Written by Mike Mariano | 29 March 2010

In 2009, the NL East looked depleted with the Mets a dead team walking and the Braves and Marlins in rebuilding years of sorts.

Now it's 2010, everybody seems reloaded and we could be in for an awesome division race.  All three runners up have a the pieces in the place to make a run at the Phillies and the champs will have their hands full holding everyone back.  Let's take a look at the contenders (and the one non-contender) individually:

The Champs

The Phillies are riding high and mighty after back to back trips to the World Series, not to mention Philly's first title in a quarter century in '08.  The Phillies sport arguably the best lineup in baseball, definitely in the National League.  One through six presents a devastating road for any starting pitcher.  Rollins-Victorino-Utley-Howard-Werth-Ibanez is a murderous row with new-addition Polanco shoring up the back-end or potentially the two-hole.  Carlos Ruiz fills in the eight spot and if he can find his playoff form for a full season, he's not to be slept on either.  The Phillies problems don't lie within this offense, they reside on the defensive end, namely on the mound.  Roy Halladay should dominate the NL and has Phillies fans buzzing about what he can do for the club this season.  However, Brad Lidge and Cole Hamels need to return to from if there's any hope for a three peat as NL Champs, but that goes without saying.  The other problem areas are the fifth starters role and the bullpen as a whole.  There are worse problems to have, but in a tough division pitching problems can become gaping holes as the season moves along.

The Mess

That's the only word that can describe the Mets of 2009 -- a downright-sloppy-hide-the-children-cover-your-eyes-mess.  It was a daily grind of front office madness and injury bugs biting everyone in sight and replacement player scrubs embarrassing the good name of Citi Field in its inaugural year.  If you were a marquee player for the Mutts, you missed some portion, probably a significant one, of the season and/or struggled when you did play.  The good part about all of your problems being injury based -- they're easily left behind.  That New York Mess is over and done with in 2009, this is a new year.  Wright, Beltran, Reyes and co. are all back in action and the squad is a World Series contender again! Right!?! Wrong.

Yes, last year was an abomination, however you've got to walk before you can run and the Mets need to prove a lot between April and July before we can start talking seriously about the Mets.  The core of the offense coupled with Johan as the ace and K-Rod closing games is fantastic.  However, what else can the team count on?  This is where questions start flooding the discussion of the current Mets team.  Which Jeff Francouer is going to play right field -- the failed Brave or the .300 hitting Met?  Can Mike Jacobs do enough at first base?  Is there a catcher on the roster worth a damn?  What pitcher other than Johan can get outs, let alone wins?  Tons of questions, not too many answers.  I wouldn't be surprised if the Mets won 70 games and I wouldn't be surprised if they won 90 and that's their main issue right now.

The Transition

2010 could be the end of everything the Braves have been for the last decade.  Bobby Cox could be retiring, Chipper as well.  After that, the new company will take over and it'll be Jayson Heyward's (or so they hope) show for the next decade.  The Braves have got one of the best pitching staffs around and that alone should keep them in the division race.  If their offense comes alive, they'll give the Phillies everything they can handle for the crown.  The only thing that keeps me from being truly worried about them is the fact that they're the it team this year.  Everybody's hoping on their bandwagon and picking them to win this, this, and that.  And the team given that honor to begin the season, usually falls on their face.  Is that a surgical, explicit breakdown of the Braves this year?  Well, if you come here regularly you weren't expecting one, so you're not really disappointed anyway.  I will say though, Jayson Heyward and Tommy Hanson scare the shit out of me.  If they blossom into a new style Griffey and Big Unit in a few years I'll be thoroughly terrified (then again, those are two sure-fire hall of famers, that's asking a lot -- let's take it slow).

The Unknown

Anyone who tells you they know how well the Marlins are going to play in a given year is either lying or guessing or both.  Ignore them, they don't have a clue.  Maybe the Marlins will get hot and fight for the title.  Maybe they'll flop and fight to stay out of the basement.  For years they've jettisoned newly expensive young guys for more young(er) guys and started over repeatedly.  For the first time a two decades they're showing people the money, namely Hanley Ramirez and Josh Johnson, their best offensive and defensive players.  Will this translate into some consistent success for a change?  Most likely not.  There are some good pieces in place, but a lot of questionable role players.  But, if we've learning anything in the last decade, it's not to sleep on the Marlins -- they're most dangerous when you take your eye off them.  They have a ton of young guys who I'm not sure I could pick out of a lineup and that's probably their plan.

The Basement

The Nationals are a team slowly moving in the right direction.  Slowly, but surely they seem to be putting some useful players and parts together to field a competitive ball club.  The only problem is that this isn't looking like the year that they're going to put it together and make the leap into competition.  Stephen Strasburg will join the big club at some point and the organization is counting on him being the second coming and carrying the franchise into the future.  If the pick (and sign) Bryce Harper in the upcoming draft, the future will brighten even more.  If you haven't this years problem by now, we're spending all of our time talking about what could be in the future and not what is right now.  Because the right now doesn't have a realistic chance at winning this division.

Written by Mike Mariano | 25 March 2010

It looks like We're the Team to Beat isn't going to see the Sweet Sixteen in the Phillies March Madness Blog Tournament.  There's still 20 mins left to vote, but I totally blew it by not posting the link earlier today. Fail.

Written by Mike Mariano | 23 March 2010

Jose Reyes has spent the last few weeks kicking back and wearing out his home DVD collection, waiting for his thyroid levels to return to normal, so he can return to Spring Training.  Today, the levels leveled (?) out and he's on his way down to Florida to hit the field.  I don't know a thing about thyroids and/or Jose Reyes' taste in movies but this has got to be great Mets related news.  As any Mets fan can tell you, great Mets news is not easy to come by!  So if you see any of your Metropolitan fan friends out and about share this little nugget of excitement with them and put a little pep in their step.  Because most likely they'll be a sad, shell of themselves come May when Citi Field collapses into a black hole and David Wright loses his leg in a near-fatal jenga accident.

Smile Mets fans, the season hasn't started yet!

Added By Benny B.

That is all.  As you were...

Written by Mike Mariano | 23 March 2010

There isn't a lot going on in Spring Training for Phillies fans to be interested in other than how slimming Roy Halladay's red pinstripes are.  The only real storyline is that of the fifth starter's role.  The battle rages now between Kyle Kendrick and Jamie Moyer.

You've got to assume that Moyer had the inside track leading into the Spring and still most likely does now.  However, Kendrick's strong spring has to be complicating matters.  He's threw nine scoreless innings to start the spring and has only allowed two runs in his fourteen total innings.  He's allowed seven hits and K'd six guys.  Moyer conversely has thrown five innings, allowing one run and striking out six.

The funny part about the last starting role is that for most teams it ends up being a carousel of sorts regardless of who begins the season.  If I remember the stat correctly, only two teams had fifth starters make 25 starts last season, the Cubs and Brewers.  The Phillies certainly weren't one of them with Moyer, Kendrick, and Pedro all seeing time in the spot.  Honestly, I don't think it matters which of them gets the job.  Both have their upside and downside and will most likely get double digits starts for the club in one way or another -- possibly through fatigue or injury if not the starting role.

The thing to take from this is that Kyle Kendrick might be making a pitcher out of himself and that is great news for a team that's always looking for a few good men on the mound.

Written by Mike Mariano | 23 March 2010

Little did I know, there's a Phillies March Madness style, 65 blog tournament going on at The Phield.  Basically, all Phillies blogs in a showdown to see which is the best based on fan voting.  When I first heard of this phenomenon at the Good Phight, I was irate.  How the hell didn't we get into this?!?  Then, to my surprise, we're the #10 seed in the Salisbury Region. And wouldn't you know it, but we pulled off the upset over Phils-ville #7 in the opening round!  Boom!  We're the Team to Beat is still rolling right now in our second round match-up against #2 seed Finger Food (whom I've never heard of, so we've definitely got a chance!).

WTTTB needs you!  To vote for us to make it into the Sweet 16.  Vote. Vote. Vote.  And maybe I'll write something interesting around here for a change!

Look at the wonderful things they had to write about us in the preview of our first round match-up:

10. WE’RE THE TEAM TO BEAT
www.weretheteamtobeat.com
Driving force: Mike Mariano

Mike Mariano is a Phillies fan. Matt Ryan is a Mets fan. They decided to combine forces and write a dueling blog, each one spinning opinion about their favorite teams as the rivalry continues. They combine posts when both teams get embroiled with each other heavily. Of course, it’s not much of a rivalry now, but the writing is crisp and the site is clean. The concept is just great, and that really makes the blog stand out from the pack. Consider We’re the Team to Beat a strong 10 seed, probably worthy of a lower number.

I love this tournament concept and hopefully we can Cornell-style bash our way into the Sweet 16.  Let's get it.  I'll put up the Voting link when the second round voting begins for our region.

First of all, how the hell did they know who Matt Ryan was!?!  Phillies still the team to beat and I'm still the blogger to beat around here!

 

Written by Benny B. | 18 March 2010

The sun is out, the grass is growing and winter is loosening its harsh grip on NY & Philly.  Real baseball is right around the corner and that means it's time for the back seat GM's to start thinking about their fantasy leagues.

I am looking for 4-6 guys (or gals), who would like to join a league I am starting up (we already have 6 members).  It's standard 5x5 rotisserie (however more categories can be added or changed).  For those unfamiliar with rotisserie format click here. Entry would be $100 and first place will be at least 50% of the entire pot.

This will be fun, so if you are interested in joining my WTTTB fantasy league, please either contact me directly via email by clicking on the Benny B. Carlos Voltron icon under "Staff" on the home page, or leave a comment under this post.

Thanks, and lets play ball!

-Benny B.

Written by Mike Mariano | 17 March 2010

If we've done anything as Phillies fans over the past two years it's been discussing the pros and cons of the Cliff Lee and Roy Halladay deals.  Today we're looking into the Cleveland Plain-Dealer to see what the Wahoo's think of their newest crop of minor leaguers:

• Knapp: A 19-year-old right-hander, who underwent right shoulder surgery shortly after the deal was made. The Indians, reportedly, wouldn't have made the trade without him.

• Marson: Has a good chance to be the opening day catcher April 5 in Chicago.

• Carrasco: Like Knapp, he has a great pitcher's body. In a September call-up, he showed he throws hard and gets hit hard. He's expected to open the season at Class AAA Columbus.

• Donald: If there is a mystery player in the trade, Donald is probably it. After the July 29 trade, he played only 10 games for Columbus because he was recovering from surgery on his left knee and then injured his back.

From there the article goes on to rave about Donald, the grinder, and all of his merits as a future ballplayer for the Indians.  Couple these guys with the Drabek, Taylor couple and there's plenty to come back and haunt us in the future.  However if the current company along with Doc Halladay can bring another title to Philly all will be forgotten of the cost... right?

 

Written by Mike Mariano | 15 March 2010

Tattooed all over Sportscenter yesterday was talk of a major Phillies-Cardinals, Ryan Howard for Albert Pujols, blockbuster.  Rumor, Speculation, Gossip, who knows?  Buster Olney reported from sources that the Phillies entertained internal discussion about moving Howard for Pujols.  Ruben Amaro quickly stated something to the like of "ridiculous and irresponsible" and shot down the rumors as only such.

I heard the news from a friend via text message, my first thought was wow.  Then a smirk of doubt that he was surely screwing with me.  Then a simple feeling of excitement.  I would do that trade in a heartbeat.  In half a heartbeat.  Without a heartbeat.  Will the trade ever come to fruition, no, but it would be a welcome move.

Don't get me wrong, I love Ryan Howard.  He played a large part in the first championship this city saw in decades and remains an incredible player.  Absurd power, improved defense, Ryan Howard is a superstar.  Yet as good as he is, Albert Pujols is the best player in baseball.  Bar none.  Not only that, they're the same age (granted, that means taking Pujols' age as truth) and Howard makes more money over the next two seasons.  Pujols will very well command more money on the market, but how much more.  Ryan Howard seems committed to bringing home the big bucks and might not be all that big of a bargain for the people of St. Louis.  Howard grew up a hometown boy, so they'd welcome him, but if it costs Pujols, they might be a little salty.

Written by Matt Ryan | 12 March 2010

On November 13th, 2006 the Mets broke ground on Citi Field.  At the time, they were coming off of a 97-65 campaign, and even though it ended painfully, the future looked bright.  It was an exciting time to be a Mets fan.  A good young team with a brand new stadium on the way. 

As construction began on the new stadium, the Mets picked up right where they left off in 2006.  They played lights out in 2007, and looked to be playoff bound again.  Up 7 games with 17 games to play, we watched the Mets collapse in historic fashion.  The team never recovered.  They were competitive in 2008, but something was clearly missing.  Willie Randolph was fired midseason (in typical Mets fashion), and Jerry Manuel lead a playoff push that fell just short.

On April 13th, 2009 Citi Field opened its doors.  Then things really got interesting.  20 Mets players landed on the disabled list throughout the year, totaling 1,480 days worth of injury time.  And we're not talking reserve players.  David Wright, Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran, Johan Santana, Carlos Delgado, Oliver Perez, John Maine, and JJ Putz all missed significant time.  The team limped to a 70-92 record, and although the core remains intact, the future appears bleak.  During the offseason, Carlos Beltran had knee surgery and is expected to miss at least a month.  Knowing this team, I wouldn't be shocked if he was out through the all-star break.  And it doesn't end there.  Who knows how long Reyes will be out with this extremely bizarre thyroid condition.  It's to the point where you can't even make this stuff up.

So is there really a curse on Citi Field?  At this point in time, the evidence is overwhelming.  The Wilpons get screwed over by Bernie Maddoff.  After signing a 20 year, $500 million agreement, Citibank nearly collapses and gets bailed out by the government.  The team can't buy a break and is decimated by injuries.  It's almost laughable.  I've only believed in one curse in my lifetime, and that was the curse of the Bambino.  But at some point, you have to stop calling it bad luck and see it for what it really is.  A curse.  I never thought I'd say this, but I miss Shea Stadium. 

Written by Benny B. | 12 March 2010

Somebody had to do this post, so it might as well be me.  After three blood tests, it was confirmed that Jose Reyes has an over active thyroid. Firstly, I'd like to thank Phillie & Met fans alike on this site for not jumping to conclusions or engaging in some of the classlessness I've seen around the internet.  Everything from he was on PED's to actually taking joy in Jose's heath woes before it was determined that his issue is not career threatening (or life threatening for that matter).  So Kudos WTTTB.

So the diagnosis is that Jose can not do any physical exertion for 2-8 weeks until his hormone level normalizes.  Apparently this is the best diagnosis he could have received.  If this truly is an imbalence caused by all the seafood Reyes has been scarfing down lately, then he should be just fine and possibly be ready by opening day.  However, this is the Mets we are talking about so why do I get the sneaking suspicion that after 8 weeks of rest, his hormone levels will remain elevated and be forced to go on some medication (which could have been given to him from the get-go) and delay his return even further?  Anyway, I digress.

Two things bothered me throughout this whole process.  First was the media trying to fan the flames of the Beltran Vs. Mets medical staff mess by trying to portray that Reyes was yet another met to contradict the front office.  ESPN, Daily News & NY Post all printed stories as did countless bloggers using this quote as there basis.

The specialists who took care of me in New York have told me that I'm fine and that there's nothing wrong with my thyroid.

However, this was his entire quote:

The specialists who took care of me in New York have told me that I'm fine and that there's nothing wrong with my thyroid. The test [taken to follow one conducted during his physical] showed that I'm fine. We just have to wait for the results of the additional test. The [doctors] found inflammation in my throat and no medicine to treat the thyroid or any other condition has been prescribed.

While Reyes thought he would be on the field in a couple days rather that a couple of weeks, his quote is in line with what the Mets have been saying.  He does not need any medication for his thyroid, and he attributed his raised hormone levels to an "inflammation in his throat".  But when do facts ever get in the way of some good ol' Mets bashing?

Secondly--and more importantly--is now the Mets have the prospect of having the WORST middle infield defense EVER with Cora & Castillo.  This does not bode well for a pitcher like Mike Pelfry that relys on infield defense with that sinker of his.  Omar Minaya--who I am hating more and more every day--actually had the balls to say in the press conference that "this is why he went out and resigned Alex Cora".  Really Omar!?  You predicted Jose would have a thyroid problem?  Listen, it doesn't take Nostradamus to predict that Jose may have a baseball related issue with his legs after last season.  For those of you that don't remember, Cora was the first player that Omar resigned and over-paid for.  I was always under the impression he was signed for his leadership and less for his abilities on the field for, you know, a below replacement level hitter and defender.  But there was Omar, patting himself on the back for this signing when there were three better options that could have been had for cheaper.

What's more, is that it has come to light that Cora has a clause in his contract that automatically triggers a player option for 2011 based on playing time.  So if Reyes has any setbacks, and they use Cora as the primary backup, he could be diving for missed balls up the middle at SS/2B next year too.  So Omar, if you take credit for this signing now, you certainly have to take responsibilities for his certain failure if he is exposed as an every day player.  If Jerry and Omar are smart, and Jose starts the season on the DL, do the right thing and give 20 year old Reuben Tejada the bulk of the starts at SS.  He is a far superior defender, and any offensive shortcomings (if there are any compared to Cora) will be made up two fold in the field.  Hear me now!  CORA IS A BACKUP & A CLUBHOUSE LEADER. Nothing more.  If Jose is out for an extended period of time, and he's used as the primary SS, he will get injured.  He simply can no longer handle the rigors of an everyday player.

On the bright side, this could be nothing.  But if it is something, this could hasten the long over due departure of Omar (which I guess would be a net gain).  Even without Beltran & Reyes in the lineup recently, the Mets have been raking--which is interesting considering that pitchers should be ahead of the hitters at this stage of spring training.  I am excited about Davis, Mejia, Thole et al.  However, if Bay or Wright gets injured while Beltran & Reyes are out, we are in the same situation we were last year.  And instead of seeing the rookies, we could see the likes of Cora, Jacobs & GMJ!  I watch the Mets to see our stars and home grown players play (and to win of course).  If they can't play, I'd rather see our young future than old stop gaps. It just makes for more interesting baseball.

So, well see how this all shakes out.  If you are a Mets fan, this is just another hurdle that we need to overcome.  It's nothing new to us.  But it would be nice to have an organization that assembles a lineup by putting performance and talent over "intangibles".  Hey, a man can dream, can't he?  Right?  Right?!