Your Wednesday morning dose of New York Mets and Major League Baseball news, notes, and links.
Meet the Mets
Joel Sherman wrote yesterday that the Mets have an opportunity to take ownership of the city. Hopefully the Mets are willing to take this opportunity seriously and capitalize on the Yankees' apparent weaknesses.
Take it for what it's worth but Mike Puma reports that teams have yet to begin calling on Bartolo Colon. You'd imagine that should change over the next week, though. Puma also says that the Mets are unsure whether they'll go after a bat at the deadline. It probably depends on whether or not one worth moving pieces for becomes available.
Daniel Murphy struck out in his only plate appearance last night but the second baseman was humbled by the All-Star experience. Mike Vorkunov wrote a great profile of Murphy and Steve Barningham, the scout who discovered him in Jacksonville. Ted Berg shared four things you should know about Murph.
Travis d'Arnaud has been more aggressive at the plate since his return from Las Vegas.
Javier Baez could be a franchise altering acquisition for the Mets.
Around the Majors
The American League All-Starsbeat the National League team 5-3 last night at Target Field. The night was all about retiring Yankees captain Derek Jeter, though it was Mike Trout who won the MVP honors at night's end. Unfortunately, the night wasn't about the late Tony Gwynn, who didn't garner a single mention on Fox's broadcast despite tragically passing just a month ago. There was some controversy when Adam Wainwright admitted to tossing a meatball to Jeter on purpose.
Bud Selig addressed a number of topics in his meeting with media before the game.
Former big leaguer Billy Bean (not the A's General Manager) has been named MLB's first Ambassador of Inclusion.
The Astros are apparently trying to lowball first overall pick Brady Aiken and his agent Casey Close is calling out MLB and the Astros for allowing it to happen.
With offense continuing to dip, should MLB lower the mound?
Alfredo Simon made the All-Star team but is he good or just lucky? Probably the latter.
Yesterday At AA
James Kannengieser reviewed the Mets forgotten first half.
If you read an article or find a link that you think would be a great addition to a future edition of Mets Morning News, please forward it to our tips email address tips@grission.com and we'll try to add it in.