 16-9-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

Roster spots may be won by default - Marty Noble points out that injuries to Ramon Castro, Duaner Sanchez, and Jose Valentin may open door for others.

Rotation questions remain for Mets - Marty Noble discusses the bad outings that El Duque and Mike Pelfrey had yesterday as well as how this might affect their chance at the 5th spot in the rotation.

Newsday:

Mets can’t pencil in Pelfrey or Hernandez

Duaner Sanchez unlikely to make opener - Jim Baumbach says that it is still unlikely that Sanchez will be healthy in time for Opening Day.  Also, Valentin probably won’t be able to make Opening Day because had to go to New York to get an injection to treat the pain in his neck from a pinched nerve.  Baumbach lets us know that Reed Johnson was released from the Blue Jays yesterday, and he thinks that the Mets might be interested in Johnson.

New York Daily News:

Trying to make case for 5th spot, El Duque and Mike Pelfrey get ripped

Duaner Sanchez stint offers no relief

New York Post:

OPEN AT 5

PEDRO, JOHAN IN MINOR MOVES - Bart Hubbuch found out that Willie Randolph is not going to have Pedro or Johan Santana pitch anymore in the Grapefruit League.  Rather, Willie is going to have them pitch against Minor League clubs to avoid showing off their pitches.

New York Times:

New Motion Isn’t Ready for Mets’ Rotation - Ben Shpigel also discusses the 5th spot in the rotation.

The Star-Ledger:

Game 25: Mets at Orioles - Lisa Kennelly provided the lineup for today’s game between the Mets and the Orioles.

HELP WANTED: One Pitcher for Mets Rotation

Rotation stuck in the mud

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The Mets are currently trailing the Cardinals 7-3 in the bottom of the 6th.  We can hope for some late inning heroics which was the theme of the Amazins’ just a few weeks ago.  Die Hard Mets Fan would like to wish all of you a Happy Easter if you celebrate it, of course.

Mets.com:

Schneider returns to Mets’ lineup - Anthony DiComo said that Brian Schneider’s hamstring feels good after playing in a game.

El Duque set to make Grapefruit debut - Anthony DiComo talks about how Orlando Hernandez is still competing for fifth spot in the rotation.

Newsday:

Catcher Schneider finally feels healthy; looks forward to work as spring training concludes

NOTEBOOK: Long (ball) day for wild Perez - Jim Baumbach describes Oliver Perez’s last night’s outing.

New York Daily News:

Brian Schneider returns from right hamstring injury for Mets

El Duque set to debut new windup

New York Post:

PLEADING THE 5TH - Bart Hubbuch explains that final spot in the rotation from Mike Pelfrey’s perspective.

OLLIE TAKEN DOWNTOWN BY INDIANS

The Star-Ledger:

Game 24: Mets vs Cardinals - Lisa Kennelly provided the lineup for today’s game between the Cardinals and the Mets.

Pelfrey v. Hernandez: For All the Marbles - Matthew Artus talks about El Duque and Pelfrey.

Interest in medicine is Pedro’s tonic - The Star-Ledger lets you know why Pedro Martinez developed an interest in medicine.

Schneider is looking to catch up with the bat

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