Recap: Sandy Alderson’s Chat with Fans

This afternoon at 1:10 PM, Sandy Alderson answered some questions via video chat on Mets.com.  Some of the questions he answered were the ones that were asked by fans via Twitter.  However, the interview was incredibly bland.  I’m not sure whether it was the fault of the host, whoever was screening the questions, or a combination of the two, but the chat left a lot to be desired.

March 14, 2012; Lakeland, FL, USA; New York Mets shortstop Wilmer Flores (71) against the Detroit Tigers during a spring training game at Joker Marchant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

By my count, there were four noteworthy things mentioned by Alderson during the chat, and they’re outlined below:

• Asked where Wilmer Flores would play this year, Alderson noted that he would play third base and second base, but also mentioned the outfield.  Every scout who’s seen Flores play has said he’s too slow to be even adequate in the outfield (presumably in left), so we’ll have to wait and see if what Alderson stated comes to fruition.  If Flores were to somehow defy all expectations and be passable in the outfield, it would change the entire dynamic of the Mets’ current situation.  Don’t bet on it happening, though.  Flores is likely to open the year with either AA Binghamton or AAA Las Vegas.

• Regarding Michael Bourn and how much weight he gives to defensive metrics vs offensive production, Alderson had the following to say:

"I have more of an offensive interest than a defensive interest…you have to make accommodations, and take into account what your specific needs are.  He’s also a leadoff guy and brings some speed to a club, and those are areas where we’d like to improve as well.  For us he’d be a very nice fit, but at the same time we have to keep it in perspective…I certainly understand why fans are interested in our position vis a vis Michael and we’d like to get it resolved one way or the other.  I think we’re still in the mix, but I can’t make a prediction."

…Alderson continued to imply that the Mets were pursuing Bourn, which is something he’s usually reluctant to do when discussing external possibilities.  That, coupled with the potential news on the draft pick that broke shortly after, should continue to fuel speculation that Bourn may wind up a Met.

• Regarding whether Brian Wilson or Jose Valverde are still possibilities after the Brandon Lyon signing, Alderson refused to confirm the Lyon signing (presumably because he has yet to pass his physical).  He then said the following:

"I don’t think either of those two is a likely addition for us.  Brian Wilson, we’re gonna keep our eyes on as he continues to rehab.  Right now, neither is a realistic option for us."

…Sounds like Valverde is 100% off the list, while Wilson is still nowhere near full strength but remains a possibility down the line.

• On how important it was to sign David Wright long-term, Alderson said:

"I think it was important to ownership, the organization, and the fans.  David has been here a long time.  Born and bred if you will a New York Met…we were able to reach an agreement that keeps him a Met his entire career.  In addition to what he’s done in the past, he’s been great this offseason – promoting the Mets and calling players encouraging them to come to the Mets."

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