Catching update; Schneider, Castro, Santos.....

It seems like things could get very interesting in regards to the Mets catching situation.

I didn't hear it myself but there are several reports, stated on TV today, that Brian Schneider isn't close to returning. However, other reports state that he will catch at Port St. Lucie in extended spring training, this up coming week.

This is the second year in a row that Schneider is missing significant time due to injuries and while the organization over looks his weak bat due to his old school catching style, the injuries may make him affordable. However, the Mets don't eat contracts the size of his (2009- 4.9MM) and only a truly desperate team would take on an often injured, weak hitting, older catcher.

Schneider's only played in seven games so far this season and is hitting .173.

Meanwhile, Ramon Castro left Saturday's game with what is being described as quad cramps. Castro's penchant for getting injured when used regularly and the perception that he's lazy, may cost him his job. Castro's contract is affordable ( 2.5MM) to either cut or would be appealing to other teams if the Mets decide to make a move.

Castro is hitting .292 and it's hard to give up that kind of bat even if you can only use him 1-2 times a week.

Omir Santos seems to have solidified himself as, at least the back-up catcher. I have to be honest, there is a part of me that sees Santos as a Ruben Gotay, flavor of the month and I'm reluctant to rely on him. Still, Santos is hitting .300 with several key hits and the pitching staff is happy with his game calling. There is no way he makes it through waivers, so if both catchers are healthy ( Schneider/Castro) and the Mets believe he's the real deal, then he'll be costing someone their spot...

""Omir is going to stay right here," Mets manager Jerry Manuel said. "For as long as he's doing what he's doing, he's going to stay here. I don't know what we're going to do when that situation presents itself, but right now, he's doing a tremendous job." source NJ.com
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