Author Archives: Joe Janish

About Joe Janish

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.

Mets Sign Chris Young, Release Minor Leaguers

Posted on March 27, 2012 by Joe Janish

According to ESPN-NY, the Mets have signed pitcher Chris Young to a minor league contract. Why? No one knows. Perhaps the recent Picard settlement has resulted in a sudden flush of cash that ownership couldn’t wait to spend, and Kelvim … Continue reading →

Posted in 11-12 Offseason | Tagged , , | 12 Comments

Do MLB Coaches Fix Pitching Mechanics?

Posted on March 26, 2012 by Joe Janish

Sorting through the MetsToday mail bag, I pull out this question from a visitor who refers to himself/herself as “Brain Sliver” : I have been reading your blog for a few years and have been impressed with your analysis of … Continue reading →

Posted in 11-12 Offseason | 19 Comments

Mets vs. Cardinals Notes

Posted on March 25, 2012 by Joe Janish

Mike Pelfrey‘s velocity was up — his fastball was hanging around 92-93 MPH, touched 94 — but his command was poor. How can a pitcher have poor command and yet not walk anyone? Because command means putting the ball where … Continue reading →

Posted in 11-12 Offseason | Tagged | 1 Comment

Mets vs. Astros Notes

Posted on March 23, 2012 by Joe Janish

The Mets enjoyed a convincing victory over the Astros in Grapefruit League action on Wednesday afternoon. Following are my observations.

Posted in 11-12 Offseason | Tagged | 8 Comments

Mets vs. Nationals Notes

Posted on March 21, 2012 by Joe Janish

A few random notes pertaining to Tuesday’s spring training contest between the Mets and Nationals …

Posted in 11-12 Offseason | Tagged | 13 Comments

Mets Owners Settle with Irving Picard

Posted on March 19, 2012 by Joe Janish

Hooray! It’s over! And the Mets won’t have to pay a billion dollars! Only $162M, or, about a million per game. Which means there’s a good chance the Wilpons can pull themselves out of their financial abyss and keep the … Continue reading →

Posted in 11-12 Offseason | Tagged , , , | 24 Comments

What’s Wrong with Mike Pelfrey?

Posted on March 19, 2012 by Joe Janish

Yesterday, Mike Pelfrey faced 20 batters; 12 reached base. He allowed 8 hits, 4 walks, and 8 runs, including a three-run homer to Carlos Lee. On the bright side, he struck out 4 in his 2 2/3 innings of “work.” … Continue reading →

Posted in 11-12 Offseason | 14 Comments

Notes: Mets vs. Braves

Posted on March 18, 2012 by Joe Janish

Jonathon Niese had good results, though I didn’t love the process. He continues to use a side-to-side motion that results in pitches that have little sinking action — his fastball and cutter remain on one plane. On his curve, he … Continue reading →

Posted in 11-12 Offseason | Tagged | 5 Comments