As the GM meetings close up and the winter meetings approach, many questions are unanswered. The main focuses have been on the big-ticket free agent like Cespedes and Murphy, but let’s not forget the depth player transactions. The Mets miraculous run to the World Series began with a simple acquisition of Juan Uribe and Kelly Johnson from the Atlanta Braves. Both played an integral part of the run to the playoffs. Although Uribe was hurt for the majority of the playoffs, he was able to contribute to a game 3 World Series victory with a pinch-hit, RBI single. Coming off another injury riddled season, David Wright’s playing time will have to be maintained carefully. The spinal stenosis will surely contribute to playing time. The imminent loss of third base option, Daniel Murphy, the Mets will need to have a backup plan for Wright.
Uribe has lost a lot of his skills, but still can bring much to the table. Uribe has lost most of his lateral movement, and will be strictly a third base option. Uribe will be exposed if he starts over 70 games, but can handle the load when Wright is in need of rest or on the DL. At third base, Uribe still possesses strong arm strength and the accuracy to make the necessary plays. Terry Collins will be limited in the amount of lopsided shifts with Uribe, due to his lack of lateral movement. At the plate, Uribe provides a power righty bat off the bench. Uribe still has the ability to drive the ball out of the park. A veteran, professional at-bat can be expected by Uribe, but he will not provide much in his batting average or with speed for that matter. What he lacks in speed, he makes up for in clutch at-bats.
After Uribe arrived, he provided a tremendous clubhouse presence. Throughout his career, Uribe has been a favorite in every clubhouse he enters. The helpful veteran presence really makes a difference with this mostly immature roster. These tangibles are very difficult to put a price tag on. However, the fact is that Uribe will sign for a one year deal at an affordable rate of $1.5 million at this point in his career. Uribe will be an under the radar signing, as was his trade to the Mets. But deep in a pennant race, Uribe will once again prove valuable.
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