As spring training fast approaches I want to go around-the-horn on the projected Mets opening day lineup position by position.  I will talk about my thoughts on how that position matches up and how it should be handled.  Hope you enjoy.

Much like behind the plate the first base position for the Mets has been much maligned this off season.  I think they really had hopes that Delgado could have made a comeback, but I for one am happy (see my post about new leadership).  They added Mike Jacobs to the mix late so looking at the depth chart it’s Daniel Murphy’s job to lose.

They are gonna play this thing out as if it’s an open competition but given how much they hyped up Murphy last year I would be really surprised if they didn’t give him a shot to start the year to see what he can do.  Jacobs can add some pop off the bench which could prove useful but I don’t really see him fitting into the defensive caddy role so I am not really sure why he was added quite frankly.  Also don’t sleep on Nick Evans, unlick Murphy first is his natural position and he has proven to have a decent bat.  I wouldn’t be surprised to see more of a sharing role between Murphy and Evans then with Jacobs.

I personally like Murphy and truly wish him the best.  I think last years disaster was really just a young player trying way too hard.  Once they let him hang himself out there in left field he was just trying to keep his head above water and get through the season after that.  Now with a new position and a fresh start I really want to see what he can do.  I like his work ethic a lot and he has that grittiness that I covet for these Mets.  He just needs to relax and play ball.  I am hoping that Francoeur will have a calming effect on him, and act as a role model of sorts.

All I want to see out of Murphy is a significant jump up in On-Base-Percentage.  That should be his only focus.  I feel that with more plate discipline, which is what he was touted for coming up, everything else will come.  And lets face it, he’s not going to be hitting in the power spots in the linup so a disciplined eye will be crucial whether he’s batting 2, 7, or 8.  This will be the telltale sign for Murhpy’s season.  If he can get that OBP north it could prove to be a good season for him.

The wildcard will be if Jacobs gets off to a good start and really swings a power bat.  The Mets could be in such dire need for a power source that if Jacobs starts hitting some bombs they might be inclined to force him into the lineup.  I’d rather stick to what they have said they want to build around and let Murphy just smack his doubles and take his walks.  But only time will tell.