Pedro's lost season will impact offseason

Posted Tuesday, October 3, 2006

Before the 2006 season started, most observers and almost all Mets’ fans agreed that as Pedro Martinez went, so would go the Mets.

Obviously, it hasn’t worked out that way. Martinez has been only a shell of his former self since May 31 while the Mets, using the likes of Dave Williams and John Maine, cruised to a division title.

Back in the spring, everyone was worried about the toe, a few worried about the shoulder. But it was Martinez’ legs that have given out. And while Mets’ fans will have legitimate worries about facing the postseason without a no. 1 pitcher — general manager Omar Minaya knew by July of this year that he could no longer count on Martinez to lead this staff — hence the furious attempt to get Roy Oswalt from the Astros.

So as much as this means for the postseason, Martinez’ injuries — the kind of injuries that tend to plague older pitchers — make it job one that the Mets find an ace for their staff. Assume Jason Schmidt will be targeted, but also expect Minaya to look at the trade market.

While there’s no way this team is in the playoffs this year without Martinez signing in New York in the winter of 2004 — that signing was a seachange in terms getting other talent to come to the Mets — Martinez can no longer be counted on to lead the pitching staff.

For a team that has won 94 games and cruised to a division title, the Mets certainly have their work cut out for them in the offseason.—MM