Extra, extra... this breaking news is just in. Major League Baseball has called off the final two qualifers and the Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating contest out of concerns for the public's safety.
We've all been wondering what was causing the delay in the qualifers for the American and National League East divisions and with the Fourth of July fast approaching, the rumors were beginning to spread.
We have just learned, in a Why did my Dad make me a Mets fan exclusive, that Major League Baseball confirmed that while training for the upcoming event, Bartolo Colon not only downed a world record eighty hot dogs and buns in an amazing six minutes, he became so dismayed that there no further dogs to swallow, he took a bite out of his personal trainer. After biting the trainer, he was apparently so heavily under the infulence of the nitrates that he proceeded to sprint nearly as fast as Ichiro to the nearest deli and devoured another twelve dozen dogs from the deli case before passing out.
As the incident took place, Bartolo was caught on several cell phone videorecordings attempting to bite and eat everything that came remotely his way, including several stray cats, a great dane, and even a little old lady that was crossing the street before a good samaritan managed to get the woman to safety.
(Editor's note - video of the events were briefly posted on YouTube and have since been removed due to their graphic and disturbing nature.)
Bartolo Colon awoke several hours later at a local hospital with no memory of the incident. Doctors have attibuted Bartolo's bizarre behavior to be a result of acute nitrate poisoning that can only be attributed to injesting in a very short period of time an inhuman amount of hotdogs. Toxicology reports later confirmed the doctor's original diagnosis.
Bartolo will be issuing a statement shortly, as will Nathan's Famous. The FDA has decided that they will not place any warning labels on Nathan's hotdogs or any other hot dog products for that matter as they have determined this to be an isolated incident.
However, in the interest of public safety, MLB has decided to cancel the event. They do not want to run the risk of any further incidents and to have Bartolo withdraw from the event would destroy the integrity of the event. Bartolo has been declared the winner.
The Yankees have also announced in a separate release that Bartolo's hamstring has fully healed and he will be removed from the disabled list to make a start against the Mets this weekend. His sprint to the deli satisfied the Yankee training staff.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
On the Dodgers Bankruptcy and Deferred Contracts
It will be interesting to see what will become of the deferred payments left to players such as the $21 million owed to Manny Ramirez, who is an unsecured creditor in the Dodger bankruptcy. Without knowing all the ins and outs of bankruptcy law - I would think that there is a possibility that as an unsecured creditor, Manny may end up getting less than his full amount owed depending on how the Chapter 11 is structured by the court.
I don't know how everything was structured with the Rangers bankruptcy last year when Alex Rodriguez was among the largest unsecured creditors. I didn't hear anything about any of the players not getting what they were owed in the settlement, but the Dodger case may be an interesting one.
Let's face it, young ballplayers are not expert businessmen. They're ballplayers. A major bank would not float an organization a $20 million loan like Manny did without getting a look at their financials. Their agent is out to get the player the best deal, but they're agents, not bankers. Now I'm not feeling sorry for Manny in any way, shape, or form, but were Manny to have had a good banker look at the audited financial statements of the Dodgers - I seriously doubt he would have deferred the dough, or at the very least not have had it secured with some type of collateral.
I'm sure he didn't think of it. Maybe his agent did, maybe he didn't. But who would have ever expected the Dodgers to go bankrupt? Up until now, MLB may have been one of the very few industries (maybe along with the NFL) where the businessman could have said "I'll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today," and never had it questioned.
Essentially, Manny gave them a loan. The money owed was sitting the Dodger balance sheet as a long term liability that had to be paid. Now he's going to have to get in line with the other unsecured creditors.
It makes me wonder about other deferred contracts. Bobby Bonilla should be plenty happy that Einhorn stepped in. He's owed a lot of deferred money that could have been in serious jeopardy if the Wilpons had to take the team into bankruptcy court. This also makes me wonder if an agent will be so willing in the future to allow a player to defer some of his contract if there's any question as to the solvency of the organization?
A question for collective bargaining time that will force the owners to open up their books? Just throwing out the question. I'm not part of the process and thus, not the one to answer...
I don't know how everything was structured with the Rangers bankruptcy last year when Alex Rodriguez was among the largest unsecured creditors. I didn't hear anything about any of the players not getting what they were owed in the settlement, but the Dodger case may be an interesting one.
Let's face it, young ballplayers are not expert businessmen. They're ballplayers. A major bank would not float an organization a $20 million loan like Manny did without getting a look at their financials. Their agent is out to get the player the best deal, but they're agents, not bankers. Now I'm not feeling sorry for Manny in any way, shape, or form, but were Manny to have had a good banker look at the audited financial statements of the Dodgers - I seriously doubt he would have deferred the dough, or at the very least not have had it secured with some type of collateral.
I'm sure he didn't think of it. Maybe his agent did, maybe he didn't. But who would have ever expected the Dodgers to go bankrupt? Up until now, MLB may have been one of the very few industries (maybe along with the NFL) where the businessman could have said "I'll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today," and never had it questioned.
Essentially, Manny gave them a loan. The money owed was sitting the Dodger balance sheet as a long term liability that had to be paid. Now he's going to have to get in line with the other unsecured creditors.
It makes me wonder about other deferred contracts. Bobby Bonilla should be plenty happy that Einhorn stepped in. He's owed a lot of deferred money that could have been in serious jeopardy if the Wilpons had to take the team into bankruptcy court. This also makes me wonder if an agent will be so willing in the future to allow a player to defer some of his contract if there's any question as to the solvency of the organization?
A question for collective bargaining time that will force the owners to open up their books? Just throwing out the question. I'm not part of the process and thus, not the one to answer...
Does Rod Balgojevich look like Sean Astin?
Maybe it's just me. But Blagojevich looks like a Goonie. He bears a resemblance to Samwise Gamgee. I want to start chanting, "Rudy! Rudy! Rudy!"
Is it just me? Or is it?
Is it just me? Or is it?
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Where Do I Think Jose Reyes Will Land?
So where is Jose landing? Let's take a look at the shortstop landscape around the majors.
There are Six teams with the incumbents either going into free agency or have options for 2012.
Free agency (4) - Braves, Phillies, Astros, Orioles
Club options for 2012 (2) - Pirates, Red Sox
There are Five teams with their shortstops under contract for at least the next two years.
Marlins, Rockies, Yankees, White Sox, Twins
He's not going to the Pirates. The Astros? I doubt it. The Orioles may try to throw money at him, but why would he leave New York for them? The Red Sox may be maxed out in terms of dollars to spend. Would the Phillies add another big contract? The Braves may be a dark horse.
Can the Nationals sneak in the race? The Cubs have Castro so forget them. The Reds? Possibly. Brewers are a shot if they don't go the Fielder route. Cardinals are saving their money for Pujols. The Dodgers aren't going to be buyers. The Giants are a major possibility. Forget the Padres. The Rays don't have much committed for next year, but they didn't take a run at Crawford, so forget them. I don't think Jose's going to Toronto. Tigers? Peralta's under contract for 2012, but you never know. Royals and Indians are out. I don't see anyone in the AL west making a run.
The biggest risk factors for Jose to go besides the Mets lie in their own division. The Braves, Phillies and Nationals may all make a run at him. The Giants and Reds may go for him. In the American League, the only teams I can see making a go would be the Red Sox or the Orioles, but I don't think the American league is likely.
Maybe I'm just being hopeful, but I think the Mets have a shot. I think it will come down to the Mets, the Giants and the Nationals.
Incumbent Shortshops
Braves - Alex Gonzalez - free agent - $62MM committed
Marlins - Hanley Ramirez - signed through 2014 - $45MM committed
Phillies - Jimmie Rollins - free agent - $116MM committed
Nationals - Ian Desmond - not arbitration eligible - $44MM committed
Cubs - Starlin Castro - not arbitration eligible - $72MM committed
Reds - Paul Janish - first year arbitration eligible - $52MM committed
Astros - Clint Barmes - free agent - $47MM committed
Brewers - Yuniesky Betancourt - 2012 club option - $57MM committed
Pirates - Ronny Cedeno - 2012 club option - $10MM committed
Cardinals - Ryan Theriot - third year arbitration eligible - $49MM committed
Dodgers - Dee Gordon - not arbitration eligible - $46MM committed
Giants - Brandon Crawford - not arbitration eligible - $73MM committed
Rockies - Troy Tulowitzki - signed through 2020 - $65M committed
Padres - Jason Bartlett - signed through 2012 - $13MM committed
Diamondbacks - Stephen Drew - signed through 2012 - $29MM committed
Yankees - Derek Jeter - signed through 2013 - $153MM committed
Red Sox - Marco Scutaro - 2012 option $101MM committed
Rays - Elliot Johnson - not arbitration eligible - $16MM committed
Orioles - J.J. Hardy - free agent - $36MM committed
Blue Jays - Yunel Escobar - 2nd year of arbitration - $31MM committed
Twins - Tsuyoshi Nishioka - under contract through 2013 - $65MM committed
Tigers - Jhonny Peralta - under contract through 2012 - $73MM committed
White Sox - Alexei Ramirez - under contract through 2015 - $94MM committed
Royals - Alcides Escobar - not arbitration eligible - $11MM committed
Indians - Asdrubal Cabrera - 2nd year of arbitration - $13MM committed
Mariners - Brendan Ryan - under contract through 2012 - $59MM committed
Angels - Erick Aybar - going into 3rd year of arbitration - $80MM committed
Athletics - Cliff Pennington - not arbitration eligible - $17MM committed
Rangers - Elvis Andrus - first year arbitration eligible - $63MM committed
There are Six teams with the incumbents either going into free agency or have options for 2012.
Free agency (4) - Braves, Phillies, Astros, Orioles
Club options for 2012 (2) - Pirates, Red Sox
There are Five teams with their shortstops under contract for at least the next two years.
Marlins, Rockies, Yankees, White Sox, Twins
He's not going to the Pirates. The Astros? I doubt it. The Orioles may try to throw money at him, but why would he leave New York for them? The Red Sox may be maxed out in terms of dollars to spend. Would the Phillies add another big contract? The Braves may be a dark horse.
Can the Nationals sneak in the race? The Cubs have Castro so forget them. The Reds? Possibly. Brewers are a shot if they don't go the Fielder route. Cardinals are saving their money for Pujols. The Dodgers aren't going to be buyers. The Giants are a major possibility. Forget the Padres. The Rays don't have much committed for next year, but they didn't take a run at Crawford, so forget them. I don't think Jose's going to Toronto. Tigers? Peralta's under contract for 2012, but you never know. Royals and Indians are out. I don't see anyone in the AL west making a run.
The biggest risk factors for Jose to go besides the Mets lie in their own division. The Braves, Phillies and Nationals may all make a run at him. The Giants and Reds may go for him. In the American League, the only teams I can see making a go would be the Red Sox or the Orioles, but I don't think the American league is likely.
Maybe I'm just being hopeful, but I think the Mets have a shot. I think it will come down to the Mets, the Giants and the Nationals.
Incumbent Shortshops
Braves - Alex Gonzalez - free agent - $62MM committed
Marlins - Hanley Ramirez - signed through 2014 - $45MM committed
Phillies - Jimmie Rollins - free agent - $116MM committed
Nationals - Ian Desmond - not arbitration eligible - $44MM committed
Cubs - Starlin Castro - not arbitration eligible - $72MM committed
Reds - Paul Janish - first year arbitration eligible - $52MM committed
Astros - Clint Barmes - free agent - $47MM committed
Brewers - Yuniesky Betancourt - 2012 club option - $57MM committed
Pirates - Ronny Cedeno - 2012 club option - $10MM committed
Cardinals - Ryan Theriot - third year arbitration eligible - $49MM committed
Dodgers - Dee Gordon - not arbitration eligible - $46MM committed
Giants - Brandon Crawford - not arbitration eligible - $73MM committed
Rockies - Troy Tulowitzki - signed through 2020 - $65M committed
Padres - Jason Bartlett - signed through 2012 - $13MM committed
Diamondbacks - Stephen Drew - signed through 2012 - $29MM committed
Yankees - Derek Jeter - signed through 2013 - $153MM committed
Red Sox - Marco Scutaro - 2012 option $101MM committed
Rays - Elliot Johnson - not arbitration eligible - $16MM committed
Orioles - J.J. Hardy - free agent - $36MM committed
Blue Jays - Yunel Escobar - 2nd year of arbitration - $31MM committed
Twins - Tsuyoshi Nishioka - under contract through 2013 - $65MM committed
Tigers - Jhonny Peralta - under contract through 2012 - $73MM committed
White Sox - Alexei Ramirez - under contract through 2015 - $94MM committed
Royals - Alcides Escobar - not arbitration eligible - $11MM committed
Indians - Asdrubal Cabrera - 2nd year of arbitration - $13MM committed
Mariners - Brendan Ryan - under contract through 2012 - $59MM committed
Angels - Erick Aybar - going into 3rd year of arbitration - $80MM committed
Athletics - Cliff Pennington - not arbitration eligible - $17MM committed
Rangers - Elvis Andrus - first year arbitration eligible - $63MM committed
Demise of the Newark Bears?
I can't see how things are looking good for the Newark Bears.
This year, they moved from the Atlantic League and their 140-game season to the Can-Am League and their 94 game schedule.
Through 18 home dates, they have drawn 14,779 fans - an average of 821 per game (the 2nd lowest in the league).
The team may be managed by Tim Raines with coaches Ron Karkovice and Jim Leyritz with general manager Mike Torrez, but that's not getting people in the park.
The former ownership filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after the 2008 season, owing creditors more than $4.6 million. Ozzie Smith's ownership group took control of the franchise in 2009 and assumed in the ballpark of $1 million in debt.
The team changed ownership again prior to the 2010 season with Frank Boulton (who also owns other Atlantic League franchises) taking control of the franchise.
Prior to this season and the league switch, Frank Boulton sold his majority ownership stake to minority owner Thomas Cetnar.
Drawing 821 a game isn't going to pay down that debt when you have current expenses to pay. Attendance may be up during the summer months, but that's still far short of the 1,872 per game the club averaged last season.
I'd be surprised if the Bears are operating next year.
This year, they moved from the Atlantic League and their 140-game season to the Can-Am League and their 94 game schedule.
Through 18 home dates, they have drawn 14,779 fans - an average of 821 per game (the 2nd lowest in the league).
The team may be managed by Tim Raines with coaches Ron Karkovice and Jim Leyritz with general manager Mike Torrez, but that's not getting people in the park.
The former ownership filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after the 2008 season, owing creditors more than $4.6 million. Ozzie Smith's ownership group took control of the franchise in 2009 and assumed in the ballpark of $1 million in debt.
The team changed ownership again prior to the 2010 season with Frank Boulton (who also owns other Atlantic League franchises) taking control of the franchise.
Prior to this season and the league switch, Frank Boulton sold his majority ownership stake to minority owner Thomas Cetnar.
Drawing 821 a game isn't going to pay down that debt when you have current expenses to pay. Attendance may be up during the summer months, but that's still far short of the 1,872 per game the club averaged last season.
I'd be surprised if the Bears are operating next year.
Whiplash the Cowboy Monkey
While looking at the promotional schedules throughout the minor leagues, it looks like Whiplash the Cowboy Monkey preforms a lot at minor league games. This is a monkey that rides a border collie dressed up as a cowboy.
Gotta love the minor leagues.
Gotta love the minor leagues.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Tom Verducci and the Worst Managing Jobs
According to Tom Verducci at Sports Illustrated, the Mets job is the 4th worst managing job in the majors. The only teams that rank lower are the Marlins, Dodgers and A's.
Trade Jose Reyes, and the job may get worse.
Trade Jose Reyes, and the job may get worse.
Kicked Some Texas Ass
The Mets kicked the Ranger's butts today.
6 players had multi-hit games.
6 players had an RBI.
The only Met to not have a hit today was Angel Pagan, and that was only because he was robbed of a triple by an outstanding catch by Gentry.
Now they're back to one under .500 - tease land.
6 players had multi-hit games.
6 players had an RBI.
The only Met to not have a hit today was Angel Pagan, and that was only because he was robbed of a triple by an outstanding catch by Gentry.
Now they're back to one under .500 - tease land.
Davey Johnson - Nationals Manager?
It's looking like Davey is going to be the new Nationals manager.
Observations on Giveaway Hats
I must say this, the Yankees have quality giveaway hats. The one that they sent me it actually of pretty good quality, looks good, and is a hat that is a very wearable everyday hat. A lot of giveaway promo hats look pretty cheap. But the Yankee one is a good one and gets a thumbs up.
The Mets also do well with their promo hats. The blue hat last weekend from Geico is also a quality giveaway item and looks really sharp. It is now the #1 hat in my rotation. The Nathan's blue and orange hat that I also originally thought of as being really fugly is also of quality. The Seinfeld black hats from last month aren't bad, but the quality of that hat isn't the same as the Nathan's and Geico hats.
But overall, the Mets and Yankee giveaway hats are really good. They're also two teams that are right at the top of overall hat giveaway days as mentioned in an earlier post.
I also contacted a few of the other major league clubs and thusfar, two teams have sent me leftover promotional giveaway hats, which was really cool of both of them. I won't name the teams - they did something that they didn't have to do and they were very accommodating. I can also say that the New York teams are definitely heads and shoulders above the other clubs in terms of the quality of their giveaway hats.
Way to go New York!
The Mets also do well with their promo hats. The blue hat last weekend from Geico is also a quality giveaway item and looks really sharp. It is now the #1 hat in my rotation. The Nathan's blue and orange hat that I also originally thought of as being really fugly is also of quality. The Seinfeld black hats from last month aren't bad, but the quality of that hat isn't the same as the Nathan's and Geico hats.
But overall, the Mets and Yankee giveaway hats are really good. They're also two teams that are right at the top of overall hat giveaway days as mentioned in an earlier post.
I also contacted a few of the other major league clubs and thusfar, two teams have sent me leftover promotional giveaway hats, which was really cool of both of them. I won't name the teams - they did something that they didn't have to do and they were very accommodating. I can also say that the New York teams are definitely heads and shoulders above the other clubs in terms of the quality of their giveaway hats.
Way to go New York!
Upcoming Hat Promos Around The Minors...
For all you hat lovers out there, here are some upcoming hat promotions in the affiliated minor leagues...
Pawtucket Red Sox - July 21st
Las Vegas 51s - July 2, July 22
Reno Aces - Sept 3
Tucson Padres - July 29
Erie Seawolves - June 30
Harrisburg Senators - June 26 (bucket hat)
Corpus Christi Hooks - June 25, July 7, July 21, Aug 31
Northwest Arkansas Naturals - Aug 17
Tennessee Smokies - Jul 23, Aug 13
Princeton Rays - July 14
Inland Empire 66ers - July 29, Aug 21
Lake Elsinore Storm - Aug 13
Frederick Keys - July 23
Myrtle Beach Pelicans - Aug 19
Potomac Nationals - July 15
Wilmington Blue Rocks - July 30, Aug 10 (knit cap), Sept 1
Bowling Green Hot Rods - July 21
Peoria Chief - July 15, Aug 26 (winter cap)
Quad Cities River Bandits - Aug 10
Wisconsin Timber Rattlers - Jul 8, Aug 30
Auburn Doubledays - July 29
Brooklyn Cyclones - Sept 2 (ski cap)
Lowell Spinners - June 28
Mahoning Valley Scrappers - Aug 6
Spokane Indians - July 19
Vancouver Canadians - Aug 18
Billings Mustangs - July 29
Helena Brewers - Aug 5
Missoula Osprey - July 9
Augusta Greenjackets - Sept 2
Charleston Riverdogs - July 9
Hagerstown Suns - July 23
Lexington Legends - Sept 2
Pawtucket Red Sox - July 21st
Las Vegas 51s - July 2, July 22
Reno Aces - Sept 3
Tucson Padres - July 29
Erie Seawolves - June 30
Harrisburg Senators - June 26 (bucket hat)
Corpus Christi Hooks - June 25, July 7, July 21, Aug 31
Northwest Arkansas Naturals - Aug 17
Tennessee Smokies - Jul 23, Aug 13
Princeton Rays - July 14
Inland Empire 66ers - July 29, Aug 21
Lake Elsinore Storm - Aug 13
Frederick Keys - July 23
Myrtle Beach Pelicans - Aug 19
Potomac Nationals - July 15
Wilmington Blue Rocks - July 30, Aug 10 (knit cap), Sept 1
Bowling Green Hot Rods - July 21
Peoria Chief - July 15, Aug 26 (winter cap)
Quad Cities River Bandits - Aug 10
Wisconsin Timber Rattlers - Jul 8, Aug 30
Auburn Doubledays - July 29
Brooklyn Cyclones - Sept 2 (ski cap)
Lowell Spinners - June 28
Mahoning Valley Scrappers - Aug 6
Spokane Indians - July 19
Vancouver Canadians - Aug 18
Billings Mustangs - July 29
Helena Brewers - Aug 5
Missoula Osprey - July 9
Augusta Greenjackets - Sept 2
Charleston Riverdogs - July 9
Hagerstown Suns - July 23
Lexington Legends - Sept 2
The Yankees Came Through
Yes, I am a Mets fan. That does not mean I am a Yankee hater.
I know that sounds odd.
I had tickets for the June 11th game against the Indians - hat day. We know how I love giveaway hats.
I wasn't able to go. I put the tickets on stubhub, but the weather was crappy that day and two tickets weren't sold. I sold the other two and broke even, so it was no big deal. But I didn't get the Yankee giveaway hat (sponsored by Hess).
So I called the Yankees and they sent me the promo hats.
That was pretty cool.
I know that sounds odd.
I had tickets for the June 11th game against the Indians - hat day. We know how I love giveaway hats.
I wasn't able to go. I put the tickets on stubhub, but the weather was crappy that day and two tickets weren't sold. I sold the other two and broke even, so it was no big deal. But I didn't get the Yankee giveaway hat (sponsored by Hess).
So I called the Yankees and they sent me the promo hats.
That was pretty cool.
What's With Managers Resigning?
Jim Riggleman called it quits this week. I can't remember the last time (or any time for that face) that a manager resigned in the middle of the season. Now it's happened twice in one week.
WTF?
WTF?
The Beginning of the End
Yesterday was where it all starts. The Mets have begun the stretch that will bury them. From yesterday to the July 31st trade deadline, the Mets play only 10 games at home - against the Yankees, Phillies, Cardinals and one makeup game against the Marlins.
They will soon be entering the Dead Zone.
Speaking of the Dead Zone, we now have eight members of the club.
Baltimore Orioles
Minnesota Twins
Kansas City Royals
Los Angeles Dodgers
Florida Marlins
San Diego Padres
Houston Astros
Chicago Cubs
They will soon be entering the Dead Zone.
Speaking of the Dead Zone, we now have eight members of the club.
Baltimore Orioles
Minnesota Twins
Kansas City Royals
Los Angeles Dodgers
Florida Marlins
San Diego Padres
Houston Astros
Chicago Cubs
Friday, June 24, 2011
R.A. Dickey Bobblehead Night
R.A. Dickey is getting his own bobblehead. It won't be at Citifield. It's on August 12th for the St. Lucie Mets game.
Oh, and it's sponsored by a urologist.
Oh, and they're playing against the Stone Crabs.
Too funny.
Oh, and it's sponsored by a urologist.
Oh, and they're playing against the Stone Crabs.
Too funny.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Dead Team Roll Call!!!
Now there are seven.
Toronto Blue Jays
Baltimore Orioles
Kansas City Royals
Florida Marlins
San Diego Padres
Chicago Cubs
Houston Astros
The Twins and Dodgers have made their way off the Dead List and have been replaced by the Blue Jays, Orioles and Marlins.
Toronto Blue Jays
Baltimore Orioles
Kansas City Royals
Florida Marlins
San Diego Padres
Chicago Cubs
Houston Astros
The Twins and Dodgers have made their way off the Dead List and have been replaced by the Blue Jays, Orioles and Marlins.
I Think I Have to Hide My Hats
I finally got a Mets hat last month. I had to tell my wife to not wear it. I got a blue Mets hat at the game last week. I really, really had to tell my wife not to wear it because I really, really liked that one. I did not want it to go missing the way my authentic batting practice hat went last year, never to be seen again.
I got home the other night and saw she took my blue Mets hat. I found it under the couch. I hid it. I got home tonight and found that my black Mets hat was gone. I couldn't find it and finally found it buried.
That did it. I confiscated my hats and have now put them where she can't get them.
I got home the other night and saw she took my blue Mets hat. I found it under the couch. I hid it. I got home tonight and found that my black Mets hat was gone. I couldn't find it and finally found it buried.
That did it. I confiscated my hats and have now put them where she can't get them.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
I Love Hat Giveaways
The Mets had a great hat giveaway this weekend. Who else is giving away hats the rest of the season?
Baltimore Orioles - sorry kids, their lone hat day came and went on June 12th.
Boston Red Sox - no hat days all season. Boo.
New York Yankees - July 7 (visor), Aug 10, Aug 12 - and they had three earlier ones.
Tampa Bay Rays - no hat days all season. Boo
Toronto Blue Jays - no hat days all season.
The American League East is lacking, but the Yankees did a good job.
Atlanta Braves - If you went on May 14th, you got an Atlanta Black Crackers cap
Florida Marlins - Aug 6
Philadelphia Phillies - Sept 16 (knit hat). They had two cap giveways one each in May and June.
Washington Nationals - today June 19, July 4, July 8. Also one earlier hat giveway.
The National League East doesn't top the Mets, but the Nationals also do a good job.
Chicago White Sox - Sept 9, Sept 25 (knit hat) - 1 earlier hat day
Cleveland Indians - no hat days.
Detroit Tigers - June 28, July 2, July 16, Sept 3.
Kansas City Royals - July 23 (ladies cap), Sept 17 - 1 earlier hat day
Minnesota Twins - today June 19, July 23, Sept 27 (knit cap) - 1 earlier cap day
With the exception of the Indians - the AL Central did well.
Chicago Cubs - Aug 8, Aug 23 - two earlier cap days
Cincinnati Reds - two cap days, both have passed.
Houston Astros - July 20, Sept 23
Milwaukee Brewers - June 26
Pittsburgh Pirates - July 4. One past cap day.
St. Louis Cardinals - one past cap day
The NL Central was represented, but the only one that stood out was the Cubs.
Los Angeles Angels - July 7, Aug 4. Two prior hat days (one winter)
Oakland A's - July 4 (visor), Aug 14. Two prior hat days.
Seattle Mariners - July 3. One prior hat day (knit cap)
Texas Rangers - Aug 22, Sept 11. One prior hat day
The AL West gets a passing grade.
Arizona Diamondbacks - July 23, one past hat day
Colorado Rockies - July 17, Aug 6
Los Angeles Dodgers - July 24, Sept 15, Sept 20. One prior hat day
San Diego Padres - two non-kids hat days, both have passed
San Francisco Giants - July 24 (fedora). One prior hat day.
The Dodgers take the cake in the NL West.
Baltimore Orioles - sorry kids, their lone hat day came and went on June 12th.
Boston Red Sox - no hat days all season. Boo.
New York Yankees - July 7 (visor), Aug 10, Aug 12 - and they had three earlier ones.
Tampa Bay Rays - no hat days all season. Boo
Toronto Blue Jays - no hat days all season.
The American League East is lacking, but the Yankees did a good job.
Atlanta Braves - If you went on May 14th, you got an Atlanta Black Crackers cap
Florida Marlins - Aug 6
Philadelphia Phillies - Sept 16 (knit hat). They had two cap giveways one each in May and June.
Washington Nationals - today June 19, July 4, July 8. Also one earlier hat giveway.
The National League East doesn't top the Mets, but the Nationals also do a good job.
Chicago White Sox - Sept 9, Sept 25 (knit hat) - 1 earlier hat day
Cleveland Indians - no hat days.
Detroit Tigers - June 28, July 2, July 16, Sept 3.
Kansas City Royals - July 23 (ladies cap), Sept 17 - 1 earlier hat day
Minnesota Twins - today June 19, July 23, Sept 27 (knit cap) - 1 earlier cap day
With the exception of the Indians - the AL Central did well.
Chicago Cubs - Aug 8, Aug 23 - two earlier cap days
Cincinnati Reds - two cap days, both have passed.
Houston Astros - July 20, Sept 23
Milwaukee Brewers - June 26
Pittsburgh Pirates - July 4. One past cap day.
St. Louis Cardinals - one past cap day
The NL Central was represented, but the only one that stood out was the Cubs.
Los Angeles Angels - July 7, Aug 4. Two prior hat days (one winter)
Oakland A's - July 4 (visor), Aug 14. Two prior hat days.
Seattle Mariners - July 3. One prior hat day (knit cap)
Texas Rangers - Aug 22, Sept 11. One prior hat day
The AL West gets a passing grade.
Arizona Diamondbacks - July 23, one past hat day
Colorado Rockies - July 17, Aug 6
Los Angeles Dodgers - July 24, Sept 15, Sept 20. One prior hat day
San Diego Padres - two non-kids hat days, both have passed
San Francisco Giants - July 24 (fedora). One prior hat day.
The Dodgers take the cake in the NL West.
Mets Pitchers 20 Over/Under
Hockey has a plus/minus - how about the Mets?
Tom Seaver - 198-124 +74
Dwight Gooden - 157-85 +72
David Cone - 81-51 +30
Ron Darling - 99-70 +29
Al Leiter - 95-67 +28
Rick Reed - 59-36 +23
Sid Fernandez - 98-78 +20
Tracy Stallard - 16-37 -21
Jay Hook - 12-34 -22
Galen Cisco - 18-43 -25
Anthony Young - 5-35 -30
Roger Craig - 15-46 -31
Jack Fisher - 38-73 -35
Al Jackson - 43-80 -37
Tom Seaver - 198-124 +74
Dwight Gooden - 157-85 +72
David Cone - 81-51 +30
Ron Darling - 99-70 +29
Al Leiter - 95-67 +28
Rick Reed - 59-36 +23
Sid Fernandez - 98-78 +20
Tracy Stallard - 16-37 -21
Jay Hook - 12-34 -22
Galen Cisco - 18-43 -25
Anthony Young - 5-35 -30
Roger Craig - 15-46 -31
Jack Fisher - 38-73 -35
Al Jackson - 43-80 -37
The Mets Have to Sign Jose
Is Jose going to get major dollars next year? Yes.
Do the Mets want to shed payroll next year? Yes.
They can still do that and keep Reyes.
At this point, the Mets are committed to $66.83MM in contracts for the 2013 season
Do the Mets want to shed payroll next year? Yes.
They can still do that and keep Reyes.
At this point, the Mets are committed to $66.83MM in contracts for the 2013 season
- Johan Santana - $24MM
- Jason Bay - $18.13MM
- David Wright - $15.25MM
- R.A. Dickey - $4.25MM
- Francisco Rodriguez - $3.5MM minimum if the option doesn't kick in
- D.J. Carrasco - $1.2MM
They have five players eligible for arbitration making $9.80MM. If they keep all these guys, expect this number to go up.
- Mike Pelfrey - currently making $3.92MM
- Angel Pagan - making $3.5MM
- Ronny Paulino - making $1.35MM
- Taylor Bucholz - making $600M
- Bobby Parnell - making $433M
They have the following contracts coming off the payroll totaling $57MM
- Carlos Beltran - $20.07MM
- Jose Reyes - $11MM
- Ryota Igarashi - $1.75MM
- Chris Capuano - $1.5MM
- Scott Hairston - $1.1MM
- Chris Young - $1.1MM
- Tim Byrdak - $900M
- Willie Harris - $800M
- Jason Isringhausen - (I don't have this salary figure)
- Oliver Perez - $12MM
- Luis Castillo - $6MM
- Gary Matthews, Jr. - $1MM
The rest of the team is making less than $500M, is under team control and is not arbitration eligible - thus keeping salaries low.
The Mets Opening Day payroll was $142.79MM.
If you just take the money that's coming off the payroll next year - we're at almost $86MM. Bump that figure up for the raises the arbitration guys will get. The Mets can give Jose a $20MM/year contract and still be in the $110MM payroll range (provided K-Rod's option clause doesn't kick in). The only other free agent I can at this point even see the Mets having any interest in is Capuano - but with next year's projected rotation of Santana, Dickey, Niese, Pelfrey and Gee already in place and the young arms in the system - they'll be able to afford to let Capuano go.
Are the Mets losing money? Yes. But will they lose more if they don't spend it on Reyes?
Without having access to the books, I can't make that call.
Another Marlins Manager Bites the Dust
The Florida Marlins have been in existence since 1993. This is their 19th season of Major League Baseball. Edwin Rodriguez was manager number eleven. They are now in search of manager number twelve.
- Renee Lachmann - 1993-1996
- John Boles - 1996
- Cookie Rojas - 1996
- Jim Leyland - 1997-1998
- John Boles - 1999-2001
- Tony Perez - 2001
- Jeff Torborg - 2002-2003
- Jack McKeon - 2003-2005
- Joe Girardi - 2006
- Fredi Gonzalez - 2007-2010
- Edwin Rodriguez - 2010-2011
If you want job security, don't manage the Marlins.
Good Thing There is a 40 Man Roster
The Mets have already used 39 players this year - not even at the all star break. That's a lot of roster turnover - 19 pitchers, 20 position players.
Back to Six Dead Teams
The Royals are back in the Dead Pool, once again 8 games out of a playoff spot - more than one full week behind in the race for September. Once again in the Land of the Lost, the 2011 casualties consist of the Royals, Twins, Dodgers, Padres, Cubs and Astros.
Teetering on the brink are the Marlins, Orioles and Athletics - but they're not there yet.
As we approach the end of June, the contenders are starting to separate from the pretenders. At the moment, the Mets have not decided what category they fit into.
Teetering on the brink are the Marlins, Orioles and Athletics - but they're not there yet.
As we approach the end of June, the contenders are starting to separate from the pretenders. At the moment, the Mets have not decided what category they fit into.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
The Mets Win and Sharp Looking Geico Blue Hat
Pelf pitched a strong complete game, Beltran hit a 460 foot blast and the Blue Mets Hats that they gave away tonight were really sharp looking - classic blue and by far the best hat giveaway thusfar this year. One worth wearing, even if it says Geico on the back.
Current Vegas Odds on the 2011 World Series
My name isn't Pete, nor am I a degenerate gambler - but here are the current Vegas favorites and not-so-favorites for this year's World Series
- Phillies - 5/2
- Red Sox - 4/1
- Yankees - 5/1
- Giants - 15/1
- Cardinals - 15/1
- Rangers - 15/1
The Not-So-Favorites
- Pirates - 500/1
- Astros - 500/1
- Royals - 200/1
- Mariners - 125/1
- Padres - 100/1
- Nationals - 100/1
- Orioles - 100/1
- Mets - 100/1
Even the Twins, currently at 29-39 and one of the "dead" teams is still a bigger favorite than the Mets with 75/1 odds.
Even the 29-40 Cubs also at 75/1 are bigger favorites.
Vegas is saying the Mets need to man up and play better.
And Then There Were Five
The Royals have made it back into the race (or have they?). They've within 7 games of the American League Central. They're no longer at that arbitrary 8 games back mark that make them officially DEE-EE-AH-DEE Dead.
So the Dead Teams Walking now stand at five:
Dodgers
Cubs
Padres
Astros
Twins
So the Dead Teams Walking now stand at five:
Dodgers
Cubs
Padres
Astros
Twins
I'd Crawl Under a Rock if I Did This - John Wall's first pitch.
John Wall should stick to basketball.
Cyclones Season Has Started
Looking at the roster, the Baby Mets have three players on the roster with the last name of Brown.
Shortshop Brandon Brown
Second Baseman J.B. Brown
Outfielder Dylan Brown
Shortshop Brandon Brown
Second Baseman J.B. Brown
Outfielder Dylan Brown
Friday, June 17, 2011
Among the Trade Bait Mentioned Earlier...
From the Dodgers -
- Jamie Carroll is hitting .314 with a .382 OBP in 236 at bats.
- Rafael Furcal is making $13MM and is hitting .212 in 66 at bats - currently on the DL
- Hiroki Kuroda has a 3.31 ERA in 89 innings
- Jonathon Broxton - 5.68 ERA in 12 innings and on the DL
- Rod Barajas - 8 HR and .222 batting average in 180 at bats
- Vincente Padilla - 8.2 innings pitched - had neck surgery and could be out for the year
Padres -
- Heath Bell - 2.79 ERA and 18 saves
- Ryan Ludwick - .259 BA and 8 HR in 247 at bats
Cubs -
- Fukudome - hitting .296 with a .408 OBP in 189 at bats with 3 HR.
- Carlos Pena - batting .218 with 10 HR.
- John Grabow - 5.19 ERA in 29 innings, 29 appearances
Astros -
- Clint Barmes - hitting . 219 in 155 at bats
Twins -
- Jim Thome - on the DL
- Michael Cuddyer - .282 with 10 HR
- Jason Kubel - .310, 5 HR, 30 RBI
- Matt Capps - 4.20 ERA with 10 saves
Royals -
- Jason Kendall - on the DL with a shoulder surgery
- Kyle Davies - on the DL but making rehab starts in the minors
- Bruce Chen - on the DL and making rehab starts in the minors
- Jeff Francis - 4.83 ERA in 91 innings and 15 starts
I could see Jamie Carroll going to someone looking for an extra stick. Hiroki Kuroda could be that extra arm teams are looking for. Rod Barajas - eh, we knew what he was with the Mets. Heath Bell - likely to go. Ludwig? Who knows. Fukudome - the batting average is there, but there's no pop. The Cubs would have to pick up part of the contract for a rental player. Pena may do better in a change of scenery. Grabow? Dime a dozen. Clint Barmes - good luck getting a taker. The Twins could be interesting - they got off to such a terrible start, but they're now on a streak and they have parts that other teams could want. Jeff Francis maybe if a team wants some innings, but he's not going to make a difference in a pennant race.
Trade Bait Across the Majors?
As of today, there are six teams that are 8 games or more out of a playoff spot, be it division or the wildcard. There are other teams on the cusp of 8, but using 8 as the cutoff of being out of the race - as of June 17th, there are six teams that could officially be declared "sellers" heading into the last month and a half before the non-waiver trade line. The dirty half-dozen - the Dodgers, Padres, Cubs, Astros, Twins and Royals.
What players are most likely to be traded? If the answer to this question is players with larger salaries nearing the end of their contract are set to become free agents - who fits this description among these six?
Dodgers
What players are most likely to be traded? If the answer to this question is players with larger salaries nearing the end of their contract are set to become free agents - who fits this description among these six?
Dodgers
- Rafael Furcal - SS - $13MM in 2011 and free agent after this season
- Hiroki Kuroda - P - $12MM in 2011 and free agent after this season
- Jonathon Broxton - P - $7MM in 2011 and free agent after this season
- Rod Barajas - C - $3.25MM in 2011 and free agent
- Jamey Carroll - INF - $2.3MM in 2011 and free agent
- Vicente Padilla - P - $2MM in 2011 and free agent
Padres
- Heath Bell - P - $7.5MM in 2011 and free agent
- Ryan Ludwick - OF - $6.77MM in 2011 and free agent
Cubs
- Kosuke Fukudome - OF - $14.5MM in 2011 and free agent
- Carlos Pena - 1B - $10MM in 2011 and free agent
- John Grabow - P - $4.8MM in 2011 and free agent
Astros
- Clint Barmes - 2B - $3.92MM in 2011 and free agent
Twins
- Michael Cuddyer - OF - $10.5MM in 2011 and free agent
- Matt Capps - P - $7.15MM in 2011 and free agent
- Jason Kubel - OF - $5.25MM in 2011 and free agent
- Jim Thome - DH - $3MM in 2011 and free agent
Royals
- Jason Kendall - C - $3.75MM in 2011 and free agent
- Kyle Davies - P - $3.2MM in 2011 and free agent
- Bruce Chen - P - $2MM in 2011 and free agent
- Jeff Francis - P - $2MM in 2011 and free agent
Mets Pitchers With The Bat
Here are some of the batting lines of some of our favorite Mets pitchers through the years.
Dwight Gooden - .197 BA, 730 AB, 59 R, 144 H, 15 2B, 5 3B, 7 HR, 65 RBI
Tom Seaver - .150 BA, 975 AB, 70 R, 146 H, 17 2B, 5 3B, 6 HR, 60 RBI
Jerry Koosman - .121 BA, 807 AB, 33 R, 98 H, 12 2B, 1 3B, 2 HR, 39 RBI
Tug McGraw - .172 BA, 157 AB, 12 R, 27 H, 6 2B, 0 3B, 1 HR, 15 RBI
Jesse Orosco - .179 BA, 56 AB, 2 R, 10 H, 0 2B, 0 3B, 0 HR, 4 RBI
Roger McDowell - .246 BA, 61 AB, 4 R, 15 H, 5 2B, 0 3B, 0 HR, 6 RBI
Ron Darling - .145 BA, 519 AB, 39 R, 75 H, 20 2B, 2 3B, 2 HR, 19 RBI
Sid Fernandez - .190 BA, 495 AB, 27 R, 94 H, 14 2B, 2 3B, 1 HR, 31 RBI
Al Leiter - .084 BA, 394 AB, 10 R, 33 H, 7 2B, 1 3B, 0 HR, 14 RBI
David Cone - .155 BA, 399 AB, 26 R, 62 H, 8 2B, 0 3B, 0 HR, 20 RBI
Rick Aguilera - .203 BA, 138 AB, 12 R, 28 H, 3 2B, 0 3B, 3 HR, 11 RBI
Thursday, June 16, 2011
MLB and Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest - Qualifier #4
The fourth qualifier for the MLB and Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest features entrants from the National League Central. In our largest qualifying heat, we have Tony LaRussa representing the St. Louis Cardinals. We have the Pirate Parrot representing the Pittsburgh Pirates. Craig Counsell is the entrant from the Milwaukee Brewers. Rounding out the field we have Carlos Marmol of the Chicago Cubs and Jeff Fulchino of the Houston Astros. Mike Leake was the Cincinnati Reds entrant as part of his community service, but was nowhere to be seen. We were informed he hadn't checked in with his probation officer earlier in the day. We just hope he wasn't at a J.C. Penny.
It was quite a sight seeing the contestants lined up at the table. Tony LaRussa was at one end wearing his sunglasses. The Pirate Parrot was at the far and and was waving to the crowd. Jeff Fulchino was in the middle and looked like a giant standing next to Craig Counsell.
The contestants were told to start eating and the ten minute gorgefest began. Jeff Fulchino double fisted two dogs into his mouth at once and within the first thirty seconds, he had downed four. Tony LaRussa picked up his first dog and studied it. He examined it from all angles. He finally took a his first bite nearly a minute in. Carlos Marmol started munching away, but was nothing compared to Craig Counsell's Joey Chestnut imitation as he started downing the dogs.
The big surprise was the Pirate Parrot. One by one, hot dogs disappeared into the hole in his mouth. One went in after another. The first plate of twenty hot dogs and buns disappeared within the first minute. A second was placed in front of him and they were completely gone by minute number two. A third plate was gone by the third minute. The Parrot was downing them at world record pace. The bird was seemingly a black hole.
After downing sixty dogs in three minutes, the Parrot stopped and began playing to the crowd. Sensing imminent victory, the Parrot stopped eating. It danced around the other contestants and starting waggling its Pirate booty the way only a sports mascot can.
In the meantime, the other contestants continued eating. Tony LaRussa was working on only his second dog by the halfway point, seeming to savor every bite like a fine wine. Carlos Marmol was proving to be nowhere up to the task with only four. The battle for second place was between the men in the middle - Fulchino had slowed, but was working on number eleven. Counsell had pulled ahead of Fulchino and was on number thirteen.
By the eight minute mark, the battle for second was all but won. The big man hit the wall and was on fourteen, was chewing very slowly and was holding his stomach. Counsell was on dog number seventeen. When time was called, he had downed two more and finished with nineteen.
The Pirate Parrot was dancing around, pointing to himself and wildly celebrating in his dominant victory over the rest of the field. The Parrot had tripled the second place Counsell and got right in his face, silently making fun of him. Craig Counsell had a big grin on his face and began shaking the Parrot's leg. Hot dogs started tumbling out of the bottom of the costume, all uneaten. The Pirate Parrot was proven a cheater and was disqualified.
Craig Counsell was declared the winner.
Here are the official results of qualifier number four:
1) Craig Counsell - 19 hot dogs
2) Jeff Fulchino - 15 hot dogs
3) Carlos Marmol - 6 hot dogs
4) Tony LaRussa - 3 hot dogs
5) The Pirate Parrot - disqualified
Mike Leake - probation violation.
See you on the fourth, Craig!
It was quite a sight seeing the contestants lined up at the table. Tony LaRussa was at one end wearing his sunglasses. The Pirate Parrot was at the far and and was waving to the crowd. Jeff Fulchino was in the middle and looked like a giant standing next to Craig Counsell.
The contestants were told to start eating and the ten minute gorgefest began. Jeff Fulchino double fisted two dogs into his mouth at once and within the first thirty seconds, he had downed four. Tony LaRussa picked up his first dog and studied it. He examined it from all angles. He finally took a his first bite nearly a minute in. Carlos Marmol started munching away, but was nothing compared to Craig Counsell's Joey Chestnut imitation as he started downing the dogs.
The big surprise was the Pirate Parrot. One by one, hot dogs disappeared into the hole in his mouth. One went in after another. The first plate of twenty hot dogs and buns disappeared within the first minute. A second was placed in front of him and they were completely gone by minute number two. A third plate was gone by the third minute. The Parrot was downing them at world record pace. The bird was seemingly a black hole.
After downing sixty dogs in three minutes, the Parrot stopped and began playing to the crowd. Sensing imminent victory, the Parrot stopped eating. It danced around the other contestants and starting waggling its Pirate booty the way only a sports mascot can.
In the meantime, the other contestants continued eating. Tony LaRussa was working on only his second dog by the halfway point, seeming to savor every bite like a fine wine. Carlos Marmol was proving to be nowhere up to the task with only four. The battle for second place was between the men in the middle - Fulchino had slowed, but was working on number eleven. Counsell had pulled ahead of Fulchino and was on number thirteen.
By the eight minute mark, the battle for second was all but won. The big man hit the wall and was on fourteen, was chewing very slowly and was holding his stomach. Counsell was on dog number seventeen. When time was called, he had downed two more and finished with nineteen.
The Pirate Parrot was dancing around, pointing to himself and wildly celebrating in his dominant victory over the rest of the field. The Parrot had tripled the second place Counsell and got right in his face, silently making fun of him. Craig Counsell had a big grin on his face and began shaking the Parrot's leg. Hot dogs started tumbling out of the bottom of the costume, all uneaten. The Pirate Parrot was proven a cheater and was disqualified.
Craig Counsell was declared the winner.
Here are the official results of qualifier number four:
1) Craig Counsell - 19 hot dogs
2) Jeff Fulchino - 15 hot dogs
3) Carlos Marmol - 6 hot dogs
4) Tony LaRussa - 3 hot dogs
5) The Pirate Parrot - disqualified
Mike Leake - probation violation.
See you on the fourth, Craig!
All Time Mets - The Error Edition
Bud Harrelson has made the most errors in Mets history with 183. Not surprising considering he had 6,139 total chances - 5th all time among Mets. The only four Mets who had more total chances than him should not come as a surprise - Ed Kranepool, Jerry Grote, Keith Hernandez and Mike Piazza. Two first basemen. Two catchers. Guys who get a chance with every groundout to first and with every strikeout.
1) Bud Harrelson - 183 errors in 6,139 total chances
2) Howard Johnson - 180 errors in 3.063 total chances
3) David Wright - 132 errors in 2,836 total chances
4) Jose Reyes - 107 errors in 4,135 total chances
4) Wayne Garrett - 105 errors in 2,620 total chances
What does this tell us? Bud may have made more errors than any Met in history (he only played with them for 13 seasons), but HoJo had an iron glove.
1) Bud Harrelson - 183 errors in 6,139 total chances
2) Howard Johnson - 180 errors in 3.063 total chances
3) David Wright - 132 errors in 2,836 total chances
4) Jose Reyes - 107 errors in 4,135 total chances
4) Wayne Garrett - 105 errors in 2,620 total chances
What does this tell us? Bud may have made more errors than any Met in history (he only played with them for 13 seasons), but HoJo had an iron glove.
Weird Programming Quirk at MLB
If you were to google "Braves all time stats", the web address you'd be directed to is:
www.barrybonds.mlb.com/atl/history/all_time_leaders.jsp
When was Barry ever a member of the Braves? And why are their all time statistical records linked to him?
www.barrybonds.mlb.com/atl/history/all_time_leaders.jsp
When was Barry ever a member of the Braves? And why are their all time statistical records linked to him?
Hairston - From Bolivia to Tying the Game
As Mike Tyson would say, he was fading into Bolivia. He just hit a 3 run jack to tie the game.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
They Were On The Mets?
Of the 910 players who have appeared in a game for the Mets - a whole lot of them appeared in less than 20 games.
Who could forget these guys once played for the Mets?
Octavio Dotel - 19 games
Kaz Ishii - 19 games
Bruce Bochy (yes, that Bruce Bochy) - 17 games
Hideo Nomo - 17 games
Pat Tabler - 17 games
Sandy Alomar - 15 games
Larry Bowa - 14 games
Don Zimmer - 14 games
Billy Beane - 13 games
Kenny Rogers - 12 games
Dick Tidrow - 11 games
Sandy Alomar, Jr - 8 games
Yogi Berra - 4 games
John Candelaria - 3 games
Kevin Tapani - 3 games
Who could forget these guys once played for the Mets?
Octavio Dotel - 19 games
Kaz Ishii - 19 games
Bruce Bochy (yes, that Bruce Bochy) - 17 games
Hideo Nomo - 17 games
Pat Tabler - 17 games
Sandy Alomar - 15 games
Larry Bowa - 14 games
Don Zimmer - 14 games
Billy Beane - 13 games
Kenny Rogers - 12 games
Dick Tidrow - 11 games
Sandy Alomar, Jr - 8 games
Yogi Berra - 4 games
John Candelaria - 3 games
Kevin Tapani - 3 games
Highest ERA's Among Mets Pitchers
There have been 428 men who have pitched for the Mets in their history (including Todd Zeile). Only 33 have thrown at least 500 innings to qualify for this stat.
So who has the worst ERA's among Mets pitchers who have thrown at least 500 innings?
1) Oliver Perez - 4.71
2) Mike Pelfrey - 4.37
3) Al Jackson - 4.26
4) John Maine - 4.17
5) Dave Mlicki - 4.15
You may think these numbers may have been higher, but if you were getting shelled at higher numbers - you wouldn't last long enough in the rotation to get to 500 innings.
But either way you slice it, Ollie P sucked.
But either way you slice it, Ollie P sucked.
Pitchers that have had at least 250 innings with the Mets that have ERA's that matched or exceeded Mlicki's 4.15
Nino Espinosa - 4.15 in 457.1 innings
Aaron Heilman - 4.24 in 450.1
Tracey Stallard - 4.16 in 380.1
Jay Hook - 5.22 in 376
Glendon Rusch - 4.30 in 370.2
Mike Scott - 4.64 in 364.2
Jason Isringhausen - 4.57 in 356.1
Pete Schourek - 4.65 in 350.2
Masato Yoshii - 4.17 in 345.2
Pete Harnisch - 4.33 in 330.1
Mike Torres - 4.47 in 260
So if you want to look at it that way, the worst pitcher in Met's history is appropriately named Jay Hook of the 15-34 Hook's.
Lowest Batting, Slugging and On Base Percentages
There have been 71 Mets who have had at least 1000 plate appearances to qualify for the "all time" stats in these categories.
Who's at the bottom?
Batting Average:
1) Dave Kingman - .219
1a) Duffy Dyer - .219
3) Kevin Elster - .224
4) Roy McMillan - .226
5) Bud Harrelson - .234
Doug Flynn - .234
On Base Percentage:
1) Doug Flynn - .264
2) Ted Martinez - .267
3) Roy McMillan - .269
4) Dave Kingman - .287
5) Kevin Elster - .288
Slugging Percentage:
1) Roy McMillan . 275
2) Bud Harrelson - .287
3) Doug Flynn - .292
4) Rey Ordonez - .304
5) Ted Martinez - .309
Who's at the bottom?
Batting Average:
1) Dave Kingman - .219
1a) Duffy Dyer - .219
3) Kevin Elster - .224
4) Roy McMillan - .226
5) Bud Harrelson - .234
Doug Flynn - .234
On Base Percentage:
1) Doug Flynn - .264
2) Ted Martinez - .267
3) Roy McMillan - .269
4) Dave Kingman - .287
5) Kevin Elster - .288
Slugging Percentage:
1) Roy McMillan . 275
2) Bud Harrelson - .287
3) Doug Flynn - .292
4) Rey Ordonez - .304
5) Ted Martinez - .309
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Jeter to Get 3,000 at Citi?
With Derek heading to the DL, he should be right on target to get number 3,000 at Citifield. I'm sure there are plenty of Mets fans who don't want that to happen. I do. I'd love to see it happen. Or what I'd really love to see is have him be one or two hits away going into the Saturday game and then get it on Sunday. I have an extra ticket to each game and if he's close, the price I can get on the re-sell goes up.
Cha-ching. I was quite happy when I heard about the DL stint today.
Cha-ching. I was quite happy when I heard about the DL stint today.
Monday, June 13, 2011
MLB and Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest - Qualifier #3
The first two qualifier's for this years inaugural MLB and Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Costest to be held on July 4th proved to be quite a show. Ichro Suzuki won the first qualifer, beating out Coco Crisp on a turn of Coco's stomach. In qualifer number two, Brian Wilson narrowly edged out Jason Giambi with a last minute stuffing. The third qualifier features participants from the American League Central Division.
Representing the Cleveland Indians is Orlando Cabrera. From the Detroit Tigers, Daniel Schlereth. The Chicago White Sox representative is A.J. Pierzynski. From the Kansas City Royals, we have Matt Treanor. Rounding out the competition is Carl Pavano of the Minnesota Twins.
An ESPN fan poll saw no clear but favorite in this qualifying round. Orlando Cabrera held the slight edge with 27% of the fan vote, followed by A.J. Pierzynski's 24%.
As they lined up to the table and awaited the word to start eating, a buzz spread through the crowd. Alyssa Milano appeared, showing off her 6 month pregnant belly in an undersized t-shirt that said "Who's the Boss?" Carl's jaw dropped as Alyssa made her way to the stage and took her place behind him as his bunnette. After she gave Carl a little peck on the cheek, she complimented Misty May, who was standing behind her husband Matt Treanor, on her outfit that just happened to be from Alyssa's "Touch" sports clothing line.
Once the commotion settled, the contestants were ready to start.
By the two minute mark, it became apparent that the competition from this heat wasn't nearly as fierce as the previous qualifer. Orlando and A.J. were each working on their third dog while the other three competitors each had finished two. By minute four, the entire field was neck and neck with five dogs apiece.
By the six minute mark, it was becoming apparent that this would be by far the weakest group of competitors. Orlando Cabrera was leading the field with eight. A.J. was right behind him with seven. Matt Treanor and Daniel Schlereth had downed six each and Carl Pavano was in last place with six.
The competition looked as if it would end with a whimper as none of the competitors looked all to happy about ingesting any more hot dogs by the eight and a half minute mark. Orlando Cabrera was sitting on ten and was looking a little green. Matt Treanor, being cheered on by Misty had worked his way up to eight and a half. Schlereth was stuck on seven and Carl Pavano had gone on the competitive eating's equivalent of the disabled list a minute earlier. A.J. Pierzynski had managed to pull into a tie for first with ten.
As the competition rolled to a close, Orlando had stopped eating. He was trying hard to keep what he had down and managed to hold on just long enough to make it official before vomiting into his bucket. A.J. choked down one more dog to edge out Orlando and win with an uninspiring total of eleven.
Here's the final results from qualifer number three:
A.J. Pierzynski - 11 Hot Dogs
Orlando Cabrera - 10 Hot Dogs
Matt Treanor - 10 Hot Dogs
Daniel Schlereth - 8 Hot Dogs
Carl Pavano - 6 Hot Dogs
A.J. Pierzynski moves onto the next round and will be competing against Ichiro Suzuki and Brian Wilson on July 4th. The final three entrants will be determined shortly.
Representing the Cleveland Indians is Orlando Cabrera. From the Detroit Tigers, Daniel Schlereth. The Chicago White Sox representative is A.J. Pierzynski. From the Kansas City Royals, we have Matt Treanor. Rounding out the competition is Carl Pavano of the Minnesota Twins.
An ESPN fan poll saw no clear but favorite in this qualifying round. Orlando Cabrera held the slight edge with 27% of the fan vote, followed by A.J. Pierzynski's 24%.
As they lined up to the table and awaited the word to start eating, a buzz spread through the crowd. Alyssa Milano appeared, showing off her 6 month pregnant belly in an undersized t-shirt that said "Who's the Boss?" Carl's jaw dropped as Alyssa made her way to the stage and took her place behind him as his bunnette. After she gave Carl a little peck on the cheek, she complimented Misty May, who was standing behind her husband Matt Treanor, on her outfit that just happened to be from Alyssa's "Touch" sports clothing line.
Once the commotion settled, the contestants were ready to start.
By the two minute mark, it became apparent that the competition from this heat wasn't nearly as fierce as the previous qualifer. Orlando and A.J. were each working on their third dog while the other three competitors each had finished two. By minute four, the entire field was neck and neck with five dogs apiece.
By the six minute mark, it was becoming apparent that this would be by far the weakest group of competitors. Orlando Cabrera was leading the field with eight. A.J. was right behind him with seven. Matt Treanor and Daniel Schlereth had downed six each and Carl Pavano was in last place with six.
The competition looked as if it would end with a whimper as none of the competitors looked all to happy about ingesting any more hot dogs by the eight and a half minute mark. Orlando Cabrera was sitting on ten and was looking a little green. Matt Treanor, being cheered on by Misty had worked his way up to eight and a half. Schlereth was stuck on seven and Carl Pavano had gone on the competitive eating's equivalent of the disabled list a minute earlier. A.J. Pierzynski had managed to pull into a tie for first with ten.
As the competition rolled to a close, Orlando had stopped eating. He was trying hard to keep what he had down and managed to hold on just long enough to make it official before vomiting into his bucket. A.J. choked down one more dog to edge out Orlando and win with an uninspiring total of eleven.
Here's the final results from qualifer number three:
A.J. Pierzynski - 11 Hot Dogs
Orlando Cabrera - 10 Hot Dogs
Matt Treanor - 10 Hot Dogs
Daniel Schlereth - 8 Hot Dogs
Carl Pavano - 6 Hot Dogs
A.J. Pierzynski moves onto the next round and will be competing against Ichiro Suzuki and Brian Wilson on July 4th. The final three entrants will be determined shortly.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Back to One Under
Once again, the 2011 Mets are playing the role of That Girl From High School. With today's 7-0 victory, they've once again teased us into getting within one game of that elusive .500 mark. They may even achieve it before heading off to the House of Horrors known as Turner Field in Atlanta.
Damn them.
Damn them.
Tejada, Murphy or Turner?
The race for second is getting interesting. Tejada is showing he has some stick besides just a slick glove. Is he setting himself up as the front runner for second base once the corners return? Justin Turner is cooling off after his hot start. Daniel Murphy is raking well right now, but he's not the fielder Tejada is. Let's also not forget - Collins seems to really like the kid.
MLB and Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest - Qualifier #2
Qualifer number two for the big Fourth of July Hot Dog eating contest featured the National League West. Stepping up to the table today was Brian Wilson of the San Francisco Giants, Armando Gallaraga of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Jason Giambi of the Colorado Rockies and Kyle Phillips of the San Diego Padres. The Los Angeles Dodgers were not represented. Unfortunately, with their financial difficulties, Tom Schieffer would not approve the expense of sending someone to the competition.
Brian Wilson was looking fearsome. Armando Gallaraga looked gracious. Jason Giambi was gray and bloated. Kyle Phillips just looked happy to be there.
The four contestants lined up to the table. Right before the start, Brian Wilson called out Coco Crisp and his performance in the first qualifer. "He couldn't close. I'll show him how it's done. Fear the Beard!"
Brian Wilson came out of the gate hard, downing four dogs in the first minute. Giambi was right on his heels with three. Phillips finished his third moments later and Gallaraga had scarfed two.
Wilson continued setting the pace, finishing his twentieth dog at the six minute mark and letting out a roar as his second plate of twenty dogs and buns was placed in front of him. Giambi was in hot pursuit, finishing his twentieth a minute later. Phillips was doing his best to keep up, but was only on dog number fourteen as Giambi downed number twenty. Gallaraga was showing why he was demoted to AAA as he couldn't keep up with the major leaguers. By the seventh minute, he was fading into the distance only on dog number six.
Wilson seemed to be running out of steam as they headed into the homestretch and Giambi was gaining ground fast. Going into the last sixty seconds, the pair was one dog apart - Wilson's thirty two to Giambi's thirty one. It looked like Giambi was going to overtake Wilson until the final ten seconds when Wilson double fisted two dogs and seemingly swallowed both whole as time expired.
Brian Wilson emerged victorious, earning his own save.
Here are the final results from Qualifer #2
Brian Wilson - 36 Hot Dogs
Jason Giambi - 35 Hot Dogs
Kyle Phillips - 21 Hot Dogs
Armando Galaraga - 10 Hot Dogs
Brian Wilson was looking fearsome. Armando Gallaraga looked gracious. Jason Giambi was gray and bloated. Kyle Phillips just looked happy to be there.
The four contestants lined up to the table. Right before the start, Brian Wilson called out Coco Crisp and his performance in the first qualifer. "He couldn't close. I'll show him how it's done. Fear the Beard!"
Brian Wilson came out of the gate hard, downing four dogs in the first minute. Giambi was right on his heels with three. Phillips finished his third moments later and Gallaraga had scarfed two.
Wilson continued setting the pace, finishing his twentieth dog at the six minute mark and letting out a roar as his second plate of twenty dogs and buns was placed in front of him. Giambi was in hot pursuit, finishing his twentieth a minute later. Phillips was doing his best to keep up, but was only on dog number fourteen as Giambi downed number twenty. Gallaraga was showing why he was demoted to AAA as he couldn't keep up with the major leaguers. By the seventh minute, he was fading into the distance only on dog number six.
Wilson seemed to be running out of steam as they headed into the homestretch and Giambi was gaining ground fast. Going into the last sixty seconds, the pair was one dog apart - Wilson's thirty two to Giambi's thirty one. It looked like Giambi was going to overtake Wilson until the final ten seconds when Wilson double fisted two dogs and seemingly swallowed both whole as time expired.
Brian Wilson emerged victorious, earning his own save.
Here are the final results from Qualifer #2
Brian Wilson - 36 Hot Dogs
Jason Giambi - 35 Hot Dogs
Kyle Phillips - 21 Hot Dogs
Armando Galaraga - 10 Hot Dogs
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Hairston's Days Have To Be Numbered
I had to look at the active roster to see if he was even still with the team. I didn't remember seeing that he had been released, designated for assignment, or anything of the like.
He's become the 25th man at the end of the bench for sure.
His last appearance came on Wednesday, June 8th when he pinch hit for Mike Pelfrey in the 7th inning. A pitching change was made and Hairston was then pinch hit for by Daniel Murphy. Technically, he played in the game.
The last time he really and truly appeared in a game was on Tuesday, June 2nd when he pinch hit for Mike Pelfrey in the 5th inning and hit a single.
The last time he started in a game was Wednesday, May 18th against the Nationals where he went 2 for 3 with a double and a run scored.
Surprisingly enough, in his last 10 appearances (dating back to May 8th), he's actually hit .438 with 7 hits in 16 at bats.
On the season, he's hitting .245 with 13 hits in 53 at bats.
He's become the 25th man at the end of the bench for sure.
His last appearance came on Wednesday, June 8th when he pinch hit for Mike Pelfrey in the 7th inning. A pitching change was made and Hairston was then pinch hit for by Daniel Murphy. Technically, he played in the game.
The last time he really and truly appeared in a game was on Tuesday, June 2nd when he pinch hit for Mike Pelfrey in the 5th inning and hit a single.
The last time he started in a game was Wednesday, May 18th against the Nationals where he went 2 for 3 with a double and a run scored.
Surprisingly enough, in his last 10 appearances (dating back to May 8th), he's actually hit .438 with 7 hits in 16 at bats.
On the season, he's hitting .245 with 13 hits in 53 at bats.
Jason Bay - King of the Screaming Dinkers
He broke his long 0fer with a massive screaming dinker. Then he struck out looking with runners on second and third.
Way to go Jason!
Way to go Jason!
MLB and Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest - Qualifier #1
Today's qualifer featured participants from the American League West, with the winner going on to participate on July 4th for the title of MLB/Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Champion.
Michael Young of the Texas Rangers, Coco Crisp of the Oakland Athletics, Ichiro Suzuki of the Seattle Mariners and Jordan Walden of the California Angels all lined up at the table with plates of twenty hot dogs and buns in front of them. Coco looked confident, with a big wide grin on his face. Ichiro looked focused. Michael Young was overheard muttering under his breath that he wanted a trade and Jordan Walden showed up with a pink Hello Kitty backpack filled with candy bars.
The contestants were told to start eating and Coco got out to the early lead, downing three dogs in the first minute. By the three minute mark, he was eight dogs in and was running away. Ichiro was in second place and reached the five dog mark at 3 minutes and twenty seconds, finishing a dog every forty seconds. Walden wasn't far behind with four and Young was in dead last - after finishing the first two, Michael looked up and saw how far ahead Coco was and he seemed to just give up.
Coco continued his torrid pace, and reached the thirteen dog mark at the halfway point. He was well ahead of Ichiro who was working on his eighth. Walden was starting to slow. Michael Young had clearly lost all interest and was requesting a meeting with his agent.
Coco had built a large lead going into the ninth minute that seemed insurmountable. He had finished nineteen dogs. Ichiro had been keeping his dog-every-forty-seconds pace and had consumed thirteen. Walden had hit the wall and was stuck on nine.
The tide turned a few moments later. Coco stole a glance at the board and saw how far ahead he was. He gave a big grin - half-eaten dog in his mouth and all and appeared to savor in his victory. His pause proved to be his fatal mistake. His grin vanished as he suddenly turned gray and he doubled over. He grabbed the bucket and expelled the contents of his stomach. Ichiro kept his head lowered and continued eating, finishing his fifteenth dog as time expired.
Afterward, Ichiro winked at Coco and said, "Anata wa kamu kota ga dekiru yori mo oku o kami kiru shinaide kudasai." "Don't bite off more than you can chew."
Here are the final, official results from Qualifer #1
First Place - Ichiro Suzuki - 15 Hot Dogs
Second Place - Jordan Walden - 9 Hot Dogs
Third Place - Michael Young - 2 Hot Dogs
Fourth Place - Coco Crisp - 0 Hot Dogs
Congratulations, Ichiro. See you at the finals on the Fourth.
Michael Young of the Texas Rangers, Coco Crisp of the Oakland Athletics, Ichiro Suzuki of the Seattle Mariners and Jordan Walden of the California Angels all lined up at the table with plates of twenty hot dogs and buns in front of them. Coco looked confident, with a big wide grin on his face. Ichiro looked focused. Michael Young was overheard muttering under his breath that he wanted a trade and Jordan Walden showed up with a pink Hello Kitty backpack filled with candy bars.
The contestants were told to start eating and Coco got out to the early lead, downing three dogs in the first minute. By the three minute mark, he was eight dogs in and was running away. Ichiro was in second place and reached the five dog mark at 3 minutes and twenty seconds, finishing a dog every forty seconds. Walden wasn't far behind with four and Young was in dead last - after finishing the first two, Michael looked up and saw how far ahead Coco was and he seemed to just give up.
Coco continued his torrid pace, and reached the thirteen dog mark at the halfway point. He was well ahead of Ichiro who was working on his eighth. Walden was starting to slow. Michael Young had clearly lost all interest and was requesting a meeting with his agent.
Coco had built a large lead going into the ninth minute that seemed insurmountable. He had finished nineteen dogs. Ichiro had been keeping his dog-every-forty-seconds pace and had consumed thirteen. Walden had hit the wall and was stuck on nine.
The tide turned a few moments later. Coco stole a glance at the board and saw how far ahead he was. He gave a big grin - half-eaten dog in his mouth and all and appeared to savor in his victory. His pause proved to be his fatal mistake. His grin vanished as he suddenly turned gray and he doubled over. He grabbed the bucket and expelled the contents of his stomach. Ichiro kept his head lowered and continued eating, finishing his fifteenth dog as time expired.
Afterward, Ichiro winked at Coco and said, "Anata wa kamu kota ga dekiru yori mo oku o kami kiru shinaide kudasai." "Don't bite off more than you can chew."
Here are the final, official results from Qualifer #1
First Place - Ichiro Suzuki - 15 Hot Dogs
Second Place - Jordan Walden - 9 Hot Dogs
Third Place - Michael Young - 2 Hot Dogs
Fourth Place - Coco Crisp - 0 Hot Dogs
Congratulations, Ichiro. See you at the finals on the Fourth.
Razor Shines - Third Base Coach of Life
He may be gone, but Razor remains the Third Base Coach of Life.
The 2011 MLB and Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest - July 4, 2011
This year, Major League Baseball and Nathan's Hot Dogs are teaming up to hold the inaugural MLB Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4th. Each team is allowed one entrant and there will be six qualifying contests leading up to the big event on the 4th, split up by each of the major league divisions.
While Nathan's has had a hot dog eating contest every year on our nation's birthday, 2011 marks the first year that that America's Pastime is teaming up with the Great American Contest to create this very special, one of a kind event.
The entrants in this year's field are:
Qualifier #1 - The American League West
Texas Rangers - Michael Young. He's been looking for a position all year. This is it.
Seattle Mariners - Ichiro Suzuki. He's methodical. He's measured. He's the heir to Kobayashi.
Los Angeles Angels - Jordan Walden. They made the rookie do it.
Oakland Athletics - Coco Crisp. When your name is the same as a food product, it's an automatic entry. Besides, Craig Breslow was too smart to participate.
Qualifier #2 - The National League West
San Francisco Giants - Brian Wilson. He gets the edge over Sandoval. Fear the Beard.
Arizona Diamondbacks - Armando Gallaraga. He may have been designated for assignment, but he's still the "perfect" man for the job.
Colorado Rockies - Jason Giambi. Will years of steroid use and lots of cured meat cause his heart to explode?
Los Angeles Dodgers - No entry. Major League Baseball would not approve the expense.
San Diego Padres - Kyle Phillips. The third string catcher has to justify his existence somehow.
Qualifer #3 - The American League Central
Cleveland Indians - Orlando Cabrera. The guy just wins.
Detroit Tigers - Daniel Schlereth. His dad was known as Stink. He gets in just for that.
Chicago White Sox - A.J. Pierzynski. He'll outeat everyone just so he can annoy you with the smell of his meat sweats.
Kansas City Royals - Matt Treanor. Just so we can see Misty May as his bunnette.
Minnesota Twins - Carl Pavano. He heard Alyssa Molano will be there.
Qualifer #4 - The National League Central
St. Louis Cardinals - Tony LaRussa. He figured he'd be the best at managing this, too.
Milwaukee Brewers - Prince Fielder would be the obvious choice, but he's now a vegetarian. So it's Craig Counsell. Skinny guys can put them away, too.
Cincinnati Reds - Mike Leake. It's considered community service.
Pittsburgh Pirates - The Pirate Parrot. Polly want a cracker? How about a hot dog?
Chicago Cubs - Carlos Zambrano was originally entered, but when has he ever done something for the team? He called out Carlos Marmol to do it.
Houston Astros - Jeff Fulchino. When you're listed at 6'5" and 285 lbs, you're born to eat.
Qualifer #5 - The American League East
Boston Red Sox - David Ortiz. Are you man enough to deny Big Papi a meal?
New York Yankees - Bartolo Colon. I heard he once ate an entire pig.
Tampa Bay Rays - Johnny Damon. Only an "Idiot" would enter this.
Toronto Blue Jays - Jo-Jo Reyes. Get a win, eat a hot dog. Get a second win, get a whole plate.
Baltimore Orioles - Justin Duchsherer. He's on the 60 day DL. It's part of his rehab.
Qualifer #6 - The National League East
Philadelphia Phillies - Ryan Howard. The big man needs food.
Atlanta Braves - Dan Uggla. When you have the lowest average in the majors, you get forced into these things.
Florida Marlins - Scott Cousins. Nothing is going to stop him. Just ask Buster Posey.
New York Mets - Daniel Murphy. He gives it his all, no matter the position he's asked to play or challenge he's asked to face.
Washington Nationals - Bryce Harper. True, he's not in the majors yet, but this kid's just good at everything. There are also plenty of people out there that would love to see this hot dog yack all over himself.
While Nathan's has had a hot dog eating contest every year on our nation's birthday, 2011 marks the first year that that America's Pastime is teaming up with the Great American Contest to create this very special, one of a kind event.
The entrants in this year's field are:
Qualifier #1 - The American League West
Texas Rangers - Michael Young. He's been looking for a position all year. This is it.
Seattle Mariners - Ichiro Suzuki. He's methodical. He's measured. He's the heir to Kobayashi.
Los Angeles Angels - Jordan Walden. They made the rookie do it.
Oakland Athletics - Coco Crisp. When your name is the same as a food product, it's an automatic entry. Besides, Craig Breslow was too smart to participate.
Qualifier #2 - The National League West
San Francisco Giants - Brian Wilson. He gets the edge over Sandoval. Fear the Beard.
Arizona Diamondbacks - Armando Gallaraga. He may have been designated for assignment, but he's still the "perfect" man for the job.
Colorado Rockies - Jason Giambi. Will years of steroid use and lots of cured meat cause his heart to explode?
Los Angeles Dodgers - No entry. Major League Baseball would not approve the expense.
San Diego Padres - Kyle Phillips. The third string catcher has to justify his existence somehow.
Qualifer #3 - The American League Central
Cleveland Indians - Orlando Cabrera. The guy just wins.
Detroit Tigers - Daniel Schlereth. His dad was known as Stink. He gets in just for that.
Chicago White Sox - A.J. Pierzynski. He'll outeat everyone just so he can annoy you with the smell of his meat sweats.
Kansas City Royals - Matt Treanor. Just so we can see Misty May as his bunnette.
Minnesota Twins - Carl Pavano. He heard Alyssa Molano will be there.
Qualifer #4 - The National League Central
St. Louis Cardinals - Tony LaRussa. He figured he'd be the best at managing this, too.
Milwaukee Brewers - Prince Fielder would be the obvious choice, but he's now a vegetarian. So it's Craig Counsell. Skinny guys can put them away, too.
Cincinnati Reds - Mike Leake. It's considered community service.
Pittsburgh Pirates - The Pirate Parrot. Polly want a cracker? How about a hot dog?
Chicago Cubs - Carlos Zambrano was originally entered, but when has he ever done something for the team? He called out Carlos Marmol to do it.
Houston Astros - Jeff Fulchino. When you're listed at 6'5" and 285 lbs, you're born to eat.
Qualifer #5 - The American League East
Boston Red Sox - David Ortiz. Are you man enough to deny Big Papi a meal?
New York Yankees - Bartolo Colon. I heard he once ate an entire pig.
Tampa Bay Rays - Johnny Damon. Only an "Idiot" would enter this.
Toronto Blue Jays - Jo-Jo Reyes. Get a win, eat a hot dog. Get a second win, get a whole plate.
Baltimore Orioles - Justin Duchsherer. He's on the 60 day DL. It's part of his rehab.
Qualifer #6 - The National League East
Philadelphia Phillies - Ryan Howard. The big man needs food.
Atlanta Braves - Dan Uggla. When you have the lowest average in the majors, you get forced into these things.
Florida Marlins - Scott Cousins. Nothing is going to stop him. Just ask Buster Posey.
New York Mets - Daniel Murphy. He gives it his all, no matter the position he's asked to play or challenge he's asked to face.
Washington Nationals - Bryce Harper. True, he's not in the majors yet, but this kid's just good at everything. There are also plenty of people out there that would love to see this hot dog yack all over himself.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
All Time Mets - Pitchers
Wins:
1) Tom Seaver - 198
2) Dwight Gooden - 157
3) Jerry Koosman - 140
4) Ron Darling - 99
5) Sid Fernandez - 98
Losses:
1) Jerry Koosman - 137
2) Tom Seaver - 124
3) Dwight Gooden - 85
4) Jon Matlack - 81
5) Al Jackson - 80
ERA
1) Tom Seaver - 2.57
2) Jesse Orosco - 2.73
3) Johan Santana - 2.85
4) Jon Matlack - 3.03
5) Jerry Koosman - 3.09
Games Pitched
1) John Franco - 695
2) Pedro Feliciano - 459
3) Tom Seaver - 401
4) Jerry Koosman - 376
5) Jesse Orosco - 372
Games Started
1) Tom Seaver - 395
2) Jerry Koosman - 346
3) Dwight Gooden - 303
4) Sid Fernandez - 250
5) Ron Darling - 241
Complete Games
1) Tom Seaver - 171
2) Jerry Koosman - 108
3) Dwight Gooden - 67
4) Jon Matlack - 65
5) Al Jackson - 41
Shutouts
1) Tom Seaver - 44
2) Jerry Koosman - 26
Jon Matlack - 26
4) Dwight Gooden - 23
5) David Cone - 15
Saves
1) John Franco - 276
2) Armando Benitez - 160
3) Jesse Orosco - 107
4) Billy Wagner - 101
5) Tug McGraw - 86
Innings Pitched
1) Tom Seaver - 3045.1
2) Jerry Koosman - 2544.2
3) Dwight Gooden - 2169.2
4) Ron Darling - 1620
5) Sid Fernandez - 1584.2
Strikeouts
1) Tom Seaver - 2541
2) Dwight Gooden - 1875
3) Jerry Koosman - 1799
4) Sid Fermandez - 1449
5) David Cone - 1172
1) Tom Seaver - 198
2) Dwight Gooden - 157
3) Jerry Koosman - 140
4) Ron Darling - 99
5) Sid Fernandez - 98
Losses:
1) Jerry Koosman - 137
2) Tom Seaver - 124
3) Dwight Gooden - 85
4) Jon Matlack - 81
5) Al Jackson - 80
ERA
1) Tom Seaver - 2.57
2) Jesse Orosco - 2.73
3) Johan Santana - 2.85
4) Jon Matlack - 3.03
5) Jerry Koosman - 3.09
Games Pitched
1) John Franco - 695
2) Pedro Feliciano - 459
3) Tom Seaver - 401
4) Jerry Koosman - 376
5) Jesse Orosco - 372
Games Started
1) Tom Seaver - 395
2) Jerry Koosman - 346
3) Dwight Gooden - 303
4) Sid Fernandez - 250
5) Ron Darling - 241
Complete Games
1) Tom Seaver - 171
2) Jerry Koosman - 108
3) Dwight Gooden - 67
4) Jon Matlack - 65
5) Al Jackson - 41
Shutouts
1) Tom Seaver - 44
2) Jerry Koosman - 26
Jon Matlack - 26
4) Dwight Gooden - 23
5) David Cone - 15
Saves
1) John Franco - 276
2) Armando Benitez - 160
3) Jesse Orosco - 107
4) Billy Wagner - 101
5) Tug McGraw - 86
Innings Pitched
1) Tom Seaver - 3045.1
2) Jerry Koosman - 2544.2
3) Dwight Gooden - 2169.2
4) Ron Darling - 1620
5) Sid Fernandez - 1584.2
Strikeouts
1) Tom Seaver - 2541
2) Dwight Gooden - 1875
3) Jerry Koosman - 1799
4) Sid Fermandez - 1449
5) David Cone - 1172
In Case You Haven't Figured It Out...
I like to play around with numbers. Always have. That's probably why I work with them for a living. I've also had a lot of time on my hands today.
Active Mets and Where They Stand All Time
Where do some of the current Mets stand on the all time team list? There were 910 players to ever wear a Mets uniform as of today's date. 623 have played more than 20 games. There's a lot of cups of coffee in there.
Josh Thole:
215) Games Played - 137
177) At Bats - 394
202) Runs Scored - 29
160) Hits - 105
166) Doubles - 16
141) Triples - 2
217) Home Runs - 3
164) RBI - 43
176) Total Bases - 134
138) Walks - 45
220) Strikeouts - 54
204) Stolen Bases - 2
Daniel Murphy:
118) Games Played - 260
92) At Bats - 820
81) Runs Scored - 108
84) Hits - 231
59) Doubles - 57
53) Triples - 7
76) Home Runs - 18
84) RBI - 99
82) Total Bases - 356
90) Walks - 71
112) Strikeouts - 121
124) Stolen Bases - 6
Jose Reyes: (see all time - below are categories not in the top 5)
7) Batting Average - .289
32) On Base Percentage - .338
19) Slugging Percentage - .438
10) Games Played - 981
21) Home Runs - 75
11) RBI - 402
18) Walks - 310
17) Strikeouts - 489
David Wright:
9) Games Played - 1043
7) At Bats - 3918
19) Triples - 16
6) Stolen Bases - 147
Ike Davis:
166) Games Played - 183
117) At Bats - 652
95) Runs Scored - 93
108) Hits - 177
81) Doubles - 41
141) Triples - 2
61) Home Runs - 26
86) RBI - 96
98) Total Bases - 300
71) Walks - 89
74) Strikeouts - 169
174) Stolen Bases - 3
Jason Bay:
223) Games Played - 133
151) At-Bats - 485
126) Runs - 67
147) Hits - 119
127) Doubles - 24
60) Triples - 6
144) Home Runs - 8
135) RBI - 57
143) Total Bases - 179
104) Walks - 63
103) Strikeouts - 128
67) Stolen Bases - 14
Carlos Beltran:
14) Batting Average - .279
6) Slugging Percentage - .499
7) On Base Percentage - .366
19) Games Played - 799
14) At Bats - 2985
10) Runs - 520
13) Hits - 833
6) Doubles - 197
19) Triples - 16
6) Home Runs - 143
7) RBI - 527
10) Total Bases - 1491
11) Walks - 414
13) Strikeouts - 522
12) Stolen Bases - 97
Angel Pagan:
90) Games Played - 300
62) At Bats - 1125
55) Runs - 158
57) Hits - 324
52) Doubles - 63
11) Triples - 20
76) Home Runs - 18
66) RBI - 124
56) Total Bases - 481
67) Walks - 91
68) Strikeouts - 182
20) Stolen Bases - 62
Except for Wright, Reyes and Beltran - I'm sort of surprised to see how high the eight everyday players have moved up the all time list - especially how far up the list some of the guys are who haven't been on the team that long.
Josh Thole:
215) Games Played - 137
177) At Bats - 394
202) Runs Scored - 29
160) Hits - 105
166) Doubles - 16
141) Triples - 2
217) Home Runs - 3
164) RBI - 43
176) Total Bases - 134
138) Walks - 45
220) Strikeouts - 54
204) Stolen Bases - 2
Daniel Murphy:
118) Games Played - 260
92) At Bats - 820
81) Runs Scored - 108
84) Hits - 231
59) Doubles - 57
53) Triples - 7
76) Home Runs - 18
84) RBI - 99
82) Total Bases - 356
90) Walks - 71
112) Strikeouts - 121
124) Stolen Bases - 6
Jose Reyes: (see all time - below are categories not in the top 5)
7) Batting Average - .289
32) On Base Percentage - .338
19) Slugging Percentage - .438
10) Games Played - 981
21) Home Runs - 75
11) RBI - 402
18) Walks - 310
17) Strikeouts - 489
David Wright:
9) Games Played - 1043
7) At Bats - 3918
19) Triples - 16
6) Stolen Bases - 147
Ike Davis:
166) Games Played - 183
117) At Bats - 652
95) Runs Scored - 93
108) Hits - 177
81) Doubles - 41
141) Triples - 2
61) Home Runs - 26
86) RBI - 96
98) Total Bases - 300
71) Walks - 89
74) Strikeouts - 169
174) Stolen Bases - 3
Jason Bay:
223) Games Played - 133
151) At-Bats - 485
126) Runs - 67
147) Hits - 119
127) Doubles - 24
60) Triples - 6
144) Home Runs - 8
135) RBI - 57
143) Total Bases - 179
104) Walks - 63
103) Strikeouts - 128
67) Stolen Bases - 14
Carlos Beltran:
14) Batting Average - .279
6) Slugging Percentage - .499
7) On Base Percentage - .366
19) Games Played - 799
14) At Bats - 2985
10) Runs - 520
13) Hits - 833
6) Doubles - 197
19) Triples - 16
6) Home Runs - 143
7) RBI - 527
10) Total Bases - 1491
11) Walks - 414
13) Strikeouts - 522
12) Stolen Bases - 97
Angel Pagan:
90) Games Played - 300
62) At Bats - 1125
55) Runs - 158
57) Hits - 324
52) Doubles - 63
11) Triples - 20
76) Home Runs - 18
66) RBI - 124
56) Total Bases - 481
67) Walks - 91
68) Strikeouts - 182
20) Stolen Bases - 62
Except for Wright, Reyes and Beltran - I'm sort of surprised to see how high the eight everyday players have moved up the all time list - especially how far up the list some of the guys are who haven't been on the team that long.
All Time Mets - Position Players
Active Players through today's date.
Batting Average:
1) John Olerud - .315
2) David Wright - .302
3) Keith Hernandez - .297
4) Mike Piazza - .296
5) Edgardo Alfonzo - .292
Dave Magadan - .292
Games Played:
1) Ed Kranepool - 1853
2) Bud Harrelson - 1322
3) Jerry Grote - 1235
4) Cleon Jones - 1201
5) Howard Johnson - 1154
At-Bats
1) Ed Kranepool - 5436
2) Bud Harrelson - 4390
3) Cleon Jones - 4223
4) Jose Reyes - 4164
5) Mookie Wilson - 4027
Runs Scored
1) Jose Reyes - 675
2) Darryl Strawberry - 662
David Wright - 662
4) Howard Johnson - 627
5) Edgardo Alfonzo - 614
Base Hits
1) Ed Kranepool - 1418
2) Jose Reyes - 1203
3) Cleon Jones - 1188
4) David Wright - 1182
5) Edgardo Alfonzo - 1136
Doubles
1) David Wright - 266
2) Ed Kranepool - 225
3) Howard Johnson - 214
4) Edgardo Alfonzo - 212
5) Jose Reyes - 209
Triples
1) Jose Reyes - 92
2) Mookie Wilson - 64
3) Bud Harrelson - 45
4) Cleon Jones - 33
5) Steve Henderson - 31
Home Runs
1) Darryl Strawberry - 252
2) Mike Piazza - 220
3) Howard Johnson - 192
4) David Wright - 175
5) Dave Kingman - 154
RBI
1) Darryl Strawberry - 733
2) David Wright - 682
3) Mike Piazza - 655
4) Howard Johnson - 629
5) Ed Kranepool - 614
Total Bases
1) Ed Kranepool - 2047
2) Darryl Strawberry - 2028
3) David Wright - 2005
4) Mike Piazza - 1885
5) Jose Reyes - 1825
Walks
1) Darryl Strawberry - 580
2) Bud Harrelson - 573
3) Howard Johnson - 556
4) David Wright - 508
5) Wayne Garrett - 482
Strikeouts
1) Darryl Strawberry - 960
2) David Wright - 843
3) Howard Johnson - 827
4) Cleon Jones - 697
5) Mookie Wilson - 692
Stolen Bases
1) Jose Reyes - 350
2) Mookie Wilson - 281
3) Howard Johnson - 202
4) Darryl Strawberry - 191
5) Lee Mazzilli - 152
Caught Stealing
1) Mookie Wilson - 90
2) Jose Reyes - 89
3) Darryl Strawberry - 75
4) Lee Mazzilli - 71
5) Howard Johnson - 63
On Base Percentage
1) John Olerud - .425
2) Dave Magadan - .391
3) Keith Hernandez - .387
4) David Wright - .382
5) Mike Piazza - .373
Slugging Percentage
1) Mike Piazza - .542
2) Darryl Strawberry - .520
3) David Wright - .512
4) Carlos Delgado - .506
5) John Olerud - .501
Isn't it interesting that Carlos Beltran isn't in the top 5 in any of the Mets all time categories?
Batting Average:
1) John Olerud - .315
2) David Wright - .302
3) Keith Hernandez - .297
4) Mike Piazza - .296
5) Edgardo Alfonzo - .292
Dave Magadan - .292
Games Played:
1) Ed Kranepool - 1853
2) Bud Harrelson - 1322
3) Jerry Grote - 1235
4) Cleon Jones - 1201
5) Howard Johnson - 1154
At-Bats
1) Ed Kranepool - 5436
2) Bud Harrelson - 4390
3) Cleon Jones - 4223
4) Jose Reyes - 4164
5) Mookie Wilson - 4027
Runs Scored
1) Jose Reyes - 675
2) Darryl Strawberry - 662
David Wright - 662
4) Howard Johnson - 627
5) Edgardo Alfonzo - 614
Base Hits
1) Ed Kranepool - 1418
2) Jose Reyes - 1203
3) Cleon Jones - 1188
4) David Wright - 1182
5) Edgardo Alfonzo - 1136
Doubles
1) David Wright - 266
2) Ed Kranepool - 225
3) Howard Johnson - 214
4) Edgardo Alfonzo - 212
5) Jose Reyes - 209
Triples
1) Jose Reyes - 92
2) Mookie Wilson - 64
3) Bud Harrelson - 45
4) Cleon Jones - 33
5) Steve Henderson - 31
Home Runs
1) Darryl Strawberry - 252
2) Mike Piazza - 220
3) Howard Johnson - 192
4) David Wright - 175
5) Dave Kingman - 154
RBI
1) Darryl Strawberry - 733
2) David Wright - 682
3) Mike Piazza - 655
4) Howard Johnson - 629
5) Ed Kranepool - 614
Total Bases
1) Ed Kranepool - 2047
2) Darryl Strawberry - 2028
3) David Wright - 2005
4) Mike Piazza - 1885
5) Jose Reyes - 1825
Walks
1) Darryl Strawberry - 580
2) Bud Harrelson - 573
3) Howard Johnson - 556
4) David Wright - 508
5) Wayne Garrett - 482
Strikeouts
1) Darryl Strawberry - 960
2) David Wright - 843
3) Howard Johnson - 827
4) Cleon Jones - 697
5) Mookie Wilson - 692
Stolen Bases
1) Jose Reyes - 350
2) Mookie Wilson - 281
3) Howard Johnson - 202
4) Darryl Strawberry - 191
5) Lee Mazzilli - 152
Caught Stealing
1) Mookie Wilson - 90
2) Jose Reyes - 89
3) Darryl Strawberry - 75
4) Lee Mazzilli - 71
5) Howard Johnson - 63
On Base Percentage
1) John Olerud - .425
2) Dave Magadan - .391
3) Keith Hernandez - .387
4) David Wright - .382
5) Mike Piazza - .373
Slugging Percentage
1) Mike Piazza - .542
2) Darryl Strawberry - .520
3) David Wright - .512
4) Carlos Delgado - .506
5) John Olerud - .501
Isn't it interesting that Carlos Beltran isn't in the top 5 in any of the Mets all time categories?
Let's Check Out the Outfield
Same game. This time in the outfield. I really have no life. The three positions are not being broken out by Left, Center, Right - it's displayed by player to be able to see continuity easily. Sometimes a player became a primary by playing multiple outfield positions in the same season (like Chavez, Endy)
1962 - Frank Thomas (126), Jim Hickman (124), Richie Ashburn (97)
1963 - Frank Thomas (96), Jim Hickman (82), Duke Snider (106)
1964 - Joe Christopher (145), Jim Hickman (113), George Altman (109)
1965 - Joe Christopher (112), Johnny Lewis (142), Ron Swoboda (112)
1966 - Cleon Jones (129), Al Luplow (101) Ron Swoboda (97)
1967 - Cleon Jones (115), Tommy Davis (149), Ron Swoboda (108)
1968 - Cleon Jones (139), Tommie Agee (127), Ron Swoboda (125)
1969 - Cleon Jones (122), Tommie Agee (146), Ron Swoboda (97)
1970 - Cleon Jones (130), Tommie Agee (150), Ron Swoboda (100)
1971 - Cleon Jones (132), Tommie Agee (107), Ken Singleton (96)
1972 - Cleon Jones (84), Tommie Agee (110), John Milner (91)
1973 - Cleon Jones (89), Rusty Staub ( 152), Don Hahn (87)
1974 - Cleon Jones (120), Rusty Staub (147), Don Hahn (106)
1975 - Del Unser (144), Rusty Staub (153), Dave Kingman (71)
1976 - John Milner (112), Bruce Boisclair (87), Dave Kingman (111)
1977 - Lee Mazzilli (156), Bruce Boisclair (91), Steve Henderson (97)
1978 - Lee Mazzilli (144), Elliott Maddox (79), Steve Henderson (155)
1979 - Lee Mazzilli (143), Joel Youngblood (147), Steve Henderson (94)
1980 - Claudell Washington (70), Joel Youngblood (121), Steve Henderson (136)
1981 - Lee Mazzilli (89), Mookie Wilson (80), Dave Kingman (48)
1982 - George Foster (138), Mookie Wilson (156), Ellis Valentine (98)
1983 - George Foster (153), Mookie Wilson (148), Darryl Strawberry (117)
1984 - George Foster (141), Mookie Wilson (146), Darryl Strawberry (146)
1985 - George Foster (123), Mookie Wilson (83), Darryl Strawberry (110)
1986 - Lenny Dykstra (139), Mookie Wilson (114), Darryl Strawberry (131)
1987 - Lenny Dykstra (118), Kevin McReynolds (150), Darryl Strawberry (151)
1988 - Lenny Dykstra (112), Kevin McReynolds (147), Darryl Strawberry (150)
1989 - Juan Samuel (84), Kevin McReynolds (145), Darryl Strawberry (131)
1990 - Daryl Boston (109), Kevin McReynolds (144), Darryl Strawberry (149)
1991 - Daryl Boston (115), Kevin McReynolds (141), Hubie Brooks (100)
1992 - Daryl Boston (95), Howard Johnson (98), Bobby Bonilla (121)
1993 - Joe Orsulak (114), Vince Coleman (90), Bobby Bonilla (85)
1994 - Joe Orsulak (90), Ryan Thompson (98), John Cangelosi (50)
1995 - Joe Orsulak (86), Carl Everett (77), Brett Butler (90)
1996 - Bernard Gilkey (151), Lance Johnson (157), Alex Ochoa (76)
1997 - Bernard Gilkey (136), Carl Everett (142), Alex Ochoa (84)
1998 - Bernard Gilkey (76), Brian McRae (154), Butch Huskey (103)
1999 - Rickey Henderson (116), Benny Agbayani (101), Roger Cedeno (127)
2000 - Jay Peyton (143), Benny Agbayani (102), Derek Bell (142)
2001 - Jay Peyton (103), Benny Agbayani (84), Tsuyoshi Shinjo (123)
2002 - Timo Perez (136), Jeremy Bernitz (140), Roger Cedeno (132)
2003 - Timo Perez (85), Cliff Floyd (94), Roger Cedeno (100)
2004 - Mike Cameron (132), Cliff Floyd (105), Richard Hidalgo (86)
2005 - Victor Diaz (77), Cliff Floyd (147), Carlos Beltran (149)
2006 - Endy Chavez (79), Cliff Floyd (91), Carlos Beltran (136)
2007 - Moises Alou (84), Shawn Green (107), Carlos Beltran (141)
2008 - Fernando Tatis (63), Ryan Church (81), Carlos Beltran (158)
2009 - Angel Pagan (80), Jeff Francoeur (74), Carlos Beltran (77)
2010 - Angel Pagan (139), Jeff Francoeur (109), Jason Bay (92)
Let's sort them out, shall we?
Cleon Jones - 9 seasons - 1966-1974
Darryl Strawberry - 8 seasons - 1983-1990
Ron Swoboda - 6 seasons - 1965-1970
Mookie Wilson - 6 seasons - 1981-1986
Tommie Agee - 5 seasons - 1968-1972
Kevin McReynolds - 5 seasons - 1987-1991
Carlos Beltran - 5 seasons - 2005-2009
Lee Mazzilli - 4 seasons - 1977-1979, 1981
Steve Henderson - 4 seasons - 1977-1980
George Foster - 4 seasons - 1982-1985
Cliff Floyd - 4 seasons - 2003-2006
Jim Hickman - 3 seasons - 1962-1964
Rusty Staub - 3 seasons - 1973-1975
Dave Kingman - 3 seasons - 1975-1976, 1981
Lenny Dykstra - 3 seasons - 1986-1988
Daryl Boston - 3 seasons - 1990-1992
Joe Orsulak - 3 seasons - 1993-1995
Bernard Gilkey - 3 seasons - 1996-1998
Benny Agbayani - 3 seasons - 1999-2001
Roger Cedeno - 3 seasons, 1999, 2002-2003
49 seasons x 3 outfield positions = 147 primary outfield seasons.
There have been 66 primary outfielders.
20 players have held onto a primary spot for at least three seasons.
Primaries have accounted for 87 of the 147 seasons.
1962 - Frank Thomas (126), Jim Hickman (124), Richie Ashburn (97)
1963 - Frank Thomas (96), Jim Hickman (82), Duke Snider (106)
1964 - Joe Christopher (145), Jim Hickman (113), George Altman (109)
1965 - Joe Christopher (112), Johnny Lewis (142), Ron Swoboda (112)
1966 - Cleon Jones (129), Al Luplow (101) Ron Swoboda (97)
1967 - Cleon Jones (115), Tommy Davis (149), Ron Swoboda (108)
1968 - Cleon Jones (139), Tommie Agee (127), Ron Swoboda (125)
1969 - Cleon Jones (122), Tommie Agee (146), Ron Swoboda (97)
1970 - Cleon Jones (130), Tommie Agee (150), Ron Swoboda (100)
1971 - Cleon Jones (132), Tommie Agee (107), Ken Singleton (96)
1972 - Cleon Jones (84), Tommie Agee (110), John Milner (91)
1973 - Cleon Jones (89), Rusty Staub ( 152), Don Hahn (87)
1974 - Cleon Jones (120), Rusty Staub (147), Don Hahn (106)
1975 - Del Unser (144), Rusty Staub (153), Dave Kingman (71)
1976 - John Milner (112), Bruce Boisclair (87), Dave Kingman (111)
1977 - Lee Mazzilli (156), Bruce Boisclair (91), Steve Henderson (97)
1978 - Lee Mazzilli (144), Elliott Maddox (79), Steve Henderson (155)
1979 - Lee Mazzilli (143), Joel Youngblood (147), Steve Henderson (94)
1980 - Claudell Washington (70), Joel Youngblood (121), Steve Henderson (136)
1981 - Lee Mazzilli (89), Mookie Wilson (80), Dave Kingman (48)
1982 - George Foster (138), Mookie Wilson (156), Ellis Valentine (98)
1983 - George Foster (153), Mookie Wilson (148), Darryl Strawberry (117)
1984 - George Foster (141), Mookie Wilson (146), Darryl Strawberry (146)
1985 - George Foster (123), Mookie Wilson (83), Darryl Strawberry (110)
1986 - Lenny Dykstra (139), Mookie Wilson (114), Darryl Strawberry (131)
1987 - Lenny Dykstra (118), Kevin McReynolds (150), Darryl Strawberry (151)
1988 - Lenny Dykstra (112), Kevin McReynolds (147), Darryl Strawberry (150)
1989 - Juan Samuel (84), Kevin McReynolds (145), Darryl Strawberry (131)
1990 - Daryl Boston (109), Kevin McReynolds (144), Darryl Strawberry (149)
1991 - Daryl Boston (115), Kevin McReynolds (141), Hubie Brooks (100)
1992 - Daryl Boston (95), Howard Johnson (98), Bobby Bonilla (121)
1993 - Joe Orsulak (114), Vince Coleman (90), Bobby Bonilla (85)
1994 - Joe Orsulak (90), Ryan Thompson (98), John Cangelosi (50)
1995 - Joe Orsulak (86), Carl Everett (77), Brett Butler (90)
1996 - Bernard Gilkey (151), Lance Johnson (157), Alex Ochoa (76)
1997 - Bernard Gilkey (136), Carl Everett (142), Alex Ochoa (84)
1998 - Bernard Gilkey (76), Brian McRae (154), Butch Huskey (103)
1999 - Rickey Henderson (116), Benny Agbayani (101), Roger Cedeno (127)
2000 - Jay Peyton (143), Benny Agbayani (102), Derek Bell (142)
2001 - Jay Peyton (103), Benny Agbayani (84), Tsuyoshi Shinjo (123)
2002 - Timo Perez (136), Jeremy Bernitz (140), Roger Cedeno (132)
2003 - Timo Perez (85), Cliff Floyd (94), Roger Cedeno (100)
2004 - Mike Cameron (132), Cliff Floyd (105), Richard Hidalgo (86)
2005 - Victor Diaz (77), Cliff Floyd (147), Carlos Beltran (149)
2006 - Endy Chavez (79), Cliff Floyd (91), Carlos Beltran (136)
2007 - Moises Alou (84), Shawn Green (107), Carlos Beltran (141)
2008 - Fernando Tatis (63), Ryan Church (81), Carlos Beltran (158)
2009 - Angel Pagan (80), Jeff Francoeur (74), Carlos Beltran (77)
2010 - Angel Pagan (139), Jeff Francoeur (109), Jason Bay (92)
Let's sort them out, shall we?
Cleon Jones - 9 seasons - 1966-1974
Darryl Strawberry - 8 seasons - 1983-1990
Ron Swoboda - 6 seasons - 1965-1970
Mookie Wilson - 6 seasons - 1981-1986
Tommie Agee - 5 seasons - 1968-1972
Kevin McReynolds - 5 seasons - 1987-1991
Carlos Beltran - 5 seasons - 2005-2009
Lee Mazzilli - 4 seasons - 1977-1979, 1981
Steve Henderson - 4 seasons - 1977-1980
George Foster - 4 seasons - 1982-1985
Cliff Floyd - 4 seasons - 2003-2006
Jim Hickman - 3 seasons - 1962-1964
Rusty Staub - 3 seasons - 1973-1975
Dave Kingman - 3 seasons - 1975-1976, 1981
Lenny Dykstra - 3 seasons - 1986-1988
Daryl Boston - 3 seasons - 1990-1992
Joe Orsulak - 3 seasons - 1993-1995
Bernard Gilkey - 3 seasons - 1996-1998
Benny Agbayani - 3 seasons - 1999-2001
Roger Cedeno - 3 seasons, 1999, 2002-2003
49 seasons x 3 outfield positions = 147 primary outfield seasons.
There have been 66 primary outfielders.
20 players have held onto a primary spot for at least three seasons.
Primaries have accounted for 87 of the 147 seasons.
Classic Blue Mets Hat!
The photos are up on Mets.com for the Geico hat giveway on June 18th vs. the Angels. It's the classic blue and it looks good!
I am way too excited about this. This is what happens when I have the day off of work.
I am way too excited about this. This is what happens when I have the day off of work.
The "Other" Mets.
We all know Jose Reyes. We all know David Wright. But who are the other people out there who share the names of our favorite Mets that have absolutely nothing to do with baseball?
If you were to go down the Mets 40-man roster, you'd see some other famous (or semi-famous) individuals share the same names of our beloved Metsies.
Manny Alvarez - not only is he on the 40 man roster pitching in the minors, he's also a senior medical contributor for the Fox News channel and author of "The Hot Latin Diet: The Fast-Track Plan to a Bombshell Body".
Robert Dickey (known to us as knuckleballer R.A) was one of the Fathers of the Canadian Confederation.
Michael O'Connor is also an Oscar winning costume designer - having won the Oscar for Best Achievement in Costume Design for "The Dutchess" (2008). He was also the costume designer for "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" and "The Last King of Scotland".
Chris Young is a grammy nominated country music recording artist for RCA, signed to the label after winning the TV show "Nashville Star" in 2006. He has had three singles reach #1 on the country singles chart. His self titled debut album hit #3 on the US country charts in 2006 and his latest full length album "Neon" will be released July 12, 2011. Way to go, Chris! Glad to see you're keeping busy while you're on the DL.
Nick Evans can help out his teammates if he doesn't feel like riding the Buffalo shuttle any longer. He's also an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in sports injuries as well as a fitness author of such titles as "Men's Body Sculpting" and "Bodybuilding Anatomy".
Nick Evans certainly manages to get around. He's also the author of "The Horse Whisperer" which was later made into the Robert Redford film.
David Wright is also an artist and painter of the American Frontier. In addition to this artistic work, Mr. Wright has appeared on television as a historian of the American Frontier. If you ever go to Cumberland Gap National Historic Park - you'll find his commissioned work "Gateway to the West" there. Nice work, David. I didn't know you had it in you.
William Harris was also the past President of Columbia University from 1811-1829. You've aged well, Willie.
So the next time you see Nick Evans, ask him how his next novel is coming along. If you see Chris Young on a rehab assignment, ask him to belt out a few bars. When you see David, ask him to paint his autograph on a ball for you. When you see Mike O'Connor, ask him if he can work on your next Halloween costume for you.
They're multi-talented, after all.
Peter Moylan and the World Baseball Classic
Petery Moylan made it to the bigs after pitching in the World Baseball Classic in 2006. Perhaps it was to his advantage that the Australian team was playing in Cracker Jack Stadium where the Atlanta Braves (who signed him) had a chance to see him outside of game action. He showed some nasty stuff in the WBC, but also showed control issues.
He turned that one WBC appearance against team Venezuela on March 9, 2006 in front of 10,111 into a pretty good major league career. In that one memorable appearance - he threw 51 pitches in 1.2 innings, struck out 4 and walked 5 - yielding 1 run. Australia lost the game 2-0
He was not on the Australian roster for the 2009 tournament.
Atlanta signed him and he pitched a good part of 2006 at AAA, making his MLB debut later that year, appearing in 15 games.
While he's currently on the DL and will be having back surgery next week to repair a bulging disc, he's done pretty well for himself. 2011 is his 6th season in he bigs and he has appeared in 281 games, all out of the pen. He's appeared in 80 or more games 3 times (80, 87 and 85 in 2007, 2009 & 2010 respectively). He's struck out 201 in 251 career innings. His career WHIP is 1.29. He has a record of 18-8 with an ERA of 2.61 with 3 saves. He's also lowered his walk total since that WBC game - allowing 111 runners to reach base on balls.
He turned that one WBC appearance against team Venezuela on March 9, 2006 in front of 10,111 into a pretty good major league career. In that one memorable appearance - he threw 51 pitches in 1.2 innings, struck out 4 and walked 5 - yielding 1 run. Australia lost the game 2-0
He was not on the Australian roster for the 2009 tournament.
Atlanta signed him and he pitched a good part of 2006 at AAA, making his MLB debut later that year, appearing in 15 games.
While he's currently on the DL and will be having back surgery next week to repair a bulging disc, he's done pretty well for himself. 2011 is his 6th season in he bigs and he has appeared in 281 games, all out of the pen. He's appeared in 80 or more games 3 times (80, 87 and 85 in 2007, 2009 & 2010 respectively). He's struck out 201 in 251 career innings. His career WHIP is 1.29. He has a record of 18-8 with an ERA of 2.61 with 3 saves. He's also lowered his walk total since that WBC game - allowing 111 runners to reach base on balls.
Behind the Plate - Season By Season
I've gone through the infield. How about behind the dish? If anyone has been paying attention, you know the rules. If you don't, get on the uptake right quick.
1962 - Chris Cannizzaro - 56 games
1963 - Choo Choo Coleman - 91
1964 - Jesse Gonder - 97
1965 - Chris Cannizzaro - 112
1966 - Jerry Grote - 115
1967 - Jerry Grote - 119
1968 - Jerry Grote - 115
1969 - Jerry Grote - 112
1970 - Jerry Grote - 125
1971 - Jerry Grote - 122
1972 - Duffy Dyer - 91
1973 - Jerry Grote - 81
1974 - Jerry Grote - 94
1975 - Jerry Grote - 111
1976 - Jerry Grote - 95
1977 - John Stearns - 127
1978 - John Stearns - 141
1979 - John Stearns - 121
1980 - Alex Trevino - 86
1981 - John Stearns - 66
1982 - John Stearns - 81
1983 - Ron Hodges - 96
1984 - Mike Fitzgerald - 107
1985 - Gary Carter - 143
1986 - Gary Carter - 122
1987 - Gary Carter - 135
1988 - Gary Carter - 119
1989 - Barry Lyons - 76
1990 - Mackey Sasser - 87
1991 - Rick Cerone - 81
1992 - Todd Hundley - 121
1993 - Todd Hundley - 123
1994 - Todd Hundley - 82
1995 - Todd Hundley - 89
1996 - Todd Hundley - 150
1997 - Todd Hundley - 122
1998 - Mike Piazza - 99
1999 - Mike Piazza - 137
2000 - Mike Piazza - 124
2001 - Mike Piazza - 130
2002 - Mike Piazza - 121
2003 - Vance Wilson - 89
2004 - Jason Phillips - 87
2005 - Mike Piazza - 101
2006 - Paul LoDuca - 118
2007 - Paul LoDuca - 113
2008 - Brian Schneider - 109
2009 - Omir Santos - 91
2010 - Rod Barajas - 73
The Mets have had 21 primary backstops during their first 49 seasons. This year will make 22 with either Josh Thole or Ronnie Paulino making it the 5th straight season with a different primary. Only Cannizzaro in 1962 & 1966 and LoDuca in 2006-2007 held the position two seasons.
Jerry Grote led the way with 10 main seasons behind the dish - 1966-1971, 1973-1976
Todd Hundley - 6 seasons - 1992-1997
Mike Piazza - 6 seasons - 1998-2002, 2005
John Stearns - 5 seasons - 1977-1979, 1981-1982
Gary Carter - 4 seasons - 1985-1988
The position has been for the most part - except for transition periods after Carter and Piazza (which we are still in all these years later) been a stable position. The main 5 catchers in Mets history have worn the tools of ignorance for 31 of the first 49 seasons. The other 16 main men held the other 18 seasons. When it comes to Mets catchers - you either stick around or you're gone.
1962 - Chris Cannizzaro - 56 games
1963 - Choo Choo Coleman - 91
1964 - Jesse Gonder - 97
1965 - Chris Cannizzaro - 112
1966 - Jerry Grote - 115
1967 - Jerry Grote - 119
1968 - Jerry Grote - 115
1969 - Jerry Grote - 112
1970 - Jerry Grote - 125
1971 - Jerry Grote - 122
1972 - Duffy Dyer - 91
1973 - Jerry Grote - 81
1974 - Jerry Grote - 94
1975 - Jerry Grote - 111
1976 - Jerry Grote - 95
1977 - John Stearns - 127
1978 - John Stearns - 141
1979 - John Stearns - 121
1980 - Alex Trevino - 86
1981 - John Stearns - 66
1982 - John Stearns - 81
1983 - Ron Hodges - 96
1984 - Mike Fitzgerald - 107
1985 - Gary Carter - 143
1986 - Gary Carter - 122
1987 - Gary Carter - 135
1988 - Gary Carter - 119
1989 - Barry Lyons - 76
1990 - Mackey Sasser - 87
1991 - Rick Cerone - 81
1992 - Todd Hundley - 121
1993 - Todd Hundley - 123
1994 - Todd Hundley - 82
1995 - Todd Hundley - 89
1996 - Todd Hundley - 150
1997 - Todd Hundley - 122
1998 - Mike Piazza - 99
1999 - Mike Piazza - 137
2000 - Mike Piazza - 124
2001 - Mike Piazza - 130
2002 - Mike Piazza - 121
2003 - Vance Wilson - 89
2004 - Jason Phillips - 87
2005 - Mike Piazza - 101
2006 - Paul LoDuca - 118
2007 - Paul LoDuca - 113
2008 - Brian Schneider - 109
2009 - Omir Santos - 91
2010 - Rod Barajas - 73
The Mets have had 21 primary backstops during their first 49 seasons. This year will make 22 with either Josh Thole or Ronnie Paulino making it the 5th straight season with a different primary. Only Cannizzaro in 1962 & 1966 and LoDuca in 2006-2007 held the position two seasons.
Jerry Grote led the way with 10 main seasons behind the dish - 1966-1971, 1973-1976
Todd Hundley - 6 seasons - 1992-1997
Mike Piazza - 6 seasons - 1998-2002, 2005
John Stearns - 5 seasons - 1977-1979, 1981-1982
Gary Carter - 4 seasons - 1985-1988
The position has been for the most part - except for transition periods after Carter and Piazza (which we are still in all these years later) been a stable position. The main 5 catchers in Mets history have worn the tools of ignorance for 31 of the first 49 seasons. The other 16 main men held the other 18 seasons. When it comes to Mets catchers - you either stick around or you're gone.
Can-Am League Attendance Figures - Downright Ugly
If you thought the Mets weren't drawing... you should check out the independent Can-Am League. Former Met reliever Duaner Sanchez was pitching in the league last year for the now defunct Sussex Skyhawks. The league has seen regular turnover since forming in 2005. Only 4 of the original franchises remain (the New Jersey Jackals, Worcester Tornadoes, Quebec Capitales and the Brockton Rox).
The league - now in its seventh season has seen numerous franchises come and go. Atlantic City lasted for two years (2007-2008). Elmira, NY only lasted one (2005). Nashua/New Hampshire survived for four (2006-2009). New Haven, CT made it for three (2005-2007). North Shore, MA also lasted three (2005-2007). Ottawa went bankrupt after their lone season (2008). Sussex struggled for five years (2006-2010). They had a traveling road team on a couple of occasions when they couldn't field an even number of franchise locations.
Newark switched over this year from the Atlantic League and is in its first season of play.
Pittsfield, MA joined the league in 2010 and is in its second year.
Rockland, NY is a brand new franchise that is in its first year. They haven't even played their first home game yet because their stadium isn't ready. They're starting the season with a 16 game road trip before opening their home schedule at the new Provident Bank Ballpark on June 16th.
This year, instead of having the regular traveling road team (The Grays), in order to field an 8th team they've added a traveling team called the New York State League Federals, which is comprised of former players from an even lesser independent league to act as a "developmental" team for this independent league.
If we thought the Mets were having problems with attendance - the Can-Am League is struggling. Unlike minor league affiliated teams, there's little chance of seeing future major league stars on their way up competing on the field. Yes, there has been the rare occasion of someone making it from these ranks such as Craig Breslow - but it's not too common to see a success story such as him.
The Jackals are the top draw in the league right now, averaging a whopping 2,158 per game. The Newark Bears (managed by hall of fame hopeful Tim Raines and coached by Jim Leyritz and Ron Karkovice) has averaged barely 1,000 fans (in a stadium that holds 6,200). Yesterday's game drew an amazing 245 people to the park. The Pittsfield Colonials drew 473 people yesterday and are averaging 684 for the season. The season didn't start until May, so the early season weather woes in April and early May didn't effect the league. This has been a problem they've been having for years. I'm not looking at the league's books and I'm not looking at the team's books - but I have no idea how this league is surviving. It's a shame because I've been to plenty of this league's games. It's not the majors, but it's a lot of fun. These aren't beer leaguers playing - players on the roster are mostly filled with a) players that were playing with affiliated teams that got squeezed out of the organization because they didn't rise up fast enough before the next draft class came in b) overlooked non-drafted players who are trying to get a shot with an affiliated team and c) the occasional former major leaguer who isn't ready to hang it up and is looking for that last shot to show the big clubs that they still belong.
The league - now in its seventh season has seen numerous franchises come and go. Atlantic City lasted for two years (2007-2008). Elmira, NY only lasted one (2005). Nashua/New Hampshire survived for four (2006-2009). New Haven, CT made it for three (2005-2007). North Shore, MA also lasted three (2005-2007). Ottawa went bankrupt after their lone season (2008). Sussex struggled for five years (2006-2010). They had a traveling road team on a couple of occasions when they couldn't field an even number of franchise locations.
Newark switched over this year from the Atlantic League and is in its first season of play.
Pittsfield, MA joined the league in 2010 and is in its second year.
Rockland, NY is a brand new franchise that is in its first year. They haven't even played their first home game yet because their stadium isn't ready. They're starting the season with a 16 game road trip before opening their home schedule at the new Provident Bank Ballpark on June 16th.
This year, instead of having the regular traveling road team (The Grays), in order to field an 8th team they've added a traveling team called the New York State League Federals, which is comprised of former players from an even lesser independent league to act as a "developmental" team for this independent league.
If we thought the Mets were having problems with attendance - the Can-Am League is struggling. Unlike minor league affiliated teams, there's little chance of seeing future major league stars on their way up competing on the field. Yes, there has been the rare occasion of someone making it from these ranks such as Craig Breslow - but it's not too common to see a success story such as him.
The Jackals are the top draw in the league right now, averaging a whopping 2,158 per game. The Newark Bears (managed by hall of fame hopeful Tim Raines and coached by Jim Leyritz and Ron Karkovice) has averaged barely 1,000 fans (in a stadium that holds 6,200). Yesterday's game drew an amazing 245 people to the park. The Pittsfield Colonials drew 473 people yesterday and are averaging 684 for the season. The season didn't start until May, so the early season weather woes in April and early May didn't effect the league. This has been a problem they've been having for years. I'm not looking at the league's books and I'm not looking at the team's books - but I have no idea how this league is surviving. It's a shame because I've been to plenty of this league's games. It's not the majors, but it's a lot of fun. These aren't beer leaguers playing - players on the roster are mostly filled with a) players that were playing with affiliated teams that got squeezed out of the organization because they didn't rise up fast enough before the next draft class came in b) overlooked non-drafted players who are trying to get a shot with an affiliated team and c) the occasional former major leaguer who isn't ready to hang it up and is looking for that last shot to show the big clubs that they still belong.
Getting Streaky
Daniel Murphy has been on a roll and his batting average is up to .304. He's nudged ahead of Turner, which is going to make it difficult when/if Ike and David come back this year.
Jason Bay is continuing to play like George Foster-lite. He's 0-20 and still stuck on only 10 RBI's. He's 8th on the team in RBI's. He's tied for 273rd in the majors in total RBI's, 142nd in the National League.
Jason Bay is continuing to play like George Foster-lite. He's 0-20 and still stuck on only 10 RBI's. He's 8th on the team in RBI's. He's tied for 273rd in the majors in total RBI's, 142nd in the National League.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Crowd Shot near the Concession Stands in Milwaukee.
And it has been confirmed. There are officially a lot of large people in Wisconsin.
Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest Women's Champion - Laura Leu
Before the game on Saturday, Nathan's had their qualifer for the hot dog eating contest at Citifield. This year, they're having a women's division. There was one woman entrant at Citifield and it was Laura Leu. She downed 7 hot dogs and will be appearing at Coney Island on the 4th of July on ESPN.
Before I got to the park, I was wondering how they were going to hold the contest - would it be before the game? Would it be during the seventh inning stretch on the field? My question was answered as I was heading toward the apple with my eight year old to wait for a friend of mine and his daughter. Laura Leu walked by and caught my eye.
As a married man, that probably doesn't sound too great. Don't get me wrong, Ms. Leu is a very attractive woman. That's not why she caught my eye. She walked past me and I thought she was an ex-girlfriend of mine. If she was, I was going to wait on the other side of the apple.
Seven hot dogs may not sound like a lot when you're used to seeing Joey Chestnut and that little Japanese guy whose name is escaping me at the moment, but I can't imagine how the stomach would be turning by the time I got to a fourth.
Kudos Laura. Good look on the Fourth.
Before I got to the park, I was wondering how they were going to hold the contest - would it be before the game? Would it be during the seventh inning stretch on the field? My question was answered as I was heading toward the apple with my eight year old to wait for a friend of mine and his daughter. Laura Leu walked by and caught my eye.
As a married man, that probably doesn't sound too great. Don't get me wrong, Ms. Leu is a very attractive woman. That's not why she caught my eye. She walked past me and I thought she was an ex-girlfriend of mine. If she was, I was going to wait on the other side of the apple.
Seven hot dogs may not sound like a lot when you're used to seeing Joey Chestnut and that little Japanese guy whose name is escaping me at the moment, but I can't imagine how the stomach would be turning by the time I got to a fourth.
Kudos Laura. Good look on the Fourth.
Geico Blue Mets Hat Day Coming Up
It's the day before Father's Day against the Angels. The pictures haven't shown up yet. I'm hoping it's the classic hat. I want one of those. Even if is corporate sponsored.
It's so easy, a caveman can do it.
It's so easy, a caveman can do it.
3 Games Under Again
They're back to three games under and only 5.5 back from the wildcard, facing the Brewers. A sweep will bring them 2.5 back of Milwaukee, who is presently in the WC lead.
Soon they will Charlie Brown us again.
Soon they will Charlie Brown us again.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Oh They Tease....
Oh why, oh why did my Dad make me a Mets fan? Just when I thought they were out, they reel you back in. Oh, the humanity!!!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Dillon Gee - Rookie of the Year?
It's still early June, but the way Gee is pitching, is he a rookie of the year candidate? Or what about Justin Turner. Two of the bright spots in a year that is slipping away - despite the win last night.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
The Fugly Nathan's Hat is Actually Pretty Cool.
I was surprised. The hat looked downright awful in the pictures. It's actually one I'd wear. I like it.
Oliver Perez in Double A
Ollie P is pitching for the AA Harrisburg Senators in the Nationals organization. Finally getting onto the mound, Ollie has made three starts, pitched 12 innings, has a record of 2-0, an ERA of 0.75, allowed 7 hits, struck out 9 and... wait for it.... WALKED ONLY TWO!!!
He still sucks.
He still sucks.
Nathan's Hot Dog Contest Tonight at Citifield
Don't know when - if it will be before, during, or after the game - but the regional hot dog eating contest is today. The winner gets a spot in the national contest on ESPN on July 4th.
Will someone yack tonight?
Will someone yack tonight?
Completing the Infield - Mets at Second Base
Again, same rules as before. (And yes, I am well aware of the platoon situation of Backman/Teufel - the guy who played more games is the "primary".
So here we go...
1962 - Charlie Neal - 85 games
1963 - Ron Hunt - 142
1964 - Ron Hunt - 109
1965 - Chuck Hiller - 80
1966 - Ron Hunt - 123
1967 - Jerry Buchek - 95
1968 - Phil Linz - 71
1969 - Ken Boswell - 96
1970 - Ken Boswell - 101
1971 - Ken Boswell - 109
1972 - Ken Boswell - 94
1973 - Felix Millan - 153
1974 - Felix Millan - 134
1975 - Felix Millan - 162
1976 - Felix Millan - 136
1977 - Felix Millan - 89
1978 - Doug Flynn - 128
1979 - Doug Flynn - 148
1980 - Doug Flynn - 128
1981 - Doug Flynn - 100
1982 - Wally Backman - 88
1983 - Brian Giles - 140
1984 - Wally Backman - 115
1985 - Wally Backman - 140
1986 - Wally Backman - 113
1987 - Tim Teufel - 92
1988 - Wally Backman - 92
1989 - Gregg Jefferies - 123
1990 - Gregg Jefferies - 118
1991 - Gregg Jefferies - 77
1992 - Willie Randolph - 79
1993 - Jeff Kent - 127
1994 - Jeff Kent - 107
1995 - Jeff Kent - 122
1996 - Jose Vizciano - 93
1997 - Carlos Baerga - 131
1998 - Carlos Baerga - 144
1999 - Edgardo Alfonzo - 158
2000 - Edgardo Alfonzo - 146
2001 - Edgardo Alfonzo - 122
2002 - Roberto Alomar - 147
2003 - Roberto Alomar - 72
2004 - Danny Garcia - 44
2005 - Miguel Cairo - 82
2006 - Jose Valentin - 94
2007 - Luis Castillo - 50
2008 - Luis Castillo - 81
2009 - Luis Castillo - 137
2010 - Luis Castillo - 74
The Mets have had 22 primary second basemen through their first 49 full seasons
Felix Milan and Wally Backman each lead the pack with 5 primary seasons.
Felix Milan - 5 seasons - 1973-1977
Wally Backman - 5 - 1982, 1984-1986, 1988
Ken Boswell - 4 - 1969-1972
Doug Flynn - 4 - 1978-1981
Luis Castillo - 4 - 2007-2010
Ron Hunt - 3 - 1964-1964, 1966
Gregg Jefferies - 3 -1989-1991
Jeff Kent - 3 - 1993-1995
Edgardo Alfonzo - 3 - 1999-2001
While no Met has been the primary Second Baseman for more than 5 seasons (Wally nearly got 6, but for that pesky platoon in 1987), this has been a position of relative stability despite having roughly the same number of regulars as the other infield positions. The position has been held for 3 years by 9 different players. 33 of the first 49 full seasons have been manned by players that have had hold of the positions for at least three years.
So here we go...
1962 - Charlie Neal - 85 games
1963 - Ron Hunt - 142
1964 - Ron Hunt - 109
1965 - Chuck Hiller - 80
1966 - Ron Hunt - 123
1967 - Jerry Buchek - 95
1968 - Phil Linz - 71
1969 - Ken Boswell - 96
1970 - Ken Boswell - 101
1971 - Ken Boswell - 109
1972 - Ken Boswell - 94
1973 - Felix Millan - 153
1974 - Felix Millan - 134
1975 - Felix Millan - 162
1976 - Felix Millan - 136
1977 - Felix Millan - 89
1978 - Doug Flynn - 128
1979 - Doug Flynn - 148
1980 - Doug Flynn - 128
1981 - Doug Flynn - 100
1982 - Wally Backman - 88
1983 - Brian Giles - 140
1984 - Wally Backman - 115
1985 - Wally Backman - 140
1986 - Wally Backman - 113
1987 - Tim Teufel - 92
1988 - Wally Backman - 92
1989 - Gregg Jefferies - 123
1990 - Gregg Jefferies - 118
1991 - Gregg Jefferies - 77
1992 - Willie Randolph - 79
1993 - Jeff Kent - 127
1994 - Jeff Kent - 107
1995 - Jeff Kent - 122
1996 - Jose Vizciano - 93
1997 - Carlos Baerga - 131
1998 - Carlos Baerga - 144
1999 - Edgardo Alfonzo - 158
2000 - Edgardo Alfonzo - 146
2001 - Edgardo Alfonzo - 122
2002 - Roberto Alomar - 147
2003 - Roberto Alomar - 72
2004 - Danny Garcia - 44
2005 - Miguel Cairo - 82
2006 - Jose Valentin - 94
2007 - Luis Castillo - 50
2008 - Luis Castillo - 81
2009 - Luis Castillo - 137
2010 - Luis Castillo - 74
The Mets have had 22 primary second basemen through their first 49 full seasons
Felix Milan and Wally Backman each lead the pack with 5 primary seasons.
Felix Milan - 5 seasons - 1973-1977
Wally Backman - 5 - 1982, 1984-1986, 1988
Ken Boswell - 4 - 1969-1972
Doug Flynn - 4 - 1978-1981
Luis Castillo - 4 - 2007-2010
Ron Hunt - 3 - 1964-1964, 1966
Gregg Jefferies - 3 -1989-1991
Jeff Kent - 3 - 1993-1995
Edgardo Alfonzo - 3 - 1999-2001
While no Met has been the primary Second Baseman for more than 5 seasons (Wally nearly got 6, but for that pesky platoon in 1987), this has been a position of relative stability despite having roughly the same number of regulars as the other infield positions. The position has been held for 3 years by 9 different players. 33 of the first 49 full seasons have been manned by players that have had hold of the positions for at least three years.
Friday, June 3, 2011
The World Baseball Classic is Expanding
I'll start off by saying, I happen to really love the World Baseball Classic. Loved the first one in 2006. Loved the second one in 2009.
Now check out these powerhouses that are being added to the field -
France, Spain, Great Britain, Germany, New Zealand, Columbia, Nicaragua, Brazil, Israel, Thailand, Czech Republic and the Philippines.
Maybe South Africa can win a game the next time around.
No Surprise. They Screwed the Pooch Again.
Like I said, the season is over. They blew another one. Let's go Mets!
Shortstops Throughout Mets History
I shall continue to be a tool. Following the Main Mets Men at the corners season by season - we'll continue our series with the position that currently fields my favorite Met.
1962 - Elio Chacon - 110 games
1963 - Al Moran - 116
1964 - Roy McMillan - 111
1965 - Roy McMillan - 153
1966 - Eddie Bressoud - 94
1967 - Bud Harrelson - 149
1968 - Bud Harrelson - 106
1969 - Bud Harrelson - 119
1970 - Bud Harrelson - 156
1971 - Bud Harrelson - 140
1972 - Bud Harrelson - 115
1973 - Bud Harrelson - 103
1974 - Bud Harrelson - 97
1975 - Mike Phillips - 115
1976 - Bud Harrelson - 117
1977 - Bud Harrelson - 98
1978 - Tim Foli - 112
1979 - Frank Taveras - 153
1980 - Frank Taveras - 140
1981 - Frank Taveras - 79
1982 - Ron Gardenhire - 135
1983 - Jose Oquendo - 116
1984 - Jose Oquendo - 67
1985 - Rafael Santana - 153
1986 - Rafael Santana - 137
1987 - Rafael Santana - 138
1988 - Kevin Elster - 148
1989 - Kevin Elster - 150
1990 - Kevin Elster - 92
1991 - Kevin Elster - 107
1992 - Dick Schofield - 141
1993 - Tim Bogar - 66
1994 - Jose Visciano - 102
1995 - Jose Visciano - 134
1996 - Rey Ordonez - 150
1997 - Rey Ordonez - 118
1998 - Rey Ordonez - 151
1999 - Rey Ordonez - 154
2000 - Mike Bordick - 56
2001 - Rey Ordonez - 148
2002 - Rey Ordonez - 142
2003 - Jose Reyes - 69
2004 - Kazuo Matsui - 110
2005 - Jose Reyes - 161
2006 - Jose Reyes - 149
2007 - Jose Reyes - 160
2008 - Jose Reyes - 158
2009 - Alex Cora - 56
2010 - Jose Reyes - 133
The Mets have had 20 primary shortshops during their history.
Bud Harrelson leads the way with 10 seasons - 1967-1974, 1976-1977
Rey Ordonez - 6 seasons - 1996-1999, 2001-2002
Jose Reyes - 6 seasons - 2003, 2005-2008, 2010
Kevin Elster - 4 seasons - 1988-1991
Frank Taveras - 3 seasons - 1979-1981
Rafael Santana - 3 seasons - 1985-1987
4 shortshops have covered more than 50% of the seasons. 22 of the previous 49 years have been manned by Harrelson, Ordonez and Reyes.
Larry Hit a Bomb
Hit a rocket into the Acela club. I think the tool in the suit spilled his champagne on himself.
ESPN Screwing the Kids on Mets Batting Helmet Night
Yeah, I knew they were screwing the kids. ESPN did the same thing to Yankee kids on lunch box day last year. Now if a kid wants to get a batting helmet, they'll have to go to an 8pm night game.
It also happens to be the Youth Baseball Parade day where a whole slew of little leaguers were expecting to parade on the field before the game. So not only did ESPN screw the kids - they screwed them on perhaps the biggest kid event the Mets were having this year.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Who's on First?
As if I wasn't a big enough dork with going through all the main third basemen in club history, I figured I'd be an even bigger dork and start going around the infield.
So here's the rundown of the main first basemen - same criteria as before.
1962 - Marv Throneberry - 97 games
1963 - Tim Harkness - 106 games
1964 - Ed Kranepool - 104 games
1965 - Ed Kranepool - 147 games
1966 - Ed Kranepool - 132 games
1967 - Ed Kranepool - 139 games
1968 - Ed Kranepool - 113 games
1969 - Ed Kranepool - 106 games
1970 - Don Clendenon - 100 games
1971 - Ed Kranepool - 108 games
1972 - Ed Kranepool - 108 games
1973 - John Milner - 95 games
1974 - John Milner - 133 games
1975 - Ed Kranepool - 82 games
1976 - Ed Kranepool - 86 games
1977 - John Milner - 87 games
1978 - Willie Montanez - 158 games
1979 - Willie Montanez - 108 games
1980 - Lee Mazzilli - 92 games
1981 - Dave Kingman - 56 games
1982 - Dave Kingman - 143 games
1983 - Keith Hernandez - 90 games
1984 - Keith Hernandez - 153 games
1985 - Keith Hernandez - 157 games
1986 - Keith Hernandez - 149 games
1987 - Keith Hernandez - 154 games
1988 - Keith Hernandez - 93 games
1989 - Dave Magadan - 87 games
1990 - Dave Magadan - 113 games
1991 - Dave Magadan - 122 games
1992 - Eddie Murray - 154 games
1993 - Eddie Murray - 154 games
1994 - David Segui - 78 games
1995 - Rico Brogna - 131 games
1996 - Butch Husky - 75 games
1997 - John Olerud - 146 games
1998 - John Olerud - 157 games
1999 - John Olerud - 160 games
2000 - Todd Zeile - 151 games
2001 - Todd Zeile - 149 games
2002 - Mo Vaughn - 134 games
2003 - Jason Phillips - 84 games
2004 - Mike Piazza - 68 games
2005 - Doug Mientkiewicz - 83 games
2006 - Carlos Delgado - 141 games
2007 - Carlos Delgado - 138 games
2008 - Carlos Delgado - 154 games
2009 - Daniel Murphy - 101 games
2010 - Ike Davis - 146 games
2011 - TBD
Through the Mets first 49 seasons, they've also had 23 main men at the other corner. They've gone through periods of stability and periods of turnover.
Ed Kranepool tops the list with 10 seasons - 1964-1969, 1971-1972, 1975-1976
Keith Hernandez - 6 seasons - 1983-1988
John Milner - 3 seasons - 1974-1974, 1977
Dave Magadan - 3 seasons -1989-1991
John Olerud - 3 seasons - 1997-1999
Carlos Delgado - 3 seasons - 2006-2009
While third base had 5 different players that held the position for more than three years - first base only had two players with that claim to fame. Ed Kranepool and Keith Hernandez.
So here's the rundown of the main first basemen - same criteria as before.
1962 - Marv Throneberry - 97 games
1963 - Tim Harkness - 106 games
1964 - Ed Kranepool - 104 games
1965 - Ed Kranepool - 147 games
1966 - Ed Kranepool - 132 games
1967 - Ed Kranepool - 139 games
1968 - Ed Kranepool - 113 games
1969 - Ed Kranepool - 106 games
1970 - Don Clendenon - 100 games
1971 - Ed Kranepool - 108 games
1972 - Ed Kranepool - 108 games
1973 - John Milner - 95 games
1974 - John Milner - 133 games
1975 - Ed Kranepool - 82 games
1976 - Ed Kranepool - 86 games
1977 - John Milner - 87 games
1978 - Willie Montanez - 158 games
1979 - Willie Montanez - 108 games
1980 - Lee Mazzilli - 92 games
1981 - Dave Kingman - 56 games
1982 - Dave Kingman - 143 games
1983 - Keith Hernandez - 90 games
1984 - Keith Hernandez - 153 games
1985 - Keith Hernandez - 157 games
1986 - Keith Hernandez - 149 games
1987 - Keith Hernandez - 154 games
1988 - Keith Hernandez - 93 games
1989 - Dave Magadan - 87 games
1990 - Dave Magadan - 113 games
1991 - Dave Magadan - 122 games
1992 - Eddie Murray - 154 games
1993 - Eddie Murray - 154 games
1994 - David Segui - 78 games
1995 - Rico Brogna - 131 games
1996 - Butch Husky - 75 games
1997 - John Olerud - 146 games
1998 - John Olerud - 157 games
1999 - John Olerud - 160 games
2000 - Todd Zeile - 151 games
2001 - Todd Zeile - 149 games
2002 - Mo Vaughn - 134 games
2003 - Jason Phillips - 84 games
2004 - Mike Piazza - 68 games
2005 - Doug Mientkiewicz - 83 games
2006 - Carlos Delgado - 141 games
2007 - Carlos Delgado - 138 games
2008 - Carlos Delgado - 154 games
2009 - Daniel Murphy - 101 games
2010 - Ike Davis - 146 games
2011 - TBD
Through the Mets first 49 seasons, they've also had 23 main men at the other corner. They've gone through periods of stability and periods of turnover.
Ed Kranepool tops the list with 10 seasons - 1964-1969, 1971-1972, 1975-1976
Keith Hernandez - 6 seasons - 1983-1988
John Milner - 3 seasons - 1974-1974, 1977
Dave Magadan - 3 seasons -1989-1991
John Olerud - 3 seasons - 1997-1999
Carlos Delgado - 3 seasons - 2006-2009
While third base had 5 different players that held the position for more than three years - first base only had two players with that claim to fame. Ed Kranepool and Keith Hernandez.
Best Comeback Since 2000
Which once again tells me that they're just like that girl from high school.
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