Author: Will Sommer
I recently did a Q & A with Howard Megdal of the New York Observer
Will Sommer: How did you get working for the New York Observer?
Howard Megdal: I was fortunate to encounter a forward-thinking editor, who has advocated for baseball coverage in the paper- it was fortuitous timing.
WS: What did you do before the Observer?
HM: I've written on baseball and other matters for years since college- edited sports sections, covered politics- but baseball is my number-one passion.
WS: Who is your favorite team?
HM: It is the Mets. I was raised by a Brooklyn Dodgers fan. That said, I make certain what I write is supported by the facts- it doesn't do me any good to unnecessarily praise or bash the Mets- people will take my opinions or leave them based on how often I am perceptive.
WS:
You wrote an article recently about Pedro Feliciano, do you think he can be successful against right handed batters?
HM: I really do. Look at his BABIP against righties last year- .385 screams
fluke to me. I think he will rebound nicely, assuming he isn't
overworked by winter ball and the WBC.
WS: How come the Mets aren't considering Manny,? Wouldn't he be a perfect fit?
HM: Honestly, I think they aren't pursuing him for financial reasons. But I believe he'd have to be peak-level Manny offensively to justify a $20-25 million annual salary, given his awful defense. I happen to agree with the Mets on this- that money could buy them out of Castillo's contract, allow them to sign whoever they don't get between Lowe and Perez, and grab Orlando Hudson to boot. Don't you think that's a better use of the money? I sure do!
WS:
What is your projected starting rotation?
HM: I think you have to figure:
Santana
Pelfrey
Maine
Perez (my hope is Perez)
A battle between Redding/Niese, with a chance Pedro or Freddy Garcia is also in the mix.
WS: Do you think Castillo can rebound?
HM: Yes, he can- the question is whether he will be healthy. Second basemen of a certain age tend to age quickly- see Alomar, Roberto. I think the Mets better hope he can- I can't imagine anyone trading for his contract.
WS: Other than SP in your opinion who do the Mets need to get?
HM: Really, that's it. I'd love to see Lowe and Perez- that's not going to happen, due to money, it seems. But that would be a fantastic rotation. I'd love another lefty, but I don't think you need to pay a ton for one at all. A backup infielder is a must, but they'll get one- a David Eckstein/Alex Cora, someone who can spot Reyes once a month at SS. But their major needs are filled once Lowe/Perez is signed.
WS: Can Carlos Delgado have another great year like he did from July on?
HM: He can, but I'm inclined to believe he'll regress some, to an area between his early 2008 and late 2008. Mets might have been best off dealing Delgado and signing Adam Dunn, in my opinion.
WS: Do any of the Mets rule 5 draft picks have a chance to make the team?
HM: It's possible- the Mets seem to place a lot of stock in spring training performances, and there are some spots up for grabs in the bullpen. Watch spring numbers to get a sense of who has a chance.
WS:
Have you taken any tours of Citi Field?
HM: I have. It is beautiful. Mets fans will love it. It's an improved
Citizen's Bank Park, with another added advantage- fewer Phillies fans.
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