Today Could Be Syndergaard's Last Grapefruit Appearance

When he toes the rubber this afternoon, Noah Syndergaard could be making his last appearance with the big league squad until some time later this summer. He's expected to split today's game against the Nationals with expected fifth starter, Daisuke Matsuzaka.  As a result, Syndergaard will likely pitch at least four innings.

To date this spring, Syndergaard has thrown five innings during which he has allowed three hits and two runs while walking three and striking out five.  His first outing was much more impressive than his latest, as he struggled with command.  Nonetheless, Syndergaard appears very close to major league ready having show impressive stuff against major league hitters in the past few weeks

There was some home amongst fans that he would break camp with the team, but that has always remained unlikely.  The most likely scenarios sees Syndergaard arrive with the Mets in either late June or early July following the passing of the Super-Two deadline.  This ensures that the Mets maintain control of the young hurler as long as possible.  Syndergaard too seems resigned to the fact, having told the NY Post:

“I know it’s inevitable. With the finances and everything, I understand it’s a game,

 but it’s also a business.”

Until then, Syndergaard will be shipped to AAA Vegas where he can cut his teeth in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League.  He is yet to pitch at the Triple-A level, so this is the logical next step.  The tougher competition should better prepare him for his eventual promotion to Queens later this season.

Unfortunately, today's game is neither televised nor broadcast on the radio, so if you're looking to follow the outing the internet will be your best bet.  The Mets are expected to make additional cuts on Monday.  While it is not certain, that could be the day Syndergaard is sent to minor league camp for the remainder of Spring Training.

Mets Syndergaard Makes Short Work of Braves Hitters

After his first big league action last week against his own team Noah Syndergaard finally made his much anticipated debut against the Atlanta Braves today. And he did not disappoint. Noah kept the Braves to one hit in two scoreless innings in a 30 pitch effort.

Said Ryan Doumit who was the lone man to get a hit off the big righty "You're seeing 97, 98 mph in the fifth game of spring training that's pretty impressive that they have arms like that over there. I haven't seen anything like that this spring. I didn't know anything about the kid coming into today, but I sure won't forget his name now."

In the first inning Jason Hayward ran the count full until he blew 98mph of heat past him and got him swinging. He then retired both brothers Upton with fly balls. In the second inning he struck out Evan Gattis on three fastballs before surrendering his only hit to Doumit after a nine pitch at bat.

"That's a lot of weight coming off my shoulders right there," Syndergaard said.

For the most part Twitter was fairly quiet today in regards to Noah's progression into the big leagues as opposed to last week when the "experts" (sarcasm) were calling for him to be on the roster opening day and that is good. This kid needs to get his time in, his reps, understand what is going to be expected of him when he gets the call. And more importantly, a good strong start in AAA to build confidence so that he comes firing out of the gate after the all star break. At any rate, its exciting.

Photo Courtesy: metsblog.com (baron)

Follow me: @jwil25

Syndergaard Makes Mets Debut

Alright, let's talk about something exciting regarding these effing Mets. Noah Syndergaard AKA "Thor" made his first appearance in spring training wearing the orange and blue.

In two innings pitched he had 5K's, 3 hits, and 1 unearned run. Those 5 strikeouts came from his first 7 batters. People at the game tweeting called him a bad bad man, filthy, sick, and many other things in regards to how mean his stuff looks. Radar gun had his fastball in the 96-97 range with his curve ball around 81 and spectators say his fastball movement was down down down.

Its nice to see a good start out of him much the way Zack Wheeler did last season. It will be fun and much anticipation for his call up sometime after the all star break. I know a lot of Mets fans are clamoring for him now but as things sit now the Mets have decent depth in the rotation to start the season even if Jon Niese is sidelined for a period of time. If Thor does pan out as projected, Wheeler progresses, and Matt Harvey returns healthy that rotation is going to be down right scary. Looking forward to seeing a lot more of this.

Noah Syndergaard as he warmed up between innings today. pic.twitter.com/U25CQyzFVA
— Chris McShane (@chrismcshane) February 27, 2014

Follow me: @jwil25

Mets Fans Ready To Jump The Gun On Syndergaard

The first overreaction of the spring has already made an appearance.  Next supposed pitching sensation, Noah Syndergaard, threw his first official bullpen of the year and fans are instantly demanding his start the season with the big league club.  Terry Collins did nothing but fan those flames when he giddily told the media that Thor checked in a 97 mph with "a hook from hell".  And so it begins...

Syndergaard is easily the best pitching prospect the team has, who is yet to make his debut.  He has great stuff..perhaps even better than his predecessors.  However, there remains no need to rush him.  The fact that Syndergaard has thrown just 54 innings above Single-A ball appears to fall on deaf ears.  And while its fair to assume that the Mets delaying his arrival is at least in part due to the Super Two deadline, giving him some time against advanced hitters in Las Vegas isn't a terrible idea.

The Mets have been relatively fortunate with their first two phenoms.  Injury aside, Matt Harvey has assumed the role of ace.  Despite some control concerns in his freshman season, Zack Wheeler appears more than capable of handling the big league stage.  Each appear poised to contribute for a long time to come.  Noah Syndergaard appears destined to round out the trio.  If his lives up to the hype that precedes him, the Mets could feature one of the better rotations in baseball for years to come. However, that remains to be seen.

Past success is not a guarantee future success.  Prospects fall flat.  Although that's not likely the case with Syndergaard, a bit more seasoning won't hurt him.  The Mets are not in dire need for a starting pitcher, so there is no legitimate need to rush him.  Mets fans like to say, why not experiment with a player since the Mets are unlikely to contend this year (think Wilmer Flores at shortstop).  The same applies to Thor.  If the Mets aren't going to make a run, don't put your shiny new toy at risk for the sake of selling tickets.  At the very least, lets wait for him to face a few actually batters before anointing him the next super hero of New York City.

Syndergaard Wants to Wear the #34

Noah Syndergaard was answering questions on Twitter earlier under the @MLBFutures account and he replied to one of mine.

@jwil25 .34 #AskFutures
— Futures Game (@MLBFutures) January 29, 2014

Shortly after, Adam Rubin tweeted this:

Noah Syndergaard would like to wear No. 34 with Mets. That's been recently worn by Mike Pelfrey, Jorge Julio, Kris Benson, Ricky Bottalico.
— Adam Rubin (@AdamRubinESPN) January 29, 2014

Now, my first thought was not a good group to follow up for various reasons. Pelfrey was supposed to be a mainstay in the rotation for years to come but injuries and inconsistencies ended his tenure. And outside of Kris Benson and his hot and psychotic wife who is facing jail time the rest aren't worth the keystrokes.

I was having a good conversation with fellow blogger Tom @GetsThruBuckner and he immediately thinks this is a bad idea and the number could be cursed. My take was somewhat similar but yet I started thinking that maybe this kid is that good mentally and the number doesn't mean anything to him. Especially when considering those who have worn it in the past. Then Rubin tweeted out a list of every Met who has worn the number 34 and one glaringly stuck out at me. Nolan Ryan.

I don't think there has been much posted out in the Mets universe about who Syndergaard models himself after. At least I haven't seen anything lately. But, if that is his reasoning for wanting that number than to me that is flat out guts and determination to be the best. Now, his choice of that number is all speculation on my part but either way it is fun to see a pitcher who appears to have a bright future pick a number with some history. Good and bad.

Three Mets Prospects Land In MLB.com's Top 100

Another day and another prospect list!  This time is Major League Baseball's Jonathan Mayo ranked the top 100 prospects in major league baseball.  Three Mets made the cut and none are names that should catch you by surprise.

The highest name on the list should come as a surprise to no one.  Noah Syndergaard came in at number eleven on the list.  Anyone who's been paying any attention knows that Syndergaard is poised to be the next major prospect to make his debut.  He figures to challenge Matt Harvey for the role of ace on the staff.  If and when that time comes, it will be a good problem to have for the Mets.

Next up was Travis d'Arnaud, who managed the twenty-second spot.  Despite making an underwhelming debut last season, d'Arnaud will enter 2014 as a "rookie".  He'll assume the role as starting catcher out of spring training and will be off to the races.  Multiple outlets have pegged him as the best catching prospect in baseball, this list was no exception.

Finally was Rafael Montero, who fell all the way to eighty-fifth.  Lets not get crazy.  Montero is a strong prospect and figures to make his debut in 2014 as well.  Although his ceiling isn't as high as Noah Syndergaard, he projects as high as a number three in the rotation.  If he sticks, he could be right in the middle of what figures to be one of the best young rotations in baseball.

Despite just three prospects making the list, that still represented the eighth best total in all of Major League Baseball.  The front office has worked to renovate the farm system in recent years.  Syndergaard and d'Arnaud are part of the renovation.  These three players represent the best the young players the organization has to offer.  Beyond them is a bit of a drop off, but its important that the system is now regularly graduating talent to the major league level.  Young, premiere, afforable talent will be a benchmark of the New York Mets for years go come.  This list indicates that they remain on track to make that vision a reality.

Syndergaard Could Reach The Majors In A Relief Role

ESPN's Adam Rubin spoke with Mets Vice President, Paul DePodesta, about the team's next pitching phenom, Noah Syndergaard.  Amongst the things they discussed was Syndergaards innings limit in 2014.  It is expected that Syndergaard won't make his major league debut until either late June or early July.  Unlike his predecessors, Matt Harvey and Zack Wheeler, Syndergaard won't throw nearly as many innings in his first season at the major league level.

Rubin writes that unlike Harvey and Wheeler, who threw 135.2 and 149 innings respectively in their last full season in the minors, Syndergaard threw just 124.2 last year.  Pitchers generally aren't permitted to ramp up their work load by more than 30 innings from year to year, which would put Syndergaard about fifteen innings (or two starts) short of the other two.  Expect the Mets to be particularly mindful of this after they allowed Harvey to increase more than thirty innings after arriving at the major league level.  That placed Harvey on a list of pitchers at high risk for injury in 2013, before ultimately falling to Tommy John Surgery.

DePodesta told Rubin that the Mets may get creative in an effort to keep Syndergaard in the rotation into late September.  Although they will not delay his start to the season, the organization may be willing to break him into the majors in a relief role.  That is not something they have done in the past, but is something that's worked for other franchises, namely the St. Louis Cardinals, as Rubin points out.

One way or another, it appears only an injury can prevent Syndergaard from appearing in Queens this summer.  He will arrive to much fanfare as he'll look to live up to the standards set by those who've come before him.  While that's not necessarily a fair hand to be dealt, its the way things work in the big city.

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I'm going to level with you.  I want the Mets to meticulously monitor Syndergaard's innings limit, however I want no part of him appearing out of the bullpen.  I don't care if its worked elsewhere, all I can envision is the stunted growth of Jenrry Mejia.  I can live with shortened exposure in 2014 in the hopes of a healthy career as a starter.  We've seen in the past six months that even a pitcher like Harvey, with as smooth and simple delivery as they come, can still fall to injury.  Let Syndergaard grow at his own pace, as a starter.  If that means he's done in the first week of September, so be it.

What The Kershaw Deal Means to The Mets

Last night it was reported that the Los Angeles Dodgers signed two-time Cy Young Award winner, Clayton Kershaw, to a seven year $215 million dollar extension.  That deal, a record for a pitcher, will send ripples through the pitching market for years to come and could potential impact the Mets in a few years.

As I'm sure you know, the Mets have at least one, if not three soon to be young stud pitchers.  Matt Harvey, Zack Wheeler and Noah Syndergaard still have plenty to prove (especially with the latter having not reached the majors yet), but in a perfect world they Mets could have to sign these kids to extensions in three consecutive years.  And yes.. I realize I am talking about no less than six years from now.

The issue remains the same though.  Unless the financial landscape and front office philosophy dramatically shift between now and then, do any of us expect the Mets to issue one, never mind three, contracts north of $150 million?  Also very relevant, the last time the Mets did venture into the long term market for a premiere starting pitcher and brought in Santana, it definitely didn't go as planned.

Again, we're well off from those decisions, however it remains important to keep tabs on that market and may be in the team's best interest to preemptively buy out their first few years of free agency (a la Jon Niese) in the coming years.  That effort may be futile in the instance of Harvey, whose agent Scott Boras is very much against it, but its definitely an avenue to investigate if Harvey comes back from injury as expected next season.

Perhaps I'm prematurely ringing this particular alarm, or maybe I'm just a bit paranoid after seeing the team shy away from premiere talent in the past, but I believe the starting pitching market to be a legitimate hurdle to keeping the group together.  For now we'll be content to watch Harvey rehab, Wheeler take the next step and Syndergaard make his arrival, but the future looms for better or worse.

Three Mets Prospects Make The Top 100

Today Scout.com released its list of the top 100 prospects in the minor leagues.  Kiley McDaniel, who comprised the list, explains that he excluded any player expected to be a starter opening day which is why Mets fans won't find Travis d'Arnaud anywhere on the list.

Three Mets however did make their way onto the list, with the obvious choice, Noah Syndergaard, landing at number 16 overall.  As nearly everyone knows, Syndergaard is one of the most highly respected pitching prospects in baseball right now, possessing a skill set that could project him as a #2 or better.  He is likely to slot into the team's rotation mid-summer and could be the punctuation  mark on a rotation that includes he, Zack Wheeler and Matt Harvey for years to come.

From there you have to scroll all the way down to 74 where you'll find first baseman, Dominic Smith.  This is a strong showing for Smith who has played only 51 games of professional baseball after being drafted last summer in the 2013 Amatuer Draft.  He figures to be the team's best position prospect for some time as he navigates the minor league system.

The final Mets prospect to appear is Rafael Montero at 78.  Montero too is expected to make an impact on the 2014 season and could be ready to contribute by mid-summer as well.  Although he doesn't project as high as Syndergaard, he could round out what is an already formidable starting rotation.  If nothing else, he figures to be a comfortable backup plan should a starter go down to injury as the season progresses.

Three in the top one hundred probably seems a little short, but its fair to note that d'Arnaud would have joined this group if he wasn't expected to break camp with the team.  Its also worth nothing that this is a Mets system that recently graduated Matt Harvey as well.  Overall, while the organization's farm system remains in a state of repair is has already and looks as if it will continue to contribute to the big league roster.

Why the Mets SHOULD Rely on the 2015 Free Agent Shortstop Class

I like to fancy myself someone who could be a Major League Baseball general manager. I have business experience. I have many years of baseball experience. I also have delusions of grandeur. This all adds up to me sitting on the couch planning how I would run a profession baseball franchise.

I would be the picture of patience. I would shy away from free agents almost entirely in order to build an extraordinary stable of big, strong, talented starting pitchers who were cheap and under control. In the field, I would attempt to develop as best I could, with the aim being towards creating a nice set of cost effective role players and bottom of the line-up guys. When I see my window open, let's say...a 2-3 year window where my pitching stars have all aligned, I'd go out and spend. I nab two big bats with power. I nab a speed guy in the infield. I nab a big lefty SP. I take a chance on a couple of bullpen guys, though I do not spend a lot because bullpen guys are fickle.  I hope this not only blows my window wide open, but extends it another year or two. Then at the end, when the window closes, I rid myself of the baggage as best I can in hopes of starting over again. This is how I feel a team without Yankee/Dodger/Sawx money should work.

Accordingly - I disagree with my esteemed colleague, Rob Patterson, who contends the Mets should not rely on the 2015 Free Agent Shortstop class to fill their current and future short stop needs. Let's face it - the Mets are not winning the World Series in 2014. Harvey...out. Wheeler...young. Syndergaard...nothing but a twinkle as of yet. d'Arnaud...who knows. Our window is still being set up. It has yet to open. That means there is no rush. 

Mr. Patterson points out that next year's free agent class will include names at short such as Hanley Ramirez, J.J. Hardy, Asdrubal Cabrera, Jed Lowrie and Yunel Escobar. You can add veterans Nick Punto and Mike Aviles to that list. That is an awfully deep market. While, as Mr. Patterson notes, the competition for Ramirez will be fierce and I would be betting my farm on the Yankees (especially if they get under $189M this year), the competition at the middle tier should not be as such. This off season included two big(ish) names...Stephen Drew and Johnny Peralta. Peralta signed early as he was the "big name". No other shortstop has signed for any significant money as of yet and pitchers and catchers report in a matter of weeks. Next year will be even deeper. I don't envision the competition for the Lowrie's, Cabrera's and Hardy's of the world being that difficult, particularly with a decent set of lower tier players beneath them - much like this year.

In addition to the deep market at shortstop in the 2015 free agent class, there are potential deep markets at first base, second base, and right field. I would be willing to put Nick Punto at short-stop if it meant I could take a run at Billy Butler at first. I would take Mike Aviles at short, if I also had Colby Rasmus in left and Norichika Aoki in right. The decision to get a shortstop now versus relying on a potential 2015 class does not solely rely on the short stop class. You have to factor in what else you can do. Right now, there isn't much else the Mets can do. Next year, that will not be the case.

My point is the Mets do not need a shortstop right now. Stephen Drew is a good player, but he does not a championship team make. The Mets would be better off being patient, sticking to their guns with Drew for a short cheap deal, and if he decided to go elsewhere, we have 7 short-stops and a wide array of other options next year to choose from. This at a time when Harvey will come back, Wheeler will be primed, Syndergaard will have some experience, and we will know what we have in d'Arnaud. The window opens in 2015, let's try not to jump out of it until then.

Mets Shouldn't Even Consider Santana For 2014

I love Johan Santana. He was a gamer for us when healthy. He was electrifying to watch. Whether it was striking guys out, diving for bunted balls or swinging out of his shoes at the plate, he kept you watching the game. Besides pitching the team's first no-hitter, he also got laid on a golf course. It would have been nice if we had won more with him here, but I appreciate everything he did for this organization.

Early in the offseason I was all for bringing Santana back. However, even if only for a minor league deal, the Mets do not need Santana back. Frankly, I don't think it would benefit either party. After the surprising signing of Bartolo Colon, the Mets currently have 4 rotation spots solidified. Coming back to camp this year will be Jenrry Mejia. I'd love to see him grab the 5th spot, especially after the way he performed in his short stint last season. However Mejia has failed to prove he can stay healthy.

You don't know what you're getting from Johan this year. He's missed most of the last 3 seasons. Between him and Mejia, there would be no guarantee in that 5th spot of the rotation. The Mets have proven to not promote players until it is fiscally beneficial or out of desperation. And in reality, this is the right thing to do considering the position they've been in the last few seasons. The last thing the Mets should do is start the clock on Montero or Syndergaard prematurely. As exciting as this offseason has been in regards to the Mets making some solid acquisitions, most level headed fans are probably not expecting the Mets to be serious contenders this year.

The Mets need stability. All they need is a low cost veteran pitcher to come in and compete and give them some starts. Maybe Mejia wins the job outright and you can keep this veteran in the pen as a long man spot starter or accept an assignment in AAA. Either way, it's time for the Met and the fans to get past the story and the nostalgia and just part ways with Santana. Johan should go find a team that will give him a legitimiate shot to make their rotation and a chance to win a ring.

Zack Wheeler Meets The Press

Zack Wheeler was a busy man yesterday in New York City.  With Matt Harvey down for the year, it looks like the Mets are pushing Wheeler to the media this winter.  Probably not a bad plan, considering Wheeler will be an increasingly important part of the team's rotation going forward.  This season, he will likely serve as last remaining member of the youth movement until Noah Syndergaard makes an appearance.

Wheeler started his day with teammate, Daniel Murphy, at a Dunkin Donuts where they did a meet and greet with several fans.  The Mets used their Twitter account to announce the location, with several fans taking the opportunity to take pictures with the flame thrower.  Wheeler then completed a question and answer session that appeared on MLB.com, that allowed fans to ask him questions via socially media.

Wheeler rounded out his day with a stop on 98.7 ESPN Radio in New York.  Wheeler discussed the team's new additions and his belief that the team should have a better chance to win now as a result.  More importantly, Wheeler discussed his plans to arrive early to spring training.  For what should be Wheelers first full season at the Major League level, a full spring of conditioning should be paramount.  Glad to see he'll be taking it seriously.

The Mets Are A Shortstop Away

Photo Courtesy of @Lets86It

Before you prepare to jump down my throat, I'm not about to tell you that the Mets are a shortstop away from being a World Series contenders.  They are however a shortstop away from a few different things.

First and foremost, with the additions the front office has made to date the lone remaining hole on the roster is at shortstop. While that's not to say improvements can't be made upon the players elsewhere on the roster, there seems to be a plan in place for every position but shortstop.  Is it possible that the Mets could enter the 2014 season without so much as one obvious glaring void in the lineup?

Next, its refreshing to say that should the Mets upgrade the shortstop position, they'll have accomplished all of the major goals they set forth for this winter.  In a free agent market that most agree went through the roof, Sandy Alderson was able to address both outfield corners and obtain a quality starting pitcher.  Addressing the team's needs at shortstop would effectively complete the roster renovation fans had been craving.

In the long term the Mets still have work to do.  In addition to Matt Harvey getting healthy, the team awaits the likes of Noah Syndergaard and Rafael Montero.  There are still questions to be answered with it comes to Juan Lagares and Lucas Duda.  The Mets aren't prepared to contend in 2014, but they will be a whole lot closer than last year if Alderson can finalized the offseason in dramatic fashion.

Its a process.  It didn't take a year or two to create the mess that is the New York Mets, and it'll likely take more than a year or two to rectify it.  However for the first time in a long time, the progress is apparent.  The Mets appear able to spend in the free agent market and have a farm system that is producing major league caliber players.  For the first time in a long time, things are looking up in Queens.  Sandy Alderson is one shortstop away from taking that next step.

Like what you've read?  Follow me on Twitter at @RobPatterson83.

Making the Call about Making the Call

Over at ESPN Adam Rubin has been taking a look at possible trades that Mets General Manager Sandy Alderson could make this offseason. It's always fun to speculate in the off-season...so...I am going to take the time to react to each of the suggestions contained in Adam's posts. It seems in each post Rubin speaks to Jim Bowden of ESPN and a former MLB GM to gage what it would take to land each prospective player. I will use Bowden's expectations as a base for whether or not I make the deal and perhaps suggest what I would do.

In his first post, Adam discusses the possibility of trading for Tampa Bay Rays ace left-hander, David Price. Rubin notes that the Rays have a history of trading star pitchers two years before they leave for free agency and that Price is at that point in his current contract. Jim Bowden expects that any deal with the Rays for Price would have to include Zach Wheeler. This sounds right to me. The Rays love their young cheap pitching and that's exactly what Wheeler is, for several more years no less.

However, what makes him attractive to the Rays should also make him attractive to the Mets. Wheeler is cheap...and will continue to be so for a while...and as a team with many holes to fill, the Mets need to value what they do control that doesn't cost a lot.

Additionally, as Rubin notes, Price is only under control for two more years.  He WILL test free agency after the 2015 season.  With Harvey out next year, if you trade for Price (and it doesn't include an extension) you would only assure yourself one year of that 1-2 punch of Harvey/Price.  While that does sound tantalizing, you don't trade a Wheeler type prospect for only 2 years of Price, only half of which would be with your other star pitcher.

I don't believe in prospects like others do. Price is a proven commodity and Wheeler is not. You don't hold on to a prospect just because you like him. However, the length of Price's contract combined with Harvey's injury and my realistic expectations for the 2014 Mets lead me to say no to this deal.  Perhaps I could be so inclined if the trade included a big extension for Price, to guarantee me at least 2-3 years of Price/Harvey. Without that, Wheeler's price-tag is too much for me to give up.

In Rubin's second post, he posits the idea of trading for Jose Bautista of the Toronto Blue Jays. Jim Bowden believes Bautista could be obtained in a package that includes Jonathan Niese and two prospects, including Cesar Puello.  Set aside for the moment that this sounds a bit light, and that if I were the Blue Jays, I would be looking for revenge for the fleecing Sandy gave them last year (see: Dickey for d'Arnaud/Syndergaard).

As Rubin notes, Bautista is a premiere right-handed power hitting corner outfielder with a strong arm and a good walk rate. This sounds right in Sandy Alderson's wheelhouse. Combine that with the Mets and Blue Jays past of working with each other, and I wouldn't be surprised if this is an avenue the Mets actually go down.

Bautista is 33 years old, about the age where players (nowadays) begin to decline.  However, Bautista didn't begin playing full time until he was 26 years old. He doesn't have the mileage on him that others players at his age may have.  Additionally, he is under team control through the 2016 (there is a team option for the 2016 season - so if he gets old quick - you can cut ties after 2015 season) at the reasonable price of $14M per year. This means he would come off the books prior to turning 35 or 36, whichever the team chose.  He has a team favorable contract.

At the price Bowden suggests, I would jump at this deal. Niese is a nice mid-to-back of the rotation type of guy....but you can get those guys and the Mets have a glut of young pitching but no young hitting. Puello showed flashes of great talent this year, however, he only did that this year.  Prior to this season, he was ranked the 18th best Mets prospect by Baseball America. Add his PED suspension to that and he become expendable in my mind, particularly if you can land a bat now.

I think Bowden is being a little unrealistic with the package he proposes. I would think the Blue Jays would ask about Wheeler and Sydergaard. However, if the Niese/Puello package were possible, I would hand deliver the papers myself. Bautista is precisely what the Mets need, and he comes at a good price. Go get'em Sandy.

Who Should The Mets Move? Jon Niese or Dillon Gee

Photo Courtesy of @Lets86It

With the New York Mets set to enter the trade market this winter, they are going to have to trade something to get something.  If there is one area of strength within the organization, it is starting pitching, but the Mets don't seem eager to go down that path just yet.

Even prior to his need for Tommy John surgery, Matt Harvey was going to be untouchable.  The same likely goes for Alderson's star acquisition to date, Zack Wheeler, and the team's front office has stated it will not part with top prospect, Noah Syndergaard.  If those three aren't available, teams will have to look at the Mets only remaining Major League caliber offerings: Jon Niese and/or Dillon Gee.

If I had to chose, I would say that Jon Niese has the higher ceiling of the two.  The only lefty in the Mets rotation for much of the season, he remains under contract through at least the 2016 season with team options for both 2017 and 2018.  At minimum he's owed only $21 million over the next three seasons.  When in control of his pitches, Niese has a good fastball and an excellent curveball.  However, the issue with Jon remains health as he pitched only 143 innings last year and seems to often battle fatigue issues throughout the year.  Despite never having a major arm ailment, this may be a red flag to inquiring minds.

Dillon Gee is a different kind of pitcher.  Despite leading the Mets with twelve wins in 2013, Gee would probably be shopped as a young, consistent back of the rotation arm who has gotten better each of the past three seasons.  Like Niese, Gee remains under team control through 2016, as he is just entering his first arbitration eligible year right now.  That likely makes him a cheaper option than Jon.  Furthermore, with the exception of a circulatory issue in his throwing arm in 2012, Gee has been much more dependable from an injury standpoint.

Photo Courtesy of @Lets86It

Each pitcher has their upsides, with both having the capabilities to impact the starting rotation wherever they hypothetically land.  I have been a big defender of Niese, as I have long believed he had the stuff to be an ace at the Major League level, but he just doesn't have the consistency to put it together.  Gee on the other hand is what he is, a #4 starter at best who you can be certain is going to give you six or so effective innings every time he takes the mound.  There is a ton of value in that!

I suppose what I'm saying is that I would prefer to see the Mets part with Jon Niese at this point if I had to chose between the two.  I think the fact that he is a lefty with a higher ceiling may make him more attractive on the trade market.  Along with the fact that the acquiring team could have him under their wing for as many as five years at a reasonable price also serves him well.

For everything he does well, I just think Niese remains the bigger question mark for the Mets between the two.  His seemingly repetitive trips to the disabled list make me wonder if a major arm event is in the cards going forward.  The Mets have too many of those to navigate as it is, and while Dillon Gee could just as easily fall victim to the same fate, the writing appears to be on the wall for Niese. 

Whether either gets traded or where they might end up remains to be seen, however each of the Blue Jays, Rockies and Red Sox have had interest in Niese in the past.  Each of those teams have players that the Mets should be interested in this winter.  Does that mean anything at this point?  I don't know, but if it were my decision to make Jon Niese is the man I move this winter.

Like what you read?  Follow me on Twitter at @RobPatterson83.

NYDN Harper: Mets Should Build Around Young Pitching

In Saturday's New York Daily News, John Harper had a fresh and interesting take on the Mets future, suggesting that the team follow the example of the Cardinals and Dodgers. He had this to say on the subject:

In a baseball post-season that so far has been defined largely by young, power pitching, the Cardinals won Game 1 of the NLCS against the Dodgers here by using seven pitchers, five of whom are age 26 or younger. 

Picture by @lets86it. Check out her work on Twitter

Now they'll start a 22-year old, Michael Wacha, on Saturday, then likely another, Shelby Miller, in Game 4. 

And somewhere, Sandy Alderson dreams of an October sometime in the next few years when the Mets are in a similar position, trying to win a championship on the strength of their young pitching... for now at least, this pitching-dominated post-season has further convinced the Mets' brass that it needs to be very careful about trading any of its young pitching.

This Harper guy seems like a real genius. Somewhere, in his office, Alderson read this article, surrounded by posters of Harvey, Wheeler, Montero, Mejia, Syndergaard, and whoever else you want to throw in there and thinking, "Oh... pitching. Thanks John Harper!"

Seriously, yes, this team should build around its young pitching talent. It's just that I find the writing of this article to be a bit... stupid, because I haven't heard anyone argue that the Mets shouldn't build around their pitching. They built a pitcher's park, have traded for and groomed what could potentially turn into the best rotation in the majors and we have to tell them to build around pitching? Just seems a little goofy to me is all.

A more interesting take from Harper would have been which one of these pitchers is the most expendable in a deal to fill some of the team's other holes. Including Niese in the long term, and even Dillon Gee in the short term, the Mets have more than a rotation's worth of very good pitchers in the system and plenty of other places they could use some real talent. On the flip side, I guess we do have an entire long winter to discuss that...

CarGo Will Be Available, Mets Unlikely To Be Suitors

Photo Courtesy of RockiesReview.com

Rumor has it the Colorado Rockies will in fact entertain offers for slugging outfielder, Carlos Gonzalez, this winter.  He had been in the midst of the stellar season that featured a .302 BA, with 26 HR and 70 RBI until a sprained middle finger sidelined him in early August.  He missed nearly a full month of play before appearing as a defensive replacement multiple times this month, but has not batted and appears unlikely to do so.

Gonzalez led the National League in home runs at the All-Star break this season, but was ineligible to appear in the Home Run Derby due to a hand injury not unsimilar to the one that's ultimately ended his season.  In addition to being amongst the most formidable sluggers available this winter, he also remains under contract through the 2017.  As a result, it will take quite a haul to secure his services.

As per the New York Daily News' John Harper, the Rockies will seek a position player oriented package, due to the fact that pitchers often struggle at high altitude.  Harper goes on to explain that the Rockies remain unimpressed with the position players the Mets have to offer, which could leave them on the outside looking if/when he is dealt in the months to come.

Its no secret that the Mets best prospects are pitchers, however the team has said they will not move top prospect, Noah Syndergaard, and remains hesitant to deal anyone who could impact the rotation next season as a result of the injury to Matt Harvey.  As a result, a position player package would have to revolve around the likes of Wilmer Flores, Ike Davis, Lucas Duda, Matt den Dekker, etc.  In any case, these players either haven't carved out a role at the major league level or find their role in question going forward.

As a result, none will have the impact potential necessary to acquire Gonzalez from the Rockies in the months to come.  While it's assured that the Mets will find their way into the rumor mill, they may be forced to turn their sights to Marlin's slugger, Giancarlo Stanton, if he too becomes available.  With all the farm system building the front office has done in recent years, it would be a shame if they don't have the horses to land one of the biggest fish on the market this winter, but that remains to be seen.  Which would be a better fit in Queens has been the topic of much debate, but at this point that may unfortunately be a moot point.

Prospect Profile: Noah Syndergaard

Bio: 6'6" 200 lbs from Mansfield, TX. Age 21.

Drafted: 2010 amateur draft by the Toronto Blue Jays

Acquired: From the Toronto Blue Jays on 12/17/12 as the "secondary" piece in the RA Dickey trade.

Scouting Report:

Syndergaard boasts a quality fastball that averages 93-95 MPH with high 90s potential. His second weapon, an above average curveball, has strong bite and projects as a strikeout pitch. Finally, he is developing a change-up that falls in the mid-80s, however the pitch needs work and only projects as average going forward.  Baseball America ranked Syndergaard the #23 overall prospect in baseball in their mid-2013 rankings report.

2013 Stats (to date):

St. Lucie (A): 3-3, 3.11 ERA, 61 H, 22 ER, 64 SO, 16 BB

Binghamton (AA): 6-1, 3.00 ERA, 46 H, 18 ER, 69 SO, 12 BB

Potential:

Consensus seems seems to be that Syndergaard has top of the rotation abilities, with many dubbing him a future #2. It is interesting to note that multiple scouting entities have mentioned that Syndergaard is a better pitcher now, than both Harvey and Wheeler were at a similar age. 

What's Next:

Many fans will push to have Syndergaard in the rotation to start the 2014 season, but that's highly unlikely regardless if whether Matt Harvey is ready to go. Having thrown only 117.1 innings, Noah will probably be subject to a innings cap of roughly 150 to 160 innings. That fact alone will prevent Him from pitching a full season at the MLB level in 2014. Expect Syndergaard  in big league camp next spring, but to open the year in AAA before being promoted some time in the late June time frame, where he will slot in much like Zack Wheeler did this season.

Twitter: @NoahSyndergaard