I got in touch with NY Mets 2011 3rd round draft choice Logan Verrett the other day. Verrett a 6’3″ right-hander, is in his final off-season preparations before heading out to spring training at Port St. Lucie in less than two weeks. Logan was nice enough to fill us in on his feelings on being drafted by the Mets, his record-setting college career, his pitching arsenal, and his expectations for his first professional season, which is now right around the corner. Take a look inside to see what else Logan had to say:

Petey:  First of all Logan, congratulations on a big year in 2011. Being the 3rd round pick in the 2011 draft by the Mets, and then signing your first professional contract in the 11th hour before the deadline, must have been quite a thrill! Thank you so much for sharing a little of your time. The readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com will really enjoy reading about you, and getting to know a little bit about one of our newest Met pitching prospects! When the Mets drafted you out of Baylor University last June, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you have any idea that the Mets were interested in drafting you, or which round(s) of the draft you might be taken in?

Logan:  On the second day of the draft me, my parents, and my girlfriend were all gathered around the computer watching the draft online. It seemed like forever that we were sitting there when we finally heard my name called. It was an overwhelming feeling of relief and excitement at the same time. I knew the Mets were interested because I had met with the area scout a couple of times and they had called the night before they drafted me.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of becoming a major league baseball player?

Logan:  There are so many people that I owe for pushing me to reach my dream that I don’t even know where to begin. My parents are a major reason that I am a professional baseball player today, they are the ones that dragged me around every weekend from tournament to tournament. My brother, Jared, also taught me a lot about the game. He is 3 years older than me so he pretty much paved the path and he helped me learn from his experiences.

Petey:  While pitching at Baylor, you set Big 12 Conference records for a single season in K/BB ratio (4.14), and BB/9 (2.3). In addition, you set the career conference record for K/BB ratio (3.83). What were some of the most important things you learned from your experience at college and pitching college ball?

Logan:  One of the most important things that I learned in college which attributed to the records I set was simply that it’s not all about velocity. You have to be able to pitch not just throw. Anybody can square up 96 mph if you leave it down the middle of the plate, but if you can turn that into 92 mph on the corners and at the hitters knees then you are going to be very successful.

Petey:  What was your biggest moment on the field in college?

Logan:  I think that one of the biggest moments I had in college was my sophomore year when I pitched a complete game against Texas A&M, it was a big game not only because we beat one of our biggest rivals but because I set the record for most strikeouts at Baylor Ballpark that game.

Petey:  We have heard that you possess simple, repeatable mechanics and good command of three quality pitches. But for those of us that have never seen you pitch, could you tell us a little more about your arsenal? What pitches you throw, at what speeds, and how you set up hitters? Are you working on any new pitches moving forward?

Logan:  As a pitcher I like to keep things as simple as possible, I don’t want to “trick” a hitter. I think when you start thinking that you have to “trick” a hitter then that is when you can get in trouble. I set guys up with my fastball and keep them off balance with either my curveball, slider, or changeup. My fastball and slider are pitches that I have tremendous confidence in and I think they are very hard to hit. To complete my arsenal I have a pretty good curveball and an average changeup. I have been really working hard this offseason on developing my changeup to become a much better pitch for me.

Petey:  That will certainly serve you well when you pitch in the Florida State League, and the Eastern League. What kind of things did you do to stay in shape over the winter? Can you describe your workout regimen? Did the Mets give you anything specific to work on?

Logan:  This offseason I have been working hard to get stronger and improve as a pitcher. I have a strength coach in Houston that I meet with once a week to go through a workout and to get my workouts for the week. We have put a focus on leg strength as well as flexibility and hip mobility.

Petey:  You have been referred to as “durable” on the mound. Do you have a preference to starting or relieving, or is it something where you don’t care as long as the opportunity to pitch is there?

Logan:  I prefer starting, that is what my role has been ever since high school and it’s a role that I really have embraced, and love looking forward to going at least six or seven innings for my team.

Petey:  Tell us what is the biggest obstacle for you in getting to the major leagues? Is there one thing in particular, that you need to work on and improve to be able able to succeed at the highest level?

Logan:  I think in order for me to reach my ultimate goal of pitching in the major leagues I have to be consistent week in and week out. I’m confident that I have the tools and the right people surrounding me to get me there, it is just going to take consistent outings every time I take the mound.

Petey:  What are your goals for next season? Is there a particular club you hope to make out of spring training? Have the Mets made any indication of what they are planning for you next season, or are those things to be decided in spring training?

Logan:  My expectations for this upcoming season are to lead whatever club I am with to a championship. I am truly blessed to have this opportunity and I am going to bring a winning attitude to the park every day with me no matter what club I am with.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major leaguer, either past or present, who you would say is similar in pitching style to you?

Logan:  Growing up so close to Houston naturally I was a bit of an Astros fan, nothing over the top though. It is so hard to be an Astros fan anyways. I always enjoyed watching Roy Oswalt pitch, and also watching Craig Biggio when he was playing second base for Oswalt.

Petey:  Biggio was an awesome player. I think every Mets fan who saw him play wished that he was on our team. I mean he was as hard-nosed and competitive a player as there ever was. And a NL All-Star at catcher, centerfield, and second base? Who does that? That’s just crazy. The guy has to make the HOF. Anyway, to finish up Logan, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Logan:  My favorite types of movies are comedies first, and then I enjoy movies that make you think like Inception and Shutter Island, stuff like that. I love listening to Texas Country, which I know most people probably aren’t familiar with unless they are from Texas. But most Texas Country has a little Southern Rock feel to it, and some of my favorite artists are Randy Rogers Band, Robert Earl Keen, and Ryan Bingham. My favorite food is a little weird, but BBQ crabs are definitely my favorite food, it’s a lot of work to eat them but it is well worth it.

Petey:  Thanks again Logan, it was a lot of fun doing this interview with you. Have a great spring training, and 2012 season! All of us at MMO and Mets fans everywhere are looking forward to seeing you on the “bump” real soon.

Although the big league starting pitching will remain relatively untouched, and will have to do it’s improving from within this year, the true influx of talent into the organization will be seen in the starting rotations at Savannah and St. Lucie. Some recently drafted pitchers that will make their organizational debuts as starters this season are, in addition to Verrett, Cory Mazzoni, Tyler Pill, Jack Leathersich, Alex Panteliodis and Michael Fulmer. It should be an exciting year to follow these young pitching prospects, as there is plenty of talent here. Another strong pitching draft for the team in 2012, combined with a little luck and development from these guys, and this organizations farm system may start to move up the rankings soon, based on the strength of it’s pitching.

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LGM!

I was able to get in a quick Q&A with NY Mets shortstop prospect Phillip Evans the other day, just weeks before he has to get ready to head for Port St. Lucie for the start of Spring Training. The Mets got a steal when they plucked Evans in the 15th round of last years draft. Other teams had been scared off due to a commitment by Evans to attend San Diego State, but just hours before the deadline to sign players, the Mets were able to come to terms with him on a professional contract. And boy are they glad they did. Evans at age 19, plays much older. He is far advanced for his age, as a hitter and an infielder, and is a complete player in all facets of the game. I asked Phillip about his hitting, his fielding, his base-running, and just about everything else too. Look inside to see what he had to say:

Petey:  First of all congratulations Phillip on a terrific year! From being the 15th round pick in the draft by the Mets, to signing a pro contract and making your professional debut playing at three different levels of the Mets farm system. You got to play in front of the awesome fans in Brooklyn, and helped them get to the championship round of the New York Penn League Playoffs. It must have been a very exciting year for you, I would imagine. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer these questions for our readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com. Are you having a nice off-season? How are you doing these days?

Phillip:  Thanks Pete! It was definitely a very exciting year for me, from playing my final high school season at La Costa Canyon in front of my friends and family to playing in Brooklyn and being supported by the best fans you can get in minor league baseball. All the levels that I played in from the GCL to Kingsport, then Brooklyn were all great experiences for me within the first few weeks of my career.

Petey:  Were you born to play baseball? When did you first start to think about playing it for a living?

Phillip:  Baseball is not just a job to me, its a kids game so in my mind I try to keep things simple and have as much fun as possible between those two white lines. I was most definitely born to play baseball! I’ve been playing since I was 4 years and my love for the game is through the roof and it will stay that way for the rest of my life. I have always dreamed about playing the game I love for a living.

Petey:  That’s awesome. Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of becoming a major league baseball player?

Phillip:  My dad has always been motivating me through my career so far. I have learned a lot from all of coaches from travel ball when I was younger, to my high school coach Justin Machado who taught me a lot about controlling my emotions and how to carry myself on and off the field.

Petey:  When the Mets drafted you in the 15th round of the 2011 MLB Player Draft, out of La Costa Canyon High School, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? You were projected to be a very early round pick, but fell to the 15th due to your strong commitment to attend San Diego State. What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Phillip:  I was very surprised and happy that the Mets drafted me, the draft works in some funky ways so I had no idea what to expect going into it but the Mets organization is a great fit for me.

Petey:  Your right about the draft, it’s impossible to figure it out, but we Mets fans are happy they drafted you too, and very happy you decided to sign. At the plate, you have a very solid swing. On your stride you exhibit good balance, and weight shift, with excellent hip rotation. Your swing is short and compact, and the bat cuts very quickly through the hitting zone because of your quick hands and wrists. What is your strategy for approaching each at bat?

Phillip:  I step up to the plate with confidence and look for a pitch that is most likely going to be thrown in a certain count or situation and drive it wherever it is pitched.

Petey:  You are usually a top of the order guy, do you see yourself as a stolen base threat?

Phillip:  Yes I have a quick first step and get going on the base paths pretty well, I have been keeping myself in great shape this winter and will be stealing bags this season.

Petey:  Wow that’s great to hear! You have played mostly shortstop so far but can also handle second base. Do you have a preference as to which position you like best? Have the Mets made any indications to you regarding where they plan to play you next year?

Phillip:  Being on a baseball field is my life and brings me tremendous joy I love to play shortstop but I would play any position just to be out on that field everyday.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself playing like someday in the majors?

Phillip:  I am from the Bay Area so I will always be a San Francisco Giants fan, my favorite players growing up and still to this day are Jimmy Rollins & Jose Reyes.

Petey:  What are your goals for next season? And how do you prepare over the winter, can you describe your workout regimen? What do you like to do for recreation?

Phillip:  My goals for next season is to do everything possible to help my team win ball games. I have been working very hard this off-season in the weight room and on the diamond, but in my free time I love being at the beach and in the ocean, just laying in the sand and playing beach volleyball makes me happy. Living five minutes from the beach definitely helps me out with those things I love to do away from the field, haha.

Petey:  Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year at any of the three stops you made after signing, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Phillip:  Danny Muno really impressed me this season from what I saw him do everyday he showed up to the yard, Going through the different levels with him around will be fun since he is a great team guy knows how to handle himself on and off the field.

Petey:  I had the pleasure of doing an interview with Danny in the fall, and he is quite a competitor. To finish up Phillip, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Phillip:  My favorite Movie has to be The Sandlot, I love all kinds off music, pretty much every kind of genre, its nice to mix up the music selection sometimes, I love sushi, seafood, and steak!

Petey:  Haha! I love The Sandlot too! I just interviewed one of your teammates from the end of last season, Travis Taijeron, and he also picked The Sandlot. Thanks again Phillip for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Have a very pleasant rest of the off-season and we’ll see you at spring training, which is only a month away!

Phillip:  It was my pleasure to answer these questions, anytime just throw some questions my way, and I’ll get on them right away, thanks for having me Pete! Have a good few weeks and I’ll see you at spring training!

Petey:  My pleasure Phillip. We will definitely be in touch, thank you!

What can you say? Evans is a baseball player. He is not afraid to get his uniform dirty. He knows how to bunt. He drives balls in the gap. He’ll take it the opposite way. He can actually field, he’s a middle infielder and will stay there, he won’t be spending the next four years searching for a position to play, like so many Mets “prospects” of the past. He’s a hard-nosed player, a good base-runner, and will even steal you a couple of bags. He’s smart, confident, eager to learn, and I don’t think it would be too much of a stretch for him to start out this year in the long-season South Atlantic League as a member of the Savannah Sand Gnats everyday infield. We’ll check back with Phillip during spring training and see how everything’s going.

Scene from The Sandlot >click here<

Another scene >click here<

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I caught up to NY Mets minor league pitcher Josh Edgin the other day. Josh has been enjoying the off-season, and just threw his first bullpen, getting his arm ready for spring training. Everyone is aware of the fabulous year that Darin Gorski had at St. Lucie last year. Gorski credited his fastball command, and improved change-up for his success. Well the year Gorski had as a starter, is comparable to what Edgin was able to accomplish as a reliever.

Starting the 2011 season as the closer at Savannah, he threw 31 IP’s over 24 games, giving up only 3 earned runs. That’s right, 3. He went 1-0 with 16 saves and a 0.87 ERA, striking out 41, walking 10, and giving up just 14 hits, 0 HR’s. He was then brought up to St. Lucie where he picked up where he left off in the SAL. In the Florida State League, Advanced-A, Edgin tossed another 35 innings, with a 2-1 record, 11 saves, and a 2.06 ERA. He struck out 35 while walking 13, and giving up 30 hits.

With just 4 weeks remaining before he reports to the spring training complex at Port St. Lucie, it was really nice of Josh to take some time out to answer questions for the readers and staff at MMO. We discussed everything from pitching repertoire, to the mental side of pitching, and staying composed on the mound. From how he spent his off-season, to his goals for the upcoming year. Keep reading to see what Josh had to say:

Petey:  First of all congratulations Josh on a successful second pro season! You threw lights out this past year at Savannah and St. Lucie, helping St. Lucie win the Southern Division of the FSL and pitching in the playoffs. It must have been quite an exciting year for you. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions for our readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com. Are you back home in South Carolina for the winter? How has your off-season been so far?

Josh:  My offseason has been great but I am currently in my hometown of Three Springs, PA. Im not sure how the Mets got my hometown as Florence, S.C., but I have been trying to change that for some time now haha.

Petey:  Well I don’t want to be giving out faulty information, so I’m glad we got that straightened out! When the Mets drafted you out of Francis Marion University (SC) in the 30th round of the 2010 MLB Player Draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Josh:  Well I received a text from a friend saying congrats. I had just gotten home from work at the time and it kind of caught me off guard. I was taken in the 50th round by the Braves my junior year so I wasn’t really expecting to get drafted, let alone on the second day. I did not know the Mets were interested other than the questionaire I had filled out from them.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you have learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of one day becoming a major league baseball player?

Josh:  I cannot name just one person who I have learned the most from because there are multiple people that have helped me get to where I am but I have to thank my mom and dad for pushing me and never giving up no matter how tough it got. They have been behind me 100% this whole time, so I would give all the praise to them.

Petey:  According to Adam Rubin, your fastball is in the 92-95 mph range, is that about right? I assume that’s a four-seamer you throw? What sort of movement do you get on your fastball? And your slider is supposed to be 82-85 with break down and away from left-handed hitters. You are also working on a change-up and a curveball, how are they coming along? Are you getting comfortable throwing them? What are their speeds and movement like? Would you be able to throw your curve, or change in a big spot? How close are those pitches command-wise, to your two primary pitches? Have you considered learning a two-seamer, or a cutter?

Josh:  Yeah, my fastball is around there with a little bit of run away from a righty. It is a four-seam and I have thrown a two-seam, but I don’t have the control with the 2 like I do with the 4. The change-up is coming along. As for the curve, we’ll just say its “eh.” I am getting comfortable throwing the change-up but I just don’t think I have a curveball arm-slot. The change-up speed is probably around 80-83 mph, not certain but it was around there last year. I am getting comfortable with it and do believe I could throw it in a big spot. I would say I have a little more work to do to get my change-up in the command zone with my 4-seam and slider.

Petey:  What is the one most important thing you learned, or accomplished last year while pitching at Savannah and St. Lucie? Are there any particular coaches who have really helped you since you joined the organization?

Josh:  I learned that you can’t just get on the mound and throw the ball. I have to stay focused and composed, especially since I was being used as the closer. The three pitching coaches I have had in pro ball Phil Regan, Glenn Abbott, and Jonathan Hurst, have all helped me in some way or another. Being around people who have been around the game as much as those guys is just a cool experience in itself.

Petey:  You opened last season at Savannah and pitched really well there in the first half, which earned you a promotion to St. Lucie at mid-season. Your combined numbers for the year were: 3-1 with a 1.50 ERA and 27 Saves. In 66 IP’s you gave up only 44 hits, 2 HR’s, walked 23 and struck out 76. Do you have any goals for next season? I would think you will open next year at AA, what will be your general approach to attacking hitters this year? What do you think about the jump to AA? Will you have to do anything differently to be successful there?

Josh:  My goals for next season are to pitch to the best of my ability. I know what I have in me, and I expect that out of me every pitch. The general approach will be to go after the hitters. If you try to think or over-analyze, that is when you get hurt as a pitcher. It all starts with strike one. I am excited to make the jump to AA (if all goes well) but I’m not sure if I will have to do anything differently until I get there, whenever that may be. I don’t want to get my hopes up about going up there. Just take it one day at a time.

Petey:  Absolutely. Tom Seaver has always said that about strike one being the most important pitch a pitcher throws. When did your off-season workout schedule begin, and when did you start throwing? Can you describe your regimen? What is your reporting date for spring training?

Josh:  I would say I got back in the weight room around the middle of November, I started tossing around the middle of December, and just threw my first real bullpen last night. I was just long tossing and working on mechanics up until then. My report date to spring training is March 3rd.

Petey:  What do you like to do for fun over the off-season, when you are not working out?

Josh:  I am an avid hunter. I love hunting no matter what it is. I would say that from the end of September till the end of November, if I wasn’t at home, I was most likely in the woods. If I wasn’t hunting I was walking around or something. I just enjoy being in the outdoors.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself pitching like someday in the majors?

Josh:  My favorite team growing up was the Baltimore Orioles and favorite player was Cal Ripken Jr. He was the man. Just as hard nosed as you can get on the field, but he played the game right. I can’t really compare myself to anyone right now because I can’t really find anyone like me.

Petey:  Fair Enough. Can you pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play last year at Savannah or St. Lucie, and tell us what it was that made you take notice?

Josh:  Well I may have to go with the obvious here and say Gorski. He was just lights out for the half season that I was there and his demeanor did not change a bit from the beginning till the end.

Petey:  I was able to interview Darin earlier this winter, and I asked him how he stayed so consistent all year, he basically said to “take it one pitch at a time,” he had a truly remarkable season in 2011. To finish up Josh, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Josh:  Movie would have to be Bull Durham. I only listen to country music, mostly, and my favorite food would have to be a good steak and mashed potatoes.

Petey:  Thanks again Josh for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Enjoy the rest of your time off this winter, and we’ll see you on the “bump” at spring training!

Josh:  Thank you for asking me to do this and I hope there is enough to get a good story.

Petey:  There definitely is, thanks again Josh!

I’m really glad I was able to do this interview with Josh, his answers were great, and very informative. He is definitely a player who could move quickly through the upper levels of the system. It wouldn’t be out-of-the question, if he has another terrific year like he did last season, for him to get to the bigs by the end of this year. If not, he should definitely factor into the conversation, by this time next year. It would very much depend on the development of that new change-up, which he was good enough to describe for us in detail. He already has excellent command of two plus pitches, when the change catches up, he will be dominant from out of the pen. A hard throwing lefty, with command on both sides of the plate, in the Met bullpen at Citifield? Might be nice, might be very nice. Stay tuned.

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I got in touch with NY Mets outfield prospect Travis Taijeron this week and he was nice enough to agree to an interview with us here on MetsMerizedOnline.com. The righty-hitting Taijeron played CF, and LF last year for the Brooklyn Cyclones after being drafted by the Mets in the 2011 Amateur Draft. It was an excellent pro debut for Taijeron, who not only played solid defense, while leading the team in 3B’s, HR’s, RBI’s, and SLG%, he also came through many times as a clutch-hitter, and had the respect of all his teammates. Let’s check out what Travis had to say as he sheds some light on where he feels his game is now, and where he sees it going.

Petey:  First of all congratulations Travis on a terrific year! From being the 18th round pick by the NY Mets in this past year’s draft, to making your professional debut playing in front of the awesome fans in Brooklyn, to helping the Cyclones get into the New York Penn League Playoffs, and very nearly winning the whole thing! It must have been a very exciting year for you. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions for our readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com. How are things going in sunny California? When the Mets drafted you in the 18th round of the 2011 MLB Player Draft, out of Cal Poly Pomona, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Travis:  When I was drafted it was really exciting. It just so happened that I was working out with some of my teammates from Cal Poly when I got the call. I had somewhat of a feel that the Mets were interested in me since they had invited me to a few pre-draft workouts. During the draft I really had no idea what round I was going to be drafted in just because it was my senior season.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of becoming a major league baseball player?

Travis:  My whole family and friends have always been there for me but most of all my dad has been there driving me and inspiring me to get better. Ever since I was a little kid I wanted to play professional baseball. I loved the sport and I had a talk with my dad when I was going into my freshman year of high school. I told him that I wanted to do whatever it takes to make it, and that I wanted his help no matter what to push me through the hard times. He has always been there to push me to the next level.

Petey:  It must have been an unbelievable experience to break into professional baseball in front of those fabulous Cyclones fans! What was that experience like to play baseball at Coney Island, for the Brooklyn Cyclones, getting to play in front of the home-town folks? Seeing as you’re from California, did it take time for you to get acclimated to living and playing ball in NY?

Travis:  Playing in Brooklyn was such a great time! I have never experienced anything like that. I have never played baseball in front of so many fans before. It really made it so much fun to play. The city life was really different, but baseball is still the same sport no matter where you go in the United States.

Petey:  You made the NYPL All-Star team last season, and you were named the NYPL Player of the Week at the beginning of August, two very nice accomplishments as a reward for a job well done. What’s the biggest thing you learned from the experience of playing for the Cyclones last year?

Travis:  I learned most last year how to control myself in a professional environment. In college everything is controlled. I had to adjust to baseball as a career that I want to excel at and set my own goals for what I want to accomplish.

Petey:  You put together a very productive and consistent 2011 season at the plate. In 194 AB’s, hitting from the right side, you put up a slash-line of .299/.387/.557, with 13 2B’s, 5 3B’s, 9 HR’s, and 44 RBI’s. Nice work Travis! At first glance the only issue I see so far, is a fairly high strikeout rate, as your K/BB ratio was 64/22. If you could, give us a scouting report on yourself as a hitter. What are your strengths? In addition to cutting down on the K’s, what else do you need to work on as a hitter, to take your game to the next level?

Travis:  I understand that I need to cut down on my strikeouts and I have been working on that most this of season. I personally I think that I am a power hitter and I like it when there are people on base. I try my hardest when someone is on base to score them no matter what it takes. I enjoy the pressure especially with runners in scoring position. This off season I have been working most on my strike zone judgment, I believe I was swinging at a lot of bad pitches that I should not have been swinging at and getting myself out. This next year I want to make the pitcher really earn it to get me out.

Petey:  If last year was a sprint, this year will be a marathon, as you will find yourself in a full-season league for the first time. Since you will be playing regularly this year either at Savannah or St. Lucie, in a league where you will have approximately 140 games on the schedule, are you preparing any differently for the long season ahead? Can you describe your workout regimen?

Travis:  I understand that I have to be more prepared this next season so I have been working really hard with my trainer, Carl Thiessen in Imperial Beach and on my own, to make sure that I come into this next season in top shape. The weather has been great out here so we do a lot at the beach in the sand.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself playing like someday in the majors?

Travis:  Well, being from San Diego I have been a Padres fan. My favorite team was the 1998 Padre team. One player I have always liked is Josh Hamilton, he has a great swing and a lot of power. But I like so many different players for different reasons, so it is hard for me to narrow anything down.

Petey:  What do you like to do for recreation, when your not working out or playing baseball?

Travis:  Most of my days are working out and all that, but when I have time I like to go to the desert and off-road my Ranger. I also own a few radio-controlled trucks that I race, so I do that as well.

Petey:  Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year at Brooklyn, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Travis:  We had so many good players last year, but Danny Muno was one guy that has a really nice swing and can just smack the ball around the field. Also a pitcher that really impressed me was Jack Leathersich. That kid just did really well every time he stepped on the mound. But really the whole team was great, we had so many good players.

Petey:  Danny Muno was kind enough to do an interview with me earlier in the off-season, he’s a terrific player and a very nice guy. And yes, “The Rocket,” Jack Leathersich is an intriguing player as well. To finish up Travis, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Travis:  My favorite movie growing up was The Sandlot. I don’t really have too much of a favorite band, but I like country and rock music. I really like any Italian food.

Petey:  Haha! I love The Sandlot! Especially the scene where the kids all have chaws of chewing tobacco, and they go on that spin-ride at the carnival, hilarious! Hey thanks again Travis for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Have a great rest of the winter, enjoy your time off, and we’ll see you in ST!

Well I’ll say two things for Travis, he’s a very promising and toolsy outfielder, AND he’s got excellent taste in movies! I expect him to be the starting left-fielder in Savannah next year, and it will be great to see how he does in a long-season league. He should be an important part of a very talented Sand Gnat team that will once again, contend for an SAL Championship.

Classic >scene< from The Sandlot, and of course, who can forget this other classic >scene<

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.

Here are some Mets thoughts from the afternoon media session from Tuesday’s 23rd annual MLB B.A.T. Dinner.

Gary Sheffield

Sheffield said it was not difficult for him to retire after his long career, which included a World Series championship in 1997 with the Marlins and hitting his 500th career home run as a Met.

“I pretty much did everything I wanted to do on a baseball field,” he said.

He has enjoyed spending time playing football and baseball with his five boys. He thinks his 5-year-old has the best shot to make it big.

Sheffield has been involved with B.A.T. in the past and likes where the organization is headed.

“I think it’s very important for every player to be here,” he said. “A lot of guys fall on hard times, but many of those guys wind up being successful.”

Ed Kranepool

Ed Kranepool

Kranepool was an original member of 1962 Mets, so he was thrilled to be back for the team’s 50th anniversary.

“It’s a lot of fun to be part of it,” he said. “The organization has great tradition, and I hope it continues.”

Kranepool spent his entire 18-year career with the Mets and saw the team’s transformation from “Lovable Losers” to World Series Champions in 1969. He said the team was able to turn it around through the combination of hard work and the development of young players.

He also said Gil Hodges was the main reason for the turnaround.

“Under Gil Hodges’ tutelage, we became a good ball club and we could have won more pennants if he didn’t pass away,” said Kranepool.

Kranepool was the only member of the original Mets to still be with the team in ’69. Naturally, his favorite career memory was winning the World Series.

“Forty years later, they’re still talking about the ’69 series,” he said.

Jay Payton

Jay Payton was back in town for the B.A.T. Dinner, and he was one of the highlights of the afternoon media session.

Currently, Payton is spending time with his 7-year-old son in Oklahoma and is officially retired from baseball. He did say he would be interested in getting involved as a coach at the professional level when the time was right.

The highlight of Payton’s career was the 2000 World Series. He enjoyed playing for Bobby Valentine and said he wouldn’t be surprised at all if Valentine led the Red Sox to the playoff in this his first season with the team.

“We had the right blend of young guys who were hungry and veterans,” Payton said of the 2000 team.

Individually, he’ll always remember hitting a home run off Mariano Rivera. In fact, Payton’s home run in the World Series was one of only two home runs Rivera has given up in the postseason in his career.

When asked about what his advice would be to young players coming to New York, he responded with the following: “Get an apartment about 300 miles outside of the city.”

He stressed the importance of a young player keeping his head on straight, especially in the New York market.

“Having success here is unlike having success anywhere else,” he said.

Payton looks like he’s still in playing shape and joked that he could go out and play right now.

“I only need about five days,” he said with a smile.

Tom Seaver

Hall of Famer Tom Seaver was on hand for the festivities. While many of the reporters were curious to hear about Seaver’s favorite Mets memories from his playing career, all Seaver wanted to talk about was wine.

During his playing career, he was asked what he would do once his career was over.

“I said, ‘I’m going to go back to California to raise grapes,’” said Seaver.

Seaver enjoys his 90-second commute to work where he runs a Cabernet wine bottling company.

“I can’t wait to get out of bed an go to work,” he said.

Seaver said that both his dreams—playing professional baseball and having his own win company—have come true.

Ron Swoboda

Ron Swoboda

“Rocky” was also excited to be celebrating the team’s 50th anniversary. He is currently the color man on the broadcast for the New Orleans Zephyrs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Miami Marlins, and he has great fun doing that.

Swoboda will never forget playing for Casey Stengel as a 19-year-old. Stengel never called him the right name—Stengel never called anyone the right the name for that matter—but he knew who Swoboda was.

Stengel placed his confidence in Swoboda as a rookie, which led to Rocky hitting 19 home runs.

“Stengel said, ‘You can’t learn to hit by sitting on the bench,’” said Swoboda.

He called the Mets climb from a 100 loss team to a 100 win team “meteoric,” especially in the days when free agency didn’t exist.

Of course, Swoboda’s legacy is his great catch in the ’69 World Series. But his favorite memories are the months leading up to that catch.

“You don’t make a catch in the World Series unless you get there,” he said. “You have to win a few ballgames to even get there.”

Finally, Swoboda actually thinks the current Mets will be better this year than last year. Let’s hope he’s right.

Wally Backman

Fiery second baseman Wally Backman will take over managerial duties of the Buffalo Bisons this season as he continues ascending up the ladder in the Mets organization. He previously managed the Brooklyn Cyclones and the Binghamton Mets.

However, he doesn’t see too much of a difference jumping from level to level.

“You’re teaching fundamentals,” Backman said. “The same things you’re teaching in the lowest levels, you’re teaching in the highest levels.”

He’s most looking forward to working with outfield prospect Kirk Nieuwenheis and the young pitchers Matt Harvey, Jeurys Familia and Zach Wheeler (who will like start the year in Double-A). Backman compared these three pitchers to the Mets young studs in the mid 1980s: Ron Darling, Sid Fernandez and Doc Gooden.

“Being in Buffalo, my job is to get this guys to the big leagues to help Terry (Collins),” he said.

Recently, Backman spent time with Gary Carter at Carter’s golf tournament. He wished Carter the best and said “The Kid” is still fighting.

“Gary wasn’t just a teammate,” said Backman. “He was like a brother to a lot of us.”

Davey Johnson

Who would have thought that Davey Johnson would take over the Washington Nationals last season?

Well, his team played some great baseball down the stretch, and Johnson is excited for a full season at the helm. He did say it feels strange to be back in New York as the enemy.

“I have to whip up on those Metsies that I love,” he said.

Though his team lost out on signing Prince Fielder, he is happy with the current team and is excited to see young phenoms Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper take the field.

“Harper hasn’t made my club yet,” Johnson said. “But he’ll have a chance. We’ll find out this spring if he’s good enough.”

Johnson said he thoroughly enjoyed his time with the Mets. He even hinted that he had been helping the Mets well before he took over as manager in 1984.

That’s because Johnson made the final out of the ‘69 World Series on a long fly ball to Cleon Jones.

We should be seeing plenty more of Johnson this season.

I was able to do a Q&A with NY Mets minor league prospect Joe Bonfe the other day. Entering his 4th season with the Mets, the 24-year-old Bonfe looks to shed the label of super-utility guy, and take on the role of starting player for an entire season. Joe did a great job in the interview and his questions are very interesting. Keep reading to find out how Joe continues to improve his game, and what he sees himself accomplishing this year:

Petey:  Today we are chatting with Joe Bonfe, Mets minor league jack-of-all-trades, who played at Savannah last year. Joe plays first-base, third-base, and the corner outfield spots for the Mets, and if everything goes according to plan, he should open up 2012 in the Florida State League as a member of the St. Lucie Mets. Hi Joe, thanks for taking a little time out to answer some questions for all of us at MetsMerizedOnline.com. You are from Minnesota, is that where you’ve spent this off-season? Did you guys even have any snow this winter?

Joe:  I am spending my off-season in Minnesota and it’s been a warm winter thus far, we didn’t even have snow on Christmas.

Petey:  When the Mets drafted you in the 21st round of the 2009 MLB Player Draft, out of Sierra College, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Joe:  I first heard I was drafted when I was listening to the Draft Tracker the second day of the draft, I was super excited because it has always been a dream of mine to play in the Major Leagues and hearing my name brought me one step closer to that dream. The Mets followed me through fall and spring ball the year I was at Sierra College so I knew I had the possibility of getting drafted by them. I didn’t have any rounds in mind I just wanted to let scouts know I wanted to play at the next level and be given the opportunity.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of becoming a major league baseball player?

Joe:  My parents have been my biggest support through my baseball career and they have always been there for me and helped fine tune me into the player I am today. They taught me to be a hard worker, play hard from start to finish, and play the game the right way.

Petey:  You were log-jammed at the infield corners when the 2011 season began, but spent some time working in the outfield corner spots and held up pretty well. Was it your idea to seek more playing time by working in the outfield, or one of your coaches? Although a natural third baseman, after playing both LF and RF for the Gnats, did you become as comfortable in the outfield as you are in the infield? There has been speculation about the Mets perhaps moving both Aderlin Rodriguez, and Jefry Marte from 3B. That could leave a big hole at the position at St. Lucie going into this season. Have the Mets indicated whether they see you filling that role for them heading into next year, or is it a matter of seeing where the cards fall in ST?

Joe:  I have always wanted to be a versatile player my whole career because I know in this game the more positions you play the more opportunities will come your way, I really wanted to be able to help the team and be an everyday player so the coaches and I decided it would benefit me more to play more positions and it worked out great. My first game I played outfield I was a little nervous/excited but I knew that with the hard work and practice I put in, everything would take care of itself. When I caught the first fly ball I felt instant comfort and knew I could help the team in the outfield. I am heading into spring training trying to prove myself that I can be an everyday player at any of the corner positions and would be willing to play other positions as well.

Petey:  Between you and me Joe, I’d hold off on telling them you’d be willing to catch, if you know what I mean. How about a scouting report on Joe Bonfe as a hitter? What are your strengths and what do you need to work on? You are a big guy, 6’4″, 220 lbs., and swing right-handed, do you see yourself developing into a HR hitter some day? I noticed you hit about .50 points higher with runners in scoring position last year, then with the bases empty, and then you hit very well in the post-season. Do you think of yourself as a ‘big game’ guy, and a clutch performer?

Joe:  I am always tuning up my game, but I would have to say I am working on my bat speed, defense, loading earlier and driving the ball with backspin to all parts of the field, with that said I believe I can become a HR hitter. As always I just try and help my team in any way possible to win the game and I like getting the opportunity to be in those situations. I know in those situations the pitcher is the one who is in trouble so I don’t put any pressure on myself, I just treat it like every other at bat and let the pitcher make the mistake.

Petey:  Tell us a little about your speed and base-running. You are fast enough to hold down a corner outfield spot, which opens many opportunities for playing time moving forward. Plus you have interesting stolen base totals from the last two seasons. In 2010 while at Brooklyn, you stole 8 bases while getting caught twice, then last year in Savannah, you stole 8 more bases and didn’t get caught at all. Very good Joseph! It seems like you have pretty good instincts on the base-paths, something Mets fans appreciate, do you work hard on your base-running?

Joe:  A lot of it is instincts and preparation before the pitch, because every base counts and the closer to home plate the better situation for the team, I am always looking for that extra base and I try to take advantage of a lazy player. I want to keep the other team on their toes and put the pressure on them. All of my coaches from little league on up have always stressed to run hard and always look for the extra base and I always stress being an aggressive, smart runner.

Petey:  Coming from Minnesota, you must be used to playing in cold weather. What was it like growing up there as a baseball player? Did you play other sports? When did you decide it was baseball that you would pursue?

Joe:  Like you said cold weather for me is freezing for most people. I like the cool games and almost prefer them over a hot day. Our season for baseball didn’t start till April, so you can imagine our season was half as long in the spring. I played hockey and football in high school and was a State Champion in hockey; I played on the same line as Ryan McDonagh of the New York Rangers. I chose baseball because of the love for the game and I have always had fun no matter if it was practice or a game. I enjoy being around the sport.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself playing like someday in the majors?

Joe:  My favorite team growing up was the Minnesota Twins. Kirby Pucket and Joe Mauer have been my favorite players and I think I have similar hitting style as Joe Mauer. He was four years ahead of me at my high school and I have watched his career develop and since he had so much success I tried to imitate his style of play.

Petey:  A good guy to emulate for sure. What are your goals for next season? And how do you prepare over the winter, can you describe your workout regimen? What do you like to do for recreation?

Joe:  My goals this year is to be in Binghamton by the end of the year. Over the winter I work out to improve my strength, speed quickness, and then work on my hitting and fielding as well. I really want to put my name on the board this year by showing them I can play at any level.

Petey:  Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year at Savannah, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Joe:  Taylor Whitenton, he was one of our many solid pitchers we had on the team, his work ethic and preparation for each game he pitched showed why he was one of the best in the league. When he was pitching we knew he was going to give our team a great chance to win.

Petey:  To finish up Joe, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Joe:  One of my favorite movies would have to be The Count of Monte Cristo. Don’t have a favorite musician/band but I like all varieties. My favorite food by far is a Chipotle Burrito

Petey:  Hmmmm……I think I’m in the mood for Mexican food tonite….anyway thanks Joe! It was really fun doing this interview with you. Good luck with the 2012 season! Remember, Binghamton is lovely in August! We’ll see you at ST.

Joe has that competitive drive you love to see in your players. He may not do anything fantastic, but he does a lot of things well. A good start at St. Lucie and he could very well get his wish, a mid-season call-up to AA Bingo. That would put Bonfe on-track for a possible big-league debut sometime in 2013. Bonfe is doing a good job of rounding out his game, playing smart, and making himself valuable to his team. All traits that will serve him well as he follows the Dream.

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.

I caught up to NY Mets left-handed pitching prospect, Zach Dotson the other day. I asked him how his health is, and is he ready to pitch when spring training begins next month. We discussed the health of his shoulder, his suspension last year, his pitching repertoire, and his expectations for 2012. After barely pitching over the last two seasons since being drafted, Dotson remains somewhat of a mystery to Mets fans. Perhaps in this interview Zach will clear that up, and I am quite sure many of his answers will surprise you. Read on to see what he had to say:

Petey:  We are chatting with Zach Dotson, minor league left-handed pitcher for the New York Mets. Hi Zach, thanks for taking the time out to join us for an interview. When do you head down to St. Lucie?

Zach:  Hey Peter, I just got down to Florida and settled in.

Petey:  That’s awesome, spring is in the air! You must be psyched for baseball to start? When the Mets drafted you out of Effingham County High School (Savannah, GA), in the 13th round of the 2009 MLB Player Draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Zach:  I had a good idea they were going to take me. The 3rd round was the round I was expecting, but we couldn’t come to terms financially.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you have learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of one day becoming a major league baseball player?

Zach:  Yes, Stacy Bennett a former coach of mine and current friend inspired me to chase my dream. Stacy also played for the Mets minor leagues a few years back. I continue to work with him in the off seasons.

Petey:  In your first two seasons since being drafted, you have had to endure some issues that prevented you from taking the field. Because of this you have only logged 17 innings so far in pro ball. I’m sure you must be chomping at the bit to get back on the field. If memory serves me right, I believe you initially ran into some arm problems in 2010, and then in August of that year, you were suspended for 50 games, by MLB for testing positive for methylhexeamine. That isn’t exactly a performance enhancing drug, it’s more like a sinus medication, with mild stimulant properties and is present in many over the counter supplements. How did you happen to test positive for it?

Zach:  When I was in rehab in 2010 for my shoulder, I started taking a pre-workout supplement and was not aware of the banned substance in it.

Petey:  By the time you got back on the field last year, the season was nearly over. Is your arm and general health ok? Are you ready to pitch this season from the get-go, with no limitations?

Zach:  Yes, I am fully healthy now, and ready to go.

Petey:  The existing scouting reports on your pitches are rather dated. If you could, update us a little about your arsenal. What pitches you throw, at what speeds, and are you working on any new pitches moving forward? What is normally your approach to attacking hitters?

Zach:  My pitches are fastball, change-up, curveball, and slider. 88-92 topping at 93 on my fastball. My approach to hitters is to get ahead. Attack the zone.

Petey:  What is the most important thing you have learned about pitching in your professional career so far?

Zach:  The most important thing I have learned about pitching is “location”.

Petey:  They say the same thing about location in real estate, haha. What part of your game are you planning on working the hardest on this coming season?

Zach:  I’m really working hard to stay healthy and throw strikes.

Petey:  Amen. Words for a successful pitcher to live by. What do you like to do for fun over the off-season? When does your serious workout schedule begin?

Zach:  I like to go hunting and fishing in the offseason. I usually take a few weeks off and then start training again.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player?

Zach:  My favorite team growing up was the Atlanta Braves. My favorite player was Chipper Jones.

Petey:  Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year for the GCL Mets.

Zach:  I was in rehab all of 2011 so I was not able to see the GCL season.

Petey:  Swing-and-a-miss! Oh well, how bout we finish up then with a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Zach:  Favorite movie: Miracle. Favorite musician: Brantley Gilbert. Favorite Food: Steak.

Petey:  Thanks again Zach for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Good luck in spring training, and we’ll see you on the “bump” real soon!

Now that is some really good news! Not many people realized that Zach would be a contributor in 2012. But it’s looking more and more like that will be the case. And it’s not bad at all to be able to add a 21-year-old south-paw who has four pitches and can throw in the low 90′s, to your system’s pitching mix heading into spring training. And the Mets actually have two of them. Zach Dotson and Steve Matz, who I did an interview with on MMO last week.

The question we can start to ask now, is where will they both most likely start the season? I believe they will both start out in the Kingsport rotation, in the rookie leagues. For one thing, it’s the lowest rung of the Mets stateside minor league ladder, and if they quickly show they are beyond the Appalachian League competition, they can be promoted to Brooklyn. I’d actually be all for that since then I’d be able to see them pitch in person. I don’t think Savannah is a viable landing spot for either pitcher in 2012 due to a pitching log-jam in the starting rotation there, unless they were promoted there towards the end of the year.

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.

• Beltran will be wearing uniform No. 3 which came as a result of a majority vote from his followers on Twitter.
• Beltran called Citi Field and AT&T Park huge parks and said there were balls he hit hard last year that he thought were home uns only to see them caught for an out.
• Beltran is in New York to train and get ready for the season.
• Mike Matheney asked him if he’d be open to playing center field and he said he looks forward to it and that it’s still his best position.
• He is very proud of his years in New York and he enjoyed his time here and has no regrets.
• His decision to go to St. Louis was because of their pitching and the return of Adam Wainwright. He wanted a chance to go to the post season and “no matter how good your lineup is”, he said, “it doesn’t mean anything if you don’t have great pitching.”

I caught up with NY Mets minor league outfield prospect, Sean Ratliff the other day, and he was nice enough to answer some questions for our readers at MMO. Sean had his entire 2011 season wiped out before it even began, when while standing in the on-deck circle towards the end of spring training, a foul shot off the bat of Buffalo third-baseman Zach Lutz struck Ratliff directly in the right eye. This came only a few weeks after Atlanta Braves coach Luis Salazar lost his eye when he was struck while in the dugout, by a line-drive. Sean has had a tough road back this year. While he was supposed to be cementing his status as one of the Mets top outfield prospects, he was instead under-going multiple surgeries, and doing a lot of waiting, and healing. Well, a lot has happened since that fateful day last March, and Sean is going to fill us in on where he’s at, and what he is expecting for this year. Let’s see what he had to say:

Petey:  Hi Sean, it is really nice of you to answer some questions for our readers, and staff at MMO, thank you! Our website is well traveled by the really hard-core Mets fans, the type of fans that follow the minor league system very closely. And needless to say we have all been very concerned about you Sean, that was a terrible injury you sustained last spring, and at the worst possible time. It was obviously very disappointing for you, and very frustrating, of course, but thank God you have persevered! There has been very little word on your progress however, and we would really like to know, how are you? How is the eye? Has your vision come back to where it needs to be?

Sean:  Thank you very much to you, and everyone in the Mets fan-base, for your concerns and prayers during the summer. I’ve received incredible support from the whole organization through these surgeries and the recovery process. My vision has been steadily improving since my last surgery in late August, and is fairly close to hopefully being game ready by the time spring training ends.

Petey:  The last information I have seen about you was from September I believe, and you were about to under-go, was it your 3rd surgery? Can you fill us in on the medical side of this ordeal you have had to go through?

Sean:  I underwent my last eye surgery in late August. After the initial impact, I received nearly 30 stitches under my right eye to close a laceration, and x-rays showed multiple fractures to my orbital wall, floor, both sinuses, as well as a partially dislocated jaw due mainly to the massive swelling. Fortunately, the surgeons told me that these breaks did not need surgery, and would heal fully on their own. My eye, however, was not so fortunate. I received an emergency laser repair for a giant retinal tear two days after my injury, which unfortunately did not hold. The Mets staff connected me with one of the premier retina hospitals in the nation, the Bascom-Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, where Dr. Harry Flynn performed my first major eye surgery. The recovery was 4-6 months with a follow up surgery at the completion of the recovery (from the first surgery), my final procedure in August. Now my recovery mainly consists of working with optometrists to find a custom contact lens that will bring my vision back to where it needs to be.

Petey:  Are you in St. Lucie yet? If not, when will you report? Have you been able to do any hitting? Any outfield activities? What kind of goals have you set for yourself for this season?

Sean:  I have not returned to St. Lucie as of yet, but will be there by the 1st of February. I’m still in my winter workout home in Scottsdale, living and working out with Ike Davis and Reese Havens. I’ve been able to throw and do some light hitting recently, and everything feels like it is coming along very nicely. As far as goals, I am determined to make as full of a recovery as I possibly can, and intend to jump right back into my everyday role.

Petey:  Let’s go back to when the Mets drafted you out of Stanford University, in the 4th round of the 2008 MLB Player draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Sean:  I first heard about my selection in 2008 in a hotel room in Fullerton, CA while we were preparing for a Super Regional series against Cal St-Fullerton. It was an incredible feeling, and I was very excited to get my professional career rolling as soon as we finished our playoff run. I knew the Mets had interest in drafting me, and I honestly was selected right about where I had been hearing I was projected.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of becoming a major league baseball player? Is there anyone you’d like to give credit to for helping you get through a really tough 2011?

Sean:  That’s an easy question right there. My dad Mike has definitely had the biggest impact on my career and helped me the most in chasing my dream. He instilled a work ethic and mental toughness in me that has been invaluable on the road to where I am now. As far as helping me get through this year, which has been one of the toughest years of my life, the support of my family has been crucial in keeping my spirits up through the summer. Also, I could not have endured all of this without my faith in God’s plan for me. I know that no matter what happens, He has a path for me to follow. My close friends and teammates have also played a big role. Ike Davis and I have been close friends since we were drafted together, and we kept each other’s spirits up this summer as we were both out for much of the year. Many of the guys I played with called or texted frequently to check up on me, especially Zach Lutz, who felt absolutely awful for what happened, even though we both know that it was a complete fluke…just one of those wrong place, wrong time type of things.

Petey:  You had a terrific year in 2010 playing CF and LF, at St. Lucie in the first half, and AA Bingo in the second. Your hitting even improved when you were promoted to AA. Your single A slash-line was: .275/.331/.432, then when you moved up to AA it was: .317/.371/.562. They say the jump from high A to AA is the biggest leap in the minors, but it certainly didn’t have a negative effect on you. Overall for the season you hit: .298 with 150 hits including, 35 2B’s, 3 3B’s, 21 HR’s and 80 RBI’s, and a .505 SLG%. Those are some terrific numbers Sean, and would have led the entire system, statistically this past year. I notice you did strike out a lot though, 138 times in 553 plate appearances. Once back on the horse, what will you need to do moving forward, to address the strikeouts?

Sean:  I’ve been getting the strikeout question frequently, way back to my sophomore year of college. It’s really a process of learning your strengths, as well as the strike zone in different leagues and the way certain teams pitch to you. The more experience you have, the better equipped you are to cut that number down, and I have actually made a great deal of progress on that front in the last couple years with the help of a few of our hitting coaches. I know I’ll never be a guy who strikes out 30-40 times a year, but the lower I can get that number, the higher the rest of my numbers can ultimately be.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself playing like someday in the majors?

Sean:  I really didn’t have a favorite team growing up, I just loved watching any baseball that was on TV. As far as similar style, I’m honestly not sure there’s anyone I’m all that similar to. I’ve had coaches tell me parts of my swing remind them of Lyle Overbay. As far as playing like someone in the majors someday, I’ll live with being compared to anyone as long as I’m up there and playing!

Petey:  Haha! Good answer! What do you like to do for recreation, when your not working out or playing baseball?

Sean:  I’m a huge outdoorsman. I grew up outside, and I love hunting and fishing. It’s a perfect pastime for a baseball player, because my off season coincides with just about every hunting season, so I have a lot of time to travel and hunt in the winter between workouts.

Petey:  Pick another player in the system, position player or pitcher, that has really impressed you with his play and tell us what it is that got your attention?

Sean:  Chris Schwinden, without a doubt. I played with him for a couple years coming up, and he’s always had a very good command of who he is as a pitcher and what he does well. He knows he’s not a guy who throws 97, so he doesn’t try to blow it by guys. He throws like 6 different pitches with great command, works the count and the strike zone exceptionally well, and is never afraid to go after a guy. As a defensive player, he is a joy to play behind, because he works fast, throws a ton of strikes, and competes like very few guys I’ve ever played with.

Petey:  Chris was nice enough to do an interview with me earlier in the off-season, he’s a really great guy. To finish up Sean, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Sean:  My favorite movie is either 8 Seconds or The Outlaw Josey Wales. Im a huge country music fan, so I’d have to say George Strait is my all time favorite artist. And I am a big fan of Texas barbecue, I can’t get enough of it.

Petey:  I want to thank you again Sean, for taking the time out to do this interview with us. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Best of luck to you in your continued recovery, and we can’t wait for you to be standing in the batter’s box launching a homerun again! Take care, and we’ll see you in spring training!

A player with Ratliff’s skill set is hard to come by. A big, rangy, lefty-hitting outfielder, who is fast enough to play CF, and powerful enough to hit home runs at a prodigious rate. What transpired last year was one of those extremely rare and terrible accidents that can sometimes happen. Thankfully, Sean received excellent medical treatment that has made it possible for him make a miraculous recovery. His faith in God, and the support of his family and friends was obviously huge for his recovery as well. Moving forward, we as Mets fans can appreciate even more the indelible spirit of players like Ratliff, who rise above the odds to continue to be able to follow their dreams.

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Some big positives that can be taken from the NY Mets 2011 season were the contributions, and emergence, of some promising young players that were called up from the minors. During the year, the Mets relied heavily on players like: Lucas Duda, Ruben Tejada, Dillon Gee, and Justin Turner. And in September, we got to see some very interesting pitching performances, by righties Chris Schwinden and Josh Stinson. I caught up to Stinson this week, and despite a very busy off-season he was good enough to provide us with some awesome insights, and answers to a whole bunch of interesting questions! Let’s see what Josh had to say:

Petey:  We are chatting today with Josh Stinson of the NY Mets. First of all Josh, congratulations on a terrific season in 2011! Although it started out as a struggle, you worked your tail off, overcame adversity, and were rewarded for your efforts with a promotion to the Major Leagues. To be called up to make your debut in the ‘Show’ must have been an unbelievable thrill! Thank you so much for sharing a little of your time. The readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com will really enjoy getting to know a little bit about one of our newest Mets! When the Mets drafted you out of Northwood High School, in Shreveport, LA, in the 37th round of the 2006 MLB Player Draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? What round were you thinking you might be taken in? Were you planning on going to college, or did the Mets change your mind and convince you to sign?

Josh:  Well originally the Mets told me I would be drafted on the first day around the 4th-7th round. After the first day had passed and I wasn’t drafted, I had personally made up my mind that I was going to Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA to get a nursing degree. I found out I was drafted while I was sitting at my house and my parents just happened to look at the draft. I originally thought I was going to college because I didn’t think the Mets were going to be able to give me enough money, and also pay for my college. But they came back and offered me the 4th-7th slot money that they promised me, and paid for my college so it made my decision a lot easier.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of becoming a major league baseball player?

Josh:  There are actually two people who have inspired me to reach for my dreams. First, there is my father Randy, who from the age of 3 to even now, has been my coach. He taught me everything I know about baseball. How to play the game, the fundamentals, sportsmanship, and playing at 110% all the time. Then there is my mother, Connie. She was the one at home giving me the encouragement, making sure that I made good grades in school, cooking meals, and providing me with anything that I needed for baseball.

Petey:  Tell us a little bit about your arsenal. What pitches you throw, at what speeds, and are you working on any new pitches moving forward?

Josh:  I throw a 4-seam fastball, a sinker, a change-up, a curveball, and a slider. I am not working on any new pitches at this time, just trying to fine tune my pitches. I am also working being able to locate all my pitches to anywhere on the plate, and any time.

Petey:  Quite a bit of happened for you during the 2011 season, some good, some not-so-good, and some great. When you arrived at AAA Buffalo for the start of the season, you earned a spot in the starting rotation, but got off to an uneven start, and you struggled to the tune of a 3-7 record with a 7.44 ERA, your walks were up, and strikeouts were down. On June 22nd the Mets sent you down to AA Binghamton, to work on your command, and you pitched out of the Bingo bullpen. Sometime over the next month, you made some adjustments and started throwing the ball really well. The rest of the season in AA you went 4-3 with a 3.99 ERA and your walks were down and strikeouts were up. What happened? What did you start to do differently that resulted in turning your season around?

Josh:  This year was a very up and down year for me. I originally started the year in Binghamton because all the late moves in camp moved me down. After two starts, they sent me up to Buffalo. I think the biggest thing that effected me there was the pure fact the I wasn’t being aggressive. I wasn’t pitching with the attitude of “I am better than you and I am going to beat you, this is my job, and you aren’t going to take it.” When I was sent back to Binghamton to be in the bullpen, I found that attitude again. I believe it was mostly because of the adrenaline that you get when you are warming up in the bullpen and then running on the field. Being a reliever is a lot more fast paced. You have to warm up quickly, go in and execute pitches in tight situations, keep your nerves. At this time in my career, I would have to say I prefer relieving over starting.

Petey:  By the end of the Eastern League season, you were throwing the ball so well that the Mets called you up to the big leagues for the first time on September 1st, when the rosters expanded. When you got that call to the big leagues, it must have been an unbelievable thrill! What was it like? How did they inform you that you were headed for the “big stage?” What was your first thought at the time? Did any one player, or players, go out of their way to welcome you to the Mets?

Josh:  Getting called up was one of the best experiences in my life. We were in Erie and it was raining all day so we didnt have to get to the field till 4 pm. When we were on the way to the field my pitching coach called me and told me when I got to the field I needed to come to the office. So right away I thought man that is weird, I’ve been throwing the ball well and hadn’t been doing anything I wasn’t supposed to do. When I walked in the office, my manager Wally Backman, told me I was being called up, and to go up there and show them what I’m about. My first thought was that I had achieved my goal of making it, and now the new goal is staying there. All of the guys in the (Mets) clubhouse were very welcoming. It was a very easy transition because I was around a lot of the guys in spring training.

Petey:  You got 13 innings in for the Mets in September over 14 games, going 0-2 with a 6.92 ERA, and picked up your first big league save. You pitched quite well, much better than the numbers indicate, as you gave up nine out of your ten earned runs in just three of those 14 games. You were so impressive, in fact, that Sandy Alderson recently expressed confidence in you, and feels you are a viable bullpen option for the Mets heading into next season. How did your big league experience prepare you, and motivate you for the coming year? What do you need to work on to maximize your opportunity to make the big league club coming out of ST in 2012?

Josh:  I believe my experience in September helped me realize I have to execute my pitches everyday. I have to keep that attitude of “I’m better than you,” even when I’m facing the best in the world. Being there in September also helped me realize I can pitch at this level. This year I am going to work on going after the hitter a little bit more aggressively, trying to lower my walks, and like I said earlier being able to locate my pitches on both sides on the plate.

Petey:  Was there any one hitter you have faced so far in the majors, where you said to yourself, “Oh-my-gosh, I can’t believe I’m about to pitch to this guy!” What happened in the at-bat?

Josh:  The one guy that I faced where I was kind of star struck would have to be Albert Pujols. He is one of the best in the game. In that at bat I was ahead of him 1-2, and threw a couple of pitches trying to get him to chase. We went to 3-2 and I threw a good slider, he hit it directly in the ground in front of the plate and it bounced probably 40 feet in the air and went over Wright’s head into left field for a single. It was probably one of the weirdest hits I gave up because most of the time if someone hits the ball into the ground like that it would be a slow roller to 3B but this time it hit something in front of the plate and went into left field.

Petey:  Yeah, Albert’s pretty good. Let the American League deal with him for a while. What kind of things do you do to stay in shape over the winter, Josh? Can you describe your workout regimen? Did you play any winter ball?

Josh:  I did not play winter ball this year because I had a lot of innings for a reliever, because of starting earlier in the year. As far as staying in shape, I am working out 5 to 6 times a week. I do upper body and shoulder routine twice a week, and I do lower body twice a week. I do some type of cardio everyday whether it be biking, long distance running, or sprints. I also started throwing the first week of January to get my arm in shape for spring.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Is there someone at the big league level, past or current, that you think you are similar to you in style, and the type of stuff you throw?

Josh:  My favorite team growing up was the Texas Rangers because of growing up in Shreveport, LA. That was the closest team to us. I’m not sure who I would compare to. I just try to go out there and be the best I can be.

Petey:  Fair enough. To finish up Josh, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Josh:  My favorite movie would have to be Step Brothers. My favorite musician is Jason Aldean. My favorite food would have to be a good steak.

Petey:  Thanks again Josh for being so kind as to participate in this interview! Our readers at MMO will really enjoy it! Enjoy the rest of your time off, and we’re looking forward to seeing you on the “bump” at Citi next year!

It sounds as if Josh’s big league experience in September was a very useful confidence builder, and that he is wisely using it as a measuring stick moving forward. His eye-opening performance with the Mets, puts him squarely in the bullpen mix for CitiField next year, and it will be very interesting to watch his continued development.

LGM!

Here’s an interesting interview by Statsgirl14 with Josh shortly after he was called up to the bigs:

Interview 9/14/2011

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I was able to catch up with Mets minor league pitcher, lefty Steve Matz the other day, and I asked him how his arm was feeling with spring training right around the corner. Steve has already reported to the complex at St. Lucie to begin his throwing program in warm weather. He went under the knife, with TJS on his pitching elbow in 2010, and had to be shut down when he tried to pitch last season and the elbow flared up on him. He has been waiting a long time to make his Mets minor league debut, and working hard in his rehab, and it looks like there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Keep reading to get the latest from Steve on where he is at, in his long road back.

Petey:  We are chatting today with NY Mets 2009 Top Draft Pick, Steve Matz. Steve is a local product from East Setauket, NY, who is looking forward to making his professional debut this season. Hi Steve how are you doing? Thanks so much for taking time to answer a few questions for the readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com. When the Mets drafted you out of Ward Melville High School, in the 2nd round of the 2009 MLB Player draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Steve:  Well, I had a pretty good idea that I was going to get drafted on the first day, but you could never be too sure because anything could happen on draft day. I was sitting at home with my parents and first heard about it by watching it on the computer. I knew the Mets were interested but I never got a call before their pick, so I figured I wasn’t going to get picked. So it was definitely a surprise when I heard John Franco call my name. I was told that most teams were saying 2nd round for me.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you have learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of one day becoming a major league baseball player?

Steve:  One great thing about baseball is that I have met many good people playing this game, so there are a bunch of people that have helped me and inspired me. My parents especially have been a great influence on me, stressing to keep working hard and staying focused. My high school coach Lou Petrucci has really helped me throughout high school. He’s a guy who just truly loves the game, and spent hours upon hours indoors, between 6am practices before school started, or weekends, anytime I needed him he was there.

Petey:  In your first two seasons since being drafted, you have been unable to take the field due to injury. First TJS on your pitching elbow in 2010, then a setback in your rehab last season that prevented you from pitching at all in 2011. The big question is: how Is your arm now? With spring training just a little over a month away, are you on schedule to be able to pitch normally from the get-go? And with no limitations? Would you say that your velocity has returned?

Steve:  Yes it’s been a long road back. It’s been feeling good, and I’m going to continue to do everything I can to keep it healthy. God willing I’ll be ready to go come spring. My velocity was always something I worried about coming back from this surgery, but when I had a little taste of the mound before the set-back last season, my velocity was there.

Petey:  Considering you haven’t pitched in awhile, what would you say are reasonable goals for you to have for this season?

Steve:  Reasonable goals for me I would say, to come out of spring training and make a team. Then if I can make a team, try to stay healthy for the whole year.

Petey:  The existing scouting reports on your pitches are rather dated. Before your injury it was: fastball 88-92 mph with natural tailing action, curveball that lacked consistency, and a change-up that was a work-in-progress. If you could Steve, update us a little about your arsenal.

Steve:  I am not really 100 percent sure on what my stuff is like now because I had a real small taste of it before my elbow flared up again. I am really looking forward to this year. Hopefully I can be healthy, I am just going to go after pro hitters with my best stuff I got. It’s going to be a big learning year, I am not expecting to go out there and strike everyone out. I am looking to learn from my mistakes and just build off that.

Petey:  What part of your game are you planning on working the hardest on this coming season?

Steve:  This year I really want to focus on not getting rattled if I have a bad outing. Instead, build off that, and learning from it like I said in the last answer.

Petey:  What do you like to do for fun when your not playing baseball? What is your workout schedule like these days? Can you describe your regimen?

Steve:  When I am not playing baseball I still like to be outdoors. Anything from fishing, camping or just sitting around a fire with some buddies from back home, and this past year I have started hunting. I just got to Port St. Lucie to be in the warm weather as I start to throw again. So I can get an early start before spring training is here, working out with a couple of other guys.

Petey:  You grew up on Long Island, were you a Mets fan? (say yes) Who was your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself pitching like someday in the majors?

Steve:  Yeah I was a Mets fan growing up. Currently when Johan Santana is healthy he is really fun to watch. There was no one particular player that was my favorite. I’ve heard that my style was similar to Andy Pettitte, but I really am not sure. That would be pretty cool if I can have as much success as him though.

Petey:  Since you joined the Mets organization, pick one player in the system that has really impressed you with his play, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Steve:  Definitely Santana because we were both in rehab together. Seeing the way he goes about his business is impressive. What I took notice from him is, that being an athlete on the mound matters. He is a competitor, and one heck of an athlete, and all that contributes to his success. To go along with the stuff he has, is why he has a couple of Cy Young awards.

Petey:  Yes, Johan is a very special player, hopefully you will both come back strong in 2012! To finish up Steve, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Steve:  Favorite movie has got to be Forrest Gump, favorite musician is either Justin Moore or Reckless Kelly, and I’ll tell you this, that the only food I don’t like is olives. I literally like every food, but a good old fashion burger has got to be on top of that list somewhere.

Petey:  Thanks again Steve for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Have a healthy and successful season this year, and we’ll see you on the bump at spring training!

Steve:  No problem, Thank you!

Well here’s wishing Steve the best of luck in his throwing program, and a speedy return to the mound! It’s been a long time coming, but soon we’ll get to see him pitching for real in live game situations. Go get ‘em Steve! We’ll check back with him again and see how things are going.

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.

This week I caught up with NY Mets right-handed pitching prospect, Bret Mitchell. Bret was the 2011 Sterling Award Winner as the Kingsport Mets Pitcher of the Year. The Mets were fortunate to be able to get a quality arm like Mitchell’s with their 12th round pick in the 2010 draft.  Now, after rehabbing from an injury suffered at the end of last year, he is poised to have a big season in 2012. Bret was nice enough to answer questions about his pitching as a professional so far, and where he sees his game heading into this year. Check it out to see what else Bret had to say:

Petey:  We are chatting today with New York Mets right-handed pitching prospect Bret Mitchell, who pitched last season for the Kingsport Mets, and the Brooklyn Cyclones. Hi Bret, thanks so much for taking the time out to do this interview for our readers and staff at MetsMerizedOnline.com. I hope you had a very nice Christmas, and a happy New Year. Did you spend the holidays back home in Minnesota with family and friends? How much snow do you have there?

Bret:  I had a great time in Minnesota this year for the holidays. I have a big family and it is great when I get a chance to see all of them. It has been a great winter here, I have been able to play catch outside which is something I’m not used to doing in Minnesota in January.

Petey:  When the Mets drafted you out of Minnesota State University in the 12th round of the 2010 MLB Player Draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Bret:  The day I got drafted I was on the bus getting ready to start a game in Alexandria, MN, in the Northwoods League. My cousin called me and gave me the news. I talked to the Mets a couple of times and they said they were interested, but I had no idea until that phone rang.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you have learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of one day becoming a major league baseball player?

Bret:  I’ve been playing baseball my entire life so picking one person is very hard. I have had a lot of great coaches but my older brother Jerry has always been there. He gave me the confidence to keep going with my career.

Petey:  If you could fill us in on your arsenal Bret. What pitches you throw, at what speeds, and are you working on any new pitches moving forward? What is generally your approach to attacking hitters?

Bret:  I have a four pitch arsenal of: fastball, curveball, slider, change. My fastball is high 80′s – low 90′s. My curve is a 12-6, which I use for my out pitch. I started throwing my change-up last year, and I give it a lot of the credit for my success last year. My slider is my 4th pitch. It is hard, and I use it as another way to keep hitters unbalanced. My approach to pitching is attacking early, throw strikes, mix pitches and set a tempo.

Petey:  The 2011 baseball season opened for you playing in the Appalachian League for the Kingsport Mets, where you got off to a fantastic start. You made 7 game starts going 5-1 with a 2.95 ERA. In 39.2 innings you gave up 24 hits, while striking out 38 and walking 12, giving you an opponents batting average against of .175, and a WHIP of 0.91. That terrific effort got you a call-up to Brooklyn, in the New York Penn League, at the beginning of August. What was the biggest thing you got from your experience of playing at Kingsport?

Bret:  Learning how to call my own game was something I worked hard on there, and something I’m still working on a lot.

Petey:  After your promotion, you made one start for Brooklyn on August 7th against the Staten Island Yankees in which you left with two outs in the 5th inning and a 7-2 lead. Were you injured, or was it a pitch count thing? I noticed you were put on the DL a few days later with a groin strain, which must have been a big disappointment. Were you recovered in time to go to instructs?

Bret:  It was a pitch count thing, but it was probably best for me to come out because I did end up straining my groin during that game. I wasn’t ready in time for instructs but I’m 100% now.

Petey:  How did you like your time playing in Brooklyn?

Bret:  I enjoyed my time in Brooklyn, playing in New York was a great experience.

Petey:  What part of your game are you planning on working the hardest on this coming season?

Bret:  Staying healthy is number one. But I’m working on a 2-seam fastball as well, hopefully it will be ready for this season.

Petey:  What is the most important thing you have learned about pitching in your professional career so far?

Bret:  The most important thing to me is trusting myself, stay the course and keep working hard.

Petey:  What do you like to do for fun over the off-season? When did your serious workout schedule begin? Can you describe your workout regimen?

Bret:  I like to be outdoors, staying active, and spending time with my family and friends. I was rehabbing my groin during the beginning of the off-season, but now I’m 4 weeks into my throwing program. I’m still working on strengthening my groin so I do the rehab for that in the morning. I play catch with my catcher from college. After catch I run and do my work out for the day.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself pitching like someday in the majors?

Bret:  I have lived in Minnesota my entire life so naturally I grew up a Twins fan. I have always had an interest in Nolan Ryan. I loved the way he would just attack the hitter and try to dominate the game. Also we were both taken 12th round by the Mets.

Petey:  Haha! I see you did some research on that! If you could, pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year for the Kingsport Mets or Brooklyn Cyclones, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Bret:  Tillman Pugh impressed me a lot with his skills, but more importantly to me, he plays hard everyday and he just wants to win.

Petey:  I had the pleasure of getting to know Tillman a little bit this off-season, and he is a terrific guy and a serious competitor for sure. To finish up Bret, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Bret:  My favorite movie I got to go with Tommy Boy it gets me every time. I like listening to the radio either classic rock, or sports talk shows. My favorite food would be anything homemade, or seafood.

Petey:  Thanks again Bret for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Have a very happy, and healthy New Year, and we’ll see you on the bump at spring training!

Bret:  Thank you for asking me to do this if you have anything else you would like to know, feel free to ask. Thank you again.

Mitchell is a very interesting pitching prospect for the Mets. He has a good chance of winning a spot in the Savannah rotation for this year, and if he stays healthy, can place himself squarely on the Top Prospect Map in 2012. He’s a good guy and we wish him the best!

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.

I had a chance to do a Q&A with NY Mets catcher Mike Nickeas the other day. Mike was nice enough to take the time to field a whole slew of questions I threw at him, regarding his defense, his hitting, working with Josh Thole, and lot’s of other stuff. Mike is working hard this off-season getting ready for what should prove a very big year for him, and his answers are very interesting indeed. Keep reading to find out what Mike had to say:

Petey:  First of all congratulations Mike on a terrific year in 2011! Getting the chance to log extended time in the big leagues with the Mets, and even hitting your first major league home run! Happy New Year! Hope you had a very happy holidays, and thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions for our readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com. Where do you live in the off-season these days?

Mike:  My wife, Rebecca, and I live in Atlanta, GA.

Petey:  When the Texas Rangers drafted you in the 5th round of the 2004 MLB Player Draft, out of Georgia Tech, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Rangers were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Mike:  I was with my parents and Rebecca in a hotel room right next to Georgia Tech, we were listening to the draft online with our fingers crossed. I had been in contact with teams throughout that entire season; there was really no way of knowing who was going to draft me. I remember feeling like the Rangers had more interest in me out of High school, but the draft is a crazy thing, anything can happen. I had heard a number of things, as draft eligible players typically do, but I thought I would be drafted between the 2^nd and 5^th round depending on the season I had, along with all of the other variables involved in the draft.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of becoming a major league baseball player?

Mike:  I’m assuming you mean as a child who inspired me? That question is difficult because I think there are a number of people who helped inspire me to follow my dreams including my Pop-pop (Grandfather) and my Mom. But if there was only one person I could choose it would be my Dad. He spent the entirety of his free time teaching, training and advising me about what it takes to become a professional athlete and I’ll always be indebted for the sacrifices he made for me.

Petey:  You are widely regarded as the best defensive catcher in the Mets organization. What aspects of your defensive game do you still have to work on in the off-season? Are things like footwork and throwing, and blocking balls in the dirt things that have to be constantly worked on to keep those skills sharp?

Mike:  I continue to do blocking, footwork and receiving as a base for my offseason training. I believe it’s the same as an infielder taking groundballs: the more often you do it, the better. Building arm strength and becoming more flexible are also top priorities for me. Yoga has been the best way that I have found to increase my flexibility.

Petey:  Going into spring training, as the Mets depth chart is configured right now, you are listed as the back-up behind Josh Thole. That is not just a reward for a job well done, but represents an opportunity for you moving forward as well. It must be very gratifying to you, heading into next year to know that after years of hard work and honing your craft, you have landed with an organization that appreciates all that you bring to the table, and has the faith in you to hold down a very important role in 2012. Do you look at this upcoming season differently than seasons in the past, with such a wonderful opportunity on the table? Or is it just another year that requires the same level of hard work and commitment as any other year? Are there things that you can work with Josh on next season to help him improve his defense?

Mike:  Thank you for the kind words. I really believe that all you can ask for as an athlete is an opportunity to play and show what you can do. I am in a great position to show what I am capable of doing as a player and a teammate. Every off-season presents new challenges to overcome, regardless of what is on the line. I try and work on sharpening my strengths and improving upon my weaknesses. In my opinion, Josh and I have always worked well together and I believe we will continue to help each other improve as much as we possibly can.

Petey:  As you prepare for spring training, what sort of things will you be working on regarding your hitting? Are there specific things you were working on at the end of last year, that you have continued to work on this winter? What Mets coach, or coaches have been particularly helpful to you regarding your hitting?

Mike:  I went into the off-season with the goal of improving my bat path. I have found that during this process I have also improved my lower half and the overall direction of my swing. Hudge has been a huge influence for me this off-season, we talk and email frequently. He lives in AZ and I am in GA, but I have been videoing myself hitting and sending it to him to review. He has come up with some great drills and advice for me and I believe it has helped a lot.  I also have to mention Luis Natera, as we wouldn’t be having this conversation if he didn’t take me under his wing in 2010. He is a big reason I ever got an opportunity to play a big league game.

Petey:  Let’s go back to the date April 21st, 2011, the day you hit your first big league homer in Houston off of J.A. Happ. Can you take us through that at-bat? How you felt that day before you launched it, and how it felt to go yard in a big league game? Do you remember what was going through your mind as you circled the bases?

Mike:  Honestly, it just feels like this big blur. I remember making contact, I remember the ball landing in the stands, the next thing I remember I was rounding third; it was a blackout moment and an indescribable feeling.

Petey:  Your father Mark, was a professional soccer player in England, that is very cool! Did you ever get to see him play professionally? Does he get to see you play in NY? What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself playing like someday in the majors?

Mike:  I saw him play professionally, but I was too young to remember, we have some of his highlights on video, and I’ve seen them quite a few times. He came to opening day last year in Miami, and has come to Citi a couple of times to watch me play. I grew up in Los Angeles and was a huge Dodger fan, Mike Piazza was the man, still is. I like to try and take bits and pieces from a lot of different guys, I think the best way to learn is to watch the guys that are doing it well.

Petey:  That’s a great answer to any Mets fan, Piazza is definitely the man. What do you do to stay in shape over the winter, can you describe your workout regimen? What do you like to do during your time off for fun and recreation?

Mike:  I started working with a trainer named Ryan Capretta of Proactive Sports in Westlake Village, CA and I have had a love hate relationship with Yoga all off-season. Brad Andress has also had some great stuff for me, I try and mix it all together to keep from getting bored with any one thing. I love to golf, and I like to play and practice as often as possible. My dad recently won the California Senior Amateur, and I would like to try and be better than he is one day.

Petey:  Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that hasn’t made his big league debut yet, who really impressed you with his play this year at Buffalo. Tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Mike:  I think Kirk Nieuwenhuis was having an awesome year until he got hurt, and I think he is going to be very fun to watch one day.

Petey:  Ah yes, Captain Kirk is someone whom the hardcore Mets fans have been patiently waiting for to arrive. To finish up Mike, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie?

Mike:  I like to read, and I like good representations of books in theatres. I thought The Lord of The Rings and Harry Potter were great. I prefer great television series to movies and my favorite is Mad Men.

Petey:  Favorite musician or band?

Mike:  I have always answered Incubus to this question but I really like the Black Keys and Kings of Leon as well.

Petey:  Favorite food?

Mike:  I love sushi and the best that I have ever had is at the Landing in my home town.

Petey:  Thanks again Mike for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Have a very happy, and healthy New Year, and we will be looking forward to seeing you in spring training!

It was really great of Mike to take the time to talk to us here on MMO. He gave us an interesting perspective, and a glimpse into the dedication and hard work it takes to play baseball at such a high level. It’s a full time job, 365 days a year, but the work will be a lot more fun in just a little over a month from now when ST begins. LGM!

This week I got the chance to chat with New York Mets right-handed pitching prospect, Erik Goeddel. Erik pitched this year in the starting rotation for the Savannah Sand Gnats, in the South Atlantic League. He missed some time in the middle of last season because of an injury, but is back to 100% now and eager to start Spring Training. Heading into next season Goeddel is working on a new pitch which he details inside, let’s take a look at what else Erik had to say:

Petey: First of all congratulations Erik on a successful second pro season! Despite missing time with an injury, you still were able to log 77.2 innings over 16 game starts, going 3-5 with a 3.24 ERA between the GCL and Savannah, and you helped the Sand Gnats get to the championship round of the South Atlantic League playoffs. It must have been quite an exciting year for you, I would imagine. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions for our readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com. When the Mets drafted you out of UCLA in the 24th round of the 2010 MLB Player Draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Erik: I was actually just arriving at a practice and was getting changed at my locker when my phone started ringing. I picked it up and it was Spencer Graham, the LA area scout at the time, who said “congratulations, you’ve been drafted by the Mets.” I actually hadn’t talked to the Mets at all until about 7am that morning, so I really had no idea that they were very interested. I really had no idea where I would go in the draft, I was just coming off of injury, and seemed to be getting better as the season went on, but depending on when a scout saw me that season I felt like I could go anywhere from top 3 rounds to not being drafted at all haha.

Petey: Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you have learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of one day becoming a major league baseball player?

Erik: I dont know if there is any one specific coach or anything I have learned the most from, but I have been extremely lucky to have had a lot of great coaches as I grew up, and I think I learned quite a bit from all of them.

Petey: For those of us that haven’t seen you pitch yet, could you tell us a little bit about your arsenal? What pitches you throw, how they move, and at what speeds? Are you working on any new pitches moving forward? What is normally your approach to attacking hitters?

Erik: I throw a fastball, change-up, curveball, and slider. Fastball sits around 92-93, sometimes touches up to 96, but usually between 90-94 or 95. Change is low 80s, slider mid to high 80s, and curve is usually 78-80. I have been working on a sinker lately, hopefully it will be ready to go for this upcoming season. I pitch to hitters based off of whatever pitches are working best that day, and I will stay with the same approach on a hitter until he proves he can hit what I’m attacking him with.

Petey: After signing with the Mets in the summer of 2010, you only threw one inning for the GCL Mets before being shut down for the remainder of the season with what was called arm fatigue. Then while at Savannah this past year you had to go on the DL at the end of May, and missed two and a half months. What was the problem that landed you on the DL in 2011? You returned in August and made a few regular season starts and the a couple more starts in the play-offs, but were you a hundred percent recovered from your injury?

Erik: This last year I strained my rotator cuff, it wasn’t that bad but the Mets wanted to make sure I didnt rush my recovery and re-injure myself so they took it slow and that is why I was out for so long. I was 100% recovered when I got back to Savannah, but my feel was a bit off after being out of action for so long.

Petey: Have you set any goals for yourself, or have you any numbers in mind heading into this year Erik, as far as innings, or number of game starts?

Erik: This year I want to stay healthy for the whole year and get over 100 innings.

Petey: What is the one most important thing you learned about pitching this year at Savannah?

Erik: I learned a lot last year in Savannah, especially from our pitching coach Glen Abbott. He really taught me the importance of the change-up, and how it can make all your other pitches better.

Petey: What other aspects of your game do you still need to work on as a pitcher, to help you move up the organizational ladder?

Erik: I think the thing I probably need to work on most is just consistency. Some days I have great fastball command, but I can’t control my curveball. Other days I have great feel for my slider and curve, but leave my fastball up in the zone. When I have all of my pitches working, maybe not perfectly, but just enough that I can use them, then I generally have a pretty good outing.

Petey: When did your workout schedule begin, and when did you start throwing? Can you describe your regimen?

Erik: I started working out in the beginning of October. For about the first month and a half I did a lot of heavy weight lifting, just trying to get back the muscle mass that I lost over the course of the long season. About mid November I went to more function movements. All the lifts explosive on the up direction, and slow and controlled in the down direction. All the lifts I do here are full range of motion with stretching built in. The goal of this is to train my body to use the strength I have as efficiently as possible in the hopes of increasing my velocity. I also follow a strict diet. 6 days a week I dont have any empty carbs (Saturday is my “cheat day”) but instead have a lot of protein, vegetables, and legumes. A typical meal would be something like 16 ounces of ground turkey with tomato sauce, steamed broccoli, and some kidney beans. I started throwing right after Thanksgiving, slowly increasing the intensity of throwing, and the number of throws. Right now I am close to starting to throw bullpens.

Petey:  What do you like to do for fun over the off-season?

Erik: For fun I really like playing golf, but I was taking classes at UCLA this fall so I wasn’t able to play as much as I would have liked.

Petey: What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself pitching like someday in the majors?

Erik: I was a big Giants fan growing up. They were a pretty good team when I was younger, and their offense was fun to watch. My favorite player was Ken Griffey Jr. I’m not sure if there is any one player that I pitch like, but I would say the two players I try to learn from and pitch like most would be Chris Carpenter and Matt Cain.

Petey: Those are certainly two excellent guys to emulate. Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year at Savannah, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Erik: One player who really impressed me this season was Blake Forsythe. He was at the field early everyday, and was almost always the last one to leave. I remember one day when I was pitching and it was so hot that I felt like I was going to pass out on the mound. I pitched 6 innings and was absolutely exhausted. The game ended up going 13 innings, and Blake caught the whole game, then caught nine the next day after traveling on a bus all day. The day after he got the day off from catching, but when I got to the field he was already there, doing some early work on his blocking. That really impressed me.

Petey: Very cool. To finish up Erik, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Erik: Favorite movie is Gladiator, bands probably Linkin Park and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. And I pretty much like all food.

Petey: Haha! An equal opportunity eater! Thanks again Erik for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Have a very happy, and healthy New Year, and enjoy the rest of your time off this winter. We’ll see ya on the “bump” at spring training!

It’s good to know that Erik is healthy again, with no lingering effects from his injury last year. Armed with a new sinker and an improved change-up, 2012 should be a very big year for him. During spring training he will either be in a dogfight for a starting spot in the Savannah rotation, or an equally fierce battle for a spot in the St. Lucie rotation. Let’s wish him the best as the pre-season draws ever closer. Perhaps we can check back with him during ST, to find out how things are going, what the mood is at camp, and maybe get his take on the competition.

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here. 

I got a chance to talk with Mets right-hander Scott Moviel just after Christmas and he was nice enough to bring us up-to-date as far as his progress in 2011. Before last season Scott was battling knee troubles which can be problematic for a pitcher who stands 6’11″. Now healthy once again, he provides us with some very interesting insights on the challenges he is taking on heading into next year. Check it out and see what he has to say:

Petey:  We are chatting with Scott Moviel, RHP in the Mets organization. Scott pitched in the starting rotation for St. Lucie, Advanced-A, in the Florida State League for the 2011 season. Hi Scott, thanks so much for taking time out to chat with us at MetsMerizedOnline.com. Our readers and staff really appreciate it! How are things? Did you have a nice Christmas?

Scott:  Hello Pete and staff at MetsMerizedOnline.com! Things are very well, just staying in shape and keeping busy. Christmas has passed but I was very well prepared, and got all my gifts way in advance.

Petey:  Not me, I was late getting my shopping done this year, and was stuck in the holiday crowds and insanity until late in the day on Friday. But let’s go back to when the Mets drafted you out of St. Edward High School, in Cleveland, in the 2nd round of the 2007 MLB Player Draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Scott:  As you may know I was signed to go to NC State and was very excited about the opportunity to play at a great university. As my senior year began at St. Edward, I had started to get a lot of visits from MLB scouts at my home and realized that I had a good chance at the 1st to 5th round of the ’07 draft. Although about 85% of all the teams had made a visit, the New York Mets were not one of them. Not until my last game of my high school season did I hear from a Mets scout in person after an outing and still they did not stand out amongst the many others showing interest at that time. When draft day came I was very excited and nervous as to what the day would bring! I had many close friends, family, and my agent over to my house for a small draft party. After the 1st round had passed and a close call with almost being selected by the New York Yankees late 1st round, I received a phone call from the Cardinals and was told they wanted to take me somewhere around pick #86, when out of nowhere my aunt shouted from the computer room “Scott is going to be a New York Met!” very loudly. Now at this point I had literally hung up the phone with the Cards and was discussing things with my parents in their room alone, and when I heard that I ran out to see what all the commotion was in the computer room. When I got to the computer room it was on ESPN draft tracker and it said that the Mets had selected me and I was elated and shocked because I didn’t really know they had interest in me. About five minutes later calls from New York Mets personal and media were congratulating me and asking tons of questions.

Petey:  Wow that’s crazy, the MLB draft sounds like controlled chaos! Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you have learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of one day becoming a major league baseball player?

Scott:  My brothers played a huge roll in my interest and development in baseball. I am the youngest of four boys and have learned a lot from my older brothers growing up, along with two very good parents who have funded my interest in baseball and pushed me to reach for the sky in anything I do. Having two brothers already playing minor league baseball Greg (Seattle Mariners) and Paul (Chicago White Sox/Tampa Bay) I was very blessed and inspired by both of them to chase that dream of toeing up a MLB pitching rubber!

Petey:  For those of us who haven’t seen you pitch yet, could you tell us a little bit about your arsenal? What pitches you throw, at what speeds, and are you working on any new pitches moving forward? What is normally your approach to attacking hitters?

Scott:  I throw a 4 seam fastball between 88-93 mph and tops out at 95 mph, a 2 seam fastball at about 88-90 mph, a circle change between 82-85 mph, a slider between 78-84 mph, and a curveball anywhere from 75-80 mph. I am a contact pitcher and like to challenge the hitters I face, in the zone with all my pitches. Keeping the ball low in the zone is something I’m trying to perfect every year, and to be able to throw all my pitches for strikes in any count.

Petey:  You’ve had some physical setbacks, knee problems if I remember correctly. That can be very difficult for a pitcher as tall as you are. Was it two knee surgeries you had to endure? Have you gotten over the injuries, how is your health now?

Scott:  Yes I had to undergo two knee surgeries but thankfully it was only a meniscus tear both times, which is pretty mild compared to the other injuries that could happen to the knee region. My health is great and has been since the day I was cut loose from the Mets medical staff.

Petey:  Good to hear Scott. This past season was an up and down year for you at St. Lucie. You started out the season pitching well, made the Florida State League Mid-Season All-Star team, but despite leading the team in game starts with 23, the second half was a struggle for you. What do you think the problem was? Had you gotten a handle on it by the end of the season?

Scott:  Yes I was pitching very well in the beginning of the 2011 season and was feeling great about what I was accomplishing. My dive in stats at the end of the year wasn’t a good showing on paper although it was a good thing for me because it humbled me and gave me a chance to perfect my game. I have learned that the hitters I face are studying me just as much as I am them. I had success early but I was having trouble adapting to changing my pitch sequence that was working for me early, but not late in the season.

Petey:  The 2012 season will be a very important year for you, Scott. With those knee issues behind you, more than likely you will get a shot at making the Binghamton staff in the Eastern League. Is that your goal to get to AA this year? It’s considered by many to be a big jump from Advanced A to AA, how do you feel about that? What will you concentrate on in 2012 to succeed at the next level?

Scott:  My team that I will play for next season is completely up to my performance and the Mets staff in spring training. I am setting the goal as I have every spring training, and that’s to make it a level higher than played the previous season. With that being said I know that wherever I end up all my job will be, is to do my best, compete, have fun, and finish the season with improvements that will get me into a big league Mets uniform! My focus next season is as always repeating my delivery and throwing strikes with all of my pitches. As to the jump from High-A to AA, all I know is you have to throw strikes and challenge hitters with all of your pitches and success will surface.

Petey:  What do you like to do for fun over the off-season? I’d imagine you’ve already started your workout schedule. Can you describe your off-season workout regimen?

Scott:  I enjoy playing PS3 in my free time although I’ve been keeping busy this off-season with a day time job, two hour workouts, and giving baseball lessons everyday. My brother Greg Moviel and I have a very dedicated workout regimen we do together, and push each other everyday to get stronger and faster, and prepared for spring training. Monday and Thursday are upper body lift days, Tuesday and Friday are lower body lifts, and Wednesday and Saturday are dedicated to speed and agility. We have just begun throwing this week!

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself pitching like someday in the majors? The Mets just signed 6’10″ reliever Jon Rauch, but I believe he would be looking up at you, no? Haha!

Scott:  My favorite team growing up was proudly the Cleveland Indians and always has a place in my heart, haha. My favorite player was Albert Bell but in high school it changed to the big guy C.C.Sabathia. I don’t believe I have a certain style similar to anyone who has pitched in the bigs but I do enjoy watching C.C. and how he attacks and forces bad contact on hitters challenging them constantly. If I do get a chance to see Rauch I believe we would be eye to eye, I’ll have to get a tall check at some point in spring training!

Petey:  Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year at St. Lucie, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Scott:  I would have to say Matt den Dekker is a guy who really impressed me on the field and in the club house as a teammate. His mode is always on 100% and he makes a ton of great catches behind every pitcher which is always a great thing! Very smart and talented ball player.

Petey:  Indeed he is an exciting player to watch. Just to finish up Scott, a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Scott:  Favorite movie is hands down Home Alone, and that is not because it’s been playing through the holidays. It has always been a top favorite of mine for many years now. Music favorites are everything from Classic Rock, Country, to Rap and Hip Hop, Lil Wayne is my most played on the iPod. Favorite food is definitely Chicken Quesadilla.

Petey:  Awesome! Thanks again Scott for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! A very happy, and healthy New Years to you and your family, and we’ll see ya at spring training!

Scott:  Thanks for the questions and interest in my career so far with the Mets. Feel free anytime to interview me, Pete. Hope the holidays have been good for you and your family and have a great New Years! Go Mets!

After dealing with knee injuries that slowed his development, Scott, who is now 23, seems to be healthy and back on the right track again. That is good news to Met fans who have been pulling for him for quite some time to bring his commanding presence to the bump at Citifield. A strong showing in the Eastern League to open 2012, and that day might not be too far off.

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.     

For a college baseball player with aspirations of one day playing in the Major Leagues, the junior year is the most important one to his stock in the June amateur draft. The worst thing that could happen would be to get hurt at this critical time. That is exactly what happened to Charley Thurber of the University of Tennessee Volunteers. Battling untimely injuries, he fell in the draft from a top 10 round pick last year, all the way to the 39th round. There the Mets were lucky enough to find him still available after 1181 players had been taken. Much to their delight they took him with the next pick and now find themselves with perhaps one of the best late round finds in the draft. I caught up with Charley right after New Years, and he was kind enough to take the time and answer some questions for our readers at MMO:

Petey: We are chatting today with Charley Thurber, last season’s starting right-fielder for the Brooklyn Cyclones. Thanks so much Charley for taking the time to talk to me and the readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com. I hope you had a nice holidays. When the Mets drafted you in the 39th round of the 2011 MLB Player Draft, out of the University of Tennessee, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Charley: First of all, it is a blessing to be able to chase my dream of being a Major League ballplayer through the opportunity the Mets have given me. It was great to hear my name called by the Mets, a moment I will never forget. With that being said, this year was one of great turmoil for me. Injuries inhibited my ability to play last spring at Tennessee. Unfortunately, these injuries dropped my stock from likely hearing my name within the top-ten rounds of the draft. I started my junior campaign with high hopes and determination, playing with and through a torn oblique and a broken right hand, which I had sustained diving back into first on a pick-off attempt. I continued to play until I took a fastball to the left wrist, fracturing my ulna and leaving me in a cast for five weeks. Thus, I was not able to show the same tools or match the numbers that I had shown in my sophomore year at UT and in the Cape Cod league. Still, I was fortunate to be invited to some pre-draft workouts, including by the Mets, at CitiField, with the goal of showing scouts that I was healthy and still looking to sign after my junior year. Fortunately, I was able to perform for the Mets’ staff in Queens and was blessed to hear my name in the draft at all after the aforementioned injury-plagued spring. So as you can understand, I’ve entered professional baseball with a little something more to prove.

Petey: Wow that is really starting out in the professional ranks with some adversity to overcome. But you have an outstanding attitude, and with that perseverance and good health, you will get to where you want to be I am sure. Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of becoming a major league baseball player?

Charley: For as long as I can remember the only thing I wanted to do was play in the Major Leagues. I was blessed to have parents that guided me to what I love but never pushed me toward anything. So in a way, baseball was a passion of my own, and I have always been very self-motivated, but my parents have always been my biggest supporters providing for my opportunities for exposure and I can’t thank them enough for completely supporting my dream.

Petey: Great answer! You played 3 years of college baseball for the Volunteers. In college of course, you used aluminum bats, are you completely comfortable swinging wood now? You got off to a slow start once you got to Brooklyn, hitting .176 as of July 3rd. But by the end of the season your batting average was up to .271, and you were a major contributor from the beginning of July, and down the stretch run. Was it just a matter of getting your feet planted solidly, and feeling comfortable in pro ball, that helped you get the bat going?

Charley: I think it definitely took a week or two for me to get used to the grind of playing every day again, after sitting out so much this spring. Once I was able to re-establish a routine, in the cages, the weight-room, and on the field, I felt much more comfortable at the plate and in game situations. For some reason I have always liked swinging wood better than aluminum. A wood bat has always kept my swing honest and true, whereas with metal there is a tendency to try and over-swing and do too much. I think when I dropped below .300 in August, I was aware of it, and it somewhat prolonged a slump back into the .270’s but I am grateful I was able to experience both success and failure so I can learn from both.

Petey: The bio says you are a big guy, 6’4″ 220 lbs., and we know you swing from the left side, but the only time I had the chance to see you hit was when the Cyclones were at Hudson Valley on June 23rd, and although you had a 1-3 night with a single, you guys got worked over pretty good by Wilking Rodriguez and Drew Leary, and managed only a run and 5 hits in a 4-1 loss. If you could Charley, give us a scouting report on yourself as a hitter. What kind of swing you have, and is there any one, or more things that you need to work on? Has there been any particular coach that has helped you with your hitting this past season since joining the Mets organization?

Charley: I feel scouts see me as a hitter who is able to drive balls into the gaps and create backspin, while hitting for average as well. I have a simple approach to look for pitches out over the plate and drive them into the middle of the field. I am able to hit deep into counts, but I feel my power numbers would be helped by hitting earlier in the count as well. In Brooklyn, I really found success using the opposite field, especially considering the oceanic winds blowing in from right field. At times this hurt me though, because I sometimes looked to force the ball that way. This off-season my main emphases have been staying smooth and in rhythm in the box and continuing to keep my swing plane through the middle of the field. This season I was able to find great success against left-handed pitchers, and I really feel capitalizing on right-handers will help me take another step closer this season. I really enjoyed working with Bobby Malek on my hitting this summer. As a fellow left-handed hitting outfielder, Bobby was able to relate to me and helped me transition into my first pro summer. Rich Donnelly, and Frank Viola were also great supporters for me.

Petey: Are you strictly a right fielder? Or have the Mets discussed giving you some playing time at any other positions? With a good throwing arm being necessary to play RF, how would you rank your outfield throwing? What are you working on defensively going into next season? Is there a coach that was especially helpful to you in working on your defense this year at Brooklyn?

Charley: I feel that I am versatile enough to play all three outfield spots although I likely profile in a corner. Right now I prefer right field because I love helping the team with my arm and I feel comfortable there after playing there for the majority of my college years. I consider my arm to be very strong, and I believe the organization does as well. In fact, my arm is probably my most developed tool at the moment and I do feel that it profiles well in right. I was able to save some runs with it this summer. Bobby Malek and Jack Voigt were great instructors for outfielders this summer and in Instructional League. I definitely picked up a lot from each of them and I am continuing to work on all facets of my defensive game in my jumps, routes, footwork, and throwing accuracy. But in the end, I am willing to play anywhere to advance, even pitch!

Petey: A 6’4″ lefty coming out of the Mets bullpen throwing gas? How’s your off-speed stuff? Haha! Your first professional homerun was a huge hit for your team, a 2-run shot in the 4th inning off Bryan Mitchell, in a 12-5 playoff win against the evil Staten Island Yankees on Sept 9th. You had a monster day, going 3-6 with the dinger, 3 runs scored, and 2 RBI’s. Way to go Charley! Was that your biggest day on a baseball field so far?

Charley: That was an awesome day for me! We had such a strong batting order this summer and a different person stepped up every day for us. In this game, I saw the ball well and was able to get some good hitter’s pitches because of the great hitters around me. Hitting my first pro home-run was a great feeling! Unfortunately, we couldn’t pull out the series. A tie for my biggest moment was playing in the All-Star game this summer after a rough spring. But this was definitely a special game that I’ll always remember as well.

Petey: You grew up in Elmira, NY. What was your favorite baseball team? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself playing like someday in the majors?

Charley: Growing up my favorite team was the Mets! My favorite players were Ken Griffey Jr. and Vladimir Guerrero. Now I try to model myself after Josh Hamilton, but my former coach, Ash Lawson, always tells me I remind him of Paul O’Neill. To me I really want to be my own player and if I can be mentioned in the same sentence as a big leaguer in a few years, it doesn’t matter who, I’ll take it!

Petey: What are your goals for next season? And how do you prepare over the winter, can you describe your workout regimen? What do you like to do during your time off for fun and recreation?

Charley: Next season I feel I can improve my OPS. In doing so, I can produce more runs for my team from both the batter’s box and on the bases. As I said earlier, I look to capitalize more on right-handers this season as well. This off-season I have been back in Knoxville, TN, at UT, working out with Herman Demmink of 3D Performance. We have been going through intense workouts focused on explosion, power, fast-twitch speed/quickness, and durability. I’ve had the pleasure to be working alongside a number of my former teammates from UT who are also in the professional ranks, including fellow Met and Volunteer, Blake Forsythe. We are enjoying working with a number of current major leaguers like Joe Nathan, Nate McClouth, and fellow Tennessee Volunteers Chase Headley, Mike Lincoln, and Luke Hochevar. Herman has a thorough, cutting-edge program and I look to come into this season the strongest, fastest, and healthiest that I’ve ever been. For fun, there’s nothing I enjoy more than just being around my family and friends.

Petey: Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year at Brooklyn, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Charley: We had a great team so it is hard to just choose one. Danny Muno obviously was an amazing hitter winning the batting title; Richard Lucas had a great year as well. But as a fellow outfielder I’d say Travis Taijeron had some huge clutch hits for us including a big walkoff home-run. Overall, we had a fun team to play on, and a strong batting order to hit in. Oh, did I mention we had some great pitchers too? I’d like to give everyone credit!

Petey: Don’t worry I’ll save a little ink for the pitchers in my next article! Well, to finish up Charley, just a little personal info not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Charley: My favorite movie would be hard to narrow down but I would say The Dark Knight. Right now I can’t stop listening to Zac Brown Band, but while I’m working out Wale’s ‘Ambition’ album is second to none for me. My favorite foods range from to salmon and grilled chicken to Oreos, of course.

Petey: Thanks again Charley for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Have a very happy, and healthy New Year, and we will be looking forward to seeing you in spring training!

Charley: Thanks Pete! Happy New Year to you as well. Thanks for the support and effort you all put into New York Mets Baseball.

I don’t know about you, but now that Charley has gotten his feet wet in pro ball, I am really looking forward to seeing what he can accomplish with a full season of long-season ball next year. That’s all it will take for him to start shooting up the prospect charts. He’s a great guy and definitely a player to keep an eye on in 2012!

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.

And the 2011 Sterling Award Winner: Mets Organizational Pitcher of the Year, is…. Darin Gorski. And he was the perfect choice because he simply had the best season, start-to-finish, of any pitcher in the Mets system. With a record of: 11-3 and an ERA of 2.08, Gorski finished 1st in the Florida State League in ERA, and WHIP (1.00), and finished 3rd in strikeouts with 140. I caught up to Darin in the days leading up to the Christmas Holiday, and he was kind enough to put aside some time for the readers and staff at MMO, to spread a little holiday cheer:

Petey:  Hi Darin, thanks so much for taking the time out to answer some questions for our readers and staff at MetsMerizedOnline.com. Congratulations on an awesome year in 2011. You are one guy that everybody who is a fan of the Mets has been talking about this year. I’m sure plenty of people throughout all of baseball have sat up and noticed what you accomplished. It’s amazing what hard work and perseverance can do. Are you back in PA for the winter holidays? How are things going, is your Christmas shopping done?

Darin:  Thanks a lot Pete! I am back in PA for the holidays and the off-season. Everything is going great, spending time with my family and friends as well as getting ready for next season. Christmas shopping is finally complete I like to do most of it online because I’m not really into the lines or trying to find a parking spot at the mall.

Petey:  Me too man, online shopping was invented for people like us! When the Mets drafted you out of Kutztown University in the 7th round of the 2009 MLB Player Draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Darin:  We had some friends and family over for the draft that day and they were all listening to it on the computer. It’s hard not to pay attention to it when it’s on, I tried to keep myself occupied while everything was happening but I will probably never forget hearing my name called. I knew the Mets had interest in me, I had spoken to them quite a few times and I had been to Citifield for the pre-draft workout. But then again I was also in contact with a lot of other teams too so it was up in the air. Prior to the draft I was told I could be taken anywhere between rounds 4-10 so naturally you want to be the first pick of the 4th round. But regardless of when you’re name is called it’s an amazing feeling knowing that a team is willing to take a chance on you and give you the opportunity to play professionally.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you have learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of one day becoming a major league baseball player?

Darin:  I have been blessed with a very supportive family growing up. From my dad sitting on a bucket and catching me in the backyard when he got home from work to my mom travelling all over the east coast to get me to games and watch me play. They have both sacrificed so much to get me where I am today and I am so thankful for them. My dad was my coach for a couple of years when I was growing up, he taught me how to respect the game and to play the game hard and the right way. As far as a coach that has helped me I would have to say my pitching coach from St. Lucie, Phil Regan. He had a profound impact on my career in just one season. He really helped me refine my mechanics and on top of that he taught me how to pitch and study hitters. With all those things I learned how to get guys out and I became very confident in my ability to pitch.

Petey:  Several other pitchers have also told me really great things about Phil Regan. He is undoubtedly one of the best out there. What you accomplished this year was simply fantastic. I guess you can say the ‘cat’s out of the bag’, after you were the ace of a staff that went deep in the play-offs, were named to the 2011 Florida State League Mid and Post-Season All-Star squads, named the Florida State League Most Valuable Pitcher at season’s end, and in October, MLB.com named you 2011 Class A Advanced Pitcher of the Year. Whew! Holy-moly Darin what are you going to do for an encore? Haha! When did you first realize that things were going to be different for you this season? How did you maintain an even keel, and pitch well as consistently as you did? Was your mental state as important as you physical state when it came to giving a superb effort on the mound every start?

Darin:  Well this season was a lot of fun; we had a great group of guys in St. Lucie and it wasn’t a surprise to us at all that we went as far as we did. Wish we could have come away with the championship but we were right there. I think I realized things were going a little bit differently for me this season when I made a start against Bradenton early in the year. It was just supposed to be a spot start but then I had an opportunity to make a few more starts and it took off from there. If there is one thing I have learned since being drafted it is that you can’t let your emotions get the best of you. The game has a funny way of humbling you and it will tear you down just as quickly as it builds you up. For that reason I tried not to let a little success or failure change my outlook and ultimately my preparation from start to start. I tried to focus on doing what I needed to do each day to get myself ready to pitch and give my team the best chance to win. It was a lot of fun with the staff we had down there because every night you were going to see a well pitched game so when your number was called you wanted to go out there and do the same thing. I do believe it is important to have good mental preparation otherwise the game will speed up on you and you’ll find yourself it a bad situation pretty quickly. You need to take it one pitch at a time and trust your stuff to be successful.

Petey:  Let me ask you to assess your arsenal for us. Give me the most up-to-date scouting report on Darin Gorski LHP. What do you throw pitch-wise, at what speeds, and how do they move? Do you have a particular way, generally, that you like to go after hitters? Are you working on any new pitches?

Darin:  I throw a 4-seam fastball, which is usually in the 89-91 mph range maybe a tick or two higher at times. I also throw a slider and a change-up, both of which come in somewhere around the low 80’s. Both the fastball and the change-up have arm side run and a little sink to them. The slider naturally has glove side break. Personally I try to read the hitter, I believe his body language or how he takes a pitch says a lot about how you should pitch him. I like to get in on hitters at times because that will give me the opportunity to pitch more comfortably away without him leaning over the plate. I started working on a 2-seam fastball late last year and I have been throwing it since so we will have to see how it is looking come spring training.

Petey:  Ok, the big question, the one you’ve probably been asked a million times already, how did you do it? I have heard writers previously credit the development of your change-up, but could it really be as simple as that? You went from a 6-8 record in 2010 at Savannah, with a 4.58 ERA in 114 IP’s, to a record in 2011 at St. Lucie of 11-3, with an ERA of 2.08 in 138.2 IP’s. And you were the model of consistency all year, which says a lot about your mechanics. But tell us what changes you made between the 2010 and 2011 seasons that made such a dramatic difference for you?

Darin:  It’s funny what a little bit of confidence can to for a pitcher. I’d have to say the first big difference I noticed from last year to this year would be my fastball command, which is one thing Phil and I had worked hard on. Second is just being confident in my ability to pitch and trusting my stuff each time out there. The fastball command definitely helped all my pitches because when you’re ahead in the count you can expand the zone and keep the hitters off balance. If you’re always behind in the count, as I was quite often in Savannah, it puts the hitters in good fastball counts and they are ready to hit and that’s where I ran into trouble. The work that we did mechanically in the bullpen allowed me to make that adjustment and it translated in the game, which is when the confidence started to kick in.

Petey:  What’s next? I have every reason to think you will open next season in the Binghamton starting rotation. That’s a pretty big jump to go from Advanced A to AA. What are you focusing on right now to keep moving up and to be ready for those guys?

Darin:  That is what I have been told, everyone talks about that jump and I am excited to see what all the fuss is about. As far as I am concerned regardless of what level you are at the game never changes. Pitches that get guys out are still going to get guys out you just need to limit your mistakes as you go. You continue to work every day to be the best you can when you get out there and that means limiting mistake pitches, if you can do that you can get guys out and that is the name of the game.

Petey:  What do you like to do for fun over the off-season? When did your workout schedule begin? Can you describe your regimen?

Darin:  I like to hunt during the off-season. Archery is more my thing, I am not sure if it is because the weather is nicer or maybe just because I am a better shot with a bow than I am a rifle. That was made very clear this year, I missed a buck the first day of rifle season, haven’t been out since. I also like to play video games; MW3 and NHL 12 would have to be my favorite games as of 15 minutes ago anyway. My workouts started three weeks after our season concluded and I have been working out 4 days a week since then at Power Train near my home town. I started working out there about six weeks before spring training last year and I noticed a big difference in my overall preparedness for the season. We do a lot of work with bands and time under tension in there as well as running. I also just started throwing last week so I am getting excited for the season.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself pitching like someday in the majors?

Darin:  I really never had a favorite team growing up; I just like watching the game not so much cheering for a particular team. With that being said my mom was a Phillies fan and I found it amusing cheering for any team they were playing just to get under her skin. Since ’09 though she has become more of a Mets fan and I have stopped rooting for the opposing team, I guess we’ve both grown up a little. I was always a huge fan of the rocket, Roger Clemens, but in the past few years I found myself watching Cliff Lee pitch a lot more. I like the way he throws; his tempo and aggressive style are kind of what I like to do. At one point this year Marte told me I reminded him of Cliff Lee, I am assuming it is because we are both left-handed because I have a tough time associating myself with Cy Young winners at this point in my career.

Petey:  Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year at St. Lucie, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Darin:  This is probably the toughest question we’ve had because of the team we put on the field night in and night out in St. Lucie. But if I were going to pick one guy I would have to say Juan Lagares. I played with him last year and Savannah and started the year with him again in St. Lucie. I feel like guys only got him out when he didn’t want to have to run the bases. He put together an amazing season and it was no surprise to any of us that he finished the year in Binghamton and got some playing time in the fall league. He plays the game hard and the right way, he is a lot of fun to watch and have playing behind you.

Petey:  He’s another player that has put in a lot of hard work, and it has really been paying off for him lately. And now to finish up Darin, just a little personal info not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Darin:  Because of it being the holiday season and I can hear Christmas music playing in the background right now I am going to add a Christmas twist to this question, I hope you don’t mind.

Petey:  Not at all, that’s a great idea! Ho-ho-ho!

Darin:  So my favorite Christmas movie, which I am about to watch, is National Lampoons Christmas Vacation with Chevy Chase. I love that movie I probably watch it 10 times each Christmas. My favorite Christmas musician would be Bing Crosby but I also enjoy Mariah Carey’s rendition of “All I Want for Christmas is You”. And my favorite food would have to be the deep fried turkey my dad makes. I am making myself hungry just thinking about it.

Petey:  Yum! I’m getting hungry too. Thanks so much Darin, it was a lot of fun doing this interview with you. Have a really great, happy and healthy holidays, and new year. We’ll see ya in spring training!

Darin:  No problem Pete, it was a lot of fun! Happy holidays to you as well.

That was really nice! Darin is a great guy and his answers were outstanding. It’s really cool to see that despite his terrific season he states over and over how much he appreciates his teammates, and the people who have helped him get where he is. You have to root for a guy like Darin Gorski, and we all wish him continued success! Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Happy Holidays!

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.

I had the pleasure of doing a Q&A with 23-year-old, New York Mets minor league pitcher, RHP Ryan Fraser the other day. In just two years of professional baseball with the Mets, the 6’3″ Fraser has made some very favorable impressions on people who follow the team. He was the Brooklyn Cyclones closer in 2010 registering 12 saves, and he was an anchor in the starting rotation last season at Savannah of the South Atlantic League, leading the pitching staff with 138.1 innings for a team that came one strike away from winning the league championship. The talent, confidence, and versatility he has exhibited so far makes him a very intriguing prospect going forward. Ryan was nice enough to answer a few questions for us at MMO, read on to find out what he had to say:

Petey:  First of all congratulations Ryan on a very successful second pro season! As a hard-throwing right-hander with good command, you were one of the horses in the Savannah Sand Gnats rotation this past season, going 7-9 with a 3.58 ERA, in 21 GS. You also helped the Gnats get to the championship round of the South Atlantic League playoffs, where you guys came very close to winning the whole thing. It must have been quite an exciting year for you, I would imagine. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions for our readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com. Are you back home in the Volunteer State for the winter holidays? How are things?

Ryan:  Thanks Peter! After our unfortunate ending to an incredible season I made my way back to the Volunteer State but I’d prefer to call it good ol’ Tennessee since I’m not a Volunteer fan. (I was born in Florida and grew up a Gator fan) Things are good: I have definitely enjoyed my time off with my family and friends.

Petey:  When the Mets drafted you out of the University of Memphis in the 16th round of the 2010 MLB Player Draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Ryan:  I was very fortunate to be home with my family when I was selected by the Mets last June. We had the draft pulled up on the internet, while we anxiously waited. I had no idea which club liked me or an idea of a round to be expecting, so I tried to keep my self busy and not stare at the computer screen all day. I thought my dad exploded when he heard my name called. The feeling was a mix of excitement and accomplishment like a big weight was lifted off my shoulders. It felt like that because I worked so hard for a chance to play professionally.

Petey:  Is there one person, a coach, a friend or family member, or even another player, who you have learned the most from, or who inspired you to chase your dream of one day becoming a major league baseball player?

Ryan:  Unfortunately Peter I cannot narrow that down to one person. First I have to start with my parents and the way they raised me. They have always inspired me to work hard no matter what I was doing. They have always supported me; it means a lot when they never missed a game. Another person that stands out was my pitching coach, Fred Corral at the University of Memphis. Being one of the best pitching coaches around, he was one of the key contributors to turning that program around. He always had something new for us to become mentally tough.

Petey:  Tell us a little bit about your arsenal. What pitches you throw, at what speeds, and are you working on any new pitches moving forward? What is normally your approach to attacking hitters?

Ryan:  I’m not a “crafty” pitcher, trying to out think the hitters. I only have three pitches and I just try to attack the best I can with those, going right after hitters and throwing strikes. To break it down, I throw fastball, curveball, and change-up. Some people question my curveball and think its a slider. I would like to call it a “power slurve” if there’s such a pitch. I don’t like to know the speed of them cause it doesn’t matter as long as you get the hitters out and give your team an opportunity to win.

Petey:  In 2010, your first professional season, you were the closer for the Brooklyn Cyclones in the New York Penn League. Pretty great place to play isn’t it? You got a little taste of what the New York baseball fan is like. As the closer in Brooklyn you went 3-3 with a 1.44 ERA and 12 saves. This past season you threw 138.1 innings mostly as a starter for Savannah. Which role do you enjoy more? Moving forward, would you prefer to start, or close?

Ryan:  The few months that I got to play in Brooklyn was intense. By that, I mean the fan base every night at MCU Park made you fall in love with the game all over again. We had a talented team and playing for Wally made it fun. It was a shame that we couldn’t take home the league championship. I loved closing in Brooklyn. We had the same opportunity to win the league in Savannah but the same thing happened. Looking at my numbers from this season in Savannah, I would like another opportunity to start. This might sound funny but I think there was less pressure on me coming in to close. I don’t have a problem being in either role, so I wish I could just see the future and see whichever role gets me to the big leagues faster.

Petey:  What is the most important thing you learned about pitching this year at Savannah?

Ryan:  I learned a lot from this past season. The most important thing I learned was the power of the change-up. I threw it more per game than I did in all the games I pitched in, in 2010. Its important to have a good change-up to keep hitters more off balance. Although it took me a whole season to learn, I think it has developed into a pretty good pitch when I throw it right.

Petey:  That is going to be a huge pitch for you moving forward. Is there one aspect to your game, or more than one, that you still need to work on as a pitcher, before you will be ready to compete on the “big stage.”

Ryan:  This year we were constantly reminded that the big leagues are not as far away as we sometimes think, even though I think I have a lot to learn. Picking up where I left off from the previous paragraph, I need to further develop all of my pitches to where I can throw them for strikes whenever I want. To help accomplish this feat, I need to learn how to repeat my delivery for every pitch. If I can do that then I have a chance.

Petey:  What do you like to do for fun over the off-season? When does your workout schedule begin? Can you describe your workout regimen?

Ryan:  I am very active, so for fun I like to get outdoors. I prefer to fish, ride bikes, hike, play and watch football, and anything on the water like: swim, boat, canoe, tube, ski, and jet ski. My girlfriend lives in Ohio and I was able to ride some of the best rollercoasters at Cedar Point as well as attend some Browns football games.Things that keep me entertained. The Mets gave us a workout regimen that started a month or two ago.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself pitching like someday in the majors?

Ryan:  Running around McKechnie Field in Bradenton as a kid, I liked the Pirates but that was before I knew any better. My favorite team growing up was the Braves looking up to players like Maddux, Smoltzie, and of course Chipper, but my favorite player I think was Ken Griffey Jr. I thought he was gonna become the best….ever. Being a better pitcher than hitter nowadays, I look up to Halladay. If I can improve on the areas discussed from question 6, I think I could be that good.

Petey:  Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year at Savannah, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Ryan:  One player that impressed me was Albert “Dragon” Cordero, one of our catchers in Savannah. He is a young guy with a great arm, and sometimes when he hit the ball I could have sworn I saw fire come out of his mouth. He will always be Dragon to me.

Petey:  I’m really glad you brought him up Ryan. He has gotten quite a bit of buzz on our website, ever since the middle of last season when he really started to pour it on. Many, including myself consider him the Mets number one catching prospect at this time. I’m looking forward to interviewing Dragon one of the these days. To finish up Ryan, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Ryan:  My favorite movie of all time is Rudy. Favorite band is AC/DC and I will always have one of their songs as my walkout. My favorite food is (probably) lasagna even though I am a steak n’ tater kind a guy.

Petey:  Thanks again Ryan for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Have a very happy, and healthy holidays, and enjoy your time off this winter!

Ryan:  Thanks Pete!

Well that was a very interesting interview with yet another promising Mets prospect who will be a lot of fun to keep track of as he advances through the upper levels of the farm system. I look for Ryan to open the 2012 season in the starting rotation at St. Lucie, but a strong first half could earn him a mid-season call-up to AA. Stay tuned.

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.

I had a chance to chat recently with 22-year-old Mets minor league pitching prospect, 6’3″ left-hander, Adam Kolarek. Adam pitched nearly all of 2011 with the South Atlantic League Southern Division Champion, Savannah Sand Gnats, helping to anchor their bullpen. It was really nice of Adam to take some time off from holiday shopping to chat with us here at MMO, let’s see what he had to say:

Petey:  First of all congratulations Adam on a very successful second pro season! As a hard-throwing left-handed reliever with good command, you were a staple in the Savannah Sand Gnats bullpen all season, going 7-0 with a 2.22 ERA. You also helped the Gnats get to the championship round of the South Atlantic League playoffs. It must have been quite an exciting year for you, I would imagine. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions for our readers at MetsMerizedOnline.com. When the Mets drafted you out of the University of Maryland in the 11th round of the 2010 MLB Player Draft, how did you first hear about it, and what was that feeling like? Did you know the Mets were interested in drafting you? What round(s) were you thinking you might be taken in the draft?

Adam:  I was listening to the broadcast online with my family when I heard my name called. It was definitely a feeling I will never forget. I was obviously excited but I was also really relieved that the whole process was over with and that I had finally accomplished my goal. I knew that the Mets had some interest in me, but to what extent, I wasn’t sure. I was able to attend their pre-draft workout in New York and all I wanted to do was make a good impression and give them a reason to draft me. To be drafted in the 11th round was great.

Petey:  Your father Frank played as a catcher in the Oakland Athletics organization from 1976 to 1982, rising as high as AAA. As a pitcher, I would think it would be very helpful for you having a “catcher” for a dad. How did that help your development? Would you say he was your biggest influence as a player growing up?

Adam:  Having a catcher as my father has been a great advantage for me throughout my whole life. From the baseball side of things, we have always talked and dissected my outtings and I continue to call him after every game I pitch with the Mets to go over different hitters or situations I was in that night. He’s always given me great advice from a catchers standpoint and I feel like that’s made me a better pitcher. But he has really prepared me for all the mental parts of baseball that go beyond what happens on the field. He’s always stressed the importance of being professional at all times. My Dad has always been my most important family member, coach, and friend that has inspired me to chase my dream.

Petey:  In a report from last year, it said you throw your fastball 90-94, that you possess a very good change-up, and that you throw a developing slider that busts in on the hands of right-handed hitters. Can you add to that assessment? Are you as comfortable throwing the slider as your other pitches?

Adam:  I mainly throw a 4-seam fastball but I am really working on my 2-seam this offseason because I really believe that it will help me moving forward. I would say my change-up is my second best pitch because I feel comfortable throwing it in just about any count or any situation. When I throw a real good one it will have some tailing movement into a lefty or away from a righty. Finally, I feel like I made a lot of progress with my slider last year and I want to continue to build off of that. I would mainly use it when I was ahead in the count and was trying to get a strike out or ground ball, but I really want to get to the point this year where I can use my slider when I’m behind in the count in a typical fastball situation.

Petey:  You had a very successful season last year at Savannah going 7-0 with a 2.22 ERA. In 52.2 IP’s you struck out 55, walked 19 and gave up 41 hits, with only 1 HR allowed and a WHIP of 1.14. Nice job Adam! As you move up to St. Lucie, and Binghamton, how will you expect the competition will change, and what must you do to have the same sort of success as you move higher.

Adam:  I expect that the main difference will be the fact that hitters will not let you get away with many mistakes. As I’ve moved from high school, to college, to now the minors, I’ve seen that at each level that hitters will take advantage of those mistakes and turn them into base hits more often, where as before they might just foul it off. This has taught me the importance of each pitch and that my focus needs to be at its peak at all times, no matter the inning, score, or situation.

Petey:  But how will you apply that focus, what specifically do you need to do to get those guys out?

Adam:  Like I’ve mentioned before, I know that in order to succeed at higher levels I will need to throw any pitch in any situation. By being able to do this, it keeps hitters off balance and keeps them away from learning your tendancies as a pitcher. Another thing I’m learning, especially from watching big league games on TV, is how important movement is. Not many pitches being thrown in the big leagues are straight. All pitches, including fastballs, have some sort of movement, either cutting or tailing. The elite pitchers in baseball really know how to use their movement to their advantage.

Petey:  Do you think you will be given the opportunity to start one day? Or do you see yourself strictly as a relief pitcher, at this point?

Adam:  I think at this point in my career I could see it going either way. I am really comfortable coming out of the bullpen because I did it mainly throughout my college career too. I like being able to pitch back to back days and I also like getting to come in when the game is on the line. It’s a whole other side of baseball that not many people understand. I find myself paying closer attention to big league games, especially in the playoffs, when its like the 7th or 8th inning and those relievers start coming in to get their outs. Whether I end up being a starter or not is something I’m not really worried about now. If the opportunity came I would run with it, but for now as long as they are putting me in to pitch, it doesn’t matter to me what my role is.

Petey:  What do you like to do for fun over the off-season? When does your workout schedule begin? Can you describe your workout regimen?

Adam:  I’m staying pretty busy with a part time job and also doing pitching lessons this off-season. But for fun I like to do a little bit of traveling to see some friends and family. Mainly I like to just be around my hometown and take advantage of my time off to see all the people I miss over the long season. My workout schedule began a few weeks after the conclusion of Instructs. The regimen is a good mix of endurance running, sprints, and agility drills along with the lifting, core and balance strengthening, as well as a lot of workouts for my arm.

Petey:  What was your favorite baseball team growing up? Your favorite player? Is there a major league player, past or present, that you think you are similar to in style? Or someone that you can see yourself playing like someday in the majors?

Adam:  Growing up in Baltimore, I of course loved the O’s. Cal Ripkin, Jr. was my favorite player. It’s tough to pick a player that I think I’m similar to but I really admire Derek Jeter because of the way he carries himself and always seems to come through in the big situations. I always loved watching Tom Glavine too because first off he is a lefty, but he always had such a quiet demenor on the outside but on the inside he was such a fierce competitor.

Petey:  Pick one teammate, position player or pitcher, that really impressed you with his play this year at Savannah, or at St. Lucie, and tell us what it was that made you take notice.

Adam:  It’s tough to choose just one, but I was really impressed with Chase Huchingson this year. I got to know Hutch well because we were roommates on the road. He’s one of the hardest workers on our team and has a strong mentality everytime he gets on the mound. I know he’s working hard this offseason too and getting ready to have another strong season.

Petey:  Good call Adam, I was following what you guys were doing down in Savannah this year, and I was very impressed with Hutch and the way he pitched all season long. He was very reliable both out of the pen, and as a sometimes starter. And to think, he was an undrafted free-agent, that still boggles my mind. To finish up Adam, just a little personal info, not pertaining to baseball. What is your favorite movie? Favorite musician or band? Favorite food?

Adam:  I’d say my favorite movie is Men of Honor, or just about anything De Niro is in. I’m into anything heavy, so my favorite band is Metallica. And I’d have to choose my older sister Kelly’s lasagna as my favorite food.

Petey:  Thanks again Adam for taking time out for this interview. The readers and staff at MMO really appreciate it! Have a very happy, and healthy holidays, and enjoy your time off this winter!

Well that does it for our sit-down with Adam Kolarek, he’s a very interesting guy and was quite informative with all his answers. Definitely someone to keep an eye on this season, with his ‘stuff’ and command, there is no reason to think he won’t rise through the top levels of the system pretty smoothly. Let’s hope so cause we would all love to see him pitching at Citi one day soon.

For more of my player interviews, and some other cool stuff, click here.

Though it’s unlikely the Mets trade Niese, he said it’s a matter in which he has no control.

“Obviously, it’s not my decision where I pitch,” he said. “I’m sure I’ll stay here with the Mets, and I’m looking forward to it.”

And we as fans are surely looking forward to a full, healthy season of Niese. He said that his goal is to pitch more than 200 innings in 2012 and has been working on his cardiovascular endurance to help him achieve that goal. He’s had injury troubles in his brief career so wants to stay in good shape to avoid any future problems.

Jonathon Niese at the Mets Kids' Holiday Party

Niese said he will not add anything new to his repertoire, but he will instead try to master the four pitches he has. He wants every pitch to be 100 percent and wants to make sure that he feels confident in using them all so he can mix his pitches well.

Having Johan Santana back (hopefully) will also be a nice boost for Niese, who has already learned so much from the veteran lefty.

“He’s [Santana] a huge force,” Niese said. “With an injury, you can never tell, but we’re looking forward to have him back. Just his presence alone will help on our staff a lot.”

Niese enjoyed being teammates with another lefty, Chris Capuano, but Capuano is now with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Niese said he would miss Chris very much.

“Those moves happen; you just got to move on,” said Niese.

Though Niese has absorbed what veterans R.A. Dickey and Chris Young have told him, he likes learning from fellow lefties.

“Obviously as a lefty, you’d like to talk to other lefties to see how they get hitters out,” he said.

Additionally, Niese likes the team’s new additions to the bullpen. The organization believes Ramon Ramirez, Jon Rauch and Frank Francisco will sure up the end of the game.

“I think they [the front office] filled the holes that needed to be filled,” Niese said. “I look forward to meeting the guys and working with them.”

Niese anticipates his matchup against former teammate Jose Reyes and the Miami Marlins. He said he is very excited for the challenge.

“Watching him hit for a while…hopefully, I picked up enough to learn how to get him out,” said Niese.

As a pitcher, Niese said the new Citi Field dimensions would not change the way he pitches. He will still try to get ground balls and doesn’t think the new dimensions will be a big issue for the staff. He does think that the defense will improve in the ballpark.

“All those bloop hits that fell…I think those are going to be caught this year,” he said.

Finally, Niese anticipates the day where he will pitch in meaningful games late in the season. He had a brief taste in 2008 when he made a few spot starts, but he said the goal of every pitcher is to pitch in the postseason.

“Hopefully, if things go right for us,” Niese said. “We can reach that.”