I just posted a new poll, one I expect to create a healthy debate all offseason. It asks the very question Omar Minaya must grapple with from now until February: If the Mets make a big-splash signing or a significant trade, at which position should they upgrade?
I included seven choices: starting pitching, bullpen (non-closer), closer, second base, catcher, corner outfield, or first base.
The only three areas I left out were shortstop, third base and the bench. I figure the bench isn’t really the most significant area of the team, even it it could use a boost. Also, despite the protestations of some, Jose Reyes and David Wright are not the problem.
Anyway, let us know what you think. If you ask me, the Mets scored the second-most runs in the NL last year despite constant juggling in their corner outfield spots. Do they need work at second and in left field? Yes. But I don’t think the offense is at the top of Minaya’s agenda.
As for the pitching, the Mets must sign a starter, but there are several decent arms available (Oliver Perez, Derek Lowe, A.J. Burnett, Ben Sheets, even C.C. Sabathia). I think the more pressing need is a closer, if only because the market is much more limited. Adding someone to the back of the pen will require aggressive dealing, and it should be at the top of the Mets list.
2 Comments
Omar, DO NOT SPEND A LOT OF $ ON CLOSERS!!!!!!!! It will cost you your job!
They never last. Here are some names from 2006 and 2007. Where are they now? Baez, Tom Gordon, Jenks, Gagne, Hennessey, Capps, Dempster, Todd Jones, Weathers, Accardo, Saito, Wagner, CJ Wilson, Wickman, Borowski.
Bats are more consistent. Go after premier bats. Holliday, Manny, Orlando Hudson or even Dunn. They won’t let you down.
If you must go for a pitcher then get Peavy.
I think Minaya should not give you and your part time buddies a press pass for next season. BRING BACK A REAL BEAT WRITER.