[EmpireWF]

Marty Noble runs a Q&A column on the Mets official web-site. Here are some interesting excerpts of his answers.

"Relievers began to complain -- privately -- about how they were used. And it did become more difficult to predict who would step from the bullpen in a given situation. Randolph said from the beginning of the season the roles of the relievers would be less defined than they became in 2006. The pitchers involved seemed to suffer from the absence of definition in August. The pitchers didn't respond to the situation; it became an issue for them. And even if they were wrong to feel that way, it was the way they felt. I don't think Randolph addressed their feelings. And that's as much blame as he deserves for the bullpen's considerable shortfall.

Now, about the coaches: Unless Jerry Manuel is hired away, I don't suppose any change will happen other than {Rickey} Henderson not returning."

"Now, for the bullpen: I don't suppose the 'pen will be nuked. Certainly Billy Wagner, Aaron Heilman and Pedro Feliciano will not be jettisoned. I believe Jorge Sosa can be of use if he ever learns to mix his pitches. And we haven't seen enough of Joe Smith to know what he will be. I can see Scott Schoeneweis returning; he does have a contract. Another long man will replace Aaron Sele -- probably not Dave Williams or Jason Vargas. I don't see any way the club can bring Gulliermo Mota back. Nor do I see another club clamoring for his services."

"My sense of it is that the Mets will be damaged by Glavine's absence if it comes to pass next season -- and I think it will. How will they replace the 189 innings, 13 victories and the 3.88 ERA he produced in his first 31 starts? Based on what they showed in '07, neither Humber nor Mike Pelfrey is ready to win 13 games, approach 200 innings or produce an ERA lower than 4.00 in 30 starts."


He brings up interesting points. Hopefully Randolph can adjust his management of the pen for next year. Guys like to know their roles.

Manuel returning is odd. He was the man linked to the decision to have Cliff Floyd swing away in Game 7 in 2006 rather than bunt Reyes over. But I assume he's no issue.

The issue with Glavine leaving is something to be concerned about. Which is why they need to go out and get a solid pitcher. Pelfrey and Humber are not ready to pitch an entire season effectively. At least not yet.