[EmpireWF]

Today, Pedro Martinez popped up at spring training in Florida and spoke with the media. Here are some quotes:

“arm is doing great, should be back by the predicted time,” (which is anywhere from July to August)

“It is a little tougher because sometimes when I’m out there I open the door and I get to see them hit, execute plays and stuff like that,” Martinez said. “Those are things that I miss. I miss stuff like that. Actually feeling part of what’s cooking here.”

“I think this team is going to do a special thing if we stay healthy,” Martinez said. “Health is going to be the key. If we stay healthy I think we could be able to do anything, including winning. I believe this team can win it and I hope I get back on time to push them, push them to the end.”

Kudos to Newsday's Mets Blog for the quotes...

You just feel that Pedro is in total control over his health and he obviously knows his body more than anyone else. Some have gone as far to say that after recovering from the off-season surgeries, he can come back with some more velocity. But as long as he retains his control and arsenal, I'm sure any Mets fan will love it when he returns in the middle of the season.

[Nuke]

I have doubts about Pedro being able to pitch without being hindered by this injury. Mets' pitcher is looking like a trainwreck!

[MJHMarc]

The Mets pitching staff has just collapsed.

Hopefully, Pedro's return shall be decent.

You can check out my blog for more information on his status.

[legend]

Anybody who thinks he will return is dreaming. He will have one issue after another. he got his big money and he's laughing all the way to the bank now. Red Sox look smarter every day for not resigning him.

[LSC9901]

My feelings were not hurt when he left Boston. When the ego becomes larger than the ability, no amount of money is worth the minimal value left. It may have been a shock to Red Sox nation when he left but I agree that it was and still is the correct option to have taken.

[EmpireWF]

Originally Posted by legend

Anybody who thinks he will return is dreaming. He will have one issue after another. he got his big money and he's laughing all the way to the bank now. Red Sox look smarter every day for not resigning him.

Even if he fails to pitch one single inning in the future, the Mets signing him was a must for the franchise. It single handedly turned them around and provided a much needed spark in the culture.

And besides, he should be able to return. Don't understimate his own personal motivation and work ethic. The dude's a monster when it comes to that.