Jose Valentin wasn't feeling much better when he showed up this morning on crutches and he'll have to wait to see the team's medical staff on Monday before a cast is put on. Valentin suffered a fractured tibia Friday when he fouled a pitch off his right shin and the prognosis is four to six weeks of healing time. However long it takes, Valentin is questionable at best for the regular season and who knows what kind of shape he'll be in come October -- if the Mets get that far.
"The last couple of hours I've been thinking about everything," Valentin said. "It doesn't make any sense to be negative on yourself. Time's going to decide what's going to happen. Right now, there's nothing I can do. I'm in limbo."
The Mets called up Anderson Hernandez to replace Valentin on the roster and Ruben Gotay, who is starting at second base today, should get the majority of playing time, even when Damion Easley returns from the bereavement list. For now, at least, GM Omar Minaya feels comfortable with his depth at the position.
"I'm pretty sure teams are going to call me," Minaya said. "I'm willing to listen, but I like Gotay."
Comments (4)
The Mets should go after Mark Loretta.
Mets already went after Loretta. If I remember correctly he stiffed 'em.
There is a player who has gotten hot lately and has played as an everday second baseman, he also has produced well.
His name is Ronnie Belliard,Nationals. He is batting .305 as well being a veteran presence.
Belliard isn't a defensive star either, but he can hit. I think they can win with Gotay & Easley. Both have added more offensively than Valentin did this injury prone year, though he still was the defensive rock of the group...even wearing a brace.
Let's see if Minaya likes Gotay enough not to trade for a second baseman this month.
Howard
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