Opinion: Spend like the Yankees
In the New York Post, Mike Vaccaro says, “The Mets should start acting like they belong in the varsity league by addressing their lingering needs with the most tried-and-true method possible… By spending their money.”
I dislike this argument. Yes, i agree with it. But, I think it’s very easy and presumptuous to haphazardly spend some one else’s money, from a check book we do not have access to.
I mean, sure, I would love for the Mets to just cut Luis Castillo, eat his $18 million, trade for Jason Marquis, sign Orlando Hudson, Derek Lowe and Manny Ramirez, and be done with it.
However, like it or not, I know this will not be happening. I wish it would, but it isn’t, for whatever reason – whether because of roster space, logistics, character issues, or available cash, it just isn’t in the cards.
So, instead of writing easy, emotional op-eds about what the Mets should do, I am far more interested in why the Mets do what they do. Why are they opposed to spending like the Yankees?
I understand why they had to spend less 10 years ago. But, now the Mets also have a successful regional sports network, they also have a new stadium, they also play in New York City, and also charge a fortune for tickets and hot dogs.
So, what is it? What’s the difference? Is it a lack of capital, is it outside forces we are unaware of, is it the team’s minority owners, is it personal preference?
The thing is, I’m fine with any answer, because it’s their answer, their money and their decision. I won’t argue against it, judge or criticize it, because what do i know.
However, as a fan, as a customer, who spends a ton of time and money helping to support their business, spending money on tickets and TV time, popcorn, pretzels and parking, only to drive myself crazy every fall, I believe you and I have earned some sort of response.
