Kaz Matsui Sent To Rockies

The Mets finally decided to bite the bullet and eat Kaz Matsui's awful contract, sending him to the Rockies.  The best they could do for him was Eli Marrero, a 32 year-old journeyman who plays catcher, first base, and outfield.

In searching for positives about bringing in Marrero, I must note his solid .467 slugging percentage in 60 at-bats this year.  Marrero once hit 18 HR in less than 400 at-bats (2002 Cardinals) so he does provide a little right-handed pop off the bench.

Matsui has agreed to the deal and will report to Triple A for a little while.  The Rockies probably want him to prepare as a shortstop, a position he hasn't played since 2004.  Matsui posted a woeful .504 OPS in 130 at-bats this year, which is actually worse than Clint Barmes's .558 mark.  There's at least some hope that the 27 year-old Barmes can snap out of it and at least hit like a league average shortstop.  Still, this isn't a gamble for Colorado since the Mets are paying Matsui's $8MM salary. 

Comments

[mholc68]

I'll predict right now that Kaz gets it turned around with the change of scenery. It just doesn't seem possible to me that he simply forgot how to play ball or something. New York's just an ill fit for some players.

[JungleJim56]

The Way Kaz had been playing I would have traded him for a bag of balls