Your Friday morning dose of New York Mets and Major League Baseball news, notes, and links.
Meet the Mets
Yesterday the Mets brought first baseman Brandon Allen back into the organization on a minor league deal. The former White Sox prospect hit .266/.363/.434 with Las Vegas in 2014.
Sandy Alderson says the Mets would be "reluctant" to trade Daniel Murphy right now. Take from that what you will.
Grant Brisbee gives Jacob deGrom and the Mets of the future some much-needed hype.
Kevin Long talked to MLB Network Radio about his new job with the Mets.
This story of Jon Niese cursing out Terry Collins could be a factor affecting whether or not the lefty hurler is on New York's roster next season. Collins: "If that quote was accurate, there would have been a fight in the dugout."
The skipper also said that the Mets should be in the postseason next October.
When it comes to Bobby Parnell, ITBSOHL season starts before Christmas. The reliever is still recovering from last April's Tommy John surgery.
Two days ago, Scott Boras took a shot at the Mets. Yesterday, Alderson struck back.
Around the Majors
One night after being awarded the Cy Young, Clayton Kershaw took home the National League MVP Award as well. Mike Trout finally won the American League MVP Award after being a runner-up for two straight seasons. Lucas Duda received one eighth place vote.
Looking past a dreadful 2014 campaign, the Rangers are extending general manager Jon Daniels as well as his top assistant.
Nick Markakis is close to returning to Baltimore on a four-year deal.
With Pedro Alvarez likely moving over to first base for the Pirates, Ike Davis could be non-tendered.
At FanGraphs, Kiley McDaniel writes about 19-year-old Cuba prospect Yoan Moncada being the most fascinating story of the offseason. He might be the most expensive as well.
Legendary shortstop and manager Alvin Dark has passed away at the age of 92.
Around the National League East
The Marlins and Giancarlo Stanton are reportedly discussing a mega deal that could keep the slugger in Miami for years to come.
The Phillies are making big moves of their own, inking former Met and grission fanatic Jeff Francoeur to a minor league contract.
Unlike his teammate Jimmy Rollins, Cole Hamels it seems would "love" to be traded this offseason.
Yesterday at Amazin' Avenue
Colby Conetta wrote a free agent profile of middle infielder Asdrubal Cabrera.
James K presented the nominees for the most regrettable Mets moment of 2014.