If you've been wondering why Scott Boras would continue to have his client, Stephen Drew, sit out the majority of spring training, you may now have your answer. The Detroit Tigers have now lost their starting shortstop, Jose Iglesias, for much of the upcoming season due to shin injuries. That may open the door for Stephen Drew to not only sign a contract, but also land with a contender.
This could throw a wrench in the Mets plans if they had planned to sign Drew at the last minute if Ruben Tejada can't get his spring turned around. There have been multiple reports that the team continues to monitor Drew's situation, despite source's on Drew's side saying that the union is unlikely. Such a union may not be even less likely, as starting job with a contending team would almost certainly be more attractive than the same role in Queens.
Showing posts with label Stephen Drew. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Stephen Drew. Show all posts
March 16, 2014
March 13, 2014
Mets Still Have Time To Address Shortstop
There are now 18 days until Opening Day and I'm fairly certain most Mets fans can come up with at least 18 reasons why Ruben Tejada shouldn't be the team's starting shortstop when March 31st arrives. The good news is that the Mets still have a few different directions they can go if they decide (and they should) an upgrade is necessary.
The player we've heard about most in recent weeks is Nick Franklin. He is likely the odd man out up the middle in Seattle. However questions loom about his ability to play shortstop, with some saying he would be a defensive downgrade from Tejada. Still, he represents a quality offensive boost that would likely come at the cost of one of the organizations non-elite young arms. It still may be a steep price to pay for a player who likely won't be able to stick at the shortstop position long term. Could the Mets shift him to second, assuming Daniel Murphy becomes to expensive for the team's tastes? Sure, but its a complication they would probably like to avoid if possible.
The other trade option would be the eventual loser of Arizona's Didi Gregorius vs. Chris Owings competition. Each is believed to be a major league shortstop. Of the two, my guess would be that the Mets would prefer Owings, but they may not get to choose. If I were to lay a bet, it would be that this is the first avenue the Mets pursue in the coming weeks. Yes, it would be the most expensive route in terms of talent (assuming the package going back would include Kevin Plawecki and another young arm), but it also sets the Mets up with a sure shortstop option for years to come. This would be a significant trade with the Mets for the first time letting go of some of the talent they've spent years stock piling. However, if you're looking for a young, controllable, surefire shortstop..this is where they need to look.
Finally, as has remained the case all winter long, Stephen Drew remains available. The free agent shortstop reported turned down a one-year/$9.5 million dollar offer from the Mets, who appear set to avoid a multi-year deal with him at all costs. Still, he is the most established shortstop available and would instantly upgrade the team's defense up the middle and fortify the lineup. He may even be a lead off candidate. However, I still believe he is the front office's backup plan. If they are unable to work out a trade elsewhere, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Mets cave and offer Drew the two or three year deal he covets. I just hope it doesn't come to that.
There is still time to address this need. Whether you think the Mets front office is genuinely interested in doing so is another argument for another time. I'm inclined to think they're more than open to the idea, having done little to squash the rumors that have linked them to all three parties. In any event, the trade options listed above fit inline with the organizations thinking over the past few years. Young, controllable talent who can remain in the fold for years to come. Unfortunately, those trades can't happen until decisions are made by the other teams involved. Nonetheless, Opening Day is coming..and so too are the answers to these questions.
The player we've heard about most in recent weeks is Nick Franklin. He is likely the odd man out up the middle in Seattle. However questions loom about his ability to play shortstop, with some saying he would be a defensive downgrade from Tejada. Still, he represents a quality offensive boost that would likely come at the cost of one of the organizations non-elite young arms. It still may be a steep price to pay for a player who likely won't be able to stick at the shortstop position long term. Could the Mets shift him to second, assuming Daniel Murphy becomes to expensive for the team's tastes? Sure, but its a complication they would probably like to avoid if possible.
The other trade option would be the eventual loser of Arizona's Didi Gregorius vs. Chris Owings competition. Each is believed to be a major league shortstop. Of the two, my guess would be that the Mets would prefer Owings, but they may not get to choose. If I were to lay a bet, it would be that this is the first avenue the Mets pursue in the coming weeks. Yes, it would be the most expensive route in terms of talent (assuming the package going back would include Kevin Plawecki and another young arm), but it also sets the Mets up with a sure shortstop option for years to come. This would be a significant trade with the Mets for the first time letting go of some of the talent they've spent years stock piling. However, if you're looking for a young, controllable, surefire shortstop..this is where they need to look.
Finally, as has remained the case all winter long, Stephen Drew remains available. The free agent shortstop reported turned down a one-year/$9.5 million dollar offer from the Mets, who appear set to avoid a multi-year deal with him at all costs. Still, he is the most established shortstop available and would instantly upgrade the team's defense up the middle and fortify the lineup. He may even be a lead off candidate. However, I still believe he is the front office's backup plan. If they are unable to work out a trade elsewhere, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Mets cave and offer Drew the two or three year deal he covets. I just hope it doesn't come to that.
There is still time to address this need. Whether you think the Mets front office is genuinely interested in doing so is another argument for another time. I'm inclined to think they're more than open to the idea, having done little to squash the rumors that have linked them to all three parties. In any event, the trade options listed above fit inline with the organizations thinking over the past few years. Young, controllable talent who can remain in the fold for years to come. Unfortunately, those trades can't happen until decisions are made by the other teams involved. Nonetheless, Opening Day is coming..and so too are the answers to these questions.
February 25, 2014
Mets Signing Drew Makes Even More Sense Now
You probably read earlier reports from the Mets world and at Effing Mets that Ruben Tejada has yet again underwhelmed the Mets Brass. This coming off the heels of him spending two months this winter at a fitness camp in Michigan. This makes two years in a row that he hasn't impressed the organization when he desperately should have. There are also reports indicating that the Mets might re-engage the Mariners to acquire Nick Franklin and the names floated in a deal are that of Rafael Montero and Jacob deGrom.
Based on this latest information there is ZERO reason that the Mets shouldn't sign Stephen Drew. And more importantly meet his asking price or darn near close. This is two freaking years in a row that Tejada can't get his act together. Does Sandy and the gang just think some kind of magic is going to happen and we will have the second coming of Jose Reyes? Fat chance and pun intended. Seems like the guy (Tejada) could care less at this point. Signing Drew to a 2-3 year contract allows the Mets to have a solid presence as SS while allowing other minor league prospects to develop and not be rushed. Montero and deGrom can be kept and put to good use or part of a package for someone better than Franklin on down the road.
Get off the pot already Sandy!
Based on this latest information there is ZERO reason that the Mets shouldn't sign Stephen Drew. And more importantly meet his asking price or darn near close. This is two freaking years in a row that Tejada can't get his act together. Does Sandy and the gang just think some kind of magic is going to happen and we will have the second coming of Jose Reyes? Fat chance and pun intended. Seems like the guy (Tejada) could care less at this point. Signing Drew to a 2-3 year contract allows the Mets to have a solid presence as SS while allowing other minor league prospects to develop and not be rushed. Montero and deGrom can be kept and put to good use or part of a package for someone better than Franklin on down the road.
Get off the pot already Sandy!
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Tejada Is Still Out Of Shape?
The New York Post is now two for two in generating what will be the story of the day this week, with Kevin Kernan reporting that the Mets are not overly impressed with Ruben Tejada's offseason transformation after spending two months at a Michigan fitness camp. Kernan cites an anonymous (of course) source, who states that Tejada "looks pretty much the same."
Its a curious article, considering the Mets are yet to play a single game this spring. Tejada seemingly passed the eye tests upon reporting to camp, definitely looking more slender if not borderline muscular. That's a distinct departure from the doughy shortstop who struggled last season. With that said, passing the eye test doesn't mean he'll play better and that's what really matters to the Mets who are still in search of a long term answer at the shortstop position.
It figures to be a rough camp to Tejada between stories such as this and what can only be characterized as an uncertain future. The team continues to monitor the Stephen Drew situation and has now been tied to trade rumors for young Seattle shortstop, Nick Franklin. Transformation or not, Tejada may be auditioning for a role off the bench regardless of how well he plays this spring.
Its a curious article, considering the Mets are yet to play a single game this spring. Tejada seemingly passed the eye tests upon reporting to camp, definitely looking more slender if not borderline muscular. That's a distinct departure from the doughy shortstop who struggled last season. With that said, passing the eye test doesn't mean he'll play better and that's what really matters to the Mets who are still in search of a long term answer at the shortstop position.
It figures to be a rough camp to Tejada between stories such as this and what can only be characterized as an uncertain future. The team continues to monitor the Stephen Drew situation and has now been tied to trade rumors for young Seattle shortstop, Nick Franklin. Transformation or not, Tejada may be auditioning for a role off the bench regardless of how well he plays this spring.
February 23, 2014
Stephen Drew Should Sign With the Mets
Okay, I have posted many times regarding this subject and have gone back and forth based on the rumors and sources citing Drew. Now I am completely back peddling. I apologize but this is my right.
Stephen Drew should sign the contract if it is still available and now.
Why? At $9.whatever million it is a good deal for a decent player. Is he the savior? No. Can he do a decent job? Yes and again, at that price is reasonable. Maybe Sandy could even sweeten it with a club option, pick it up or decline it based on production. I don't know if its an option but wonder if they could decline and make him a qualifying offer to recoup the pick lost from this year? Again, don't know the rules on that just wondering.
So then, what about Tejada? I was talking with @GetsThruBuckner and his thought was that Ruben could hit some against lefties. I think it is a great idea and might make him work harder and in the end Drew not playing every day might lessen his chances of his routine trip to the DL.
Your move Stephen but consider this, Nelson Cruz who does suck defensively beat you in almost every offensive category signed today for about $1.5 million less than you have been offered.
Stephen Drew should sign the contract if it is still available and now.
Why? At $9.whatever million it is a good deal for a decent player. Is he the savior? No. Can he do a decent job? Yes and again, at that price is reasonable. Maybe Sandy could even sweeten it with a club option, pick it up or decline it based on production. I don't know if its an option but wonder if they could decline and make him a qualifying offer to recoup the pick lost from this year? Again, don't know the rules on that just wondering.
So then, what about Tejada? I was talking with @GetsThruBuckner and his thought was that Ruben could hit some against lefties. I think it is a great idea and might make him work harder and in the end Drew not playing every day might lessen his chances of his routine trip to the DL.
Your move Stephen but consider this, Nelson Cruz who does suck defensively beat you in almost every offensive category signed today for about $1.5 million less than you have been offered.
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February 22, 2014
Heyman: Mets Offered Drew 1 year/$9.5M
According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, the Mets have made an offer to free-agent Stephen Drew, however that offer amounted just one-year and $9.5 million dollars. Specifically, Heyman said:
"The Mets suggested a salary close to the range of the $9.5 million Drew
made last
year, an unusual no-raise try that had little chance. It's no
wonder then that GM Sandy
Alderson has termed a Drew signing “unlikely,”
but the Mets would appear to have
about the greatest need."
Heyman may be correct that the Mets still have the greatest need. He may also be correct that a salary offer identical to what Drew made in 2013 had little chance, however I'm not so sure it was a low ball offer by the Mets front office.
The Mets and Red Sox remain the only two teams directly linked to Drew this winter. The Mets don't appear set to break the bank, and the Red Sox have grown increasingly non-committal when discussing the free agent shortstop..because they don't need him. If $9.5 million is the richest offer he's received to date, it is certainly possible for another team (maybe one of the two mystery teams Boras suggests) to sweep in and sign Drew now that Spring Training has begun. With that said, I'll be surprised if Drew gets the 3 year deal worth $14 million annually that he supposedly covets.
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I'll be honest. I'm not longer enamored with Stephen Drew. With the exception of 10-12 home runs, I'm not sure he offers much of an upgrade over Ruben Tejada. However, with that said I don't really care if the Mets offer him $5, $10 or $20 million, as long as its a one year deal. Ideally, I'd like to see the Mets make the trade for Nick Franklin, which was rumored yesterday. Although Drew is better defensively, Franklin would likely provide similar offensive production, is much younger and would remain much cheaper for years to come.
February 19, 2014
Mets: Drew Isn't Worth The Money
#Mets exec on Stephen Drew: "At the numbers he's looking for, we don't think he's worth it." http://t.co/1Rr4Ko2Fo5Just this morning I wrote that the Mets aren't really in the running for Stephen Drew and this evening comes word that the Mets aren't interested as things stand right now. Its been rumored that Drew still seeks $14 million annually and that's a number the Mets simply aren't willing to meet.
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) February 19, 2014
Anthony Dicomo of MLB.com cited a anonymous source stating that the Mets don't think Drew is worth the money. They're probably right. As I said today, the Mets will continue to monitor the situation. Should Drew's asking price fall closer to $10 million, expect the Mets to reengage. Until then, try to make piece with Ruben Tejada as your every day shortstop.
Mets Aren't Really "In" On Drew
A source close to Stephen Drew says there are FOUR teams that are still “in”on Drew including an owner #Mets #RedSox #WhoAreTheOther2?
— JIM BOWDEN (@JimBowdenESPNxm) February 18, 2014
The Mets remain "in" on Stephen Drew, despite publicly removing themselves from the discussion in recent weeks. It still remains the Mets and the Red Sox..however two mystery teams have entered the arena. This both renewed and refueled the Drew debate amongst Mets fans. Some feel he's the player the team needs to cap off the winter, while others feel he's just not worth the money. I for one think its a moot point, because I don't think the Mets are really "in" on anything right now.
I think there is a distinct difference between actively pursuing the situation and simply monitoring it. I believe the Mets are doing the latter. In an ideal world, I still think Sandy Alderson would like to land the free agent shortstop. He would instantly solidify the lineup to some point, providing the Mets with a lead off option, and would shore up the team's defense up the middle. That said, as Mike Puma points out, the Mets are only willing to do so on their own terms.
If the market continues to crumple for Drew, the Mets will be there with open arms to collect him on a team friendly contract. That's not my definition of being "in" on a player. The Mets are prepared to be his last resort financially, despite being his most attractive situation from an on-field perspective. Drew, at the direction of Scott Boras, has been stubborn in his demands. So too have the Mets. So while the team's brass may still have regular contact with Drew's camp, its not to aggressively make him their 2014 shortstop, its in the hopes of swooping in to steal him on the cheap.
You may love or hate that idea, but facts are facts. If that's being "in" on a free agent, things have changed more in these parts than we give them credit for. Stephen Drew may ultimately join the Mets, but it won't be because the Mets gave him not other option. It will be because the Mets were his only option remaining.
February 13, 2014
Mets' Alderson Talks Finances Again
Here we go again. The Post and various other media outlets are reporting that the banks that have issued the Mets loans are keeping them on a payroll restriction. A claim that Sandy Alderson denies. He is quoted as saying the current payroll is just north of $85 million which if memory serves me correctly is similar to last year. That said they unloaded some big nasty contracts for two (who I won't name) who never saw the field. We have added Chris Young, Curtis Granderson, and Bartolo Colon to major league contracts along with Kyle Farnsworth and Jose Valdverde on minor league contracts with zero guarantee of making the team out of camp.
The latter of the two coming off the heels of "missing" out on Grant Balfour and Fernando Rodney to rumored similar deals. And then there is the ongoing saga of the Stephen Drew situation be it money, years, opt out clauses, etc. I then meander over to see what Adam Rubin is saying to find this:
The latter of the two coming off the heels of "missing" out on Grant Balfour and Fernando Rodney to rumored similar deals. And then there is the ongoing saga of the Stephen Drew situation be it money, years, opt out clauses, etc. I then meander over to see what Adam Rubin is saying to find this:
“I said it was unlikely that we would sign another major free agent,” Sandy Alderson said. “I think that’s still the case.” #metsUnlikely? I think it is more like guaranteed and while the fan in me wishes that weren't the case if it is true then fine. I don't like it and it won't make me cheer on this effing team any less but whatever. I just want this season to start so we can talk about who is doing well, who isn't, and what we as fans are getting for our $85 million payroll.
— Adam Rubin (@AdamRubinESPN) February 13, 2014
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February 7, 2014
Drew Wants Opt-Out Clause In New Deal
The Mets late night revelation that they may be willing to go to three years in a deal for Stephen Drew under the right set of circumstances wasn't the only news regarding the free agent shortstop. ESPN's Adam Rubin also reported that Drew and his agent, Scott Boras, want an opt-out clause after the first season of any multi-year deal he may sign.
This is almost undoubtedly a deal breaker for the Mets, and it should be. Under those parameters, every ounce of leverage remains with Drew. If he has a great year in 2014, he chooses to opt out of the deal him hopes of inking a new contract. If he struggles, the Mets are stuck with him. There really isn't no other way it could work out.
I take this to mean that the money simply isn't there for Drew in the free agent market right now. You'll recall he turned down a one-year qualifying offer from the Boston Red Sox worth more than $14 million dollars. The Red Sox are since reported to have offered him a two-year deal, but the financial terms of that offer have not been disclosed. Its long been rumored that the Mets find themselves in the $10-$12 million dollar range. So simply put, not one wants to break the bank, which is why he is yet to sign.
Allowing Drew an opt-out clause would allow him to retest the free agent waters, should it suit him. Its a lose/lose situation for the Mets, and one I wouldn't expect them to pursue if he is insistent on it being a part of the deal. This is going to be done on the Mets terms, if at all, as commented by ESPNs Buster Olney.
This is almost undoubtedly a deal breaker for the Mets, and it should be. Under those parameters, every ounce of leverage remains with Drew. If he has a great year in 2014, he chooses to opt out of the deal him hopes of inking a new contract. If he struggles, the Mets are stuck with him. There really isn't no other way it could work out.
I take this to mean that the money simply isn't there for Drew in the free agent market right now. You'll recall he turned down a one-year qualifying offer from the Boston Red Sox worth more than $14 million dollars. The Red Sox are since reported to have offered him a two-year deal, but the financial terms of that offer have not been disclosed. Its long been rumored that the Mets find themselves in the $10-$12 million dollar range. So simply put, not one wants to break the bank, which is why he is yet to sign.
Allowing Drew an opt-out clause would allow him to retest the free agent waters, should it suit him. Its a lose/lose situation for the Mets, and one I wouldn't expect them to pursue if he is insistent on it being a part of the deal. This is going to be done on the Mets terms, if at all, as commented by ESPNs Buster Olney.
Mets like Drew, but aren't going to bend over backwards to make a deal. Same with BOS/Drew, and TOR and Ubaldo/Santana.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) February 7, 2014
February 6, 2014
Mets Open To Three Years On Drew
Next Paul from Bayside Asks re Stephen drew why not offer drew 3 years
— Don't Escrow Taxes (@DontEscrowTaxes) February 6, 2014
Sandy: we are not unwilling to offer drew "a third year". But not at that point yet. Is it the right fit first money issue 2ndThe gentleman above was one of the many season ticket holders in attendance tonight when the team's brass completed a Q&A. After weeks of mainstream media reports that the Mets are only interested in offering Stephen Drew a one-year contract, it appears the Mets would consider a three-year deal. The question remains, as Alderson inferred, is whether or not Drew is the right fit for the team going forward.
— Don't Escrow Taxes (@DontEscrowTaxes) February 6, 2014
The reason that's a caveat worth mentioning, is because during the course of the Q&A, Alderson mention an expectation that Tejada will improve in 2014. There were far more mixed messages than ringing endorsements one way or the other.
If you want to see what else was discussed, you can take a look though @DontEscrowTaxes timeline, as he took the time to tweet the majority of the evening.
February 5, 2014
Why Peralta and Not Drew??
There has been a lot of chatter on twitter stating that Stephen Drew isn't worth signing for a 1 or 2 year deal. A good chunk of Mets fans are saying that he isn't worth the money, and that the Mets should give Tejada another chance, considering the difference in price. Now, before I go off, I'll say that the split seems to be right down the middle. So there are plenty of Mets fans, several who I normally wouldn't side with, who want Drew here. I for one, do want Drew.
When then off-season started, all Mets fans were talking about was how horrible shortstop was. If I recall correctly, Mets fans couldn't get enough of Jhonny Peralta. There were several screen shots of Mets jerseys with his name on them floating around out there. And when Peralta signed with St. Louis early in the winter, the proverbial screams of Mets Twitter could be heard around the tri-state area. "Sandy sucks" and "Wilpon's won't spend" and "Here we go again" were the battle cries for about a week or two.
Reports have surfaced that the Mets are actively negotiating with Stephen Drew, even thought it had appeared unlikely a move to get him was going to be made. It is unsure how true they are, but I'm not here to discuss that. Now that these rumors are swirling tho, all of a sudden Ruben Tejada is a viable option. So what has changed in the last two months? Ruben Tejada went to fat camp, so now he's a major player for the Mets? Peralta is so much better than Drew? I don't get it. Two months ago, Ruben Tejada was public enemy #1 to Mets fans. Now he's A Okay.
I'm not a huge sabermetrics guy, but I'm open minded to them and I understand their place in modern baseball when it comes to analyzing players. That being said, I refuse to acknowledge WAR as a legitimate stat or tool or whatever it is people want to call it. I think it's flawed and doesn't take into account too many things in regards to situational baseball, strategy and intangibles. That being said, I'm gonna go to it right now to try and prove a point, considering so many people like it.
Last season Jhonny Peralta had a 3.3 WAR. For his career, he averages a 2.2 WAR. Stephen Drew posted a 3.1 WAR in 2013, and averages 2.0 WAR a season. Both players have had seasons with WAR higher than that, and both have finished season's with a WAR slightly below zero. So how come Mets fans were clamoring so hard for Peralta, but think Drew isn't good enough? For what it's worth, Tejada posted a -0.9 WAR last season, and averages a 0.7 in his four seasons. When you compare the three players, it doesn't seem like all that big a difference. Apparently it was in October though when a majority of people wanted Peralta.
Maybe Drew isn't worth the cost or isn't that huge an upgrade over Tejada. Personally I think even if he is at his best, Tejada isn't as good as Drew. Like I have said before, I'm no expert, so I could be wrong. But I'd like to see a little more consistency from the fans out there when it comes to what we want and expect from this team.
When then off-season started, all Mets fans were talking about was how horrible shortstop was. If I recall correctly, Mets fans couldn't get enough of Jhonny Peralta. There were several screen shots of Mets jerseys with his name on them floating around out there. And when Peralta signed with St. Louis early in the winter, the proverbial screams of Mets Twitter could be heard around the tri-state area. "Sandy sucks" and "Wilpon's won't spend" and "Here we go again" were the battle cries for about a week or two.
Reports have surfaced that the Mets are actively negotiating with Stephen Drew, even thought it had appeared unlikely a move to get him was going to be made. It is unsure how true they are, but I'm not here to discuss that. Now that these rumors are swirling tho, all of a sudden Ruben Tejada is a viable option. So what has changed in the last two months? Ruben Tejada went to fat camp, so now he's a major player for the Mets? Peralta is so much better than Drew? I don't get it. Two months ago, Ruben Tejada was public enemy #1 to Mets fans. Now he's A Okay.
I'm not a huge sabermetrics guy, but I'm open minded to them and I understand their place in modern baseball when it comes to analyzing players. That being said, I refuse to acknowledge WAR as a legitimate stat or tool or whatever it is people want to call it. I think it's flawed and doesn't take into account too many things in regards to situational baseball, strategy and intangibles. That being said, I'm gonna go to it right now to try and prove a point, considering so many people like it.
Last season Jhonny Peralta had a 3.3 WAR. For his career, he averages a 2.2 WAR. Stephen Drew posted a 3.1 WAR in 2013, and averages 2.0 WAR a season. Both players have had seasons with WAR higher than that, and both have finished season's with a WAR slightly below zero. So how come Mets fans were clamoring so hard for Peralta, but think Drew isn't good enough? For what it's worth, Tejada posted a -0.9 WAR last season, and averages a 0.7 in his four seasons. When you compare the three players, it doesn't seem like all that big a difference. Apparently it was in October though when a majority of people wanted Peralta.
Maybe Drew isn't worth the cost or isn't that huge an upgrade over Tejada. Personally I think even if he is at his best, Tejada isn't as good as Drew. Like I have said before, I'm no expert, so I could be wrong. But I'd like to see a little more consistency from the fans out there when it comes to what we want and expect from this team.
Mets Still Believe Drew Is A Long Shot
Another day..and some new Stephen Drew rumors. Yesterday's claim by WFAN Radio's Mike Francesa that the Mets had offered a contract to Stephen Drew was followed by a flat denial, which was first reported the New York Daily News, and later confirmed by the New York Post. The Post dug a little deeper to learn that at least one official within the organization believes that the Mets remain a long shot to acquire Drew's services.
As spring training nears, so too does decision time for the thirty-one year old short stop. Still in search of three or four-year contract, the only known offer out to him at this time is a two-year pact from the Boston Red Sox. The caveat of that deal is that it provides not guarantee that Drew would remain their starting shortstop. That may be the Mets lone position of leverage in this pursuit as it remains unlikely the Mets will top Boston's offer, but can offer Drew the starting shortstop position.
Despite recent reports of the Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics and Minnesota Twins keeping tabs on Drew, only the Mets and Red Sox appear to remain in constant contact. Do that necessarily improve either of their chances? One can never tell with Scott Boras involved. With that said, I would expect this to come to a close for better or worse in the next two weeks. Boras has waded through the winter waiting for a market to developed for Drew and the Mets have waited out the market in an effort not to overpay for his serves. At this point Boras' demands remain outside of the Mets price range, but they remain interested and will continue to monitor the situation.
As spring training nears, so too does decision time for the thirty-one year old short stop. Still in search of three or four-year contract, the only known offer out to him at this time is a two-year pact from the Boston Red Sox. The caveat of that deal is that it provides not guarantee that Drew would remain their starting shortstop. That may be the Mets lone position of leverage in this pursuit as it remains unlikely the Mets will top Boston's offer, but can offer Drew the starting shortstop position.
Despite recent reports of the Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics and Minnesota Twins keeping tabs on Drew, only the Mets and Red Sox appear to remain in constant contact. Do that necessarily improve either of their chances? One can never tell with Scott Boras involved. With that said, I would expect this to come to a close for better or worse in the next two weeks. Boras has waded through the winter waiting for a market to developed for Drew and the Mets have waited out the market in an effort not to overpay for his serves. At this point Boras' demands remain outside of the Mets price range, but they remain interested and will continue to monitor the situation.
February 4, 2014
Met Still Have A Shot At Drew?
Another week goes by and question remain about the fate of free agent shortstop, Stephen Drew. Seemingly linked to him all winter long, the Mets last week downplayed the likelihood of upgrading shortstop position. The seem to believe that Drew will find a better opportunity elsewhere for more money than they are comfortable committing.
While that still may be true, there is a new round of information that suggests the Mets may not be out of the running just yet. First and foremore, ESPN's Jim Bowden reported yesterday that the Boston Red Sox have offered Drew a two year deal. To date, it is unknown what the financial terms of that offer are. Also unknown, is the role the Red Sox are asking Drew to play. Peter Gammons of MLB Network hypothesized yesterday on television that Boston would like Drew to play a combination of infield positions, seemingly serving as their backup at second, third and short.
That may not be ideal for Drew, despite the fact that Scott Boras has told teams he has a willing to play positions other than shortstop. Gammons also told his television audience that he still believes that Drew will eventually sign with the Mets. This is seemingly out of left field, since little to nothing has been said about Drew since the Mets declared themselves out of the race.
Its been reported time and time again that the Mets provide Drew with the best opportunity to play every day at his primary position, shortstop. He provides at least a moderate offensive upgrade and is capable solidifying the team's defense up the middle. The questions remain whether or not the Mets have the money, if they are willing to spend it and for how long.
With the Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics and Minnesota Twins now sniffing around on Drew, it still remains unlikely that this issue is resolved anytime soon. My prediction has long been the first or second week of spring training. That allows for another vacancy to open up due to injury, while still giving Drew enough time to be prepared for the start of the year. I'm still not sure whether the Mets are a realistic option for Drew, but they have a shortstop in Tejada and are more than willing to wait Drew out.
While that still may be true, there is a new round of information that suggests the Mets may not be out of the running just yet. First and foremore, ESPN's Jim Bowden reported yesterday that the Boston Red Sox have offered Drew a two year deal. To date, it is unknown what the financial terms of that offer are. Also unknown, is the role the Red Sox are asking Drew to play. Peter Gammons of MLB Network hypothesized yesterday on television that Boston would like Drew to play a combination of infield positions, seemingly serving as their backup at second, third and short.
That may not be ideal for Drew, despite the fact that Scott Boras has told teams he has a willing to play positions other than shortstop. Gammons also told his television audience that he still believes that Drew will eventually sign with the Mets. This is seemingly out of left field, since little to nothing has been said about Drew since the Mets declared themselves out of the race.
Its been reported time and time again that the Mets provide Drew with the best opportunity to play every day at his primary position, shortstop. He provides at least a moderate offensive upgrade and is capable solidifying the team's defense up the middle. The questions remain whether or not the Mets have the money, if they are willing to spend it and for how long.
With the Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics and Minnesota Twins now sniffing around on Drew, it still remains unlikely that this issue is resolved anytime soon. My prediction has long been the first or second week of spring training. That allows for another vacancy to open up due to injury, while still giving Drew enough time to be prepared for the start of the year. I'm still not sure whether the Mets are a realistic option for Drew, but they have a shortstop in Tejada and are more than willing to wait Drew out.
January 30, 2014
Wilmer Flores to Play SS for the Mets?
Yes you read that correctly. Here is a quote from Sandy Alderson that was pulled from Adam Rubin's blog.
“I wouldn’t say [Flores to shortstop] is dead. I think that
one of the things we want to see is how well he has done with his training
regimen in Michigan. Before this off season, I’m not sure he ever had any sort
of structured, regimented conditioning program. The work that they have done on
speed and agility and quickness, etc., may have an impact on his ability to
play certain positions -- including second base and conceivably even shortstop.
But right now, that’s all speculation.”
Okay, so fat camp must be doing something for Sandy and the
gang to even think this is conceivable. Because since 2011 all we have heard
was that this position for Wilmer was dead. Maybe this is why they haven't put
the pedal to the medal to acquire Stephen Drew or maybe over pay for a trade.
What Sandy is saying makes sense. Flores has done nothing but play baseball
year round and not have the opportunity to work on the little things like
quickness and strength. I don't want to
get too excited over this but management has to be seeing something here for
them to even the make this comment. Or is it just more talk? Lord knows we have
heard plenty already.
I think it would be awesome if something like this actually
worked out. He was mashing in AAA but struggled when he got to the
majors. Granted that was a small sample until he got injured. More exposure and at bats could change that. Regardless, what
a story line this would make if he beat out Tejada and could put up comparable
numbers to Drew.
Photo courtesy of: eluniversal.com
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January 29, 2014
Mets Offseason May Be Over
In addition to claiming themselves out of the Stephen Drew race, Sandy Alderson also told Anthony DiComo of MLB.com that the team is unlikely to issue another guaranteed deal this winter. This likely signifies the end of an offseason with two keep positions still remaining on the team's shopping list: an upgrade at shortstop and a veteran relief pitcher.
Following an offer to Grant Balfour who ultimately signed with the Tampa Bay Rays, the Mets were attached to rumors for Fernando Rodney, however that option remains unlikely. Instead Alderson told DiComo:
Following an offer to Grant Balfour who ultimately signed with the Tampa Bay Rays, the Mets were attached to rumors for Fernando Rodney, however that option remains unlikely. Instead Alderson told DiComo:
"We've got a lot of good young arms that we like -- they just don't have
much experience.
Acquiring someone with some experience
would give us some comfort going into Spring
Training, but we don't
want to preclude some of our younger pitchers from getting a
solid
opportunity either. So if there's somebody there that we like, we'll
pursue them.
Otherwise, one of the ways we've approached starting
pitching, for example, is to bring
in a couple of guys on Minor League
contracts and have them compete with some of our
own internal candidates. We may do the same thing with the bullpen."
If he's true to his word, this would put the end to what was supposed to be an offseason of promise. The Mets will have spent just over $87 million dollars this winter, but will have failed to address two of their biggest needs and are poised to enter the season with an opening day payroll of just $82.35 million. None of this will sit well with fans, who were looking for much more heading into 2014. The Mets appear to be only slightly better (depending who you ask) and will lean heavily on their upcoming youth next season.
Mets Unlikely To Sign Drew
The past 48 hours has seen the market for free agent shortstop Stephen Drew heat up. For much of the winter, Drew's market appeared to be limited to just the Boston Red Sox and the New York Mets. That's now changed, with the Oakland A's , Toronto Blue Jays and Minnesota Twins all getting involved. As a result, Mets General Manager Sandy Alderson went on record for the first time since the winter meetings saying that its "unlikely" the team signs Drew.
In a report filed by Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, Alderson says:
In a report filed by Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, Alderson says:
"We haven't ruled it out, but I think doing anything is unlikely. I think that Stephen
will always have other
opportunities. We continue to monitor his situation. We're
looking at
other free agents that are still available and trying to judge their
status,
and how they might fit with us. I know there's been a lot of
speculation about Drew
and the Mets, but at this point, that's what it
remains -- speculation."
This will warrant a sour response from Mets fans who had hoped that Stephen Drew would be the final major piece added this offseason. Drew would have fortified a lineup that was partially renovated this winter, however that no longer appears to be an option.
As a result, it appears likely that Ruben Tejada will in fact get one final chance to claim the shortstop position as his own. He is poised to enter spring training in what the Mets consider much better shape as he looks to regain the form that once saw him dubbed the the replacement for Jose Reyes.
January 27, 2014
Yankees Won't Complicate The Market For Stephen Drew
According to Andy Martino of the New York Daily News, despite having blown their previous budget of $189 million for this offseason, the New York Yankees remain unlikely to pursue free agent shortstop Stephen Drew.
Following the acquisition of Masahiro Tanaka, it became clear that the Yankees would not keep payroll under their goal of $189 million. As a result, some speculated that they could renew their pursuit of Stephen Drew in an effort to provide some depth behind the aging Derek Jeter. It appears that won't be the case as Martino reports the prevailing feeling around baseball is that the Yankees are not in a position to add much additional payroll this winter.
This is good news for Mets fans who still believe the team should make an effort to acquire Drew's services. The Yankees could have turned the somewhat dormant market for Drew on end, quickly raising his asking price out of the Mets' range. Now, with the Yankees seemingly out of the picture it remains a staring contest between the Mets and Red Sox.
Following the acquisition of Masahiro Tanaka, it became clear that the Yankees would not keep payroll under their goal of $189 million. As a result, some speculated that they could renew their pursuit of Stephen Drew in an effort to provide some depth behind the aging Derek Jeter. It appears that won't be the case as Martino reports the prevailing feeling around baseball is that the Yankees are not in a position to add much additional payroll this winter.
This is good news for Mets fans who still believe the team should make an effort to acquire Drew's services. The Yankees could have turned the somewhat dormant market for Drew on end, quickly raising his asking price out of the Mets' range. Now, with the Yankees seemingly out of the picture it remains a staring contest between the Mets and Red Sox.
January 24, 2014
Mets Worst Nightmare..Yankees Back In On Drew?
with tax less of a consideration, yankees now weighing a run at stephen drew. http://t.co/N4GbSThebiLet the games begin! Drew's agent, Scott Boras, has been waiting all winter for another team to jump into the mix for free agent shortstop. All offseason his market has plummeted. What seemed to be a race between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Mets (at most), now takes a turn for the worst.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) January 23, 2014
The New York Yankees were once thought to be out of the Steven Drew sweepstakes, but things now appear to have changed. Having signed Masahiro Tanaka, the Yankees have exceeded the luxury tax threshold. With that in mind, the team may be willing to continue its spending spree. What effect that may have on Drews market remains to be seen, but its certainly bad news for the Mets who had hoped to swoop in and upgrade their shortstop position on the cheap.
Whether or not this elevates Drew's market beyond the Mets' reach remains to be seen, but for a team that's reported bumping right up against his budget limits, any increase in Drew's price doesn't bode well. If they're willing to pay the price, the Yankees could provide Drew with the opportunity to play every day at third base, while also providing insurance for an aging Derek Jeter. This could be the only other opportunity Drew gets for regular reps in 2014. Ultimately, if accurate this is a recipe for disaster and there are no two ways about it.
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Update from this morning -
Am told Yankees are still not weighing a run at Stephen Drew. In other words: Status quo.Perhaps reports that the Yankees could be interested were just Scott Boras being Scott Boras. Perhaps this all a smoke screen for something much different all together. All I know is I'd like to see this situation resolved sooner than later, but I don't think that is going to happen.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) January 24, 2014
January 23, 2014
Mets Could Be The Lone Team Standing For Drew
In yesterday's Boston Herald, Scott Lauber recounts a discussion with Red Sox General Manager, Ben Cherington, about the state of the team right now and the possible addition of free agent Stephen Drew. His words were very telling on just how little commitment the Sox have towards the Drew sweepstakes:
That's what I take away from his words. Drew would be welcomed back at the right price, but it appears Cherington doesn't think that price is realistic. Of course he could be posturing via the media, as the Mets have done many times in the past. Any negotiation with Drew's agent, Scott Boras, is a complicated one, so anything is possible.
If taken at his word, it would appear that Boston's interest in Drew is fading. If that's the case, the Mets remain the lone team with any major connection to Drew. Does that crash his market to the point where he is willing to accept the one year contract the Mets reportedly covet? I'm not sure. As I've said in the past, I don't believe this situation gets settled until after the team's report for spring training, for better or worse.
"We feel good about where we are right now. I think the time that's being spent on talking about publicly is not necessarily consistent with the time we're spending on it. We feel like we're in good shape to start the season tomorrow if we had to. There's a circumstance for the Red Sox in that we have players that we believe in and bigger-picture things that we want to do, and some of that has nothing to do with Stephen Drew. Stephen did a great job for us last year. We respect him, and because of that, we've kept a dialogue going. But there's nothing to be gleaned from that other than we've kept a dialogue going. We're comfortable where we are. I don't ever want to rule anything out because it doesn't make any sense to do that, but we like the roster we have now."As is always the case with any general manager, its important to try to interpret exactly what he means. This isn't the first time Cherington has made similar comments. The Red Sox have some significant young talent on the left side of the infield in Xander Bogaerts and Will Middlebrooks. There isn't necessarily an everyday role available for Drew in Boston. As a result there is no real push to retain him.
That's what I take away from his words. Drew would be welcomed back at the right price, but it appears Cherington doesn't think that price is realistic. Of course he could be posturing via the media, as the Mets have done many times in the past. Any negotiation with Drew's agent, Scott Boras, is a complicated one, so anything is possible.
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If taken at his word, it would appear that Boston's interest in Drew is fading. If that's the case, the Mets remain the lone team with any major connection to Drew. Does that crash his market to the point where he is willing to accept the one year contract the Mets reportedly covet? I'm not sure. As I've said in the past, I don't believe this situation gets settled until after the team's report for spring training, for better or worse.
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