A Minor Review of 2008: The Mets

The Graduate: Daniel Murphy | Born: April 1985 | 3B/OF

This former 13th round pick (2006) spent 2007 in High-A ball and ended 2008 as an important part of a team racing towards the playoffs. Thanks in part to his versatility, and hot bat, Daniel Murphy appeared in 29 games for the Mets and hit .313/.397/.473 in 131 at-bats. His left-handed bat, mix of speed and power, and ability to play third base, first base and the outfield should ensure him a spot on the Mets’ bench in 2009.

The Riser: Wilmer Flores | Born: August 1991 | Shortstop

The Mets knew they had something special when Wilmer Flores was signed as an amateur free agent out of Venezuela, but they didn’t expect him to be this good this fast. Flores, who did not turn 17 until August, displayed amazing power for his age with an ISO of .180 in Rookie Ball, which earned him a late-season promotion to the New York Penn League (A league dominated by college draft picks). The only real knock on Flores is his lack of patience (4.7 BB%).

The Tumbler: Nick Carr | Born: April 1987 | Right-Handed Pitcher

The good news is that not many Mets prospects took a step back in 2008. Nick Carr, though, had a disappointing season as a 21-year-old in High-A ball. He allowed 103 hits and 50 walks in 94.2 innings, along with 80 strikeouts. He learned the importance of changing speeds and must continue to work on his change-up if he wants to remain a starter.

The ’08 Draft Pick: Brad Holt | Born: August 1986 | Right-Handed Pitcher

Brad Holt’s selection in the supplemental first round of the 2008 draft did not draw a lot of attention, but his subsequent pro debut season certainly did. Holt allowed just 43 hits in 71.1 innings, along with rates of 4.11 BB/9 and 11.94 K/9, in Short Season ball. Obviously the walks need to come down, but he has likely earned a promotion to High-A ball in 2009 and is on the fast track to New York.

The ’09 Sleeper: Jefry Marte | Born: June 1991 | Third Baseman

Jefry Marte was not as heralded a signing as Flores, but he still received half a million dollars last year as a 16-year-old. The third baseman was considered raw in many areas, but that did not show in the Rookie League this season when he hit .325/.398/.532 with a .208 ISO in 154 at-bats. His walk rate of 7.8% is OK, especially given his age and lack of experience. He could be in full-season ball next season as a 17-year-old.

Next Up: The Los Angeles Angels