Let's Find Out What's Wrong-If Anything- With Johan

I'm starting to REALLY get ticked off with the Mets. They're handling this Johan Santana thing almost as badly as they did Ryan Church's concussions last season. It's time for the club to get off its collective butt and show some leadership and fortitude.

That starts with GM Omar Minaya and extends to Manager Jerry Manuel and Pitching Coach Dan Warthen. I can't take this on again, off again, "My elbow is sore, we'll take it slow", to "My elbow is OK. I'll be ready for Opening Day."

I realize that Port St. Lucie is not a thriving metropolis. For all we know the people that live in the area are all part of the Federal Witness Protection Program and a new Chili's restaurant was one of the relocation perks. BUT: There have to be hospitals in Florida. Get an MRI done on that elbow. Here the Mets are playing cheap thanks to Bernie Madoff. They made NO attempt at strengthening an offense that has more questions to answer than the season finale of The Bachelor. Omar, Fred & Jeff (Coupon, er Wilpon) Jerry & Dan-don't wait till Santana's elbow is hurting in August. Remember Billy Wagner?

Santana is your biggest-and MOST IMPORTANT-investment. Better that he miss a few starts in April instead of October. It's tough enough when Met fans believe that the club doesn't make "the move" to get over the top. No A-Rod (Ok, I DON'T want him now), no Vlad Guerrero, no Mark Texieira (instead an aging Carlos Delgado) no Orlando Hudson (you REALLY think Luis Castillo has anything left?) or even an offer at Manny Ramirez.

Guys, it's awesome that Santana told WFAN today that he will be OK and ready for Opening Day in 33 days. Do your jobs, (possibly saving them in the process) and make sure.