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.
If Daniel Murphy could field half as well as Keith Hernandez no one would have any problems with him as the team’s first baseman. But, is this a case of the team trying to turning garbage into gold? You can’t teach foot speed or quickness and number 17 has his work cut out for him with the heavy footed youngster. What you also can’t teach is baseball I.Q. Murphy neds some work there, too.
Actually, you can improve foot speed and quickness…that’s why they do these drills. It’s pure SPEED you can’t teach. And you can obviously teach baseball IQ as well (just like you can teach any type of IQ)…some are naturally gifted with it, some have to acquire it, but it can be taught. Is he the next Mex? No way, but to say he was ‘garbage’ is crazy. Given the circumstances, Murphy was a really good player last year. I look for him to continue the maturation process and start to make a name for himself. If Davis is ready by the end of the year, hopefully Murphy has acquired some trade value.
Not only does Murphy have a solid work ethic, he also has shown quickness on the field. He has excellent reflexes which Hernandez admires. The big question will not revolve around his fielding but his hitting.
http://www.sammymakki.com/2010/02/breaking-news-mets-offer-chien-ming.html?spref=fb
is this guy legit? he said we made an offer to wang, I hope we get him..
i dont trust it at all
So great to hear Keith sharing his wisdom.
murphy? ok, so he will probably be ok at 1st prob hit 275-285 with 18-22 HR. But what happens to him when davis comes up?
Let Ike earn it and show he’s ready.
He may be ready now, or in 2 years who knows maybe he gets hurt.
(God forbid)
Can’t sweat that right now.
That will be a good problem for a change.
I’m really pulling for this kid.
Hope he’s given a real chance.
He is the type of guy I love. He gives his all.
All I am saying is…….give Murph a chance……
How amazing must it be to have one of the greatest first basemen teaching you the position !!! I am pulling big time for this kid
It’s great to see Keith getting involved in this way. I wouldn’t mind if he put on a pair of pants, though.
Murphy, I believe, has what it takes to be a decent first baseman. I love his “aggression,” and if he keeps this up – he’ll be successful somewhere.
Atta boy, Danny!