Keith Hernandez circumvented the boycott and was on WFAN on Friday with Joe & Evan. Here is summary of what Keith had to say courtesy of a member of the MMO community, Mr. North Jersey.
What To Do With Gee
Keith thinks Dillon Gee has the temperament to make the transition to the bullpen and be able to handle a long relief role. He goes on to say Gee would be perfect for that. Keith said he does not agree with going to a six man rotation. He believes you have to keep pitchers on a regular five man routine, but likes the depth Gee can give the Mets.
Leadoff Hitter
On who should bat leadoff, Hernandez said he wants to see Juan Lagares leading off because he showed the ability to steal bases late in the season and he’s younger. He adds that the Mets don’t have to be wed to just one guy and mentioned Curtis Granderson as another possibility even though he doedn’t walk much and isn’t a stolen base threat.
Shortstop
Keith said he need to see if Wilmer Flores can be a major league shortstop. Called himself an old dinosaur in that he believes in strength defensively up the middle. He did say Flores is sure-handed, but that for now Ruben Tejada has got to be a guy that comes in late for defense. By the way, he also believes that the Mets corner outfield spots are a little shaky defensively.
Closer Role
Regarding the closer role Keith said he doesn’t think Jeurys Familia is ready but he likes him in a setup role. Said Jenrry Mejia did a pretty good job last year. Called him a typical closer in that he would have you reaching for the Rolaids. Feels that it should be Mejia’s job to lose. Mets will have to see how Bobby Parnell evolves after he rejoins the team and that Terry and Sandy will then have some tough decisions to make. Doesn’t believe Parnell should just be thrown back into the closing role, but rather let him get his feet wet. But again if Mejia is performing well, he shouldn’t be pulled out of closer job.
It All Hinges On Wright
Regarding any concerns with David Wright this season, Keith said health is everything. He noted that the Mets captain hasn’t been the same since he was hit in the head by Matt Cain. Also added that the emergence of all the young players is great, but any success will all revolve around Wright and that he needs to drive in 100 runs and be clutch and take the pressure off everybody else.
How Many Games Will Mets Win
Finally on a win total expectancy for the Mets this season, Keith said 85 wins would be unacceptable and not good enough in that if they don’t win more than 85 games he would consider it just a so-so year.
