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.

Josh Willingham a Target?

Posted on December 6, 2009 by Joe Janish

According to a tweet by Washington Nationals beat writer William Ladson just before he left for the winter meetings, the Mets may be interested in Josh Willingham. Though there are concerns about his defensive skills, Willingham certainly fits the description … Continue reading →

Posted in 09-10 Offseason, Rumors | Tagged , , | 6 Comments

This Quote Says It All

Posted on December 6, 2009 by Joe Janish

From Ken Rosenthal’s column, in reference to free agent Mark DeRosa’s potential landing spots: “Lesser teams such as the Mets and Nationals also are interested in DeRosa, according to major-league sources. But, like so many free agents, his first choice … Continue reading →

Posted in 09-10 Offseason | 3 Comments

Blame the Catchers

Posted on December 6, 2009 by Joe Janish

The blame game played by Jerry Manuel extends to his coaching staff and into the offseason. Because now the word from Dan Warthen is that the Mets catchers are to blame for the terrible pitching exhibited by the Flushing Futiles.

Posted in 09-10 Offseason, Pitching Staff | Comments Off on Blame the Catchers

Fernando Martinez Disabled Again

Posted on December 6, 2009 by Joe Janish

Top Mets prospect Fernando Martinez is off the field again, this time suffering from blister problems. F-Mart is currently on the roster of Escogido in the Dominican Winter League. From Adam Rubin’s report on the issue: The continued trouble has … Continue reading →

Posted in 09-10 Offseason | Tagged , , , | 5 Comments

Free Agent Evaluation: Catchers

Posted on December 4, 2009 by Joe Janish

Despite already having a competent backup in Omir Santos, the Mets have signed two backup catchers — Chris Coste and Henry Blanco — and are in the market for a starting backstop. We know Omar Minaya has his eye on … Continue reading →

Posted in 09-10 Offseason | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Reese Havens: Swing Evaluation

Posted on December 4, 2009 by Joe Janish

The 22nd pick of the 2008 draft — shortstop Reese Havens — has quickly emerged as one of the Mets’ top prospects. He is a strong all-around player, both in terms of talent and sound fundamentals, and has the “makeup” … Continue reading →

Posted in Baseball Basics | Tagged | 3 Comments

Braves Sign Takashi Saito

Posted on December 3, 2009 by Joe Janish

In a matter of 48 hours, the Braves have rebuilt their bullpen. A day after signing Billy Wagner to be their closer, Atlanta wasted no time in locking up a setup man — Takashi Saito. Saito was signed to a … Continue reading →

Posted in 09-10 Offseason, Latest Mets News | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Marco Scutaro Off the Table?

Posted on December 3, 2009 by Joe Janish

According to Venezuelan news source Lider, the Red Sox have signed Marco Scutaro. Terms are unknown at this time, and the deal is yet to be official. So scratch him off the list of available second basemen / utility infielders, … Continue reading →

Posted in Hot Stove, Latest Mets News, Rumors | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Marco Scutaro Off the Table?