Mets Morning News: Heeeeeeeeere’s Stevie (and Sandy)

Meet the Mets

Steve Cohen and Sandy Alderson will be formally introduced to Mets fans at an introductory press conference this afternoon at 12:30pm. The presser will air on SNY.

After months of being teased and experiencing a number of ups and downs in the sale process, Mets fans are finally going to get their first look at Cohen.

In his brief time as owner, Cohen has ingratiated himself with the Flushing Faithful. David Lennon looked at the expectations among Mets fans that comes with that popularity.

Ahead of the presser, here are some big questions facing both Cohen and Alderson.

Anthony DiComo took his best shot at predicting the team’s 2021 Opening Day roster.

The NY Post seems to think the Yankees may lose AL MVP finalist DJ LeMahieu to the Mets (or the Red Sox).

Joel Sherman believes George Springer can be the Mets’ Bernie Williams and thinks he should be a top priority this winter.

Omar Minaya (aka “Omar from Queens”) bid adieu to the organization in a touching note.

The BBWAA’s NY chapter recently voted on their awards, which included Dominic Smith as “Toast of the Town”.

Speaking of Smith, the DH appears to be a ‘safe bet’ in the NL in 2021, according to Buster Olney. This bodes well for the left-handed first baseman, who figures to get a lot of the time alternating at DH with fellow first baseman Pete Alonso.

Andres Gimenez received one third place vote for the NL Rookie of the Year award.

Congratulations to Daniel Zamora and his wife Courtney on the birth of their second child, Tegan.

Around the National League East

John Middleton and Andy McPhail of the Phillies v. Steve Cohen and the Mets is not a fair fight for Philadelphia.

The Good Phight provided their guide for how Phillies fans should feel about Cohen purchasing the Mets.

The Phillies are likely to go window shopping for free agent outfielder Springer, but that’s probably it.

Philly Voice asked whether it is time for Cole Hamels to reunite with his old team.

In their latest player review, Talking Chop looked at Cristian Pache’s 2020 with the Braves.

Fish Stripes shared their season review for catcher Chad Wallach.

Around Major League Baseball

New White Sox skipper Tony La Russa has been charged with DUI for an incident going back to February. Chicago was aware of the arrest prior to hiring him, according to a spokesman.

La Russa is in no danger of losing his job or facing any discipline as a result of the DUI.

The fact that the arrest wasn’t disqualifying for the White Sox makes it a lot worse.

The 2020 season just ended, but MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark said the players are preparing to play a full spring training and 162-game slate as currently scheduled.

Last night, Devin Williams of the Brewers was named the National League Rookie of the Year and Kyle Lewis of the Mariners was awarded the American League Rookie of the Year.

Johnny Bench virtually announced the NL winner, while Cal Ripken Jr. did the same for the AL winner.

Since Justin Turner recklessly took the field to celebrate his team’s World Series championship with his teammates after a positive COVID-19 test, nine others within the Dodgers organization have tested positive.

It appears the Dodgers traded a World Series for COVID.

Former Astros’ General Manager Jeff Luhnow is suing his former club for ‘breach of contract’ after getting canned following the team’s sign-stealing scandal. (Paywall Alert)

Jay Jaffe of Fangraphs explored the case of Francisco Lindor and the abundance of available shortstops during next year’s free agent class.

Buster Olney pinpointed some free agents who can make an impact without breaking the bank.

Eno Sarris discussed how the use of sticky substances is basically omnipresent in baseball and asked what MLB can do about it. (Paywall Alert)

Jarrett Seidler introduced Baseball Prospectus’ 2021 Top Prospects List. (Paywall Alert)

The Staten Island Yankees shared a statement after the New York Yankees moved away from them as their minor league affiliate. The team was shocked following the departure.

Rob Manfred revealed to MLB employees that a voluntary retirement program will be available for those 50 and over.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Here’s how you can watch today’s Steve Cohen press conference.

Grace Carbone explained why it might be a good idea to extend Dom Smith now.

Lukas Vlahos looked at the options at catcher for the Mets this winter.

In episode 87 of From Complex to Queens, the crew said bye bye to Brodie Van Wagenen.

This Date in Mets History

Omar Minaya, who bid farewell to the organization yesterday, turns 62 today.