2006 New York Mets Preview

2005 Overview:Along with Martinez, Tom Glavine (13-13 3.53) was
Rookie Manager Willie Randolph and General Managerable to finally show a glimpse of the pitcher he once
Omar Minaya entered the 2005 season with twowas by compiling a 7-6 record and 2.22 ERA after
new key acquisitions. Both Pedro Martinez and Carlosthe all-star break. Starters Kris Benson (10-8 4.13),
Beltran arrived via free agency hoping to improve theVíctor Zambrano (7-12 4.17), and Jae Seo (8-2 2.59)
New York Mets lineup and rotation. Martinez (15-8were helped by the aging Roberto Hernandez (8-6
2.82) certainly impressed, posting a 10-3 record prior2.58) and the emergence of Aaron Heilman (5-3 3.17)
to the all star break. Beltran (.266 16 78) on the otherin the bullpen. Unfortunately, closer Braden Looper
hand struggled for most the season as the Mets(4-7 3.94 28 saves) struggled for the entire season
finished the season with an 83-79 record, 7 gamesconverting only 28 of 36 save opportunities.
behind the Atlanta Braves.Off Season Moves:
Outfielder Cliff Floyd (.273 34 98) enjoyed aThe Mets finally picked up the 1st baseman they
renaissance in 2005 reaching a career high inwanted by acquiring Carlos Delgado (.301 33 115)
homeruns. 3rd baseman David Wright (.306 27 102)from the Marlins. Catcher Paul Lo Duca (.288 6 57)
also came into his own while Mike Piazza (.251 19 62)was also netted from the Marlins fire sale while Mets
ended his 8-year career as a NY Met batting onlyGM Omar Minaya landed the closer free-agent
.232 after the all star break. Shortstop Jose Reyeslefthander Billy Wagner (4-3 1.51 38 saves) from the
(.273 7 58 60 stolen bases) was able to play a fullPhillies. Mike Cameron was moved to the Padres for
season and impress but the rest of the Met'snew right fielder Xavier Nady (.261 13 43) and the
offense suffered with injuries and spotty output.ageless wonder Julio Franco (.275 9 42) was signed
Japanese import Kaz Matsui (.255 3 24) Mikevia free agency to a 2-year contract. Starting
Cameron (.273 12 39), and newly acquired 1stpitchers Jae Seo and Kris Benson were also dealt
baseman Doug Mientkiewicz (.240 11 29) did little towhile relievers Jorge Julio (3-5 5.90), John Maine (2-3
provide the Mets with any stability in the everyday6.30) and Duaner Sánchez (4-7 3.73) joined the
lineup.bullpen.