Saturday, March 26, 2011

Mets Take Advantage of Braves' Sloppy Play

New York finished the day with an 8-2 win over Atlanta. The Braves didn't help themselves in the field, committing five errors in the game.
  • Mike Pelfrey went 5.2 innings, allowing two runs on seven hits, while striking out four. Pelfrey also helped himself out at the plate, with an RBI single in the 3rd inning.
  • Angel Pagan, David Wright, and Ike Davis all had an RBI to give the Mets an early 3-0 lead in the 1st inning.
  • The Mets tagged on three more runs in the 3rd inning, thanks to RBI singles by Willie Harris and Pelfrey. Harris would later score in the inning after Brooks Conrad committed an error at third base. 
  • An error in the 6th inning by Braves third baseman Joe Mather allowed Chin-ling Hu to score. Hu added to the Mets lead in the 7th inning with an RBI single.
  • Manny Acosta, Tim Byrdak, Bobby Parnell, and Francisco Rodriguez pitched a combined 3.1 scoreless innings of relief.

Next up: The Mets take on the Cardinals in Jupiter at 1:05 p.m.

Izzy, Beato, and Boyer Duke It Out For Spot In Bullpen

With two relief spots open in the bullpen, the Mets have narrowed their search down to Jason Isringhausen, Pedro Beato, and Blaine Boyer.

Isringhausen, who has had numerous elbow injuries throughout his career, is now battling a swelled right elbow. With six innings of relief work under his belt so far, he has gone 1-0 this Spring with a 1.50 ERA. He has recently stated that he will not take a minor league assignment if he does not make the opening day roster. 

At this stage of the game, I think Isringhausen should accept a minor league assignment. He has shown he still has the talent, but with this recent injury, he's just going to be taking a roster spot away from someone who will be effective when called upon.

He should take the assignment, get healthy, and wait to be called up. It beats being unemployed.

Of the Mets' three choices, Pedro Beato is most likely to make the roster. The Rule 5 draft pick has the best chance due to the fact that he would have to be sent back to Baltimore if he does not make the 25-man roster.

Beato has pitched 11.2 innings of relief this Spring, posting a 0-0 record and a 3.09 ERA.

Not to be outdone by Beato, Blaine Boyer has been impressive all Spring.  Boyer has allowed just one earned run in nine innings of work. His ERA is 1.00.

Boyer also has a clause in his contract which allows him to sign elsewhere should he not make the squad. That could prove to be the extra incentive the Mets need to hang on to him.

With Beato and Boyer having such a good Spring, and the fact that the Mets could lose both of them if they don't make the team, Isringhausen may be the odd man out.

So who has made claimed a bullpen spot? Francisco Rodriguez, Bobby Parnell, D.J. Carrasco, Taylor Buchholz, and Tim Byrdak, that's who.

Mets And Braves Meet For The Final Time

March 26, 2011
1:05 PM ET
Port St. Lucie, FL
TV: WPIX
RADIO: WFAN 660

NEW YORK METS
Mike Pelfrey (0-2, 6.38 ERA) makes his final start of the Spring.

ATLANTA BRAVES
Derek Lowe (2-1, 1.86 ERA) gets the start for Atlanta.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Davis Shows Power, But Mets Lose To Marlins

The Mets dropped this afternoon's game against the Marlins by a score of 6-5. Here's what you missed.
  • D.J. Carrasco went 4 innings, giving up four runs on six hits, while striking out four. 
  • Pat Misch went two innings in relief, allowing two runs on three hits. 
  • Ike Davis got the Mets on the board in the 6th inning with a solo shot, his third home run of the Spring.
  • Kirk Nieuwenhuis doubled and had two RBIs in the game.
  • Luis Hernandez and Jesus Feliciano each had an RBI in the 8th inning.
Next up: The Mets take on the Braves for the final time this Spring in Port St. Lucie at 1:05 p.m.

Mets Skip Young's Start Over Marlins

March 25, 2011
1:05 PM ET
Jupiter, FL
Not Televised

NEW YORK METS
Pat Misch (2-0, 4.23 ERA) or D.J. Carrasco (1-1, 4.63 ERA) will get the start over Chris Young. The Mets will have Young pitch in a minor league game instead to avoid pitching against the Marlins for the third time this Spring.

FLORIDA MARLINS
Anibal Sanchez (2-0, 2.63 ERA) will get the start for the Marlins.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Mets To Hold Autism Awareness Day

Having a family member who is on the autism spectrum, and having worked children with autism in special education, the Mets' Autism Awareness Day is a day that should not be overlooked. One in 110 children are affected with autism.

The Mets are giving fans a chance to support these children by donating proceeds from each ticket sold for the event. Regular game-day tickets will not offer fans the chance to make a donation, so be sure to click on the link below to purchase tickets for this particular event.

Proceeds from tickets sold to the May 7th game will go to Tri-State area educational, treatment and outreach programs, serving children with autism and their families.

When fans buy their tickets, they may choose from the list of organizations they would like to donate to. 

The game against the Los Angeles Dodgers will be preceded by a VIP party as well as a pre-game ceremony.

Those who purchase these special tickets will be given access to batting practice for both teams, a DJ party, the opportunity to meet Mr. Met, as well as the chance to meet Darryl Strawberry.

You know you want to go to a game, so why not go to a game that is supporting a good cause.

To purchase tickets, click here.

Cardinals Throw Batting Practice For Mets

The Mets beat up the Cardinals this afternoon 16-3. Here's what you missed:

OFFENSE
  • David Wright went 4-4 with a two-run home run, and three RBIs total.
  • Angel Pagan went 3-4 with a three-run home run in the 4th inning.
  • Brad Emaus went 4-4 with home run in the 5th inning. Josh Thole also hit a solo shot in the inning.
  • Matt Den Dekker hit a three-run home run in the bottom of the 6th inning.
PITCHING
  • Chris Capuano went 5 innings, giving up three runs on eight hits while striking out four. 
  • Blaine Boyer, Francisco Rodriguez, Taylor Buccholz, and Bobby Parnell threw a combined four innings of scoreless relief.
Next up: The Mets head to Jupiter to take on the Marlins.

Irving Picard Asked To Resign

A New York law firm filed papers in bankruptcy court Wednesday, requesting that Bernie Madoff trustee, Irving Picard, resign. 

The court document alleges that Picard failed to disclose information about Madoff associate Norman Levy's role in the scheme.

According to the Wall Street Journal, "The firm on Wednesday alleged the trustee deliberately concealed information about Levy's 'criminal activities in order to improperly obtain the court's approval for a sweetheart deal for the Levy heirs.'"

Attorney Helen Davis Chaitman, who cited Picard, has requested that the Securities Investor Protection Corporation bring in a special investigator to find out what is going on.

The Mets are being sued by Picard for $1 billion. Picard claims Mets owners Fred Wilpon and Saul Katz were aware, or should have been aware, of the Ponzi scheme, and failed to do anything, resulting in millions in fictitious profits. 

Mets And Cardinals Part Deux

March 24, 2011
1:10 PM ET
Port St. Lucie, FL
TV: SNY


NEW YORK METS
Chris Capuano (1-0, 1.69 ERA) will start for the Mets.

In the Bullpen:
Francisco Rodriguez, D.J. Carrasco, Bobby Parnell, and Tim Byrdak

ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
Jaime Garcia (1-2, 8.31 ERA) starts for St. Louis.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Why Are People So Angry?!

For the past few months, Mets fans had been fuming, over Luis Castillo and Oliver Perez being on the team. I'll admit, I was miffed by it too, but I got over it because I had better things to do then sit and stew over it.

Then, in recent weeks, Mets beat reporters have faced the ire of fans for being "snarky", and all posting the same thing.

Finally, after Castillo and Perez were released this week, there was discussion of who the next Met will be to face the boo-birds.

Seriously? Are there really fans out there actively looking for someone else to boo on their favorite team?

I've seen some of the snarkiness over Twitter as of late, and it's not necessary.

As for the reporters posting the same thing all at the same time, I don't see what people are getting bent out of shape for. If you are following ten beat reporters, who all write for different publications, expect to get at least ten Tweets about whatever it is the Mets did.

If it's really that much of an issue for you, cut the list of who you are following down to one or two. Simple as that.

Opening Day is next week, the team is finally rid of two of its most hated players, and there is new management.

Quit being so angry, and enjoy the fact that "meaningful" baseball is about to begin.

This is supposed to be fun, people.

Go To Dinner With The Mets

Ever want to attend the Mets Welcome Home Dinner, but realize there's no way you could afford the $1,000 per ticket price tag? Well pack your bags and head north.

The Binghamton Mets will hold their own Welcome Back Dinner on April 5 for a whopping $20. That's it. $20.

For that, you will get to break bread with your favorite prospects, get autographs, and watch team introductions, as well as the introduction of Wally Backman as the team's new manager.

If you're interested, tickets for the event are on sale now, and more information can be found here.

It should be noted that all of the proceeds, whether at the NYC or Binghamton event, will be donated to charity.

Mets And Cardinals Do Battle In Jupiter

March 23, 2011
1:05 PM ET
Jupiter, FL
TV: ESPN


NEW YORK METS
R.A. Dickey (0-2, 5.25 ERA) gets the start.

In the Bullpen:
Francisco Rodriguez, D.J. Carrasco, Pedro Beato, Manny Acosta, and Pat Misch

ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
Jake Westbrook (1-1, 4.91 ERA) starts for the Cardinals.


Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Niese Struggles, But Mets Win

The Mets beat the Tigers this afternoon by a score of 7-4.  Here's what you missed:
  • Jon Niese went 4 innings, allowing four runs on five hits, while striking out three.
  • Willie Harris hit a grand slam in the 2nd inning.
  • David Wright had an RBI in the 2nd inning as well.
  • Ronnie Paulino and Cory Vaughn each doubled in a run in the 8th and 9th inning respectively.
  • Angel Pagan left the game with a sore lower back. The issue is not said to be serious.
Next up: The Mets take on the Cardinals in Jupiter, FL.

Mets Hit The Road To Take On Tigers

March 22, 2011
1:05 PM ET
Lakeland, FL
Not Televised



NEW YORK METS
Jon Niese (1-1, 3.31 ERA) starts for New York.

In the Bullpen:
Tim Byrdak, Mike O'Connor, and Pedro Beato
 
DETROIT TIGERS
Brad Penny (1-0, 2.35 ERA) takes the mound for Detroit.

 In the Bullpen:
Adam Wilk, Daniel Schlereth, and Robbie Weinhardt

Monday, March 21, 2011

Rejoice Mets Fans, Perez Is Gone

What is there to say, other than, it's about damn time. Adios.

Oliver Perez got the boot.

Mets Take On Braves...Again

March 21, 2011
1:05 PM ET
Port St. Lucie, FL
TV: SNY


NEW YORK METS
Mike Pelfrey (0-2, 5.40 ERA) starts for the Mets.

In the Bullpen:
Jason Isringhausen, D.J. Carrasco, Blaine Boyer

ATLANTA BRAVES
Kenshin Kawakami (0-0, 1.80 ERA) takes the mound for Atlanta.

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Castillo Taking His Talents to Philly?

Rumor has it, Luis Castillo will soon be joining the Philadelphia Phillies. The Phillies are currently facing an uncertain situation at second base due to Chase Utley's knee issues.

The Phillies would only have to pay him the league minimum.

If the Phillies get Castillo, that only means one thing. He'll go on to win a gold glove at second base and the triple crown. 

Hey Philadelphia, if you're interested, I hear a young, left-handed pitcher will soon be on the market. Play your cards right and he could be yours!

Mets Owners Fight Back Against Picard Suit

Fred and Jeff Wilpon, along with Saul Katz, released their response to the $1 billion lawsuit brought against them by Irving Picard. 

The Mets owners were kind enough to also create a Fiction vs. Fact chart
 
As I've said in the past, I really hope that Mets ownership is a victim of an overly-aggressive trustee, and did not do what the suit alleges, but who knows.

As they say, there's always three sides to every story: Your side, my side, and the truth.

Here is the press release from the Wilpons and Katz:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

STERLING PARTNERS REJECT MADOFF TRUSTEE’S LAWSUIT AS WORK OF FICTION

GREAT NECK, N.Y., March 20, 2011 – In court papers filed today, Fred Wilpon, Saul B. Katz and their Sterling Equities partners (the “Sterling Partners”) began the process of defending themselves in court against the false allegations made by the Trustee overseeing the liquidation of Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC (BLMIS). In the motion filed today, the Sterling Partners provide clear evidence that the Trustee’s amended complaint:

Makes false allegations in an effort to force a settlement from a high profile group of individuals.

Makes false charges against the Sterling Partners that are directly contrary to the evidence available before the complaint was filed.

Omits evidence overwhelmingly favorable to the Sterling Partners that was not made available to the Sterling Partners before the complaint was filed.

Was filed containing false allegations despite repeated warnings that these charges would inflict harm upon the Sterling Partners’ reputations and businesses.

Ignores established law governing the liquidation of a federally regulated broker-dealer institution.

The Sterling Partners’ response motion categorically and unequivocally rejects each of the Trustee’s charges, demonstrating how the complaint makes allegations that are contradicted by the evidence. Examination of the evidence makes clear the Trustee’s complaint was crafted to pressure the Sterling Partners to pay a huge settlement. The Sterling Partners had a working relationship with Madoff that millions of Americans have with their brokers. They entrusted their investments to him, looked to him for liquidity from their funds when they needed it and relied on the statements they received from him as evidence of the securities they owned.

Fred Wilpon and Saul Katz said, “After months of damaging leaks, false accusations and withholding of evidence, we can finally legally respond to the work of fiction created by the Trustee. Let us be very clear: we did not know that Madoff was engaged in a fraud. There were no red flags and we received no warnings. It’s important to remember that before Madoff confessed his crimes, most of the world, including the SEC, viewed Madoff as a legendary Wall Street figure who was a pioneer in electronic trading and had served with distinction as the Chairman of NASDAQ.

“At every step in this process, the Trustee has dismissed our requests for information in his possession when we have cooperated fully with him. We will continue to defend ourselves vigorously and set the record straight.”

Among the many false allegations in the Trustee’s complaint, the Sterling Partners’ motion refutes the following, which represent the crux of the Trustee’s case:

1. False allegation: The Trustee claims “the partners willfully turned a blind eye to every red flag of fraud before them.”1

o The facts: There were no red flags and no warnings about Madoff conveyed by anyone to the Sterling Partners. Every witness, whose testimony the Sterling Partners and their counsel have, testified under oath that there was no sign that Madoff was engaged in fraud.

2. False allegation: In the core allegation in the complaint, the Trustee claims that representatives from Sterling Stamos “repeatedly warned” the Sterling Partners that Madoff was “too good to be true.”

o The facts: Peter Stamos, Co Founder and Co Managing Partner and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Stamos, testified under oath precisely the opposite:

“…I said to Mr. Katz on a number of occasions that my assumption is that Mr. Madoff is the most honest and honorable man, among the most honest and honorable men that we will ever meet. Number one. And, number two, that he is perhaps one of the – my assumption is he’s perhaps one of the best hedge fund managers in modern times…

[The first assumption was b]ased on his reputation, based upon his long track record, based upon having seen him receive these awards and the positions that he held as Chairman of the NASDAQ, having built this great company. He was, quite frankly, legendary, to all of us. And I stood in awe of that with Mr. Katz, and I assumed that.”

“All the way to the time when the fraud was discovered, I had the same conclusion. Other than not putting more than 10 percent into a manager, and that as a fiduciary I could not put my capital, my fund’s capital there, I agreed with [Saul Katz]. Legend in the industry and all of the things that he said.”

Responding to a question from the Trustee whether he thought that Madoff was a “scam” or “too good to be true,” Mr. Stamos testified, “I can’t recall ever using those words to describe Mr. Madoff.”

3. False allegation: The Trustee characterizes Madoff’s “black box” investing strategy as being “mysterious” and therefore a “red flag.”

o The facts: “Black box” or proprietary trading strategies are common on Wall Street, are employed by numerous legitimate and successful funds and are entirely legal.

o The facts: Madoff was a SEC registered broker dealer, regulated by the SEC. The SEC itself, with its vast resources and trained fraud investigators, did not uncover any sign of impropriety at BLMIS

o The facts: Madoff was a member of the Board of Governors of the National Association of Securities Dealers. He also was a member of the Cincinnati Stock Exchange and pioneered its conversion to an all electronic exchange. Madoff also served as one of two vice chairmen of the Securities Industry Association and as the head of its Trading Committee and as Chairman of NASDAQ.

4. False allegation: The Trustee claims that the Sterling Partners should have known about the Madoff fraud because they had a long, personal relationship with Madoff and were successful businesspeople.

o The facts: The Sterling Partners are retail, or non professional, investors who under oath have testified that they do not have investment expertise in the securities market. This is precisely the reason they entrusted their investments to Madoff and other professionals. The Sterling Partners, like all customers of federally registered broker dealers, relied on their account statements as evidence of their ownership of securities.

o The facts: It defies logic to suggest that personal access to and friendship with Madoff offered the ability to uncover fraudulent activity. Highly sophisticated investors and leading financial experts had similar access to Madoff, and none discovered illegal activity.

The motion filed today by the Sterling Partners can be found on the Sterling Equities Partners website at www.sterlingequities.com.

The Sterling Partners move to dismiss the complaint filed against them by the Trustee.

Mets Come Up Empty

The Mets lost to the Marlins in Jupiter, by a score of 5-0.
  • Chris Young pitched 6 scoreless innings, holding the Marlins to just four hits, while striking out three.
  • Things got ugly in the 7th inning. With two runners on for Florida, Mike O'Connor came in to relieve Bobby Parnell. O'Connor, apparently feeling very Ollie-esque, allowed those two runs to score, followed by three more runs of his own.
  • Pedro Beato was finally able to get the Mets out of the inning. Taylor Buchholz came on to pitch a scoreless 8th inning.
  • Brad Emaus and Justin Turner played second base today. Emaus was 1-2 with a double. Turner was 0-1. 
 Next up: The Mets take on the Braves at 1:10 p.m. in Port St. Lucie.

Mets Going Fishin'

March 20, 2011
1:05 PM ET
Jupiter, FL
Not Televised


NEW YORK METS
Chris Young (0-0, 1.88 ERA) will take the mound for the Mets.

FLORIDA MARLINS
Anibal Sanchez (2.0, 4.15 ERA) starts for Florida.