Nats Release John Patterson
Today the Washington Nationals released John Patterson. The 30 year old's always had great stuff, but has only pitched 71 innings over the last 2 seasons. However, when he was fully healthy in 2005 he struck out 185 batters in 198 innings. The reason given for his cut was a, "lack of performance."
I wouldn't be at all surprised to see Omar Minaya sign Patterson. Not only did he draft him in the 1996 amateur draft, but the signing would make total sense. It would allow Orlando Hernandez to start the season on the DL and not have to pitch in total discomfort, and it would allow 24 year old Mike Pelfrey to work on his command in Triple A New Orleans to start the season. It'd even allow Nelson Figueroa to win the long relief job to start the year. No interest has yet been reported from the Mets, but you can expect not much time to go by before John Patterson is in a new organization.
Comments
I don't think that Omar drafted Patterson in 1996. He was with the Mets then. He worked for Montreal/San Juan from 2002-2004.
Posted by: Tim | March 20, 2008 06:23 PM
Patterson has been continuously hurt the last couple of years. It depends on the price but idk if the Mets can commit to a guy who can get injured at any moment.
Posted by: VC | March 20, 2008 06:26 PM
Why not VC? The Mets have already committed to a BUNCH of guys able to be hurt at any moment!Whats one more?Just (kinda) kidding...LOL
In all seriousness, this guy would be decent at the right price like VC stated earlier.Maybe...;)
Posted by: Adam Baker | March 20, 2008 10:13 PM
I can't see how the Mets can ignore Nelson Figueroa's impressive Spring stats when deciding who makes the 40 man roster and go North (actually south to Miami vs the Marlins): Two starts(4 runs vs Red Sox, 1 run on one hit in 4 innings vs Astros), three appearances in relief (no runs). Last year in AAA Mexican League he pitched in 19 games (all starts), averaging 8 innings per game. In the Caribe World Series last month, Figueroa started the first game and pitched into the 10th inning (1 run), leaving without a decision. Talk about a rubber arm. The Mets need an inning-eater and Figueroa is an inning-eater the way it used to be. Pitch 8 innings and let your closer close.
Posted by: HDarvick | March 21, 2008 09:05 AM