Note: Keith Hernandez talking about Daniel Murphy
In a conference call with reporters today, Keith Hernandez said Omar Minaya called him last week to, as he put it, ‘Get this whole ball rolling,’ so he could work with Daniel Muprhy on his defense at first base.
He said he and Murphy also worked together yesterday, and he’s more than happy to work with him again at various points during Spring Training, though he doubts there will be time to connect during the regular season.
Murphy said they worked on his footwork around the bag, and talked a lot about in-game situations.
Hernandez said he only worked with Murphy on fielding, saying hitting is Howard Johnson’s responsibility. He said he also worked with Todd Zeile before, as well as John Olerud, ‘who, obviously, didn’t need any help at all.’
Murphy said, in time, he believes he can be an asset to the Mets at first base.
Hernandez also worked with Nick Evans, who, he said, ‘Does a good job around the base.’
In the end, Hernandez feels Muprhy did an admirable job last season, being asked to learn first base, mid season, in New York, and he is surprised at how well he handled the transition.
