The Rising Apple Report, Episode 3: Thoughts on Brian Wilson, Matt Harvey, and Arbitration Cases

This article written by Rising Apple Staff Writer, Dan Haefeli.
Last night’s Rising Apple Report saw a change of pace with Sam Maxwell taking over the hosting duties. Joining the discussion this week were Staff Writers Kevin Baez and Dan Haefeli. As usual, the discussion was spirited and covered some of the recent hot stove topics surrounding the Mets’ offseason and outlook.
June 05, 2011; Flushing, NY, USA; The New York Mets logo behind home plate before a game against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field. The Mets defeated the Braves 6-4. Mandatory Credit: Andrew B. Fielding-USA TODAY Sports
To open the show, Sam, Kevin, and Dan discussed the rumors connecting former San Francisco Giants closer Brian Wilson to the Mets’ bullpen. They looked into whether the Mets would be wise to offer Wilson a major league contract; and if so, how that deal could be structured. Certainly adding a pitcher of Wilson’s ability would represent a significant improvement to the [less than] Amazin’ bullpen, but questions still linger regarding that ability after his second Tommy John surgery and how serious Sandy Alderson will pursue Wilson after being rumored to be unimpressed with Wilson’s workout last week.
Highlighting a recent interview with Mets pitcher Matt Harvey, they discussed something that may be sneaking up on plenty of people – the quality of the Mets’ rotation. Despite the loss of Cy Young winner R.A. Dickey, the rotation still carries plenty of potential on the arms of Johan Santana, Matt Harvey, Jonathon Niese, and Dillon Gee. While the team looks to sign a veteran starter to add quality innings to the major league rotation, the eventual promotion of Zack Wheeler represents a significant step forward in terms of the Mets’ ability to compete in an increasingly-competitive National League East.
In the final few minutes or so, the recent arbitration filings of Daniel Murphy, Ike Davis, and Bobby Parnell are discussed. The somewhat significant salary increase (from a combined $1.6 million to a projected $7.5 million) doesn’t seem significant considering their contributions in 2012, but questions remain regarding whether or not they fit as long-term pieces. If so, should the Mets consider long-term extensions to keep them cost-controlled for the future? Should the team work to settle with the three to avoid a potential media outfall? The Mets have done well to avoid arbitration for several years, would it be wise for them to do so again?
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