Give Me the Under!

Baseball Prospectus has their latest predictions for the 2010 baseball season and it doesn't bode highly for fans of the New York Mets. Here's their projected take on the NL East:

Granted the "experts" usually have no idea about what they're talking about, but picking the Mets to finish BELOW the Nats? That's humiliating - unless of course the Nats have Bobby Valentine or someone waiting in the wings.

What's the Problem? This is the Problem!

Omar Minaya insists he's in charge of the moves the Met organization makes. Need we say any more?

According to the New York Daily News:

Omar Minaya tried to lay to rest scuttlebutt that he's not calling all the shots in the Mets' baseball operations department, saying on SNY's "Hot Stove" show Thursday night that he has "full autonomy."

"Yes, I do," Minaya told host Kevin Burkhardt. "I know there's been some talk about that, but I have full autonomy." He added, "We feel good about working together and we'll continue to work together (in the front office)." The general manager added that the Mets have not had financial restrictions this winter.

Meanwhile, the Mets continue to court John Smoltz and his former Atlanta teammate, Jeff Francoeur, has been recruiting the pitcher. Smoltz, who turns 43 in May, is considering waiting until midseason to pitch.

Also, the Mets have a one-year agreement in place for utility man Fernando Tatis to return, pending a physical.

John Smoltz???? ... Fernando Tatis??? ... The Gary Matthews trade? ... The inability to lure even the most average talented free agent has-beens to play for this team without overpaying?... Bidding against themselves for Jason Bay?... Are the Mets serious? No wonder Omar's in charge!

'Twas The Night Before Christmas ... belated

Hey All ... Been a while, and although Christmas has come and gone, I came across this while clearing out my eMails. It is a play off of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas ... and thought it would be enjoyed anyway ... thanks Louis ...

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas
and quiet in Flushing.
To renew season tickets
Met fans weren't rushing.

With new players a plenty,
the team's rivals slept sound.
But there's angst in Met Nation --
Omar's no where to be found!

Sure he signed Henry Blanco,
Cora's back in the fold.
But his focus should be on
those less washed up and old.

Forget John Lackey and Doc,
and Marquis' a no-go.
No more than a report,
linking the Mets to Pedro.

With several holes on offense
and no help on the farm,
I was about to lose heart,
when Omar landed an arm!

I dashed to my computer
when I heard the chatter.
Logged on to ESPN,
to see what was the matter.

And just what did the headline,
on the breaking news say?
"The Mets sign R.A. Dickey,"
and his 5.43 ERA.

Wake up, Mr. Minaya!
Before the good players are gone.
Or you'll get coal from St. Nick,
and the boot from Wilpon.

Happy holidays, thanks for reading this space, and as always... Ya gotta believe