The New York Mets have been busy over the past 2 weeks or so, signing 2 players who will be on the team in 2011 while completing their coaching staff this Monday(December 13th). A quick recap:
1- Roster additions: The Mets new front office led by GM Sandy Alderson has been active and made two solid moves last week, signing both a veteran catcher and much needed relief help. RH D.J. Carrasco, who split time between Pittsburgh and Arizona in 2010, gives the bullpen an experienced option. The 33 yr old signed a 2 year deal for 2.5 million and was 3-2 with a 3.68 ERA over 78 and third innings in 2010. He K-ed 62 while walking 29. NY also added backstop Ronny Paulino,who will back up Josh Thole. The 29 yr old played for division rival Florida in 2010, posting a .259 average with 4 home runs and 37 rbi over 316 at bats. Paulino must sit out the first 8 games of the campaign due to suspension resulting from a positive performance enhancing drug test.
2- Staff set-up: New skipper Terry Collins announced his staff on Monday December 11th, adding to returnees, Pitching coach Dan Warthen and 3rd base coach Chip Hale. Dave Hudgens will serve as pitching coach, Jon DeBus is in the bullpen while Ken Oberkfell has the key bench coach position. Mets legend Mookie Wilson will coach 1st base. Hudgens and DeBus are from outside the organization but have experience with Collins(DeBus) and Alderson(Hudgens) as well as throughout the game.
