Fix the Mets, Fix the Mets

It's well known that I am a die-hard Mets fan. So, I am entitled to a now-and-then Mets post. And after the Mets' recent four-game sweep at the hands of the Padres, I think it's time for a rant.

As the non-waiver trade deadline approached over the last few season, General Manager Omar Minaya has had several chances to improve his club, in hopes of making (and winning) the World Series.

In July of 2006, the year the team was one swing away from getting to the Fall Classic, the Mets had an opportunity to acquire Barry Zito for Lastings Milledge and Aaron Heilman. And, well, Minaya dropped the ball, I believe. Zito was an All-Star that season, and had a great year. And as a free agent at the end of that season, perhaps he would have given the Mets a discount if they had made it to the World Series. I mean, just imagine a playoff rotation of Maine, Zito and Glavine. Solid.

Last season, in what was the worst collapse in history, they had a chance to get some very decent relievers for a very beleaguered bullpen. Chad Cordero, Jon Rauch, Juan Rincon, Ron Mahay, Eric Gagne all could have been had. Instead, the Mets acquired second baseman Luis Castillo and eventually signed him to a four-year deal.

Now, about that four-year deal. Castillo will turn 33 in September, and is well beyond his prime. His game is built around his speed, and with knees not as stable as they once were, his speed/defense has slacked. And with no real power to speak of, Castillo has become more of a burden than a help. What I would like to see is a deal for current Orioles' second baseman Brian Roberts.

Roberts is very much on the block - he was almost traded to the Cubs during the offseason. The Mets should be able to afford him, both financially and in talent. Maybe a deal that includes Mike Pelfrey and Aaron Heilman - two pitchers who have struggled in the Big Apple, but might flourish in a small-market city like Baltimore. That would pretty much designate Castillo to a bench role, but at this point in his career, that's what he is. He would be a $25 million pinch runner/defensive replacement. But I think the addition of Roberts, along with the bench presence of Castillo will save the Mets season.

I also think it's time for the Mets to give Mike Carp a look at first base - though that probably will not happen until at least September, if not next season. But this kid is hitting .351 with nine homers in Double-A Binghamton. He hits from the left side, just like the struggling Carlos Delgado, but perhaps an injection of young blood is what this team needs as a spark (a la the Reds' Joey Votto from a year ago). I'd also like to see some more depth on that bench - a nice power bat would be a great addition, like a Matt Stairs type.

There is a lot riding on this season. The manager, and general manager may both be gambling with their jobs for the rest of the year. And if the Mets don't win, there will likely be some changes made. Well, I think change has to be made - but not with Willie Randolph. Minaya needs to pull the trigger as July 31st approaches, and if he can't make the moves, than owner Fred Wilpon needs to find someone who can. After the debacle that was last season, the Mets have to win - and they need the rights pieces to do that with. So, LETS GO, METS!