Daniel Murphy: A Player the New York Mets Should Consider Keeping

Daniel Murphy is a man who has given his heart and soul to the game of baseball. Every ridiculous thing asked of him by an inept general manager, a bad field manager and clueless ownership he has admirably provided, and much more. In addition, he has broken nearly every breakable body part he needs to function as a solid baseball player.

Despite his injuries, his less than successful attempts to play any outfield position and his much maligned play at first base, he remained confident in his abilities. Murphy never quit on himself or his teammates.  This New York Mets team needs a roster full of players like him. It is my fervent belief that Daniel Murphy should remain a New York Met.

Consider his line for last night’s game: AB 5; Runs scored 1; Hits 3; and, RBI 2. For 2011, his batting average is .312 and his on base percentage is .351. While his fielding can be an adventure, he has made several brilliant plays at first and third base.  

I understand full well he is no Prince Fielder or Mark Teixeira, not by a long shot, but he was never expected to be.  Murphy has the talent and the makeup to play in New York City. That cannot be said for many excellent baseball players who floundered for both New York baseball teams, while flourishing elsewhere. He is an asset to the Mets, and if the organization decides to trade him, he will be an asset anywhere they ship him. 

Having followed Major League Baseball and the New York Mets for forty-five years, my instincts tell me that Daniel Murphy will not be traded (although I would not be surprised if he is playing somewhere else by the July 31st deadline).

Over the past eighty nine games, Murphy has shown himself to be more than a substitute and a pinch hitter; he has proved his value as an everyday ball player. If I were making decisions for the Mets, my inclination would be to keep him. I sincerely hope the Mets are so inclined.