According to multiple reports, Jon Heyman and Andy Martino to name two, the Mets are confident in their ability to bring in Brandon Lyon to the bullpen, which has been slightly improved over the last week with the additions of LaTroy Hawkins, Scott Atchison, and Pedro Feliciano not to mention Aaron Laffey(although they are all officially minor league contracts i believe in not on Opening Day all three will be in the majors in 2013). Brandon Lyon a few years ago was an above average closer(ARI ’08, HOU ’10-’11). Last year, the 33 year old posted an ERA of 3.1o, in 67 appearances for Houston and Toronto.
It has also been stressed that this deal is not done, and Lyon is talking with other teams. In 2011 he had surgery on his right biceps tendon and shoulder put his career in question. I always saw Lyon as one of the underrated relief pitchers in the game. I think he easily could take the closer’s job from Frank Francisco if he can remain healthy as he did last year (in his 11 year career, Lyon has 79 recorded saves). You already know where i stand with Francisco though, id rather go down with Dan Warthen throwing knuckleballs in the ninth than watch him pout around the mound…
I like this move, although it is not done yet. The bullpen is beginning to look respectable with Hawkins, Atchison, Parnell, Francisco, (Lyons), and maybe Edgin and Hefner? or Laffey? it all depends on who does what during the Spring. But i feel much better than i did even one week ago. Could we be able to retain Jon Rauch from the free market that would make for one very strong unit. Signing Lyon would definintely be a more stable move than jumping on Valverde, who is known to cause double the stress Francisco does, and Brian Wilson who is recovering from Tommy John… LGM. Pitchers and catchers 7 days.
Brandon Lyon
Mets Obsession 