TBEBaseball Interview

Recently, I received an email from Tommy Marcus from TBEBaseball.com. He wanted to know if I would be willing to answer some questions about the Mets and their future. I decided that it sounded like fun, and you can read the short interview below. Enjoy!

How do you feel about the success from the Mets so far? Should they be doing better?

Honestly, I know there is a lot of panic in New York, but that shouldn’t be a shock to anybody. With guys like Reyes, Delgado, and Beltran all missing some time, the Mets are lucky to be where they are. Gary Sheffield is a big reason for that. The Mets need to get themselves healthy so that they can get back on the right track.

With JJ Putz’s struggles to adapt to a New York atmosphere, do you think he will be traded?

Actually, I don’t. I think JJ is just trying to figure things out here. Remember, he is used to being in a market where there is absolutely no media coverage, and he is used to no pressure. Now he is in a place where the environment is the complete opposite. I think he needs to stop talking and get his game back together. This is going to surprise people. But, I do still believe in Putz, and I think the trade will be a win for the Mets in the long run this season.

Who do you think the Mets are most likely to trade for this season?

Well, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Mets acquire a back-end starting pitcher to replace Tim Redding in the rotation, unless Oliver Perez is ready to return. We all know the Mets are going to give him more chances after the investment that they made on him. One guy who I can see the Mets landing is Seattle’s Jarrod Washburn, although that doesn’t really excite me.

Will the Mets make the playoffs? What do you think their record will be?

I think the Mets will make the playoffs, but they won’t advance too far. I’d imagine that they will win the Wild Card, with a record somewhere around 90-72.

What has been the most negative effect on the team so far?

Unfortunately, lady luck has been the most negative thing. The injury bug has been like a plague through the Mets’ clubhouse. Luckily though, the Mets have guys who have stepped up and led, and they really should be in a much worse position than they currently are in.