nysports

Right now the Mets have increased their offer to Oliver Perez, and are still waiting for an answer.  It is believed that the offer is 4 years, in the area of $40 - $42 million.  Perez is 27 year old, and has been an inconsistant arm in the rotation for the last 2 years.  At times he looks like an Ace, and other times, like a 5th starter.

Currently, the Mets have been also discussing terms with agents for Ben Sheets, Randy Wolf and Jon Garland.  However, here is the issue, right now, these other pitchers are starting to field offers from other teams.  While one would like to think that all of them will wait to hear from the Mets, that’s just not realistic.  Sure, they would like to get a little more of that NY money, and probably have a chance at contending for the playoffs, but let’s face it, it’s 3 weeks before spring training.  Also, the Mets only have 1 spot left in the rotation for 4 free agents, that means at least 3 of them are going elsewhere anyway.  If the Mets wait too long, all 4 of them could end up elsewhere.

I believe the Mets should give Perez to about Wednesday of this week to accept an offer, and if they don’t hear back from him, move on to other names.

I have been tapping the pulse of Mets fans, and many of them don’t feel Ollie is the answer anyway.  Here is an interesting link to some comments on MLBTradeRumors.com  Most fans seem to feel that either Sheets or Garland would be great.  Going after Ollie just because he is a lefty isn’t a good enough reason.

Also, here are some splits on Perez last season:

First Half:
19starts 6-5 103.1IP 4.44ERA 17HR 60BB 89K 10HBP

Second Half:
15starts 4-2 90.2IP 3.97ERA 7HR 45BB 91K 1HBP

The common feeling was that Perez was much better in the 2nd half, after Warthen became pitching coach, but the stats don’t show that.  He only had 4 wins and 15 less BBs in the 2nd half.  Down the stretch the Mets could have used another couple wins out of him.

The final reason I believe the Mets should pass on Perez is he is a head case.  You never know what theatrics he is going to pull out on the diamond.  Will he drop down and throw side arm for no reason?  Will he go up to the plate like Casey at the Bat swinging so hard he knocks himself over?  That is why my grandfather and myself have given him the nickname of “Knuckle Head”

So give Perez until Wednesday and then move on.  Heck, give him until Tuesday! haha.

 That’s my 2 cents… I’d love to hear yours!

He’s an exciting player who has really jump started the Knicks lately!