I knew that the comparison article was going to inspire some debate in the comments. Good times. Not nearly as many stories today as yesterday, so don't look to me to fill your day today. Maybe it's time we all do some work around here...
Around Port St. Lucie
BREAKING NEWS: Duaner Sanchez was just cut.
A pair of late bombs by Nick Evans and Rene Rivera saved the Mets in yesterday's 9-8 victory over the Orioles. Evans' was a pinch hit grand slam in the eighth that was pulled to deep left, while Rivera's was a walk-off 460 foot solo shot to deep center. Met pitching continued to struggle, however, with Duaner Sanchez unable to get a fastball much over 85 mph (he gave up 2 runs on 3 hits in 1 IP). Brian Stokes continued his strong spring and earned the victory pitching in the ninth.
The Mets travel to Viera today to play against the Nationals. John Maine will get the start, which you can hear on MLB Gameday audio.
I doubt that he will inspire Sign Pedro rallies outside of SNY, but Met blogosphere is encouraging Omar to sign the sure-to-be Hall of Famer (including our own Eric Simon). More examples are here, here, and while not a blog, here. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your opinion), Manuel seems perfectly happy with the players competing for the spot now.
Bad news regarding Angel Pagan. The MRI found bone spurs in his elbow which may require surgery.
Here's the good news, however, Johan Santana will make the start Thursday against the Marlins.
Mike Silva is pushing to give a bullpen spot to Matt DeSalvo. They probably could use that other lefty and he would cost a lot less than Will Ohman.
Here's a useful update on Mets playing in the WBC. Yikes, Ollie.
This is sad news. SNY will no longer be playing the ProCede ads during Met broadcasts.
Around the NL East
The Marlins are also interested in Pudge. Also, Scott Proctor looks to be on the mend.
Chipper Jones is expected to make his return this weekend in the WBC from an oblique strain. Meanwhile, in Braves camp, Kenshin Kawakami got knocked around in an intrasquad game.
Philadelphia is hoping that Gary Majewski is able to solidify their bullpen.
Could the Marlins' new stadium be the recession's latest casualty?
Around the MLB
Buster Olney writes about the "best prospect ever."
This article about Kazmir is awfully picky.
Andruw Jones feels bad for stealing all that money from the Dodgers.
More evidence builds against my least favorite player of all time, Roger Clemens.
Also from the Times, 3D baseball cards are AWESOME.
Way to be Mikey! Italy is still alive in the WBC as they defeated Canada yesterday, 6-2.