Hot Stove Update:
1- Nothing more to add on the Carlos Beltran mess, which is essentially a silly pissing contest between the organization and Beltran’s representatives(Scott Boras’ and his cast of thousands). The key here is getting #15 back and healthy, he is an amazing player and without him, the Mets are not half the club they could be. This is easily the best OF New York has put out in years POTENTIALLY. That said, thank god we have Angel Pagan to fill in until Beltran is ready, a great asset as a 4th OF.
2- According to ace ESPN MLB reporter Buster Olney, free agent C Bengie Molina turned down the Mets most recent offer(Reportedly 1 years/6 million). The Mets are believed to be avoiding guaranteeing 2 years on the veteran, keeping in mind uber prospect Josh Thole is not far away from major league ready. This is a good move and lets be honest here, where does Molina have a bidder? Look at the big market clubs- Dodgers have Russell Martin, Angels play a tandem of Mike Napoli and Jeff Mathis while the Braves feature Brian McCann. Slim pickings among the AL super powers as well as The Boston Red Sox split captain Jason Varitek and glorified DH Victor Martinez and our neighbors in the Bronx have veteran leader Jorge Posada, youngster Francisco Cervelli as well as hyped prospect Jesus Montero. You tell me what club will spend big money in this economy on a 35 year old back stop? GREAT not good move by the Mets here making him lower his demands. Good money has Bengie Molina as the opening day C for the 2010 New York Mets.
3- The uncertain Molina situation has directed the Mets focus towards the free agent pitching market and their top target is SURPRISE Joel Pineiro. Lots of competition here with club s from both leagues interested. Mets are a good bet to add a starter among the big 3 of Pineiro, Jon Garland and LH Doug Davis.
4- Mets came to agreement with their top 2 arbitration eligible platers Tuesday, avoiding the process. RF Jeff Francoeur, acquired mid-season in one of GM Omar Minaya’s better trades, re-upped for 1 year at 5 million. Top LH set up man Pedro Feliciano, who broke his own club single season appearances record in 2009, signed a 1 yr deal for 2.9 million.
