Harvey, Flores, and other Mets notes for the start of spring training

Sep 21, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; New York Mets second baseman

(4) turns a double play past Atlanta Braves third baseman

(23) during the sixth inning at Turner Field. The Mets defeated the Braves 10-2. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

How will Wilmer Flores respond to the criticism he’s been receiving all winter?

When Sandy Alderson made the move to sign Michael Cuddyer, many expected him to continue dealing with the Colorado Rockies by trading for Troy Tulowitzki. We all know that didn’t happen. Many, then, expected Alderson to chat with the Chicago Cubs and their plethora of young prospects to try and pry them away, but, that didn’t work.

Finally, fans thought giving the Seattle Mariners a call wouldn’t hurt in order to get Brad Miller or Chris Taylor. Again, no luck.

All winter long, fans and even experts have been shunning Flores as the Mets starting shortstop, simply because many feel he isn’t one. They dislike his defensive capabilities and believe his bat isn’t strong enough to be an offense-only shortstop.

That being said, Alderson has given Flores the starting gig, for now, and perhaps Flores can take the job, run with it, and become a solid player. If Flores has a hot spring, then many critics will simply shut up.

Have a spring to forget and fans will be clamoring for a move to be made as quickly as possible.