February 19: Milledge reports; all smiles and confidence
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- February
- 19
Lastings Milledge is in camp technically, a day early so let us get that out of the way first. He was all smiles and 13 pounds heavier after a winter of weight lifting.
“The ultimate goal is to win a spot on the roster,’’ Milledge said.
Milledge played last year because guys were hurt, and said the experience was good for him in that “I learned about being a man.’’
Milledge said he had to be more accountable for his actions. The fact he’s aware people look at him is a good sign. He said things are cool between him and his teammates and Billy Wagner said “nobody is holding anything against him.’’
This entry was posted
on Monday, February 19th, 2007 at 1:59 pm by John Delcos.
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Excellent reporting John. Lastings becoming more accountable is a great thing. I am cheering for him.
I guess it’s nice that’s he’s added some muscle—- at least we know he was working on something. However his falling short of expectations in 2006 had more to do with needing more playing time than improving his bench press. Maybe the strength will help him hit with more power, but the lack of winter ball probably means he’s starting the season in AAA. We’ll soon see.
wouldn’t it be great if he had a HUGE year haha. shut us all up and we’ll be kissing his feet.
To metstoday.com (RE: Milledge)
The Mets aren’t going to pay Shawn Green $9.5 million to sit on the bench. I believe he’s the right fielder. Barring injury I see Milledge in 3-A because it’s better for him to play there than sit on the bench. That’s been Willie Randolph’s thinking all along and he reiterated it today.
John, I though we were only paying him 3.5 milliion this year, and Arizona was picking up the rest. If that is the case, dump him if Lastings plays much better. A 4 million dollar bench player isn’t the worst thing that could happen. Especially if the player taking his spot is only costing pennies in comparison. Spending about 4 million for a stating RF + bench isn’t bad. I don’t care who starts and who is found on the bench.
I can’t remember where exactly, but I’m fairly certain this came up at some point over the Winter, and Willie said Green would have to earn his job. We might end up seeing a variation of what happened to Ty Wigginton when the Mets brought up Wright.
hey john, we’re not paying green 9.5, actually its closer to 5 mill, 3.5 for this year, and some loot for the buyout of his option.
Well, technically its $9.5 million but the D-backs sent $6.3 million along in the trade. That money doesn’t have to go towards Green’s salary, it can go anywhere, depending on how you look at it. If Green struggles I’m sure the Mets front office will start to spin it as compensation for Green’s salary to justify benching him, but until then its just cash that came along in the trade. He’s a vet, age-wise he shouldn’t be completely over the hill, and he’s the #7 hitter. He’s going to be encouraged and given every chance to produce.
Any Pictures of Milledge in camp today with the extra 13 pounds?
Lastings is young, talented, and has been pressured by the NY media from Day One. Let’s just let him play the game and see where it leads. The only story here is how he performs, JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE! Let’s see what the new Milledge looks like with the added weight as well. Also let’s keep an eye on Carlos Gomez, and Fernando Martinez…
I am not convinced. lets see what happens during spring training and the first few games he plays.