Upbeat Alderson Ready For Mets' Season Of Heightened Expectations
PORT ST. LUCIE, Florida (CBSNewYork) -- Sandy Alderson says he feels good physically and is enjoying the vibe surrounding his baseball team.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday from the Mets' spring training complex, the veteran general manager said he is looking forward to a season of big expectations for his club.
"I haven't been this upbeat about a team in a long time and I think that is exciting," Alderson said. "It's exciting for us, exciting for the players and I think the fans as well."
Thanks to some nifty personnel work and some good fortune during the offseason, the Mets should be in good position to defend their National League crown when the season starts in April.
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The additions of Neil Walker and Asdrubal Cabrera have solidified an infield that appeared to lack punch with the defection of playoff hero Daniel Murphy to Washington. The lineup as a whole looks to be as potent as it was during the second half of last season, thanks to the unexpected return of slugging outfielder Yoenis Cespedes.
And, of course, the Mets still boast arguably the best pitching staff in baseball. Alderson said Matt Harvey, Jacob deGrom, Noah Syndergaard and Steven Matz will not have innings limits once the seasons starts, but will be carefully watched during spring training outings.
Despite the stunning lifetime suspension handed down to reliever Jenrry Mejia due to performance-enhancing drug use, the Mets are still expected to have a strong bullpen, which will be anchored by closer Jeurys Familia, who enjoyed a breakout season in 2015.
Alderson said his treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer is going well and that he expects to spend much of his time in Florida with the team, though he indicated that he will have to travel back to New York every so often for treatment.
As for David Wright's health, Alderson said the veteran third baseman could play up to 130 games during the regular season, with the Mets keeping a close eye on his ongoing battle with spinal stenosis.
