1 Through 9: Part 3

Last time on 1 Through 9 we talked about the batting order. This time I thought it would be interesting to talk about the bench. The 2006 Mets Bench: Chris Woodward: Woodward is perhaps the best bench player on the team. He is a utility player, and he excels at those positions. He is not a bad hitter and on some teams could be a starter. There was a point in 2005 when he virtually won the 1st baseman job. Ramon Castro: The backup catcher for Paul LoDuca is a perfect backup back stop. He will be sharing the time with LoDuca, and may come in the 9th inning for LoDuca. Castro showed the Mets something special last year. He almost convinced management to give him the starting job. He has some pop in his bat, a strong arm, and is a great club house guy. Julio Franco: Franco will be the backup first baseman for Delgado. He is a great club house guy, and will help to tutor David Wright, Jose Reyes, and the other young guys on the art of baseball. Jose Valentin: Valentin is also a utility guy, however he sucks at every position. In my opinion he will serve as a pinch hitter, as he has the ability to hit the ball a far way. Endy Chavez: Chavez will join the Mets for the third time in his career. He will serve as a backup outfielder, as he has an excellent glove. Chavez may also serve as a pinch runner as he has good speed. Kazuo Matsui/Anderson Hernandez: Depending on who gets the second base job, the other man will likely play off the bench. If Matsui were to play of the bench, he would be a back up IF with good speed. Andy Hernandez will also be a backup IF with good speed.