The kids are all right

One of the few bright spots in Port St. Lucie this spring has been the fact that our prospects actually look like they might live up to the hype surrounding them this time around. Ike Davis has been hitting like crazy - although the defense he prides himself on has been a bit shaky. Fernando Martinez is showing signs that his cup of coffee last year was a poor showing and not up to his usual standard. Reuben Tejada has started some conversations about whether or not he could be moved over to second base (mostly among fans... and yes, we do remember what happened the last time the Mets tried to convert a shortstop into a second baseman). I think it's important that these guys at least start the year in AAA. Not only will they get regular playing time - something Martinez in particular definitely needs - but they will also get used to playing together.

But man, Jenrry Mejia is something else all together. He's only 20 years old and has already been compared to Mariano Rivera and Dwight Gooden. I would love to see Mejia make the team this year... but only if the Mets actually have a plan for him. I do not want them to stick him in the bullpen as an 8th inning guy, only to change their minds next year and try to make him back into a starter etc, etc. As much as John Maine's comments earlier in the week rubbed people the wrong way, I think it's true that relievers and starters approach the game differently. If Mejia is truly as gifted as he seems to be, then he is worth the wait and deserves a solid plan. The 8th inning is a glaring hole in the bullpen right now so I understand why there has been some chatter about Mejia filling that role. Personally, I would rather see the Mets try to develop Mejia into a starter since he brings some excitement and confidence to the mound. I love Johan Santana, but he's not going to be around forever. Wouldn't it be helpful to have someone in our system capable of taking his place at some point? That being said, if the Mets see Mejia as their closer of the future, they should move forward with him in the bullpen. Just make up your mind and stick to the decision - is that really asking too much?