The One/Third Report: The Rest

OMAR MINAYA - INCOMPLETE

I assess Omar Minaya to this point with an incomplete. Why? Thus far, this season has been an unpredictable whirlwind filled with twists and turns, ups and downs. The Mets are in contention, but they have work to do. Omar, show me something. Get me a bona fide top of the line starter, an 8th inning guy, a bat off the bench, and a playoff appearance. Otherwise, for passing on the likes of John Lackey this past offseason, you are likely to land a big fat "F" and a spot in the unemployment line.


The lady friend knows what's up >>>








JERRY MANUEL - D

With the decision to pull Santana after 8 brilliant innings in Milwaukee still fresh in my head, it's hard to feel good about Jerry. "The Art of Losing a Game" has been perfected by Manuel this year. That said, the team seems to play hard for him despite his seemingly calm demeanor and (somewhat slow?) speech. If nothing else, Jerry provides me ample material to write about, so thanks Jerry for that much. All in all, with questionable bullpen management, predictable leashes on pitchers, poor road performance, and curious lineups (why insert Cora and Tatis 2 and 4 respectively instead of shuffling the lineup for a day?) I give Jerry a D. And barely. Don't waste your time calling for his head though, Mets fans. It's not happening - at least not when the team is winning - whether it is because of or despite him.



THE BULLPEN - B -

Can we please get an easy save for once K-Rod? The "stability" or "sure thing" at the back end of the pen is anything but. Rodriguez has blown numerous games this year (San Francisco, St. Louis, San Diego) and hasn't been great in tie games either (Washington). The bullpen was the Mets strong suit at the beginning of the season. Now it's a scramble and a bit of an unknown. This is an area where Omar needs to bulk up. Here's something far out - Pedro Martinez for the 8th? Make some calls, Omar.



BENCH - C-

Henry Blanco and Chris Carter save this from being an abysmal grade. There is a strong chance the bench will get better if Carlos Beltran ever returns. The Mets would then have four outfielders, if not more that could earn playing time. Trade possibilities? You know it.




The One/Third Report - Starting Staff

The One/Third Report - The lineup



-Tom Greenhalgh (6/6/10)