Follow the Leader?

I know I don’t normally blog on Saturdays, but felt compelled to today. I’m sure many of you have read Carlos Beltrans’ comments upon arrival at Mets camp today. For those of you that haven’t, here’s a refresher…

 

"To Jimmy Rollins: We are the team to beat."

 

When I first read those words I was stunned. Was I on the right team website? Did Carlos get possessed by a body snatcher? He continued…

 

"Let me tell you this," Beltran said. "Without Santana, we felt, as a team, that we had a chance to win in our division. With him now, I have no doubt that we’re going to win in our division.. I have no doubt in that. We’ve got what it takes."

 

Could it be that the $119 million dollar man is stepping into the role of vocal clubhouse leader? I know one thing, now he has no choice but to back those bold words up with results. In my opinion, I think this might be the spark that ignites the gas from the acquisition of Johan Santana. The Mets as an organization are on a bit of a roll…and it sounds like everyone is ready to go. That could spell trouble for very good, but little improved Phillie and Braves teams, along with the rest of the N.L.

Even Billy Wagner sounded like he wasn’t wearing a Phillies shirt underneath for once…

 

“It takes a special person to be able to do that," closer Billy Wagner said. "Now you have to lead. You have to stand there and take the punches in the bad games, and you have to be there to answer the questions and deal with it.."

 

In response to the threat of hazing from Phillies fans, Beltran had this to say…

 

"I don’t care," Beltran said. "They boo me in Houston. One more city won’t make a difference."

 

One thing is for sure, he can add New York to the list if he doesn’t back it up. However, I have a feeling we can expect good things from our star centerfielder…and dare I say it? Leader?