5 key spring training questions for Mets
Mets first baseman Daniel Murphy slides into third base after hitting a triple in the bottom of the second inning against the Angels at CitiField. (June 17, 2011) Credit: Christopher Pasatieri
1. Second thoughts
The Mets' first priority during the next six weeks involves second base, where the plan is for Daniel Murphy to be the starter. It's not as if Murphy is new to the position; he played 24 games there in the majors last year and 19 games in his minor-league career. The problem is surviving there. His past two seasons have been ended by knee injuries that came as a result of collisions at second base.
2. Jose who?
The defection of Jose Reyes to the Marlins was a double-whammy for the Mets, who not only lost a starting shortstop but also the turbocharged engine of their offense. Ruben Tejada should be able to handle the defensive responsibilities. But there's no replacing Reyes in the leadoff spot. Look for Terry Collins to try a handful of other candidates during the Grapefruit League schedule.
3. Not-so-funny business?
Sandy Alderson tried to lighten the mood around the Mets last week by taking to Twitter with his stand-up act, but it's going to take more than a sense of humor to boost morale in the clubhouse. The Mets' players again will face a stream of questions about the team's financial situation, and those are sure to intensify as a trial that could end the Wilpons' ownership of the club begins March 19.
4. Young & the restless?
The Mets' top two pitching prospects, Zack Wheeler and Matt Harvey, are not part of the team's rotation plans for the start of this season. But that won't stop the dynamic duo from receiving plenty of attention.
5. Terry on the tightrope
Though Collins has no need to worry about his job security after the Mets picked up his 2013 option in September, his sanity is another story. Collins must find a way to squeeze the most from a gutted roster that slashed more than $50 million in payroll since the start of last season. Collins probably will try to ride the us-against-the-world mentality, and that tone needs to be set in spring training.
