Castro Gets His Chance: Schneider DL'ed

Ramon has some pop, and the Mets know it.

The Mets announced today that starting catcher Brian Schneider has been put on the 15-day disabled list with a strain in his back, and while an injury is never good news, this could be the opportunity that Ramon Castro needs to steal the job back. In case you were wondering, Omir Santos was called up to be Castro’s backup prior to Friday’s game against the Brewers.

Castro possesses more weapons than Schneider does. I guess that this injury could have been one thing that may have been hampering the Mets’ number one catcher, but his defense hasn’t been stellar. He is excellent in managing a young pitching staff, and that is where his value truly lies, but I think the Mets are sacrificing much in terms of offense when they put Schneider in there.

Think about it. I have been spoiled with offensively minded catchers ever. While I was growing up, my idol went from being Todd Hundley to Mike Piazza. Hundley has the Mets’ single season homer record, and Piazza may be the best offensive player in Mets’ history. Either way, the first downturn came when the Mets switched over to Paul Lo’Duca, who hit for a high average and rarely struck out, but the change to Schneider has resulted in a lot more double plays and a lot more automatic outs. That is why Castro needs to be given a shot.

Last night, Castro proved his bat was worthy when he crushed a two-run homer to put the Mets back in the game. He is capable of that every time he comes up, and he should be given the chance to shine. Well Ramon…the time is now, and it is time for you to rise up, and seize the day.