NEW YORK METS
New York Mets (3754-4086 W-L, 1962 - 2011) - 2 World Championships, 4 Pennants, and 7 Playoff Appearances
Ballpark: Shea Stadium
Manager: Davey Johnson
| C | Mike Piazza | Jerry Grote |
| 1B | Keith Hernandez | Dave Kingman |
| 2B | Jeff Kent | Edgardo Alfonso |
| 3B | David Wright | Howard Johnson |
| SS | Jose Reyes | Bud Harrelson |
| OF | Cleon Jones | Kevin McReynolds |
| OF | Darryl Strawberry | Mookie Wilson |
| OF | Lenny Dykstra | Cliff Floyd |
| DH | George Foster | |
| SP | Tom Seaver | |
| SP | Dwight Gooden | |
| SP | Al Leiter | |
| SP | Jerry Koosman | |
| CL | John Franco | |
Catchers - The bat of Mike Piazza will be key for this lineup and may be deemed the best ever. The Mets will take the drop in defense behind the plate although the dependable Jerry Grote is there for insurance and a good backstop.
First base - The overall great play of Keith Hernandez will have this position solid for New York. Hernandez is an ideal contact hitter and can save numerous errors in the field. King Kong Dave Kingman is the backup but big Dave will see some time as the team DH.
Second Base - The Mets fought with a number of teams to get the services of Jeff Kent. Kent could get sloppy in defense but his power for the position at the plate will be a huge advantage. Edgardo Alfonzo will be the backup and his slick fielding will be a plus.
Short stop - Jose Reyes and his speed will be in there to create and score runs. Reyes is a dynamic player but needs to stay healthy and stay motivated; his defense can be erratic. For support Bud Harrelson brings a more reserved and safe play at the position.
Third Base - The model of the modern Mets, David Wright is a choice at this position not loved by everyone as it keeps the likes of Ray Knight off the team. Wright needs to fit in and should since he wont be the main man with all its pressures. Howard Johnson is a versatile player here with a nice bat that will help if Wright struggles.
Outfield - Tough as nails Lenny Dykstra joins the Mets and will likely be the spark at the top of the lineup. Dykstra is exactly the type of player you will need in this division. Cleon Jones is a player who plays big when he needs to and could see some platoon at the position with Mookie Wilson and Cliff Floyd. Darryl Strawberry is the star once again on this team and his ability to produce will play a huge part in if the Mets can and will contend.
Designated Hitter - Bypassing the Reds to play with the Mets, George Foster will be leaned on as a fulltime hitter. Foster has stretches where he is a terror at the plate, but his cold streaks can be troubling. Kingman again could be the man here as well.
Starting pitching - The Mets have two top starters that are sure to win alot of games, its what they get after that which could be the key. Doc Gooden in his prime has it all and will be a joy to watch on the mound. He however is not the ace, that title of course belongs to Terrific Tom Seaver who will anchor things with his competetive edge and great stuff. Al Leiter is the hope from the left side, he will be leaned on for results or Ron Darling could get the call. Jerry Koosman is another key man in the mix. Koosman is a winner and should be able to hold his own when called upon.
Closer - John Franco is a fan favorite but that doesnt mean he is the best choice to close out games. Franco will get first dibs and despite his lack of overwhelming talent, the New York native always seems to come through when you need him.
Spring training battles
Ron Darling vs Al Leiter (rotation spot)
George Foster vs Dave Kingman (DH)
Cooperstown Rating
Offense - B-
Defense- C
Starting pitching - B+
Bullpen - C
Prediction - 77-85
Quick word with Davey Johnson
"I think my team works very well under pressure. We should be a team that will fight back when down and win a few in our last atbat."