Edgy MD

Dominican, crazy tall for a shortstop, chinbearded, being hyped to the skies, and promoted well ahead of my age peers, I'm José Reyes fifteen years later. I mean, I certainly don't feature the stolen base like he did, and hopefully I'm not quite as man-child-y as José, but it's the same drama with a new star. I've got 54 games of AA under my belt, so if I stay anything close to the Reyes program I should taste big league buffet food this season. And I'm actually about a year and a half behind him. So this train is coming. But, folks are also hoping I show some power before I debut, and the system is a lot more secure in infielders than it was at the point of Reyes' debut way back when. Should that matter? I don't know. Do you know? Because this is my season here. [fimg=361:1roq9d12]https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ny5VXT9sdGCpW44p6SHNg2rC2bo=/0x0:5472x3648/1310x873/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50050731/amed-rosario-2016-mcshane-1983.0.0.jpg[/fimg:1roq9d12] [fimg=359:1roq9d12]http://metsmerizedonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/amed-rosario-e1468332172750.png[/fimg:1roq9d12] [fimg=340:1roq9d12]https://blog-blogmediainc.netdna-ssl.com/upload/SportsBlogcom/1940638/0093088001470707566_upload/SportsBlogcom/1940638/0472709001470707563_usatodaysportsimages.jpg.jpg[/fimg:1roq9d12] [fimg=380:1roq9d12]https://cdn.fansided.com/wp-content/uploads/usat-images/2017/03/9931443-mlb-spring-training-new-york-mets-at-atlanta-braves-850x560.jpeg[/fimg:1roq9d12]

A ninth-inning RBI by returning catcher Xorge Carillo and the METS WIN!

Rowen on for the Mets. Cards get two on in the bottom of the eighth. I don't care what they say. Bradford brought it from even lower.

The return of Xorge Carillo to camp makes the catcher corps a little crowded, so the third round of cuts is a round of one. TransactionSent To Minor League CampPosition Group=#008000] Catcher[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/621512.jpg[/fimg]NameTomás Nido #70DoB4/12/94B/TR/R Projected 2017 Mets Coaching Staff Position=#BF0000] Manager=#BF0000] Hitting Coach=#BF0000] Pitching Coach=#BF0000] First Base Coach=#BF0000] Third Base Coach[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/492632.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/438989.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/123951.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/114961.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/427468.jpg[/fimg]NameTerry Collins #10Kevin Long #57Dan Warthen #38Tom Goodwin #22Glenn Sherlock #53DoB5/27/4912/30/6612/1/527/27/687/7/58Position=#BF0000]Bench Coach=#BF0000]Bullpen Coach=#BF0000]Ass't Batting Coach=#BF0000]Strength & Cond. Coach=#BF0000]Strength & Cond. Coach[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/121944.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/111191.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]https://metsinpeace.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/pat-roessler-1.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]https://metsinpeace.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/mike-barwis.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]https://metsinpeace.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/dustin-clarke-1.jpg[/fimg]NameDick Scott #23Ricky Bones #25Pat Roessler #6Mike BarwisDustin ClarkeDoB7/19/624/7/6912/27/596/6/73circa 1987Position=#BF0000]Bullpen Catcher=#BF0000]Bullpen Catcher[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/534948.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/430002.jpg[/fimg]NameDave Racaniello #53Eric Langill #78DoB6/3/787/7/58 YOUR Projected 2017 New York Mets Position Group=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_594798.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/607229.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_518774.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_571927.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_592789.jpg[/fimg]NameJacob deGrom #48Robert Gsellman #65Matt Harvey #33Steven Matz #32Noah Syndergaard #34DoB6/19/887/18/933/27/895/29/918/29/92B/TL/RR/RR/RR/LL/RPrimary Position=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting PitcherOther PositionsrprpStatus Notes=#FF0000]Coming Off Surgery =#00BF00]Has Options=#00BF00]Has Options=#FF0000]Coming Off Surgery=#FF0000]Coming Off Surgery =#00BF00]Has Options=#00BF00] Has OptionsPosition Group=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher[fimg=90]http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_460283.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_572831.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_544727.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_592340.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/592665.jpg[/fimg]NameJerry Blevins #39Josh Edgin #66Jeurys Familia #27Erik Goeddel #62Addison Reed #43DoB6/6/8312/17/8610/10/8912/20/8812/27/88B/TL/LR/LR/RR/RL/RPrimary Position=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief PitcherOther PositionsStatus Notes=#00BF00] Has OptionsPosition Group=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000] Catcher=#008000] Catcher=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_570663.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/477569.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_518595.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/425784.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/452678.jpg[/fimg]NameHansel Robles #47Fernando Salas #59Travis d'Arnaud #18René Rivera #44Asdrubal Cabrera #13DoB8/13/905/30/855/30/907/31/8311/13/85B/TR/RR/RR/RR/RS/RPrimary Position=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000]Catcher=#008000]Catcher=#8000FF]ShortstopOther Positions1bStatus Notes=#00BF00]Has OptionsPosition Group=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_446263.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_527038.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/408314.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/608061.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/435522.jpg[/fimg]NameLucas Duda #21Wilmer Flores #4José Reyes #7T.J. Rivera #54Neil Walker #20DoB2/3/868/6/916/11/8310/27/884/9/87B/TL/RR/RS/RR/RS/RPrimary Position=#8000FF]First Base=#8000FF]Third Base=#8000FF]Third Base=#8000FF]Second Base=#8000FF]Second BaseOther Positionsss, 2b, 1bss3b, lf, 1bStatus Notes=#00BF00] Has Options=#FF0000]Coming Off SurgeryPosition Group=#0000FF] Outfielder=#0000FF] Outfielder=#0000FF] Outfielder=#0000FF] Outfielder=#0000FF] Outfielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/457803.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/493316.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/624424.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_434158.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_501571.jpg[/fimg]NameJay Bruce #19Yoenis Céspedes #52Michael Conforto #30Curtis Granderson #3Juan Lagares #12DoB4/3/8710/18/853/1/933/16/813/17/89B/TL/RR/RL/LL/RR/RPrimary Position=#0000FF]Right Field=#0000FF]Left Field=#0000FF]Left Field=#0000FF]Right Field=#0000FF]Center FieldOther Positionscfcfrf, cfcf, lfrf, lfStatus Notes=#00BF00] Has Options Also on 40-Man Roster Position Group=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/623167.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_543219.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/607625.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/622506.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_606160.jpg[/fimg]NameChris Flexen #64Sean Gilmartin #36Seth Lugo #67Marcos Molina #68Rafael Montero #50DoB7/1/9411/4/8611/17/893/8/9510/17/90B/TR/RL/LR/RR/RR/RPrimary Position=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting PitcherOther PositionsrprprprprpStatus NotesIn Minor League CampIn Minor League Camp=#00BF00] Out of OptionsPosition Group=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000] Catcher=#008000] Catcher[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_554430.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://bsaohmy.weebly.com/uploads/5/2/6/7/5267846/8169575.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/519294.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/621512.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_608700.jpg[/fimg]NameZack Wheeler #45Jenrry Mejia #58Josh Smoker #49Tomás Nido #70Kevin Plawecki #26DoB5/30/9010/11/8911/26/884/12/942/26/91B/TL/RR/RL/LR/RR/RPrimary Position=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000]Catcher=#008000]CatcherOther Positions1b1bStatus Notes=#FF0000]Projected To Open Season On Disabled List=#00BF00]BANNED!In Minor League CampPosition Group=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#0000FF] Outfielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/608325.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/608703.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/642708.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_431151.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/610141.jpg[/fimg]NameGavin Cecchini #2Matt Reynolds #15Amed Rosario #61David Wright #5Wuilmer Becerra #60DoB12/22/9312/3/9011/20/9512/20/8210/1/94B/TR/RR/RR/RR/RR/RPrimary Position=#8000FF]Shortstop=#8000FF]Third Base=#8000FF]Shortstop=#8000FF]Third Base=#0000FF]Right FieldOther Positionsss, 2b, lfStatus NotesIn Minor League Camp=#FF0000]Projected To Open Season On Disabled ListIn Minor League CampPosition Group=#0000FF] Outfielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/607043.jpg[/fimg]NameBrandon Nimmo #9DoB3/27/93B/TL/RPrimary Position=#0000FF]Center FieldOther Positionslf, rfStatus Notes Also in Camp Position Group=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000] Catcher=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/452733.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/594985.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/623149.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/518530.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/571841.jpg[/fimg]NameTom Gorzelanny #40Ben Rowen #46Paul Sewald #79Xorge Carillo #71Ty Kelly #56DoB7/12/8211/15/885/26/904/12/897/20/88B/TR/LR/RR/RR/RS/RPrimary Position=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000]Catcher=#8000FF]Second BaseOther Positions3b, cf, lf, 1b, rfStatus NotesPosition Group=#0000FF] Outfielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/607369.jpg[/fimg]NameTravis Taijeron #73DoB1/20/89B/TR/RPrimary Position=#0000FF]Right FieldOther Positionslf, cfStatus Notes Major League Free Agents Position Group=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/430637.jpg[/fimg]NameKelly Johnson #55DoB2/22/82B/TL/RPrimary Position=#8000FF]Second BaseOther Positions3b, lf, 1b, rf, ssStatus Notes Minor League Free Agents Position Group=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher[fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/502102/t400/180x270/502102.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/451131/generic/180x270/451131.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/595263/t505/180x270/595263.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/593670/t505/180x270/593670.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/473646/generic/180x270/473646.jpg[/fimg]NameDuane BelowTyler HerronMickey JannisRainy LaraJosh ZeidDoB11/15/858/5/8612/16/873/14/913/24/87B/TL/LR/RR/RR/RR/RPrimary Position=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting PitcherOther PositionsrprprprpStatus NotesMLB StatsPosition Group=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000] Catcher[fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/595231/t507/180x270/595231.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/597972/t400/180x270/597972.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/silhouette/180x270.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/543856/t400/180x270/543856.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/593680/generic/180x270/593680.jpg[/fimg]NameBen GrisetChase HuchingsonRonald SanchezZack ThorntonAdrian AbreuDoB3/12/924/14/899/20/935/19/886/14/91B/TL/LL/LR/RL/LR/RPrimary Position=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000]CatcherOther Positionsspspsp1bStatus NotesSuspended, DNPPosition Group=#008000] Catcher=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/542466/t505/180x270/542466.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/571868/t400/180x270/571868.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/silhouette/180x270.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/462962/generic/180x270/462962.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/607741/t507/180x270/607741.jpg[/fimg]NameRaywilly GomezMarc KraussVictor MoscoteNiuman RomeroKevin TaylorDoB1/25/9010/5/875/10/941/24/857/13/91B/TS/RL/RR/RS/RL/RPrimary Position=#008000]Catcher=#8000FF]First Base=#8000FF]First Base=#8000FF]Shortstop=#8000FF]First BaseOther Positionslf, rp3b, c3b, 2b, 1b, rflf, 2b, 3bStatus Notes

Error by minor league stringer Ricardo Céspedes and the Cards pull within 4-2.

PlawecKABOOM! Another solo shot, unfortunately.

This is a minor disaster. Gsellman up with a runner on third and two outs and goes down attempting to bunt three times. The Cardinal announcers seem oblivious that something is going on.

Laggy just hit one like he meant it, KABOOM!ing the Mets into the lead.

Which position do you think he takes the chunk of his playing time at?

Tebow singles to left on an 0-2 pitch but the runner doesn't score from second because the leftfielder is playing deep short. And besides, the runner is Wilmer Flroes. Flores then scores on the sac fly by Reynolds. Thought I'd finally get the honor of watching Robert Gsellman hit, but nope, he tries to bunt his way on. What? With two outs? Is he still impaired?

Cardinals announcers and camera are pretty certain that the Mets leftfielder is the only story out there today.

The first exhibition game of the spring to feature pitchers batting. Israeli national Ty Kelly joins native Italian Michael Conforto in the lineup. Tim Tebow demonstrating persistence, if nothing else. Cardinals bringing mostly regulars, and open with two base hits. [table:16gjhxn2][tr:16gjhxn2][td:16gjhxn2][fimg=250:16gjhxn2]http://logos-download.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/New_York_Mets_logo_alternate.png[/fimg:16gjhxn2][/td:16gjhxn2][td:16gjhxn2][fimg=250:16gjhxn2]http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/54/72/full/1329.gif[/fimg:16gjhxn2][/td:16gjhxn2][/tr:16gjhxn2][tr:16gjhxn2][td:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Ty Kelly (S), 3b[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Juan Lagares ®, cf[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Michael Conforto (L), rf[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Wilmer Flores ®, 1b[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Gavin Cecchini ®, 2b[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Kevin Plawecki ®, c[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Tim Tebow (L), lf[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Matt Reynolds ®, ss[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Robert Gsellman ®, rhsp[/*:m:16gjhxn2][/list:o:16gjhxn2][/td:16gjhxn2][td:16gjhxn2][*:16gjhxn2]American Dexter Fowler (S), cf[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Greg Garcia (L), ss[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Matt Carpenter (L), 1b[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Randal Grichuk ®, lf[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Jhonny Peralta ®, 3b[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Harrison Bader ®, rf[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Kolten Wong (L), 2b[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Carson Kelly ®, c[/*:m:16gjhxn2] [*:16gjhxn2]Michael Wacha ®, rhsp[/*:m:16gjhxn2][/list:o:16gjhxn2][/td:16gjhxn2][/tr:16gjhxn2][/table:16gjhxn2]

I guess it should be unsurprising that José Reyes packs his own dancefloor lights in case a party breaks out somewhere.

Faith in me seems to be wanting despite what I see as two years of reliable relief setting up Jeurys Familia. You know what I'm doing right now? I'm providing reliable relief setting up Jeurys Familia ON BEHALF OF MY COUNTRY in the World Baseball Classic. And no, that doesn't mean I'm not committed to the organization. By some quirk of the data or madness of the manager, I pitched exactly the same amount of innings as Familia and Reed did. And the game was reasonably safe in my hands. I'm the #3 righthander out of the pen. Will I move up in the rankings in 2017, or down? You decide. [fimg=327:282jgfa9]http://metsmerizedonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/hansel-robles.jpg?x22250[/fimg:282jgfa9] [fimg=393:282jgfa9]http://assets1.sportsnet.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/09265843-1040x572.jpg[/fimg:282jgfa9] [fimg=333:282jgfa9]http://metsmerizedonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/hansel-robles-e1464793216545.jpg?x22250[/fimg:282jgfa9] [fimg=387:282jgfa9]http://www.tsn.ca/polopoly_fs/1.370122!/fileimage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_620/hansel-robles.jpg[/fimg:282jgfa9]

Yeah, he's on the Kelly Johnson team right now. It seems teams are a lot more frugal with spare parts this offseason.

The Mets have, like, a half a dozen infielders on the verge. You know who is head of them all? Me, that's who. Bronx-born me. I'm not bragging. I'm juts saying that's how things shake out when you hit .333 / .345 / .476 // .821 over your first 113 plate appearances in the bigs. You know who I am? I am to 2016 as Daniel Murphy is to 2008. At least for a righthanded version, anyhow. Stand back, I say. But thats a lot of infielders behind me, vying for the one infield opening. I may be first in line for that job, but keeping it, or somehow earning some time in the lineup ... that's a different matter. How's that going to shake out? [fimg=336:36nvjh4v]http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.2798877.1474342947!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/article_750/braves-mets-baseball.jpg[/fimg:36nvjh4v] [fimg=384:36nvjh4v]http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.2791234.1473824387!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/article_750/metsgamer14s-web.jpg[/fimg:36nvjh4v] [fimg=360:36nvjh4v]https://i1.wp.com/www.outsidepitchmlb.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/TJRiveraAtlantaBravesvNewYorkMetsJy2nQQ-oL5ol.jpg?resize=600%2C400&ssl=1[/fimg:36nvjh4v] [fimg=360:36nvjh4v]http://metsmerizedonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/neil-walker2.jpg?x22250[/fimg:36nvjh4v]

Gave up one run on two hits in his one inning today, lowering his spring ERA to 9.53.

I was acquired just as the season started, opened the year as the third-string catcher, and for patches of the summer, ended up with the first string. That may not have been the way the plan was meant to shake out, but it was fine by me. I know, you're thinking that the ceiling isn't very high with this guy, but the floor isn't that low. So if d'Arnaud don't turn the corner and Plawecki don't take flight, aren't you glad you have me around? I surprised you once. Can I do it again? [fimg=333:2ebdhzez]http://doublegsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/rene-rivera-mlb-chicago-white-sox-new-york-mets-1-850x560.jpg[/fimg:2ebdhzez] [fimg=387:2ebdhzez]http://mediadownloads.mlb.com/mlbam/2016/05/01/images/mlbf_643084983_th_45.jpg[/fimg:2ebdhzez] [fimg=327:2ebdhzez]http://media.nj.com/mets_main/photo/rene-rivera-d99e52ceafa38f6f.jpg[/fimg:2ebdhzez] [fimg=393:2ebdhzez]http://metsmerizedonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/rene-rivera-jeurys-familia.jpg[/fimg:2ebdhzez]

Two more amateur(ish) free agents were signed under the radar a few weeks ago, and one of our minor league free agents is actually returning, which I only found out when he was briefly floated to big league camp. Danny "Don't Call Me 'Dummy'" Hoy is 2016 Princeton Grad who played a few punchless weeks in the Pioneer League. Jender De Jesus is a Dominican 19-year-old who may or may not be the next Rafael Montero. A handful of our minor league free agents are just now returning from the WBC, so it's their last chance to latch on with a team. Transaction Signed To Minor League Contract And Sent to Minor League CampSigned Away From Schaumburg (IND) To Minor League Contract And Sent to Minor League Camp Re-Signed To Minor League Contract And Sent to Minor League CampPosition Group=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]https://img.clipartfox.com/9e44657fff95314d7afa4724059101fa_question-mark-clip-art-questions-for-the-yellow-clipart_90-135-thumbnail.png[/fimg][fimg=90]https://i2.wp.com/metsinpeace.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/danny-hoy.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/606322/t3705/180x270/606322.jpg[/fimg]NameJender De JesusDanny HoyJ.C. RodriguezDoB1/3/987/1/939/3/92B/TR/RR/RS/R Projected 2017 Mets Coaching Staff Position=#BF0000] Manager=#BF0000] Hitting Coach=#BF0000] Pitching Coach=#BF0000] First Base Coach=#BF0000] Third Base Coach[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/492632.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/438989.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/123951.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/114961.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/427468.jpg[/fimg]NameTerry Collins #10Kevin Long #57Dan Warthen #38Tom Goodwin #22Glenn Sherlock #53DoB5/27/4912/30/6612/1/527/27/687/7/58Position=#BF0000]Bench Coach=#BF0000]Bullpen Coach=#BF0000]Ass't Batting Coach=#BF0000]Strength & Cond. Coach=#BF0000]Strength & Cond. Coach[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/121944.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/111191.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]https://metsinpeace.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/pat-roessler-1.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]https://metsinpeace.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/mike-barwis.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]https://metsinpeace.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/dustin-clarke-1.jpg[/fimg]NameDick Scott #23Ricky Bones #25Pat Roessler #6Mike BarwisDustin ClarkeDoB7/19/624/7/6912/27/596/6/73circa 1987Position=#BF0000]Bullpen Catcher=#BF0000]Bullpen Catcher[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/534948.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/coaches/mugshots/430002.jpg[/fimg]NameDave Racaniello #53Eric Langill #78DoB6/3/787/7/58 YOUR Projected 2017 New York Mets Position Group=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_594798.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/607229.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_518774.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_571927.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_592789.jpg[/fimg]NameJacob deGrom #48Robert Gsellman #65Matt Harvey #33Steven Matz #32Noah Syndergaard #34DoB6/19/887/18/933/27/895/29/918/29/92B/TL/RR/RR/RR/LL/RPrimary Position=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting PitcherOther PositionsrprpStatus Notes=#FF0000]Coming Off Surgery =#00BF00]Has Options=#00BF00]Has Options=#FF0000]Coming Off Surgery=#FF0000]Coming Off Surgery =#00BF00]Has Options=#00BF00] Has OptionsPosition Group=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher[fimg=90]http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_460283.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_572831.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_544727.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_592340.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/592665.jpg[/fimg]NameJerry Blevins #39Josh Edgin #66Jeurys Familia #27Erik Goeddel #62Addison Reed #43DoB6/6/8312/17/8610/10/8912/20/8812/27/88B/TL/LR/LR/RR/RL/RPrimary Position=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief PitcherOther PositionsStatus Notes=#00BF00] Has OptionsPosition Group=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000] Catcher=#008000] Catcher=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_570663.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/477569.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_518595.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/425784.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/452678.jpg[/fimg]NameHansel Robles #47Fernando Salas #59Travis d'Arnaud #18René Rivera #44Asdrubal Cabrera #13DoB8/13/905/30/855/30/907/31/8311/13/85B/TR/RR/RR/RR/RS/RPrimary Position=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000]Catcher=#008000]Catcher=#8000FF]ShortstopOther Positions1bStatus Notes=#00BF00]Has OptionsPosition Group=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_446263.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_527038.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/408314.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/608061.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/435522.jpg[/fimg]NameLucas Duda #21Wilmer Flores #4José Reyes #7T.J. Rivera #54Neil Walker #20DoB2/3/868/6/916/11/8310/27/884/9/87B/TL/RR/RS/RR/RS/RPrimary Position=#8000FF]First Base=#8000FF]Third Base=#8000FF]Third Base=#8000FF]Second Base=#8000FF]Second BaseOther Positionsss, 2b, 1bss3b, lf, 1bStatus Notes=#00BF00] Has Options=#FF0000]Coming Off SurgeryPosition Group=#0000FF] Outfielder=#0000FF] Outfielder=#0000FF] Outfielder=#0000FF] Outfielder=#0000FF] Outfielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/457803.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/493316.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/624424.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_434158.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_501571.jpg[/fimg]NameJay Bruce #19Yoenis Céspedes #52Michael Conforto #30Curtis Granderson #3Juan Lagares #12DoB4/3/8710/18/853/1/933/16/813/17/89B/TL/RR/RL/LL/RR/RPrimary Position=#0000FF]Right Field=#0000FF]Left Field=#0000FF]Left Field=#0000FF]Right Field=#0000FF]Center FieldOther Positionscfcfrf, cfcf, lfrf, lfStatus Notes=#00BF00] Has Options Also on 40-Man Roster Position Group=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher[fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/623167/generic/180x270/623167.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_543219.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/607625.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/622506/generic/180x270/622506.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_606160.jpg[/fimg]NameChris Flexen #64Sean Gilmartin #36Seth Lugo #67Marcos Molina #68Rafael Montero #50DoB7/1/9411/4/8611/17/893/8/9510/17/90B/TR/RL/LR/RR/RR/RPrimary Position=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting PitcherOther PositionsrprprprprpStatus NotesIn Minor League CampIn Minor League Camp=#00BF00] Out of OptionsPosition Group=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000] Catcher=#008000] Catcher[fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_554430.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://bsaohmy.weebly.com/uploads/5/2/6/7/5267846/8169575.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/519294.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/621512/generic/180x270/621512.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_608700.jpg[/fimg]NameZack Wheeler #45Jenrry Mejia #58Josh Smoker #49Tomás Nido #70Kevin Plawecki #26DoB5/30/9010/11/8911/26/884/12/942/26/91B/TL/RR/RL/LR/RR/RPrimary Position=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000]Catcher=#008000]CatcherOther Positions1b1bStatus Notes=#FF0000]Projected To Open Season On Disabled List=#00BF00]BANNED!Position Group=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#0000FF] Outfielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/608325.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/608703.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/642708/generic/180x270/642708.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/images/players/mugshot/ph_431151.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/610141/generic/180x270/610141.jpg[/fimg]NameGavin Cecchini #2Matt Reynolds #15Amed Rosario #61David Wright #5Wuilmer Becerra #60DoB12/22/9312/3/9011/20/9512/20/8210/1/94B/TR/RR/RR/RR/RR/RPrimary Position=#8000FF]Shortstop=#8000FF]Third Base=#8000FF]Shortstop=#8000FF]Third Base=#0000FF]Right FieldOther Positionsss, 2b, lfStatus NotesIn Minor League Camp=#FF0000]Projected To Open Season On Disabled ListIn Minor League CampPosition Group=#0000FF] Outfielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/607043.jpg[/fimg]NameBrandon Nimmo #9DoB3/27/93B/TL/RPrimary Position=#0000FF]Center FieldOther Positionslf, rfStatus Notes Also in Camp Position Group=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000] Catcher=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/452733.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/594985.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/623149.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/518530.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/571841.jpg[/fimg]NameTom Gorzelanny #40Ben Rowen #46Paul Sewald #79Xorge Carillo #71Ty Kelly #56DoB7/12/8211/15/885/26/904/12/897/20/88B/TR/LR/RR/RR/RS/RPrimary Position=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000]Catcher=#8000FF]Second BaseOther Positions3b, cf, lf, 1b, rfStatus NotesPosition Group=#0000FF] Outfielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/607369.jpg[/fimg]NameTravis Taijeron #73DoB1/20/89B/TR/RPrimary Position=#0000FF]Right FieldOther Positionslf, cfStatus Notes Major League Free Agents Position Group=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/images/players/head_shot/430637.jpg[/fimg]NameKelly Johnson #55DoB2/22/82B/TL/RPrimary Position=#8000FF]Second BaseOther Positions3b, lf, 1b, rf, ssStatus Notes Minor League Free Agents Position Group=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher[fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/502102/t400/180x270/502102.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/451131/generic/180x270/451131.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/595263/t505/180x270/595263.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/593670/t505/180x270/593670.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/473646/generic/180x270/473646.jpg[/fimg]NameDuane BelowTyler HerronMickey JannisRainy LaraJosh ZeidDoB11/15/858/5/8612/16/873/14/913/24/87B/TL/LR/RR/RR/RR/RPrimary Position=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting Pitcher=#FF0000]Starting PitcherOther PositionsrprprprpStatus NotesMLB StatsPosition Group=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000] Catcher[fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/595231/t507/180x270/595231.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/597972/t400/180x270/597972.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/silhouette/180x270.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/543856/t400/180x270/543856.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/593680/generic/180x270/593680.jpg[/fimg]NameBen GrisetChase HuchingsonRonald SanchezZack ThorntonAdrian AbreuDoB3/12/924/14/899/20/935/19/886/14/91B/TL/LL/LR/RL/LR/RPrimary Position=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#FF8000]Relief Pitcher=#008000]CatcherOther Positionsspspsp1bStatus NotesSuspended, DNPPosition Group=#008000] Catcher=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder=#8000FF] Infielder[fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/542466/t505/180x270/542466.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/571868/t400/180x270/571868.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/silhouette/180x270.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/462962/generic/180x270/462962.jpg[/fimg][fimg=90]http://www.milb.com/images/607741/t507/180x270/607741.jpg[/fimg]NameRaywilly GomezMarc KraussVictor MoscoteNiuman RomeroKevin TaylorDoB1/25/9010/5/875/10/941/24/857/13/91B/TS/RL/RR/RS/RL/RPrimary Position=#008000]Catcher=#8000FF]First Base=#8000FF]First Base=#8000FF]Shortstop=#8000FF]First BaseOther Positionslf, rp3b, c3b, 2b, 1b, rflf, 2b, 3bStatus Notes

I may well be a more adept shortstop at this point than Cabrera or Reyes. But I haven't yet demonstrated that I can hit. So fate seemingly has me jockeying for callup time with the infield gang: your Riveras, your Evanses, your Kellys, your Cecchininini, your Rosarios even. Your Guillormes too. Is there even room for me? I think there is. I mean, I haven't "demonstrated" big league batsmanship, but it's there. Don't judge on my 96 plate appearances in the bigs with the .682 OPS, but rather think of the .692 OPS I put up in Las ... oh wait that's worse. Well, I still say it's there, waiting to come out. Until they, maybe I can be the reserve infielder who fields good. What do you think? All I know is that I look like a ballplayer, and thousands of kids are walking around the ballpark in jerseys with my number. That's some sweet apples. [fimg=343]http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.2640229.1463514925!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/article_750/nlds-dodgers-mets-baseball.jpg[/fimg] [fimg=377]http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.2684932.1466688504!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/article_750/542157886.jpg[/fimg] [fimg=377]http://media.arkansasonline.com/img/photos/2016/05/25/Mets_Nationals_Baseba_Jone__r600x400.jpg?689b03237e9432d372b8e4e059d8b6cfaff1b604[/fimg] [fimg=343]http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.2684065.1466627248!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/article_750/royals-mets-baseball.jpg[/fimg]

Well, a few weeks of abbreviated workdays doing rehab starts in the minors would certainly be a means to control his total innings, and that should be a be a pleasing prospect to his agent.

Ashie, you certainly weren't laughed down.

I've got no problem with folks complaining about a team handling injuries if there can be some science to it. Can you demonstrate that X team is missing more games-per-man than the mean? Can you show that the same injury takes longer to diagnose with one team or another? Is this really something that falls under Ramirez's responsibility or is it guys in lab coats? Did Ramirez hire the guys in the lab coats? Is this an issue of bad development, bad preparation, bad usage, reckless play, bad diagnoses, un-necessary procedures, questionable rehab? Because I agree that Mets get hurt/fire Ramirez/lolMets sounds like terrible analysis.

Could any man without a job be so guaranteed playing time? I'm the thirdbaseman until Wright gets back, and there's serious questions as to whether that will ever be happening. I'm historically a shortstop and our starting shortstop is creaky. The two guys on the right side of the infield have questions about how consistently they can handle lefthanders. A couple of our outfielders do also. I can play outfield. I totally can. Aside from that, I'm probably still the Mets best option as a leadoff hitter, though down the hill of life I may be driving. The only thing working against me is that I'm as cheap as the thrift store find I sort of am, so if I get in a slump or exhibit any further moral turpitude, or maybe Brandon Nimmo or Amed Rosario comes on strong and establishes one of themselves as a leadoff dude, I'm as disposable as yesterday's Post. But for now, I'm rocking some job security. How's that going to play itself out? [fimg=361]https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-f7f5de18273377c5694e31a41f728d5a.jpg[/fimg] [fimg=359]http://sportsrants.com/mlb/files/2015/06/Jose-Reyes-20.jpg[/fimg] [fimg=377]https://i.ytimg.com/vi/tB1wPFauQOE/maxresdefault.jpg[/fimg] [fimg=343]http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.2687361.1466825818!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/article_750/mets-rockies.jpg[/fimg]

Clayton Kershaw would've didn't want to miss his niece's ballet recital. Max Scherzer was going to participate but he was sprayed by a skunk. Corey Kluber couldn't find his shoes. Jon Lester thought the tryouts were at the other field. Madison Bumgarner refused to represent any country but the Confederate States of America. Justin Verlander's car was in the shop. Jake Arrieta was expecting to get a ride from Verlander. Chris Sale was participating in Soupcan's Countdown Kwiz and didn't want to miss a post. David Price thought "the WBC sounded like a boxing thing." Don't imply for a second that these guys didn't WANT to compete for their country. I like to think Syndergaard didn't want to do anything that might for one second reflect well on President Trump.