As expected, the Mets picked up the $11 million option for Jose Reyes for 2011 and left open the possibility of a long term extension. When the Mets signed Reyes to a multi-year deal in 2006, he was on the verge of stardom and being a special player. The injuries that plagued him early in his career were seemingly behind him, he was an All-Star and regarded as one of the top leadoff hitters in...
Read MoreSandy Alderson’s first hire is former Blue Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi as his special assistant, with presumably one of his responsibilities to help implement a “Mets Way,” throughout the organization, beginning with the lower levels of the minor league system. Considering the dimensions of Citi Field, presumably an organizational philosophy will place an emphasis on pitching and defense first,...
Read MoreSandy Alderson is back from teaching in California and at Citi Field working on hiring the next manager of the Mets. There should be some interviews this week. While Alderson said he’s not adverse to hiring a “fiery,” manager – relief to Wally Backman supporters – his preference is of an analytical and knowledgeable type. Middle management, if you will. Speculation...
Read MoreSandy Alderson concluded his introductory press conference less than an hour ago at Citi Field and made a positive first impression in laying out the groundwork for the first year of his four-year contract with the Mets. Among the topics he addressed: FRONT OFFICE: As suggested here yesterday, Alderson said a priority would be in piecing together his staff. He stressed the word...
Read MoreIt won’t be an easy task for Sandy Alderson to turn around the Mets. Naming a manager is on everybody’s mind now, but that’s just one of the issues on a lengthy things-to-do list. No doubt all these things were discussed during the interview process: 1) ORGANIZING HIS STAFF: John Ricco is already on board as assistant general manager, but Alderson has thoughts of his own for the remainder of his...
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