Daniel Murphy, remember him?
After starting off his stint in the Dominican Republic Winter League with an underwhelming 0-8 at the plate, Murphy exploded with a big performance in his third game for the Aguilas.
Last night he helped spark a three run comeback victory by going 3-4 and two RBIs. All three hits were doubles and he drew a walk as well.
Murphy missed the entire 2010 season because of a pair of MCL injuries to his right knee including a collision while playing second base for the Buffalo Bisons last season while on the comeback trail to the majors.
Going into the 2011 season, Murphy could compete with Ruben Tejada and Justin Turner for the second base job this spring. The Mets are hoping he adapts well to the position and some scouts who are watching him play in D.R. have said he has looked good and has made all the routine plays. Another said, he has been working hard in practice and it seems to be paying off.
Given that Murphy is lefthanded, there is a possibility he may end up in a platoon with Tejada, which wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world.
What do you think? Do you see Daniel Murphy assuming a vital role with the Mets next season? Would you rather see the Mets sign a veteran second baseman? Should the Mets give Ruben Tejada the everyday job until Reese Havens is ready, whenever that will be?
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Brad Holt is also making news again after retreating into absolute obscurity last year. It seems he has found happiness in the Arizona Fall League as well as his control and velocity.
The 2008 first-round Draft pick tossed three more scoreless innings on Saturday as the Mesa Solar Sox beat the Surprise Rafters 7-2. That now gives Holt nine scoreless innings.
Holt is trying to rebound from a disastrous season that saw him go 3-14 with an 8.34 ERA in 24 appearances between Class A Advanced St. Lucie and Double-A Binghamton.
Holt said he is now feeling more comfortable on the mound. Some scouts see Holt as a solid reliever in the major leagues, but the Mets will continue to groom him as a starter with the hope that his secondary pitches will improve.
