Hi Mets fans! Lot’s of good information in today’s Spring Update so pay attention.
SNY’s Kevin Burkhardt gets things started off by saying the following about Pedro Beato via Twitter today, “One more thing on Beato- grew up a Mets fan and he has the best fastball in camp.” I don’t know how accurate that is or if Bobby Parnell would agree, but Collins also said today that he is very impressed with how his fastball explodes at the plate.
Steve Popper had a nice read today on the bewildering case of Fernando Martinez, who continues to remind everyone of another one-time Mets prospect, Alex Escobar. “Martinez is healthy — at least today. But it is a day-to-day situation for the outfielder. It is hard to imagine sometimes that he is just 22, as he has spent about one-third of his life as a hyped-up prospect.” Bingo.
Anthony DiComo who covers the Mets for Mets.com had some high praise for a Mets reliever too today, only he was describing Francisco Rodriguez when he tweeted this, “I’m no pitching guru, but based on Dan Warthen’s reactions to his bullpen session, K-Rod looks fantastic.” I don’t know about you, but compared to last Spring Training, so far in the early going everything seems to be coming up roses.
Terry Collins was adamant about what will be the priority for winning the second base job this spring. According to Adam Rubin, Collins stated that offense is the priority. “Second base, to me, has become an enormous offensive position.” It’s been nice knowing you Luis.
Still got some concerns about Collins? Maybe this will help put you at ease. Andy McCullough heard it with his own ears; “You will not believe this, but Terry Collins thinks Jenrry Mejia should have spent last year as a starter.”
Matt Cerrone reports that reliever Manny Alvarez is a darkhorse candidate to secure a spot in the bullpen. “He had a pretty good year in Double-A last season, striking out 57 batters in 47 innings in relief – and you can see why, since he has a seriously live arm. The ball snaps out of his hand and is loud in the catcher’s glove.” Let me put it this way, if Alvarez does make the team, it doesn’t bode well for any of new RHP additions like Beato, Carrasco, Boyer and Bonser.
Today’s daily Spring Training video comes from SNY and features Kevin Burkhardt talking to Johan Santana.
Met first Spring Game is this Saturday against the Braves!
Photo credit Mets.com.
