Die Hard Sports Fan

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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Unfortunately, the Mets fell to the Marlins this afternoon.  Even though the Mets did pretty well in Spring Training, it doesn’t mean anything.  Only 5 Days until Opening Day.

Mets.com:

Pedro: Human or superhuman? - Anthony DiComo lets you know of Pedro Martinez’s outing against a Minor League club.

Wright, Delgado prove clutch in loss - Marty Noble summarized today’s game between the Marlins and the Mets.  Florida beat New York by a score of 7-5.  Robert Parnell got the start.  The Mets are 18-10-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

New batterymates have prior history - Marty Noble felt the need to tell us that Brian Schneider took a photo with Martinez when he was a teenager.

Easley to play utility role, that’s for sure - Marty Noble says that it is unknown if the Mets will rely on Damion Easley to backup in the outfield.

Sosa may get rotation shot - Since El Duque and Pelfrey are not performing too well, Marty Noble thinks that Jorge Sosa may be suitable for the 5th spot in the rotation.

Alou eyeing April return - Marty Noble stated that Moises Alou is hoping to return to the Mets by the end of April.

Newsday:

Mets’ Santana can’t wait to pick up bat again - I don’t know much about Santana picking up a bat, but I love when a title begins with “Mets’ Santana”.  Jim Baumbach and David Lennon pointed out that Johan Santana hit his last triple in Dolphin Stadium which is where Santana will make his first start wearing orange and blue.

Mets’ Alou swears he’ll come back strong

New York Daily News:

Mets hoping new ace Johan Santana can help them forget historic collapse

Billy Wagner: Johan Santana is so good he makes bullpen better, too - Billy Wagner is always complimenting other pitchers.  I’m waiting for him to say that he is going to make the team better.

It’s hard to Shea goodbye

Moises Alou eying April return

The ‘Not’ Corner: First base used to be glamour position in New York - What’s wrong with Delgado and Giambi? hahaha.

Fans get into act on SNY - Bob Raissman talks about how SNY now has interactive TV where the fans can call in and discuss what’s on their minds.  That doesn’t sound like a good thing to me.

Minor adjustment a big-league help to Johan Santana - Adam Rubin pointed out that Santana’s inaugural spring as a Met ended quietly with an intrasquad game against minor-leaguers.

Raul Casanova ready to catch on - Adam Rubin believes that Raul Casanova appears to be the catcher on the Opening Day roster due to injuries to Schneider and Ramon Castro.

New York Post:

FIFTH AVENUE - Bart Hubbuch believes that Claudio Vargas may have what it takes to get the 5th spot in the rotation.

JOHAN’S THE MAN

WHAT METS NEED TO WIN - Bart Hubbuch has all of the secrets.

WHOLLY MOISES!

The Star-Ledger:

South American adventure over - Jeremy Cothran is back and ready to bring us through the 2008 season.

A Steady Diet of Curveballs - Matthew Artus extensively explains what the Mets can do to fill the 5th spot in the rotation.

Alou eager to return to Mets

Bullpen taking shape - Lisa Kennelly found out that, “The Mets placed reliever and Rule 5 pick Steven Register on waivers yesterday.”  Kennelly believes that Joe Smith and Brian Stokes will fill the void until Sanchez is ready to return.

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In the bottom of the 9th, a single to right by Raul Arroyo drove in the winning run.  It’s always nice to see the Mets beat the Braves.  Even more so in the regular season, and even more so in the Playoffs.

Eight years later, A-Rod is upset about turning down the Mets offer.  Too bad for him.  He’s such a phony that I don’t think he has feelings.  He just wants Mets fans to love him.  Screw that…  He’s a Yankee, and he should worry about Yankees fans loving him.  Try winning a championship already.

Mets.com:

Arroyo lifts Mets past Braves - Marty Noble summarized today’s game between the Braves and the Mets.  New York beat Atlanta 5-4.  Jonathon Niese got the start on the mound.  The Mets are 18-9-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

What’s in a name for Mets? - Marty Noble discusses Port St. Lucie since the Mets showed up to town in 1988.

Maine looks ready to meet his goals - Anthony DiComo captured John Maine’s goals for ‘08 which are pitching 200 innings and a Playoff berth.

Top Mets arms done with spring games - Anthony DiComo covered the story about Johan Santana and Pedro Martinez not pitching anymore in Grapefruit League games which the New York Post reported yesterday.  The only difference in the story is that DiComo stated that Maine may not pitch in the Grapefruit League anymore either.

Newsday:

Heilman seems at ease with setup role for Mets - Jim Baumbach noted Aaron Heilman’s contributions to the Mets.

Maine continues to pitch well for Mets - Jim Baumbach points out how Maine has dominated the Grapefruit League this year.  Baumbach also reported that Omar Minaya planned to have discussions with team officials regarding Reed Johnson because “the cost is not that much.”

New York Daily News:

A-Rod regrets saying no to Mets, doesn’t make same mistake with Yankees - I would like to thank Alex Rodriguez for not coming to the Mets.  Shortstop was the weakest link offensively when Rey Ordenez was at short so A-Rod would have been a huge upgrade.  But, when a guy who wants his own hotel, plane, locker room, and $250 million he is not a team player.  A-Rod is one of the biggest dusch bags in the game so I’m glad the Yankees locked him up for 10 years and nobody else has to deal with him.  He’s robotic.  Until resigning with the Yankees, he never left a dime on the table to pay anywhere he wants.  So he doesn’t need to whine about it now.  Do not even attempt to get Mets fans to feel sorry for you because we’re not buying it.  On a sidenote, how do people that don’t help teams win championships get paid more than the ones that do?  I mean key players not bench players.

John Maine locks up spot in rotation

Improvement is a relief to Joe Smith - Adam Rubin pointed out that Joe Smith’s performances are “steadily improving”.

New York Post:

METS’ MAINE MAN IS COMIN’ UP ACES

BROOKLYN NATIVE GOING LIVE AT FIVE - Bart Hubbuch believes that Nelson Figueroa is picking up steam as a fifth-starter candidate.

New York Times:

Mets Commit to 5-Man Rotation, No Matter What

The Star-Ledger:

Game 26: Mets vs Braves - Lisa Kennelly provided the lineup for today’s game between the Braves and the Mets.

A-Rod Just Won’t Go Away

Figueroa may take the fifth for Mets

Standing ovation for Maine

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The Metropolitans will host the Orioles at 7:10 p.m. tonight.  Opening Day is quickly creeping up on us, and it isn’t good news if we can’t put together a healthy roster.  There are multiple articles about whether or not Duaner Sanchez will make the team or end up on the Disabled List.  Sanchez is going to attempt pitching on back-to-back days to see if he can do it.  How that goes will determine whether or not he will end up on the DL.  We all understand how important Duaner is as the setup man to Wagner.  Worse case scenario is that Sanchez gets a late start to the season.

Mets.com:

Mets’ Maine attraction stars in win - Anthony DiComo summarized last night’s game between the Indians and the Mets.  The Mets beat the Tribe 3-1.  John Maine got the start.  The Mets are 14-7-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

Coming days key for Sanchez - Anthony DiComo pointed out that Duaner Sanchez must show ability to recover quickly from outings to avoid being placed on the DL.  When Willie Randolph was asked about Sanchez, he said, “Is he on the borderline of not being able to break with us? Yeah, if he doesn’t start to pitch in succession and get his work done. Yeah, then that’s going to become a real issue.”  I agree with Willie when he said it’s going to become a real issue because Sanchez needs to be the man in the 8th inning.

Mets infielders play through pain - Anthony DiComo explains how Jose Valentin and Ruben Gotay played through pain in last night’s game against the Tribe.

Prospect Martinez among four Mets cuts - Anthony DiComo reported that the Mets sent these four players down to the Minors: Fernando Martinez, Nate Field, Tony Armas Jr., and Joselo Diaz.

Newsday:

Mets’ Church getting tired of stress - I don’t understand why Ryan Church feels stressed.  He, like all pro athletes, is overpaid to play a sport.  Church just had a healthy baby.  Pedro Feliciano went through a much worse situation when his daughter was born.  I have more compassion for a person that works at McDonalds that had a healthy baby then Church.

Mets’ Sanchez might not make Opening Day

Injured Mets receiving most media attention

New York Daily News:

David Wright throws himself into new routine to reduce errors - Adam Rubin supports that David Wright has had fielding issues over the past three years with statistics.  Sandy Alomar Sr. explains what Wright needs to do to improve his fielding, and Wright explains what he is going to do to improve his fielding.

Duaner Sanchez itching to pitch more

New York Post:

MISSING IN ACTION - Bart Hubbuch discusses the status of injured Mets players.

DOMINANT MAINE MOWS DOWN INDIANS - Bart Hubbuch lets us know what he thought of Maine’s outing against the Indians last night.

SANCHEZ MAY MISS OPENER

New York Times:

Mets Still Waiting on Sánchez

The Star-Ledger:

Good night folks - Lisa Kennelly gave us a couple of quick thoughts as of last night.

Mets’ Maine Attraction Still Intact

Once again, Mets are down to third catcher

Sanchez hopes to get back on track

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Happy St. Patrick’s Day!  The Mets whooped the Nationals today as the Mets got their 13th win of the spring.  It seems like every time they win a game they lose a Met.  It seems like the Mets need to bring in a catcher because their first two are down.  I thought that the Mets needed to bring in a left fielder, but they didn’t so it doesn’t mean that they will bring in a catcher.  It depends who’s available and how much it will cost.

Mets.com:

Vargas, Valentin latest Mets out - Marty Noble provides the status of the injuries suffered by Jason Vargas and Jose Valentin.  Noble believes that Valentin will not be ready for Opening Day.

Perez lights-out against Nationals - Bill Ladson summarized today’s game between the Mets and the Nationals.  The Mets beat the Nats 7-3.  Oliver Perez got the start.  The Mets are 13-7-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

More injuries for hurting Mets - Marty Noble discusses the injuries that Carlos Delgado and Ramon Castro suffered in yesterday’s game.

Newsday:

Delgado, Castro injuries mar Pedro’s debut

Pedro springs forward - Anthony Rieber described Pedro Martinez’s start yesterday as “outstanding”.

New York Daily News:

Pedro Martinez’s debut wows Mets

Broken bat makes mess of Carlos Delgado

New York Post:

PEDRO DELIVERS

MRI FOR CASTRO TODAY

New York Times:

Martínez Is on Target in His Spring Debut

The Star-Ledger:

Wrapping up from Viera - A couple of quick bits from Lisa Kennelly.

Rusty Nails - Matthew Artus lets us know what Lenny Dykstra has been up to…besides being named in the Mitchell Report.

Pedro up to his old trickiness

Suddenly the plate’s almost empty - Jeremy Cothran talks about the shortage of catchers.

Mets 7, Tigers 4; Mets 6, Astros 4 (SS)

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The Mets won both of their games today.  They are hot right now so I wish it counted.  The best Mets article of the day is “Castro, Delgado injured in Mets game” by Anthony Rieber.  Rieber followed up on the status of both players injured in today’s game.  At least Delgado isn’t as injured as it appeared.

Mets.com:

Pedro blanks Tigers in spring debut - Marty Noble summarized today’s second game between the Tigers and the Mets.  The Mets beat the Tigers 7-4.  Pedro Martinez got the start.  The Mets are 12-7-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

Young Mets upstage Astros on road - Alyson Footer summarized one of today’s split-squad games between the Mets and the Astros.  The Mets beat the Astros 6-4.  Nelson Figueroa got the start.

Good signs from Martinez in debut - Marty Noble pointed out that Martinez threw four scoreless innings, with four hits and four Ks, and then went on to describe Pedro’s Spring Training debut.  Martinez said “I’m right where I want to be.” after his first start.

Pedro makes anticipated debut Sunday - Finally!!!

With no DH, Johan steps up to plate - After Johan Santana grounded out in his first at-bat of the spring, Anthony DiComo captured Santana’s thoughts, “At least I made contact. I didn’t strike out. It was a little weird, but it’s part of the game and I’ve got to adjust to it. Those are the little things that I’ll have to learn how to do.”

Newsday:

Castro, Delgado injured in Mets game - Anthony Rieber explained what happened to Carlos Delgado, ”Delgado went down in an attempt to dodge the dangerous, pointy projectile, but was hit. His arm was bloodied and he immediately went into the Mets’ dugout and then to the clubhouse. He required four stitches to close the wound and left the ballpark with a playing-card-sized bandage taped to his forearm.”  Next, Rieber told us how Ramon Castro got injured, “Castro, catching Martinez in his first game since March 9, re-injured his right hamstring when running to first on a single in his first at-bat. As soon as he reached the bag and time out was called, Castro limped off to the third-base dugout and was replaced by a pinch runner.”

Baby’s heart surgery: Big save for Mets’ Feliciano - Anthony Rieber followed up on the health of Pedro Feliciano’s baby who had heart surgery during the offseason.  Feliciano described his daughter’s health as:

My baby, after surgery she never gets a fever, nothing, no change color, no blue hands, nothing. They don’t know how she reacts that good after surgery. Strong kid. The same day that they bring her back to the room, she got up. Just got the surgery and she got up and started moving. They had to get the liquid for her to go to sleep.

Castillo’s back for Mets, who are getting healthy - Anthony Rieber explained how Luis Castillo played in his first game yesterday against the Cardinals.  After playing 5½ innings, Castillo went 0-for-1 with two walks.  Luis had this to say about his play, “I feel so good. I feel so happy with myself because I made the right decision having surgery. I feel so different. A long time I don’t feel like that.”

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? RON HUNT - Jim Baubach stated that, “Ron Hunt, the first Mets player to get a hit, score a run and hit a home run at Shea Stadium, wants to be on hand when the team officially closes the stadium.”  Yet, Hunt hasn’t been invited to a Mets alumni function in many years.  Hunt said, “I would hope since I was there to open Shea, I hope I will get an invitation to put it away, too,” Hunt said. “And then an invitation to open the new one as well.”  In response to that, Mets VP for media relations, Jay Horwitz stated that ”We’re very aware of what he’s done, so I’m sure he will be hearing from us in the season. I’m sure he’ll be back.”

Can Pedro tame Tigers in first real test for Mets?

New York Daily News:

Johan Santana aced by Cardinals

Luis Castillo’s return a success

New York Post:

PEDRO ON MARCH

WAGNER: ROLLINS ONLY HALF RIGHT - The fued between the Mets and the Phillies continues.  In response to the comments Rollins made, Billy Wagner said:

He’s right. He’s right that they’re the team to beat. They’re excited they got to the playoffs. As far as do they want it more? It’s up to the guys in this clubhouse to prove him wrong. Obviously last year he was right and so far he’s been good at telling the future.

I expect it to be fun. I expect it to be high intensity. I expect it to be very - there should be some intensity to these games. We should play better. We should play better against the Phillies. They weren’t the better team. They just played better than us.

The Star-Ledger:

Game 18: Tigers at Mets - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for today’s game between the Tigers and the Mets.

Castillo striving to get up to speed

Beltran stepping up to the plate - The Star-Ledger found out what Carlos Beltran is doing to take on more of a leadership role.

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The Mets dropped another Spring Training game to the Cards.  Like I said the last time the Mets lost to the Cardinals, I hate when that happens.

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Mets.com:

Castillo reaps benefits of slow return - Anthony DiComo lets us know that Luis Castillo feels great in his Grapefruit League debut.

Johan, Mets remain vexed by Cards - Anthony DiComo summarized today’s game between the Cardinals and the Mets.  The Cards beat the Mets 10-3.  Johan Santana got the start.  The Mets are 10-7-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

Vargas seeks second opinion on hip - Anthony DiComo reported that ”Jason Vargas traveled to Colorado on Saturday for a second opinion on his sore left hip, which may require surgery.”

Camp nearing end, Mets roster ailing - Marty Noble stated that the calendar is counting down and the lineup remains incomplete.

Which teams have the best defense? - Lyle Spencer pointed out that MLB.com produced a list of the five premier defensive units heading into 2008.  This list includes these teams: New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies, and Kansas City Royals.  Spencer explained why each of these teams made the list, and here is what he wrote about the Mets:

Johan Santana, whose glove is a matching accessory to his golden arm, will enjoy watching his new teammates pick it. Jose Reyes is the game’s premier defensive infielder in the view of advance scouts participating in MLB.com’s survey, and his partner on the left side, Gold Glover David Wright, also is first-rate. Ryan Church enhances an outfield that features Gold Glover Carlos Beltran and arguably the game’s best all-purpose sub in Endy Chavez. There are no serious chinks in manager Willie Randolph’s defensive armor.

Pitchers row laughs are par for course - Marty Noble revealed that Pedro Martinez was never into golfing like most MLB pitchers are, but now Martinez brought a golf bag to Spring Training, and said this to his colleagues, “You guys are going to teach me. If someone can tell me where to put my feet, I’ll be all right.”

Newsday:

Mets’ Valentin makes a major plea about his role - Anthony Rieber wrote that “Jose Valentin knows the Mets have made him no promises. He knows they signed Luis Castillo to a four-year contract to play second base. He also knows he signed a minor-league deal that allows the team to send him down if he doesn’t make the Opening Day roster.”  If Valentin does not make the team, he said, “I mean, I’m not going down there because they say I don’t make it. I don’t have to prove something in Triple-A. Money-wise, it’s not a big deal. I think that if I just shut it down right now and retire, I’ve still got enough money to live the rest of my life.”

New York Daily News:

Willie Randolph closes in on opener - Adam Rubin pointed out that Willie Randolph needs to get the full squad together in order to get ready for the season.

Jimmy Rollins repeats NL East boast - Here’s what Jimmy Rollins was quoted as saying in the April issue of Men’s Journal.  “That wasn’t a one-year thing. It’s still gonna ring true in 2008, and every year I’m with the Phillies. We’re going to win. It’s gonna come down to who wants it more, and we want to win more than the Mets do. Truthfully, I don’t worry about anybody in our division, or anybody in our league for that matter. I’m not worried about getting into the playoffs, because that part is accomplished. We’re a playoff team now. Our next goal is to win the World Series.”

New York Post:

BURNING QUESTION - Bart Hubbuch believes that Aaron Heilman has settled into the bullpen, but he still would prefer to be in the starting rotation.

AMAZIN’ STAFF HAS ANOTHER MAINE MAN

New York Times:

Soothsayer to Mets Won’t Brush Off Signs - Karen Crouse tells a story of a Mets fan in Floriday.

Castillo Feels No Pain in Spring Debut

Mets’ Schoeneweis Puts Painful Year Behind Him - Charlie Nobles discusses the injuries that Scott Schoeneweis suffered last season, and how he aims to put last year behind him.

The Star-Ledger:

Castillo plays, feels healthy

Getting Things Started Wright - Matthew Artus has spent the last few days pondering a debate that arose recently over at Shea Nation regarding where David Wright should bat in the Mets’ lineup.  In his article, he makes his case.

Castro is also a big hit on field - Jeremy Cothran revealed Ramon Castro as the prankster that placed the bubble gum on Castillo.

With 5 at-bats, Schneider feels he’ll be ready

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The Mets picked up another ’w’ to give them their 10th in Spring Training.  The Amazins’ are playing .625 ball right now.  The regular season is right around the corner so let’s hope the Mets can continue to play hot baseball.  We learned from last season that a 7 game wasn’t enough so I hope the Mets stomp the NL and get to a 14 game lead in 2008.

Mets.com:

Cancel, Maine lead Mets past Marlins - Joe Frisaro summarized today’s game between the Mets and the Marlins.  The Mets beat the Marlins 8-2.  John Maine got the start.  The Mets are 10-6-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

Beltran boasts new level of happiness - Marty Noble pointed out how different Carlos Beltran is after having a baby.

Injuries continue to hang over Mets - Marty Noble lets us know how the Mets are handling the injuries.

Newsday:

Mets’ Schneider may miss start of season

Mets will host All-Star Game, likely in 2013

Mets’ Pelfrey hasn’t done enough to earn a spot - Anthony Rieber feels like Mike Pelfrey hasn’t done enough to make Willie Randolph’s decision difficult.  I agree with Anthony, but I also don’t feel like El Duque hasn’t done anything either.  El Duque has only expressed how good he feels.  All along, I never felt like Pelfrey was going to be a great starter even though all of my friends that are Mets fans love him.  I say let Pelfrey start, find out what he’s got, and keep him or trade him after this season depending on his performance.  Give the kid a real shot.  Rieber also noted that Omar Minaya received the Peace Maker Award from Seeds of Peace, a non-profit organization, last night in Manhattan.

Beltran tests knees, Schneider sits out for Mets - Anthony Rieber expresses his thoughts on Betran in centerfield yesterday, and he also mentioned that Brian Schneider needs a few more days off due to a tug in his right hamstring.

New York Daily News:

Carlos Beltran tries legs in center

Mets may wait on El Duque - Adam Rubin also believes that El Duque is going to win the battle for the 5th spot in the rotation.

Mets’ and Yanks’ fields of green

New York Post:

PAGAN GOES FROM LEFT OUT TO LEFT FIELD

DOC AND SON TAKING RAP - Kevin Kernan lets us know what Dwight Gooden is up to.

METS TO HOST ALL-STAR GAME

CARLOS PLAYS CENTER

New York Times:

Having a Baby Helps Beltrán Leave His Shell

The Star-Ledger:

Game 17: Mets at Marlins - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for today’s game between the Mets and the Marlins.

Mets Battery Needs Recharging

Beltran patrols outfield, then deals with the pain

Pelfrey lacks command, fights through shaky outing

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The Mets lost 6-5 to the Cardinals today in 10.  I don’t like when the Mets lose to the Cards, but it’s only Spring Training.  Pelfrey isn’t looking as sharp as he did in his first couple of starts, but his pitch count has gone up too which shouldn’t matter.

The best Mets article of the day was “Joke’s on Castillo, but he isn’t laughing” by Marty Noble.

Mets.com:

Pelfrey limits damage in loss to Cards - Matthew Leach summarized today’s game between the Mets and the Cardinals.  The Cards beat the Mets 6-5.  Mike Pelfrey got the start.  The Mets are 9-5-1 in the Grapefruit League standings.

New Mets park a friend to environment - Howard Kussoy stated that the Mets joined with the EPA to help Citi Field save water and energy.

Minor League Report: Mike Carp - The Mets invited Mike Carp to training camp last week to be a left-handed hitter against Pedro Martinez in his simulated game.

Joke’s on Castillo, but he isn’t laughing - Marty Noble wrote this about Luis Castillo,

By the fourth inning, Luis Castillo retreated to the Mets’ clubhouse, passed by a mirror and discovered the reasons for the behind-his-back giggles and grins in the dugout on Wednesday. He had been wearing a crown of pink bubble gum atop his cap — the first bubble lasted for two innings, then came a second, then a third and then a plastic cup attached to the gum.

The other players were probably jealous that Castillo got a 4-year contract without even being able to walk to the batters box last season.

Newsday:

Mets looking for outfielder; how about Endy? - Anthony Rieber pointed out that Omar Minaya says the Mets still have Endy Chavez to play left field.  I have no problem with Chavez or Pagan.

El Duque shows off new windup in simulated game - Anthony Rieber said that El Duque got hit hard while trying out his new windup.  Hernandez said “I feel good. I’m happy. More close to a real game. I think I feel good, I think very good.”  Orlando is expected to make his first Spring Training start on Sunday.

New York Daily News:

Mets emerge as probable host for 2013 All-Star game - That’s great for the Mets and NYC.  People don’t really watch that stuff, but at least the stadium and the city will get to host it.

Orlando Hernandez kicks into gear - Adam Rubin tells us how Hernandez felt after pitching in a simulated game.

Luis Castillo delays return; Mets nix Angel Pagan rumor - Adam Rubin noted that Castillo is now planning on returning on Saturday.

• The Mets dismissed the Coco Crisp rumor.
• Jose Reyes said he has officially retired the “Profesor Reyes” skits at Shea Stadium.

 New York Post:

EL DUQUE’S KICK START

DUANER FEELS VERY RELIEVED - After pitching one inning against the Orioles, Duaner Sanchez said “This is the best that I’ve felt since the accident. It felt like I’d never had surgery on my arm today.”

New York Times:

New Delivery for Hernández Gives Him a Leg to Stand On

The Star-Ledger:

Game No. 16: Mets at Cardinals - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for today’s game between the Mets and the Cards.

El Duque: For Better or Worse? - Matthew Artus wonders if he wants El Duque on the Mets in 2008.

El Duque puts best foot forward

Pagan remains red-hot

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So even though the Mets have been devastated by a wrath of injuries, they managed to win 5 straight games.  It kind of went unnoticed.  Most of them came from late inning heroics.  The Mets are losing to the Indians right now by a score of 8-6 in the 8th inning.  Oliver Perez got the start, and didn’t pitch so well.  Maybe the Mets have another comeback in them…

Mets.com:

Notes: Anderson, Easley good to go - Anthony DiComo noted that Marlon Anderson and Damion Easley are healthy and ready to return.

Minor League Report: Robert Parnell - Anthony DiComo provided a Bio about a right-hander named Robert Parnell.

Pedro to throw sim game on Friday - Anthony DiComo stated that Pedro Martinez will pitch in a simulated game today because yesterday’s game got rained out.

Newsday:

Injury-riddled Mets looking to plug holes - David Lennon chatted with Omar Minaya about the possible replacements for Moises Alou.  Here is what Lennon wrote:

“We’ve already identified teams that have outfield situations that have surpluses,” Minaya said, “and we’ll keep an eye on those.”

The Mets have talked about a possible deal for the Tigers’ Marcus Thames. The Pirates’ Xavier Nady, a solid righthanded bat and a former Met, would be a good fit. On the free-agent front, Kenny Lofton remains unsigned, but Minaya chuckled when someone brought up Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa. “It’s fair to say we’ll go with someone internal right now,” Minaya said.

Pedro spared from rare spring road start by rain

All of Mets’ injuries might hurt Minaya

New York Daily News:

Omar Minaya: No time for Mets to panic

Met spin adds insult to injury - Bob Raissman doesn’t like what the Mets are feeding him about the status of their team.

Omar Minaya: Subs will do just fine - It did not bother me when the Mets re-signed Alou, but it bothers me that they don’t have a legit backup for him knowing he gets hurt all of the time.

Pedro outing rained out

New York Post:

REIGN IN SPRING - Joel Sherman says that the healthy Martinez is stealing the show in Spring Training.

PEP TALK HAS SANCHEZ EAGER TO GET BACK ON MOUND - Bart Hubbuch pointed out that Pedro gave Duaner Sanchez a pep talk during lunch this week.  Now, Sanchez is expected to pitch this weekend.

MARTINEZ DEBUT DELAYED

PLAY IT COOL - Bart Hubbuch also wrote about the Mets lack of desire to resolve the injury issues.

New York Times:

Left-Field Question Has the Mets Looking for an Answer

Glavine Says Devastation Isn’t the Word - After a disappointing finale with the Mets, Tom Glavine is happy to be back in a Braves uniform.  I bet he is.  He was a Brave all along.  How many times did he beat the Braves head-to-head?  It seemed like once.  Makes me wonder…

The Star-Ledger:

Health improvements - Lisa Kennelly provided a few quick hits about the Mets.

DON’T PANIC - Matthew Artus tells us why we should not panic about what’s happening to the Mets down in Port St. Lucie.

Mets weigh OF options

Pedro’s first start washed out by rain

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