How Hurt is Carlos Delgado?
Something to consider: the Carlos Delgado mysterious hip injury could be much more serious than we know. Perhaps the Mets are offering up guys such as Joe Smith, El Duque, Ruben Gotay, AHern, etc., because they need a legit starting first baseman? They could be keeping quiet on his status to keep their bargaining power.
Not sure about a legit starter, but if the Mets need a temporary guy, Brandon Inge would be ideal, as he could play 1B, then be a “super sub”, getting regular playing time on both OF corners, both infield corners, and behind the plate (if he’s willing to go back there). In fact I could see him easily getting 400 at-bats or more in such a role.
Other than Inge, players we’ve mentioned in the past who might be able to handle 1B and be good bats off the bench include Kevin Millar, Nelson Cruz, Jason Botts, Dan Johnson, Justin Huber, and Andy Marte.
Mike Sweeney would have looked SOOO good in a Met uniform right now … he’s batting .364 en route to winning a spot on Oakland A’s roster, btw.