Note: What is Happening with Daniel Murphy
In the eighth inning last night, the bases loaded and two outs, Jerry Manuel pinch hit for Daniel Murphy using Angel Pagan, who hit in to an inning-ending double play.
“I don’t think Murphy is swinging quite as well right now,” Manuel explained to reporters following last night’s game. “It’s probably mechanical and fundamental right now for him not playing on a consistent basis like he’d like to be.”
So, if Murphy is struggling because he isn’t playing, Jerry, maybe he should play more.
Murphy had a nine-game hitting streak, during which he hit .333, but since has started just three out of the team’s eight games, during which he is hitless in 17 at bats.
From what I can gather, the Mets plan to start Murphy at first base during the next few games, while also using Jeremy Reed and Fernando Tatis. Meanwhile, Carlos Delgado will travel to Vail, CO, to meet with a hip specialist today.
I believe the team is already looking around the league to identity players available in trade, as well as on the free-agent market, who could slot in to the middle of the lineup should Delgado need surgery. The Mets will go with the current roster if they’re confident Delgado is only in need or rest. However, I sense they’re preparing for the worst.
In the trade market, Omar Minaya will have options, in that he can look for a left fielder and move Murphy to first; or, Minaya can leave Murphy in left field, and acquire a first baseman.
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