Mets: Loose and Carefree
February 18, 2009:
I have been struck by how relaxed the Mets have come into training camp. Manager Jerry Manuel keeps it light, joking with his players and even us media. Our access to the players and coaches has been tremendous. It has allowed us to really get some great information about what the guys did in the offseason, what they are hoping to get from the Spring and details about playing in PR or working out in the DR, having to drive to and from the Mets Academy there to have a four and a half hour workout with former major leaguer Rafael Landestoy. The latter describes Luis Castillo's regiment. You can tell he worked hard to get in shape. He dropped 17 pounds (same as Marlon Anderson). In November, Castillo met with the Mets and asked to let him stay in NY so that he can prove, he is better than last year's performance. His words were sincere and I loved the humbleness of his remarks.
All position players arrived today and went through a multitude of tests: a broad jump, a high jump (Angel Pagan has ups--he says it was his former volleyball career that helps with that), a short sprint and a 300 yarder that had most guys panting (Jose Reyes clocked the fastest time-no shock there). Watching it all made me appreciate the real work that is behind the play we see for 162 games. Jose Reyes seemed kind of peeved about discovering he might not be the leadoff hitter from TV and his friends. He spoke about not getting as many steals in the third spot. Manuel says when the changes happen, if they do, guys will be sat down and conversations will occur. My personal take is that Manuel is making this season a challenge for ALL players. Nothing is set in stone. If you don't produce and don't contribute (which is more than just fielding and hitting) you'll be held accountable. Here here...Off to Tradition Field
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Comments: 1
I feel Luis Castillo will have a bounce back season in 2009. The surgeries on both knees did not allow him to work out as much as he would have liked to before the 2008 baseball season. Subsequently, he gained some weight and never seemed to be healthy. He lost 17 pounds and appears to be in a great frame of mind. I think Luis is a proud professional who feels he has not displayed his skils to New York. Look for a solid season from second baseman, Luis Castillo.
Jose Reyes comments that I have viewed on television did not appear to demonstrate any apprehension about hitting third in the lineup, instead of first. You are in Port St. Luice so I will take your "peeved" comment as his state of mind on this issue.
Good to see Marlon Anderson has lost weight. He was such a good pinch hitter for the Mets in his two tours of service with the team. He got injured in 2008 and never seemed to get a consistent stroke. He must realize, despite a guaranteed contract, his roster spot is in jeopardy.
From all reports, Jerry Manuel is running a crisp, clean camp. Getting the work in, but keeping the mood light. Due to the World Baseball Camp, this will be the longest Spring Training Camp in baseball history. With 37 games planned, starting on Wednesday February 25, there is alot of baseball to be played on the Treasure Coast. Jerry understands this and appears from your report to be taking the proper approach.
Now, Lolita, get off to Tradition Field and keep these wonderfully detailed reports coming.