No, there were no big, splashy signings this offseason, but we did manage to sign some useful players that could help the Mets be very competitive in 2012.
As I look over the list of new additions, none really jump out at me as far as who might have the biggest impact, but I do expect solid showings from a couple of the relievers we signed. Now that Sandy Alderson has said there will be no more moves affecting the 40-man roster, which new acquisition do you think will have the biggest impact this season?
Major League Acquisitions
Ramon Ramirez, RP – Coming off a career year and posted a 2.62 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and a 8.7 K/9 rate.
Andres Torres, CF – Batted .221 in 2011 after a career year in 2010 (.268, 16 HR, 63 RBI).
Jon Rauch, RP – Coming off his worst season since rookie year, 4.85 ERA/1.36 WHIP.
Frank Francisco, RP – Got $12M to be closer for next two seasons, but has 21 blown saves in 70 career save opportunities.
Ronny Cedeno, 2B/SS – Known mostly as a defensive specialist, Cedeno will serve as primary backup to Ruben Tejada.
Scott Hairston, OF/2B – Hairston returns for an encore after a good season coming off the bench for the Mets.
Minor League Acquisitions
Rob Johnson, C – Career .197 hitter in parts of five seasons.
Omar Quintanilla, 2B/SS – Solid defense, but weak bat.
Miguel Batista, SP – Had a nice September for the Mets last season, but at 41, what does he have left in the tank?
Jeff Stevens, RP – Hasn’t had a great showing in the major leagues, minor league fodder?
Mike Baxter, OF – Had some moments for Mets in 2011, might have inside track on 5th outfielder spot.
Chuck James, SP/RP – At this point he might be the emergency starter for the Mets along with Chris Schwinden.
Garrett Olson, SP/RP – Had a solid campaign for Pirates AAA team – 3.05 ERA, 1.28 WHIP in 24 appearances.
Adam Loewen, LF – The pitcher turned outfielder batted .306 in Triple-A last season with an .884 OPS.
Vinny Rottino, C – Career .194 hitter and still trying to stick in majors at 32. I don’t see it.
I’m going to keep my fingers crossed and say Ramon Ramirez might have the biggest impact out of this group.