Opinion: Mets Need To Be On Same Page
Over the last week, it was reported that Johan Santana will not be ready to pitch Opening Day – a report the Mets would not initially confirm nor deny.
The next day, Santana declared himself fit enough to pitch Opening Day.
Far too often, the Mets have looked foolish in these types of health matters.
Last season, it appeared they mishandled the Ryan Church concussion injury by allowing him to dictate his ability to play, when clearly Church’s judgment was impaired by a significant head injury.
However, a significant injury to Santana is something the team cannot afford, since he is the most indispensable player on the their roster.
This is why it is not important that Santana pitch Opening Day, as it is simply symbolic – it is most important that make his 30-35 starts over the course of the 162 game season.
Regardless if Santana says he is ‘OK,’ why can’t the Mets still have a precautionary MRI performed to see if there is anything to be truly concerned about?
I’m sure the MRI machines in southern Florida will produce the same result as any in Manhattan – unless of course the Marlins have devised a way to sabotage the Mets season before Opening Day, rather than their customary last day of the season.
If nothing else, it puts the issue to rest and surely puts the organization and their fan’s hearts and minds at ease. Instead, the Mets and Santana continue to send mixed signals.
It wasn’t until late yesterday, Mets GM Omar Minaya finally told the media doctors had declared Santana ‘fine.’
I am alarmed it took the Mets over 48 hours to come to out with a clear message – but sadly, this is something we have become accustomed to.
Perhaps the entire franchise should take Manuel’s advice on being a ‘team,’ on and off the field.
