It was on this day in 1972, that baseball great Roberto Clemente died in a plane crash while delivering food and water to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. He has canceled all plans to celebrate the new year, opting instead to be a ray of hope for victims in need and in desperation. He was already a baseball legend before that tragic day, but now he was an immortal. Please enjoy this post from John Bernhardt who reviewed the must read book, “Clemente: The Passion and Grace of Baseball’s Last Hero” for us this past summer.  – Joe D. 

The new GM was cool and manipulative in his transactions, meticulous with his records, formal in his speech, stingy with his money, interested equally in a player’s psychological disposition and his ability to learn an elusive hook slide.

This GM’s world could be studied, categorized, and explained. Good things did not fall upon people, or baseball clubs, by accident. Worthwhile doesn’t generally just happen. Luck is a fact, but should not be a factor. Good luck is what is left over after intelligence and effort have combined at their best. Luck is the residue of design.

So what is the design? The club was in a downward spiral when he arrived. He strongly believed when they got better it would not be through luck. He expanded the number of minor league affiliates and started stockpiling them with young players underscoring his belief that, in baseball, the surest way to get quality was through quantity. He spent what seemed to him was a huge sum on prospects. He tried to rid the team of popular players who in his opinion could never take his new franchise to a championship.

When I found this account, it read like a slice of a sports column written by Mike Vaccaro, Adam Rubin, or Joel Sherman about the Met General Manager Sandy Alderson. I couldn’t help but think of the Met General Manager. The parallels were obvious, resembling a blueprint of sorts for the path the Met GM has followed over the past three years.

In fact, the piece is an adaptation of sorts from “Clemente,” a fascinating and enlightening biography written by David Maraniss, describing the strategies employed by Branch Rickey when he was hired to turn around the fortunes of a dreadful Pittsburgh Pirates franchise in the first half of the 1950’s.

I simply substituted ‘the new GM‘ for places where David Maraniss had used Branch Rickey and sliced and diced a tad to hide the identity of the man being described. Do I have any deep perspectives or nuggets of wisdom to add to the comparison. No. I just thought it was interesting how circumstances from two completely different baseball eras could draw parallels that appear to align so neatly.

In Rickey’s case his strategies to transform the Pirates did not find success during his tenure as GM. That’s not intended as an indictment of Sandy Alderson. I’m just stating facts. And, I’m one of those battered Met fans who’s loyalty is sometimes challenged because I still believe Sandy Alderson has administered wisely. With some enlightened moves this off-season and a little bit of luck,it’s possible we could begin to see a measurable difference next summer.

In Branch Rickey’s case, his work in Pittsburgh was not all for naught. Buried in that stockpile of young prospects Rickey brought to the Iron City were some baseball gems, and the one that shone the brightest, a guy named Clemente. Those gems did help turn around the Pirates fortunes to eventually bring the Bucs the World Series title they coveted, but not until Rickey had departed.

What I do know is that David Maraniss is a marvelous writer who weaves together Roberto Clemente’s story into a compelling can’t-put-the-book-down read.

Another fascinating comparison I read was Clemente’s prescription for breaking out of a batting slump. Maraniss paints Clemente as an intelligent man with a restless mind that was constantly considering life. With a blend of logic and superstition,

Clemente came up with theories about everything.

One of those theories explained how baseball batters could shuck a batting slump. As Maraniss describes it, Clemente was adamant that the way to break out of a batting slump was to make sure you got at least three hacks at the ball every time you batted.

The Pirate great reasoned that using his theory with 4 at-bats in a game, the percentages shifted your way. All you needed was one good contact with ball to bat out of the twelve tries to get a hit.

Elegantly simple. If you want to break out of a slump try swinging at the ball. I loved it. What a contrast to the sabermetric world that governs the baseball world of today.

The Clemente story takes me back to a baseball world I studied using baseball cards when I was a kid. I adored Clemente. Why? Our birthdays fell on the same calendar day of the year. That was a big deal to a kid who loved baseball. I can remember scouring my cards to find somebody born on August 18. When I finally found the guy it was the great Roberto Clemente.

Maraniss reintroduces you to so many names from the past, and helps you expand your understanding of baseball’s prejudice and discrimination against all people of color. It’s a great read.Check it out.

The post Roberto Clemente: Baseball’s Last Hero appeared first on Metsmerized.

This week’s face-off is a tough topic. The strength in the Mets’ farm system is in their starting pitching, and we decided to pose an interesting question this week:

Who do you think will have more success in the major leagues, Rafael Montero or Noah Syndergaard?

Two of the top pitchers in New York’s system, but Montero and Thor couldn’t be more different in terms of style. Let’s just go on and get to the debate!

Teddy Klein:

This is incredibly difficult due to the fact that Syndergaard and Montero are two exceptional pitchers who have both dominated at almost every level they’ve been in. When Satish and I went to the Futures game, I asked which team he was rooting for, he said he didn’t know. I told him that I was for the World team with Montero starting. Montero has been thought of as undersized as a pitcher, and doesn’t have a plus pitch, however his control is borderline pinpoint. His breaking pitches are all average and his fastball is above average. Syndergaard has a plus fastball and curve, but lacks a change-up as an evaluator has told me before. Change-up development is incredibly important to his success. What is to his credit is the control, which has been evident since he was drafted. Either way, Syndergaard has more upside over Montero, yet Montero has proven himself up to AAA, which Noah hasn’t. This is is such a toss up, but I’m going to go with the same choice I had at the Futures Game, the Bluer Chip in Rafael Montero. Change-up development is important with Syndergaard thus far, and while Montero’s isn’t plus, it’s serviceable, and better than Noah’s. Either way, they’re both important to the future rotation, especially with their plus control. Verdict: Montero

Satish Ram:

I like that my colleague Teddy chose Montero above — because just as his anecdote about the Futures Game hints at, I’m rolling with Noah Syndergaard. This is, by far, the most difficult choice I’ve had to make in this series. Often when discussing Wheeler coming up through the minors last year alongside Montero, I favored Montero in many situations simply because of his control. He has pinpoint control — and at times it was the best in our system. Syndergaard has the advantage in control over Wheeler, but his change-up is underdeveloped. His fastball and hammer, however, make him an incredible force on the mound that could easily turn into a combo that leads to 200 strikeouts yearly. Syndergaard’s also a physical specimen — an intimidating figure no doubt — which adds to his appeal. Don’t mistake my love for Syndergaard as putting Montero down, however, because I think Montero is highly underrated. That being said, it’s a little difficult to vote against a norse god, so I’ll go with Thor. Verdict: Syndergaard

John Bernhardt:

I had the chance to watch both these guys pitch this summer more than once.  What a treat.  Rafael Montero has the cool poise of a high stakes gambler on the mound.  His mechanics are as smooth as glass, sharp and crisp and repeated on every pitch.  Montero works quickly and effortlessly and has impeccable command.  Noah Syndergaard was electric on the hill at Binghamton.  He was a power pitcher who was hard to hit at what ever level the Mets put him this summer.  The first time Noah pitched at NYSEG Stadium his last pitch was pitch number 93, a 98 mph fastball chalking up his 9th strikeout of the day.  Syndergaard has a slider and curve and a change-up that’s a work in progress.  The last time I watched him, his first few changes had dropped velocity some 6 or 7 mph from the first time I saw him use that pitch, but he was unable to maintain that range throughout his outing.  Which guy will have more success in the major leagues – you have to be a seer to answer that one. Based on pure stuff, I’d vote for Syndergaard. Based on potential longevity, I’d go with Montero.  Verdict:  Syndergaard

Matt Musico:

This was a fun debate to roll out and see what everyone was thinking. At this point, I can’t fault anyone for choosing either one of these guys. A solid case could be made in favor of either. While it’s tough for me to go against Syndergaard and his pure ability, I want to make things interesting. So, I’ll be choosing Montero. His poise, maturity, and control of the strike zone have won me over. The adjustment he made after getting promoted to Las Vegas is what truly impressed me the most. Obviously, Noah hasn’t had the opportunity to prove himself there, but time will tell. However, with the great expectations that are being bestowed upon Syndergaard, I think Montero will benefit from being underrated. Most are expecting him to be a back of the rotation starter at his peak, at best a number three. If he uses his superb control and ability to adjust in the right way, he can outperform what’s expected from him. For Syndergaard, it’s hard to outperform being an ace (but I think he will be one). Verdict: Montero

So, we’re deadlocked at two votes a piece and could use your help. Who do you think will experience more success in the majors, Montero or Syndergaard?

The post Mets Prospect Face-Off: Rafael Montero vs. Noah Syndergaard appeared first on Metsmerized.

Christina Montana:

While Gavin is further along and had a good year in Low-A this past year in Brooklyn, it’s hard not to compare Cecchini and Rosario’s time with Kingsport. Here are the lines, without names attached: .246/.311/.330 and .241/.279/.358. The first line is Cecchini’s 2012, and the second is Rosario’s 2013 line with Kingsport. They both had a fairly similar amount of time with the K-Mets, but Cecchini flat out got on base more, but came away with 12 XBH, while Rosario 15 XBH, 3 of them being homers, 4 being triples. Neither of them seem particularly stolen base savvy, but…it looks like Rosario’s got more pop in his bat, which can be exciting. 

Which one gets the edge? Cecchini is, most likely, getting promoted to the next level for 2014. Coming off a couple injuries over the last year or so, Cecchini hit .273/.319/.314 for Brooklyn. Rosario is exciting, seems to have more speed on the bases, or at least the ability to find gaps, but doesn’t get on base as much as Cecchini, apparently. Being 18 and 19 yrs old, Cecchini is slightly older and currently ahead of Rosario. But… Rosario might end up being the more exciting athlete.

My opinion might change, but I’m going to have to go with Cecchini right now as he has significantly less errors under his belt. Cecchini has 13 errors over 2 years, Rosario had 14 just last year. Rosario’s going to need to improve defensively and continue to show his offensive potential in order to overtake Cecchini’s solid offense and solid defense. Verdict: Cecchini

John Bernhardt:

I’ve only watched Cecchini play one time for Brooklyn this summer and have never seen Rosario play the game.  Certainly, the Met organization feels highly about both potential shortstops.  Cecchini was a first round draft pick in the 2012 draft and Rosario signed with the biggest bonus the Mets have ever granted an International prospect. Obviously, the Mets are looking for a baseball insurance policy.  If one prospect fails, another is ready to take his place.  Competition can be a wonderful thing.  Everything I read about Rosario is positive — a long, lanky baseball frame that projects good power, good fielding instincts, universal approval for his baseball make-up.  On the other hand, Cecchini comes from great baseball stock, was schooled in one of the best high school programs in the country, was a star on the National 18U AAU baseball team, has unwavering dedication, etc.  For me it’s a coin flip.  Heads Rosario – tails Cecchini.  The coin bounced off the floor and came up tails.  Verdict: Cecchini

David Conde:

Being named by Baseball America as the top prospect in the APL is a great accomplishment for Amed Rosario.  At 17-years-old and playing with Kingsport, Rosario batted .241 with eight doubles, four triples, and three home runs in 212 at bats.  I guess he was not intimidated at all in his first season playing pro baseball.  That sounds like a great attribute to have especially being so young. With Cecchini being two years older and having an extra year of pro baseball, I think it’s a touch choice.  In his first pro season in 2012, Cecchini somewhat mimicked Rosario by hitting a combined .240 with nine doubles, two triples, and one home run in 196 at bats between Kingsport and Brooklyn. Having a full season with Brooklyn, he batted .273 with eight doubles in 194 at bats. Both play the same position and both have shown that they can handle playing at this level. It’s a touch choice, but if I had to look at which I felt was better, I would have to go with Amed Rosario. Verdict: Rosario

Satish Ram:

Sorry Cecch, but you lose the upside battle here in a big way. Cecchini was always considered a safe pick — low risk, low reward. If all breaks right for him, he turns into an average MLB shortstop with below-average offensive talent — but if all breaks right for Rosario, he could be a perennial All-Star. Rosario plays solid defense — not as good as Cecchini, but scouts have raved about his instincts on the diamond and his reaction time to balls hit near him.

There are some who believe that Rosario could fix the holes in his swing and bulk enough to hit at a Troy Tulowitzki-esque level in the future. I do not know if I would go that far, but it is not hard to see a potential .280 hitter with 20 home runs and a handful of steals down the line with Rosario’s skillset. I’d sign up for that at shortstop anyday. Rosario’s the bigger gamble here, but I’ve got a good feeling about him. Verdict: Rosario

Teddy Klein:

Amed Rosario is the bigger catch here, who I have been prospect drunk about since Spring Training when I reported in about him. He is comparable to Troy Tulowitzki in potential bat. To make matters better about Rosario, Baseball America reported him the number one prospect in the Appy League, regardless of rather pedestrian numbers, calling him incredibly impressive. My coach in spring training said he reminded him of Juan Gonzalez, not a bad comparison to make in terms of production.  Gavin Cecchini will be okay and all, just average across the board, with rather unimpressive tools versus Rosario. Average speed, Plus bat, below-average power, average fielding and arm constitute Cecchini’s tools,  but Rosario has possible above-average tools across the board, with the potential to stay at short.  If he continues to impress and sooner or later delivers on his promise, could be a top-10 prospect in all of baseball, but that’s a big if. No 18-year-old is safe, though. But, whatever team Rosario’s on, I will look for his name, and likely only his name. Verdict: Rosario

Matt Musico:

I agree with what Satish just said above me — when it comes to developing a player, an organization is hoping for a potential All-Star. With the raw tools Rosario has flashed since he joined the Mets, he provides that kind of upside. Since Cecchini is slightly older and ahead of Rosario in the pipeline, I think he’ll get a chance to prove himself in the big leagues first. However, when it comes to who I think will eventually stick up there, right now it would be Amed. Verdict: Rosario

* * * * * * * * * *

Amed Rosario takes the victory in this week’s face-off, gaining four votes to Cecchini’s two. The debate isn’t over yet, though. Let us know in the comments section who you think will be the future shortstop of the New York Mets.

The post Mets Prospect Face-Off: Amed Rosario vs. Gavin Cecchini appeared first on Metsmerized.

Each of the seasons these prospects had were encouraging for the outfield depth in the minors, but who had a better year?

The MMN staff weighs in…

Christina Montana:

The edge would’ve gone to Puello if he didn’t end up a part of the Biogenesis fiasco. I can’t give Puello the win on this because we saw the drop in Muno’s batting average after his suspension, may it be a mental or physical thing (that’s not to say he didn’t have a good year, though). The focus should be on Dustin Lawley. While he struck out more than anyone would like to admit (113 times to be exact) he made the jump from Adv A St. Lucie to AAA Las Vegas. In limited time in AAA: 6 for 21 for a .300 average, 1 home run, 2 doubles, 4 RBIs, 3 runs scored. As for Adv. A? Dustin had 25 home runs, 92 RBIs, 33 doubles, 5 triples with a .260 average.  He also didn’t perform too badly in the playoffs for the 51s. I’m going to give the edge to Lawley, though there’s no doubt Puello had an incredible year in AA, and it’ll be great to see him hopefully join the Mets soon, it was impressive to see Lawley make a large jump and hold his own, even if only for 6 games (excluding playoffs). I’m 99% sure I’m in the minority on this, and I love Puello, he’s great, but the whole suspension thing is upsetting enough that Lawley gets the win. Winner: Lawley

John Bernhardt:

Drat!  Like a sports reporter with a Hall of Fame ballot, this week’s Face-Off query places us in the midst of ‘Steroid Stress.’  I watched Cesar Puello on multiple occasions in Binghamton this summer and it would be difficult to find another Met prospect who put together a season that compares with the B-Met right fielder.  Puello was a beast.  In several seasons watching baseball in Binghamton, I have never watched a prospect quite like Cesar.  Several quests I took to games, baseball guys who root for other major league franchises, raved after viewing Puello’s game.  He is a dynamic ‘can’t-take-your -eyes-off’ kind of player from the moment he steps into the on-deck circle.  Puello is a five tool guy.  He finished the season with the Eastern League’s top batting average at .326.  Puello’s slugging percentage was a whopping .547, also best in the EL, a full .43 ahead of his nearest competitor.  Although he only played in 91 games, Puello figured in the top ten in stolen bases with 24.  By the way, B-Met center fielder Darrell Ceciliani had the second most EL thefts with 31.  Puello blasted 16 home runs with 21 doubles.  And, the kid has a rocket propelled arm in the outfield.  Although Puello was part of the steroid implosion and one of baseball’s suspended users, I have hope he can put that behind him.  Puello sat at our table during the Welcome Back Dinner in the spring.  He’s engaging and witty.  Gordon Donovan, a Metsmerized photographer, reported to me Puello has an incredible work ethic and spends hours in the weight room preparing.  And on one rain soaked afternoon when all the players on both benches were long gone, for over 30 minutes I watched Puello chat with two kids in the B-Met dugout.

With all that said, Puello’s suspension left a huge hole in the B-Met lineup.  When the chips were down and his team needed him in the playoffs, Puello was no where to be found.  For that reason I’ll go with Dustin Lawley, a young Met prospect who had a pretty exceptional season of his own.  The Port St. Lucie Met slugger was selected as the Florida State League Player of the Year.  Lawley blasted a league leading 25 home runs and 33 doubles for St. Lucie helping him to a .512 slugging percentage.  Lawley’s 92 RBIs were second in the FSL.  As he climbs the minor league ladder, Dustin Lawley continues to make a case that he could become a long ball option in the major leagues. Winner: Lawley

Satish Ram:

I’ll say this much about Lawley — I wrote him off as more of an organizational guy for the most part throughout my time covering him and his power surge last year forced me to give him a second look. If someone asked me if I thought Dustin Lawley could actually hit 20 home runs consistently in the MLB now, I’d have to say yes. He does strike out a little too much for me and needs to show a little more plate discipline, but he can definitely be a useful player down the line.

But man, that Puello kid can go get it. This is a guy who finally found a way to turn potential into performance — and I’m under the impression that a lot of it was his own hard work since the BioGenesis clinic had closed down. There was never any detail put into what Puello took — so all we know, that suspension could go by the boards. While I’m saddened by the whole idea of the 50-game suspension to begin with, there was no doubting his impact on the Binghamton line-up through the regular season. A potential 20-20 player who is improving his walk rate is definitely somebody I want in my organization, so I’ll give the nod to him right now. Winner:  Puello

Teddy Klein:

I believe Puello had the more impressive season. Not only did he have one of the top-5 highest averages in Double-A, he also proved doubters wrong and hit for power. With 16 home runs this year, he’s proved that he can definitely be a 20-20 players with a cannon of an arm, and an improving approach at the dish. With Natera’s guidance it was all possible, and he could be a good shape of things to come in the future. Winner:  Puello

Matt Musico:

Despite the suspension he had to serve, I think Puello had the more impressive season. You can’t go wrong choosing either one of these players, though. Puello was always a part of the Biogenesis investigation, but the spotlight intensified on him once the season got going. Once the pressure was on, his season took off in May and June. He was able to perform under the stress and anxiety of knowing a possible suspension was on it’s way. Baseball is a mental game, and his ability to perform with that weighing on his mind was amazing to watch. I hope the above remarks from John B. on Puello are correct, as I’m rooting for him to get past this situation and have it just be a small blip after what hopefully is a long major league career. His power, speed, and defense are all things the Mets could use in right field in Flushing. Winner:  Puello

So, we almost ran down the middle here… this one was a close one that narrowly tipped in favor of Cesar Puello! Who do you think had a more impressive season: Lawley or Puello?

The post Prospect Face-Off: Dustin Lawley vs. Cesar Puello appeared first on Metsmerized.

(Updated) One day after Terry Collins announced that Ruben Tejada suffered a broken right fibula and would miss the remainder of the season, he challenged his shortstop to comeback next Spring focused and with some fire in his belly.

“My message is real simple: this job is his,” Collins said of next year’s starting shortstop gig. “But he’s got to show everybody that he wants it desperately.”

“You’ve got to say, ‘Hey look, I’m going to dedicate this offseason to show up next spring to be the best player that I can possibly be,'” Collins said. “He’s good enough to be that guy. But as this year showed, no job’s that secure. You’ve got to come in and say, ‘This is my job. I’m taking it. Nobody else is going to get it.'”

This is not the first time that Collins felt the need to stress the importance of Tejada showing up to camp early, in shape and ready to compete.

Tejada’s work ethic came under fire when general manager Sandy Alderson said that getting him to do anything extra was “like pulling teeth.”

For now, the Mets have activated Wilfredo Tovar, who will join the Mets in Philadelphia in time for Friday nights game against the Phillies. Collins said he would platoon ‘Tovar with Omar Quintanilla for the rest of the season.

Our Binghamton beat writer John Bernhardt shared some insight on Tovar after watching him play all year for the B-Mets.

Tovar’s .263 batting average in 2013 is a bit deceiving. The B-Met shortstop got off to a horrid start in the batting box, but battled back by hitting just under .300 after the All-Star break to raise his average over 35 points in the second half of the year.

Tovar, 22, is tough out, a kid who is difficult to strike out. Tovar fanned 53 times in High-A ball in 2011, 39 times in 2012 and 49 times in Binghamton this summer. Of the 49 Eastern League players who had 400 at-bats or higher, only two had fewer strike-outs than Tovar.

Collins did go onto say that for now, he considers Tejada his primary option to be the Opening Day shortstop next season..

“I don’t ever worry about who’s not here,” Collins said. “The guys that are here right now, that should be his job. But he’s got to go get it. It’s not going to be handed to him.”

Tejada broke his leg while hustling to catch an Angel Pagan pop-up in shallow left field and colliding with outfielder Andrew Brown on Wednesday

The 23-year old shortstop ends the season batting .200/.258/.259 in 57 games. He has endured a very frustrating season, but hopefully he can comeback next Spring fully healed and with a bright outlook.

That said, I think Sandy will look to fill the shortstop position with one of several options that are expected to be available in the free agent market and via trades.

The post Collins Wants Tejada To Reclaim The Shortstop Job In 2014 appeared first on Metsmerized.

Welcome to this week’s edition of Mets Minors Boom or Bust. Today, we’ll be focusing the spotlight on Savannah Sand Gnats starting pitcher, Gabriel Ynoa. The 20-year-old Dominican led the South Atlantic League in wins, and finished the regular season with a 15-4 record, 2.72 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, and 106 strikeouts in 135.2 innings pitched. He earned the honor of being the South Atlantic League Pitcher of the Year, and was instrumental in Savannah’s Game 1 win over Augusta, helping the Sand Gnats move on to the Championship Series, starting tomorrow night. Now, let’s get on to the debate:

John Bernhardt:

There is not much to dislike about the season Gabriel Ynoa has logged in Savannah. The 20-year old right-hander has shown the poise and pitch command of a much older pitcher. Ynoa leads all Met pitchers at any level in wins with 15 and has walked only 1.1 batters per nine innings in over 135 innings of work. That’s uncanny. A 2.72 ERA and 7 strikeouts per 9 innings round out an incredible season of Ynoa on the hill. This one’s a no brainer. Verdict: Boom.

Connor O’Brien:

Ynoa doesn’t strike out a ton of guys, but his pinpoint control more than makes up for it. This year in Savannah, he has walked just 1.1 batters per nine innings while striking out seven. With a low-90s fastball that could add a few ticks on the gun as he gets older, and a good changeup, Ynoa could start moving up the levels quicker next year. This season, he has a 2.72 ERA in 135.2 innings pitched. The home park he plays in may have to do in part with some of those numbers, but his 3.11 ERA on the road is still impressive, especially considering he’s a little younger than his competition. The 2009 signee has a very good chance to end up in an MLB rotation some day as a fourth or fifth starter. Verdict: Boom.

David Conde:

Just looking at Gabriel’s stats and not having the privilege of seeing him pitch, he definitely has potential to be a big time pitcher. From being signed so young with the Mets at 17, I like the progression he has made so far in the minors. He pitched well in Rookie ball but then turned it up a notch at Brooklyn last season. This season with the Sand Gnats, Gabriel has really put himself on the map with a 15-4 record and leading his team into the playoffs; I feel his stock has risen tremendously. I see great things in his immediate future and I look forward to seeing if he will be rewarded a promotion to St. Lucie next season. The Mets have done well in their farm system with the young arms they have, and I see Gabriel as another player the Mets will be anxious to have on their roster sooner than later. Anything is possible, but I like the steps he has taken in a short period of time. At 20, his future is bright.  Verdict: Boom.

Matt Musico:

I agree with everything these gentlemen before me have said. I’m not going to talk about the numbers again, because by now, you’ve seen them. Once Rainy Lara got promoted to St. Lucie, it was Ynoa’s rotation to lead, and man did he do a great job of it. His low walk numbers and moderate strikeout rates remind me of another one of his fellow Dominicans that has made his way through the Mets minors system: Rafael Montero. Now in Triple-A, it seems as though scouts and talent evaluators are projecting his ceiling as a number three starter, likely as a four or five. I see the same thing for Ynoa at this point. He’ll gain a little more speed on his fastball as he matures, but it’s going to be his control that will get him to the majors. Every team could use a starter at the end of their rotation with a good feel of the strike zone; he would round out a rotation, and would give the bullpen a rest (averaged 6+ IP per start in 2013). As long as he keeps his control, he’ll find a way to the majors. If what he’s done since signing with the Mets is any indication, that will continue happening. Verdict: Boom.

Satish Ram:

It’s only natural to develop attachments to players that might not be the best around — but there’s something about them that you just appreciate. In a similar vein, I often find myself attached to prospects who might not be the best in the world, but there’s a lot to like about them for one reason or another. Well, it’s a known fact that Gabriel Ynoa is my guy because I think he’s got the complete package as a pitcher. He’s got great stuff, good control, good poise, a pitcher’s frame…yeah, there are reasons he isn’t touted as the next Wheeler, but he did a lot to convince people that he’ll be a useful part of any rotation down the line. He won 15 games during the regular season, tops in the Mets organization, while snagging an award for most outstanding SAL Pitcher. His home/road splits are important, considering Historic Grayson is an offensive dead zone, but his road era is only 3.15 — still solid. The best part about this is that he is merely 20 years old. I see bright things for his future. Verdict: Boom.

What do you think the future holds for Gabriel Ynoa? Let us know in the comments section, and remember to follow us at MetsMinors.net for the more comprehensive coverage of the Mets minor league system.

The post Mets Minors Boom or Bust: RHP Gabriel Ynoa appeared first on Metsmerized.

The Player of the Year in the Florida State League for 2013 was just announced and St. Lucie Mets slugger Dustin Lawley got the nod with a spectacular season leading the FSL with 25 home runs 90 RBIs.

He is coming off a hot week where he went 8-for-18 with one home run, two doubles and six RBIs as he looks to close out the 2013 with a flourish

Last week, in our Boom or Bust feature, John Bernhardt and Bill Passonno had the following to say about Lawley:

John Bernhardt:

A promising long ball threat, Dustin Lawley has hit double digit home runs in each of his first three professional seasons. The Port St. Lucie left fielder has been blistering hot since the Florida State All-Star game, a recent FSL Player of the Week and the league leader in home runs and RBIs. Like most young power hitters, Lawley’s batting average is a bit lower than we might like and his strikeout percentage perhaps a bit higher than is customary. Even so, Lawley’s outfield play has been surprisingly good and his power numbers excellent. Verdict: Boom.

Bill Passonno:

Here’s a sample of the highest home run totals in a season for some of the current Mets players who came through St. Lucie in the minor-league system: David Wright, 15 in 2003; Daniel Murphy, 11 in 2007; Lucas Duda, 11 in 2008; Ike Davis, seven in 2009 (although he was promoted to Double-A after 59 games). Dustin Lawley, the latest slugger to pass through Tradition Field, has 20 in 96 games this season. The total leads the Florida State League and has resulted in a slugging percentage hovering near .550. This season also comes after his stellar 2012 campaign when he notched 35 doubles and 14 home runs for Low Class-A Savannah, so the power is clearly evident. However, the big question will be can Lawley sustain this production at the next level in Binghamton against tougher pitching. It doesn’t seem far-fetched. He doesn’t whiff at an astounding rate like some sluggers and has just 72 strikeouts this season (as of Saturday), which is still six fewer than the total Daytona’s Javier Baez, considered the No. 11 overall prospect by MLB.com, posted in 76 FSL games before his promotion earlier this month. Lawley is a little old to be regarded as a top prospect — he will be 25 next April — so his 2014 season will be key. He should be up for the challenge. Verdict: Boom.

Lawley, 24, will start the 2014 season with Double-A Binghamton where he’ll get a chance to show what he can do at a higher level.

Congratulations to Dustin from all of at Metsmerized and MetsMinors.net.

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John Bernhardt:

It’s challenging rating up or down when a player has missed a sizable share of the current season due to injury. That’s the case with Cory Vaughn. He has the physical stature of a power hitter. Vaughn’s power numbers at the plate in the minors have been promising: 23 home runs and 51 extra base hits in St. Lucie last summer, along with eight home runs and 17 extra base hits in an injury shortened season so far this summer in Binghamton. Vaughn was off to a great start as a B-Met and is currently batting .301, a big jump from his .243 slate in Florida last year. Good speed for a big guy, adequate and improving outfield play and double digit stolen base numbers add quality to Vaughn’s baseball profile. All things said, I’ll go with boom. Verdict: Boom.

Matt Musico:

I’m going to agree with John on this one. He showed his power last year in St. Lucie, and although it’s in limited time in 2013, he’s shown his ability to hit for average in Binghamton. I like his swing a lot, and it looks like B-Mets hitting coach, Luis Natera, deserves some sort of bonus or promotion. Given what he’s been able to do with guys like Vaughn and Cesar Puello – he has just been unbelievable. Some people may say Vaughn is a little old for Double-A (currently 24-years-old), but I say so what. Look at Josh Satin; he proved that if you continue to hit, you’ll eventually make it, no matter how old you are. Plus, Cory has a good MLB bloodline. Verdict: Boom.

Satish Ram:

Vaughn has a lot more raw power than his numbers in Binghamton show because of injury. This year, he has shown more potential at the plate by raising his batting average to the .300 level, which is very impressive for a guy who can easily launch 25 home runs in a season. Vaughn has a power-speed combination that most scouts would drool over — and he’s now showing the ability to hit for average as well. He’s not a liability on defense in my opinion and I have always thought he would turn out to be quite the player ever since I saw him crush 14 home runs for Brooklyn in just 313 plate appearances. And just to hit on something said above by Matt — whatever Luis Natera is doing in Binghamton is pretty awesome. Verdict: Boom

(photo credit: Gordon Donovan)

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In case you were wondering, left-hander Pedro Feliciano continues to make strides since his promotion to Triple-A Las Vegas last week.

The veteran reliever is maintaining his higher velocity and getting the job done out of the bullpen for the 51s.

Feliciano has retired all six batters he has faced — four lefties, two righties — over three appearances since the promotion from Binghamton to Las Vegas, reports Adam Rubin.

Overall, Feliciano has made 22 appearances as he continues his rehab, and in 21.0 innings pitched he has a 1.29 ERA while allowing just 14 hits and 4 walks, and 19 strikeouts.

Go Petey!

Original Post 7/25

Pedro Feliciano has been assigned to Triple-A Las Vegas, after a successful stint with the Binghamton Mets as he continues to make solid progress toward a return to the majors.

Here is what our John Bernhardt had to say about Feliciano during his most recent game at Binghamton:

It’s almost unfair. To watch Pedro Feliciano work a pitchers mound against young Double-A batters is to watch a master craftsman applying his craft to a gaggle of apprentices. Feliciano defines what it means to pitch, not to throw a baseball.

The former workhorse of the major league Mets, the 36-year old lefthanded relief specialist is working to prove he still has something left, something that could matter at the big league level. So far, Feliciano’s Double-A audition is supporting evidence to argue his case.

In 12 appearances on the mound as a B-Met, Feliciano has been brilliant. Feliciano has pitched 12.1 innings allowing 2 runs giving him a sparkling 1.46 earned run average. Only 8 hits allowed and one base-on-balls leave the seasoned veteran with an improbable WHIP of 0.73.

It’s not the standard statistics alone that tell Feliciano’s Double-A story. It’s the high volume of missed bats, as the crafty lefty expertly mixes his pitches and nibbles, nibbles, nibbles around the perimeter of the strike zone. Watching Feliciano twist and turn hard swinging baseball youngsters into pretzels never fails to leave a smile.

The first time I saw Feliciano pitch as a B-Met his fastball never topped 81 mph. Even so, an array of pitches dipping as low as the mid 60’s kept batters off-balance, unable to make solid contact with the ball. My most recent time observing the pitching master work, his fastball had dialed up to as high as 86 and was coming in consistently at 83 and 84. That seemed to only add to Feliciano’s effectiveness.

Feliciano worked two innings in that outing, perhaps necessitated by several extra innings. A two- inning stint has to support Feliciano’s case that the major leagues might still be in his future.

In a day and age when power and speed are code words, it’s refreshing to see a seasoned veteran effectively mixing pitches and speeds and utilizing pitching smarts to get the job done.

In other news, the Mets have announced that Shaun Marcum has been released.

It was already known that Marcum had thrown his last pitch for the Mets after surgery to treat neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome in his right throwing shoulder last week.

*** Two important things here for the Mets is that this now opens up a 40 Man Roster spot for the team and gives them some flexibility for future moves. And they save $1 million in roster bonus that they would have had to pay Marcum.

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This week’s Boom or Bust centers around B-Mets right-hander Erik Goeddel, who was our 24th round pick in the 2010 MLB Draft. Goeddel, who is slated to start the B-Mets game later today, is 8-3 this season with a 3.94 ERA in 89.0 innings. He has struck out 86 while walking 39. Goeddel has a history of strong numbers in the minor leagues, coming off a 3.41 ERA in Advanced-A St. Lucie in ’12 and a 3.24 ERA in Savannah and the GCL team in ’11.

John Bernhardt:

After a slow start, B-Met right-handed starting pitcher Erik Goeddel is off and running. Following four straight winless starts, Goeddel has been flying since May, chalking up a 5-0 win/loss mark before the halfway point of the season. Over that span, Goeddel had a 3.46 ERA, held opponents to a .216 batting averaged and fanned 8.2 batters per nine innings thrown. The B-Met program cites an altered grip on Goeddel’s change-up as a big part of the improvement. Goeddel is noted for an effective breaking ball, too. He’s second on the team in victories with eight, trailing Logan Verrett by one. He is allowing less than one hit per inning and striking out just under one batter for each inning pitched. Verdict: Boom

Matt Musico:

Goeddel has quietly been having a good season with Double-A Binghamton. His success has been overshadowed by that of Verrett, but it’s getting tougher to ignore; he’s allowed more than three runs just once in his last ten starts, and has shutout the opposition four other times. I would think he’s eventually destined for the bullpen with only two pitches, but the emergence of his change-up has made me think about it for another second. However, I want to see him continue cultivating that pitch not only through the end of this year, but into next year. For whatever reason, I just think he’ll end up in the bullpen, so that will be my best guess for right now. Verdict: Baby Boom

Satish Ram:

Solid if not unspectacular, Erik Goeddel has been consistent as a starter throughout his MiLB career. Personally, I always thought he would end up in the back end of a bullpen, but the recent success he has been having with his change-up actually caused me to double-take. The B-Mets staff have changed the grip on his change-up, as John Bernhardt mentions above, and this is allowing him to get through Double-A without much issue. Although he doesn’t have truly over-powering stuff, he has always owned a healthy strikeout rate (over 8.0 for his career) and has kept that consistent throughout his time in the Mets organization. I’m really sharing a brain with Matt above, however, because I still think he’ll end up in the bullpen. I do think a young man with a healthy K rate, low amount of HRs allowed, and three pitches that are at least average could have a really solid career coming out of the pen, however. Verdict: Boom

Joe D:

I hate to be the only one here not going with a full-fledged boom, but something about Goeddel keeps me from giving him two thumbs-up right now. Most of you know that I’m often led by my instincts on prospects and minor leaguers. I watch, I observe, I analyze and then form my opinion. The first time I saw Goeddel was in 2011 when he was with Savannah. Having been drafted in the 24th round out of college the season prior, I wasn’t really expecting much and for the most part I didn’t come away particularly impressed with him. He had a solid season in ’11 but I viewed him as a poor man’s Dillon Gee. I must confess I only saw him once this season, and he pitched a dandy of a game. But I still didn’t see anything that would really play well in the majors. Hey, I’m no expert, but I’ve been watching Mets prospects ever since Sidd Finch blew me away with his 168 mph heater back in 1985.  Verdict: Bust (I think)

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