Mets Fans Forever

Mets Call up Josh Thole

Author: Will Sommer

As expected the Mets have call up top catching prospect Josh Thole this according to Joel Sherman.

Obviously I am very excited to see him. Jerry Manuel said the other day that Thole might be limited to facing right handed pitchers. I am not sure I agree with that. I know that Jerry wants Thole to gain confidence and have success immediately, but Thole did have dead even splits in AA. Also this September call up is a tryout for 2010. Omar Minaya and Co. have to see if they have a catcher in Thole for next year. So if Thole doesn't get regular AB's against LHP, how will Minaya, and Manuel know if Thole can hit lefties at the major league level?  Hopefully though, he gets the start tomorrow in Colorado.

If you haven't already be sure to read the Q & A I had with Thole last week by clicking Here. 

Also Thole will be wearing number 30.

Q & A With Josh Thole, Catcher of the Binghamton Mets

Author: Will Sommer

After the game in Binghamton I had the chance to interview Josh Thole, who is expected to get the call up to the majors when rosters expand September 1st. Thole has struggled with the bat in August but still has a .324 batting average, with 32 XBH. Even though he lacks power, my belief while watching him take his AB's, is that he will be a quality everyday catcher in the majors.

Will Sommer: Have any coaches in Binghamton told you that you will indeed be called up to the majors September 1st?

Josh Thole: No, nothing I'm just trying to finish the season strong with Binghamton, and that's all I'm focused on.

Will Sommer: So as to Adam Rubin's report you haven't heard anything about you getting the call?

Josh Thole: Nothing, I'm just trying to win here in Binghamton. And that's all I'm focused on.

Q & A With Mako Oliveras, Manager of the Binghamton Mets

Author: Will Sommer

While on my trip to Binghamton I had the chance to interview Mako Oliveras manager of the B-Mets. He was a great guy to talk to,  and based on what players have to say about him he's a great manager.

Will Sommer: How did you begin your coaching career in minor league baseball?

Mako Oliveras: I signed in 1968 with the Red Sox and ever since then I've been in baseball

Will Sommer: For how many years have you been coaching with the Mets organization?

Mako Oliveras: This is my 3rd year. I have been the manager of the B-Mets since 2007.

Will Sommer: What are your thoughts on how the season has gone so far?

Mako Oliveras: Well you know record-wise it's not what we'd like to have but with developing players we've done a good job.  (Jonathan) Malo, Tejada, Holt, Mejias, (Emmanuel) Garcia are guys who are al ot better now than when they started the season.

Will Sommer: Ruben Tejada is 19 years old and struggled somewhat last year in advanced A ball, how do you think he's held up this year physically and mentally?

Mako Oliveras:  I think with better players he's turned it up a notch. He's been doing outstanding. He's hitting close to .280, and he's been a very solid player all year.

My Trip To Binghamton

Author: Will Sommer

Tomorrow August 25, I'm packing my bags, and going on a 3 hour bus ride to Binghamton, New York. Home of the Mets AA affiliate. Since I have press credentials, I am hoping to interview players and coaches. The player I am most interested in interview--Josh Thole. Why? Because in a little over a week he will be with the big club, showing off his skills.

Be sure to check back here all week as I post about my experience at NYSEG Stadium. Also I will be "tweeting" while I'm there so if you haven't yet be sure to follow me on Twitter