Despite only starting in just 70 of the team’s first 86 games (80%), Sandy Alderson surprisingly told Kristie Ackert of the Daily News that veteran left fielder Michael Cuddyer has been “overused.”
Cuddyer, whom Alderson signed to a two-year, $21 million deal last winter, has been forced into a role that he was not expected to play this season and it is taking its toll, Alderson asserts.
“One of the problems we’ve had, is we have had to overuse a couple of players, I think Michael is a perfect example,” Alderson said.
“He is someone who has played quite a bit more than we anticipated he would have because of David’s absence and some other injuries we have had. Hopefully that will sort itself out in the second half.”
Perhaps I’m reading too much into this, but it sounds as if Alderson looks at Cuddyer as somewhat of a part-time player or one that he expected no more than 400 at-bats in a season.
Which begs the question, why did we forfeit a first round draft pick (No. 15 overall) for the 36-year old veteran who was the only significant signing of the entire offseason?
“Michael is a tremendous addition to the middle of our lineup,” Alderson said after signing him. “He is a proven offensive threat who also brings versatility in the field with the ability to play multiple positions.”
Cuddyer, who has struggled all season, is batting just .240 with six home runs and 28 RBI and ranks last among all qualified left fielders with a .648 OPS.
He continues to deal with a sore left knee and has missed six of the last eight games, and is meeting with team doctors today to determine if a DL stint is necessary.
Cuddyer has already received a cortisone shot to reduce the pain, but manager Terry Collins said his knee was “acting up” and “pretty swelled up.”
I also wonder if Sandy was taking issue with Cuddyer’s handling by Terry Collins who I thought was definitely giving him ample time off.
On Wednesday I suggested the Mets should sign an outfielder like Gerardo Parra of the Brewers and that way Cuddyer, Granderson and Lagares can form a three-way outfield rotation based on matchups.
The goal would be to reduce Cuddyer’s and Lagares’ exposure to RHP, while benching Granderson altogether against LHP.
I’m sure Sandy’s comments will be addressed later this afternoon before tonight’s game against the Diamondbacks. I’m looking forward to hearing him further clarify his statement.
