It seems like the Mets, for all intensive purposes, are probably done signing players going into Spring Training. They have at least six starters going into camp now and they have more than enough arms for the pen. The 25-man already looks crowded due to rule V players and players without options, and honestly this is all a really good problem to have. I am glad we have this problem. The Mets are obviously addressing a problem we have had over the last two seasons which is a lack of depth. The question is do we have enough depth?
That is a very difficult question to answer on the surface, because depth is usually exposed by injuries, and as 2009 shows us, things can all fall down quickly. We probably have enough depth right now, but more is generally better. Of course, the argument against “more” is that we don't want to overload AAA with back-up players, because we need room in the system for prospects to work their way up.
The entire point of this article is based on an MLB Trade Rumors article. As the article states, the following players have yet to be signed:
Kevin Millwood
Jermey Bonderman
Freddy Garcia
Doug Davis
Rodrigo Lopez (I remember when he was the “ace” of the Orioles' staff)
Todd Wellemeyer
Brian Moehler
John Maine
Justin Duchscherer
Now with the exception of Millwood, I'm not inclined to give any of the above players MLB contracts, based on who we already have on the team. I exclude Millwood because he will need an MLB contract to sign, plus he's an inning eater, something the Mets didn't sign this offseason. Also, I'm not sure if I want him.
Actually, I wouldn't want any of these players unless the price is right. I would gamble with a Minor League contract with Maine, Wellemeyer, Bonderman or Duchsherer.
I don't have a gut feeling the Mets will sign any of these guys, and it isn't necessary, but its intriguing to see what is still out on the table.
