1. In my weekly Hardball column in Sundayâs paper, I talked about the status of the Met farm system. And I understand the frustration within the organization. Folks keep saying that they have very little to deal, but they ultimately had enough to get Johan Santana plus pieces such as Luis Castillo and Jeff Conine late last season. But the perception is still out there â stronger than before the Santana deal â that the system is not very deep. The Mets believe that they have a good crop of players coming, specifically from last yearâs draft and their heavy financial involvement in Latin America. It is clear, though, that the Mets need to let the system grow a little. They have reached to the farm a lot in Omar Minayaâs reign to complete trades. But they are in a tricky spot to let the system grow. They have an older brittle team and $140 million in payroll. So if they get injuries, the Mets just canât dismiss this season as a lost cause. They will have to use what is left in the system to address problems. Very, very tricky.
2. Orlando Hernandez is talking defiantly about staying out of the bullpen and being healthy enough to be part of the rotation. This is good for the Mets. Hernandez is always a little better when his only injury is a chip on his shoulder.
3. Here is another name for the Mets to consider for the righty-hitting outfield slot: Floridaâs Cody Ross. He has a history of hitting lefty pitching well (.301 BA/.636 SLG in 176 ABs). He is a backup player for Florida. He has experience in all three outfield slots.
