The Mets need to clear a roster spot to make room for Livan Hernandez, who will be activated on Saturday. The battle seems to come down to Marlon Anderson, the pinch-hitter / backup first baseman, or Darren O’Day, the sidearming righthander.
As it stands now, it looks like it’s going to be Anderson and his $1.15 million contract that gets cut, according to Adam Rubin.
"Sometimes that guy never gets in a game, but at least you have that protection," Manuel said about carrying the extra reliever as a hedge against a starter getting knocked out early.
Mets officials insist they need OF Jeremy Reed, who can be optioned to the minors, as a defensive replacement for Daniel Murphy, leaving no apparent alternative to Anderson as the roster casualty. After hitting .210 last season, Anderson went 0-for-3 as a pinch-hitter against the Reds. He is owed $1.15 million this season.
It’s the most logical move for the Mets. I’m more than certain Anderson will catch on somewhere and be just fine.
(Five bucks says he lands with the Phillies and kills the Mets all season long…)
