Mets Finally Sign Omar Quintanilla
Finally, the Mets sign Omar Quintanilla.
I’m not sure what was the delay, but it’s about time. Other than Ruben Tejada, there was no one in the organization who had played as many as 10 Major League games at shortstop. Further, there were no MLB I’m shortstops left on the free agent market, other than Stephen Drew. Considering that shortstop is a somewhat important position, it’s a good idea for a big-league club to have a little bit of depth there. Had the Mets not signed Omar Q., I wonder who would have been brought in to back up Tejada — Julio Franco?
Oh, I know — there is Wilfredo Tovar. But what if something happens to Tejada? Yeah, Tovar will become the starter, but then who would be HIS backup? David Wright? Wilmer Flores?
Understandably, the signing of Omar Quintanilla isn’t likely to excite the Mets fan base. But, it was a deal that had to be done, and was long overdue.
About the Author
Joe Janish began MetsToday in 2005 to provide the unique perspective of a high-level player and coach -- he earned NCAA D-1 All-American honors as a catcher and coached several players who went on to play pro ball. As a result his posts often include mechanical evaluations, scout-like analysis, and opinions that go beyond the numbers. Follow Joe's baseball tips on Twitter at @onbaseball and at the On Baseball Google Plus page.
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Nothing personally against Q or Ruben, but Alderson has now managed to bring back the worst shortstop tandem in baseball in 2013. His logic – Tejada is taking his profession seriously this offseason. With all arb cases settled but Duda, Alderson now has payroll cost certainly for 2014, and essentially an $82 mil payroll. That is frankly an embarrassment and disgrace. Not that spending money is the end all, it isn’t, but as is it is obvious the Mets are once again punting.
This is not all about SS and Drew. Look at the difference between the Mets and Nats. The Nats have two closers already and are looking to add Balfour. The Mets have one coming off a serious neck surgery and a bunch of guns that throw hard with virtually no MLB experience. Alderson still has some time, but the clock is running out. If he stands pat now or adds a shaky bullpen arm I will side 100% with Izzy.
http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/allenbr01.shtml
Your error (as it were) in thinking OQ is a slick fielder because you judged him with your eyes reminds me of Paul Blair’s remark after Tommie Agee robbed him of extra bases with his spectacular catch in the ’69 series. Blair claimed he would’ve made the play without leaving his feet. Great fielders position themselves so they make fewer flashy plays, not more.
Signing OQ is a neutral in my view. It’s fine to have another body out there. Just not sure how he brings more value than, say, Justin Turner.
As others have pointed out, Q won’t be a distraction in any way, is a good guy, comes to play, appreciates his existence as a MLBer, and gets the most of his talent.
At the same time, I also wonder why he, and not Justin Turner, will be in Port St. Lucie next month. Cream pies? Laziness? Or a contract costing above the MLB minimum?
Still hoping the Mets land Drew and trade a first baseman…