Citi Field imposes adjustments on New York Mets before their season opener - MLB Update
Prospective smaller dimensions at Citi Field leave New York Mets training in a simulated environment before the start of their first 2012 Major League Baseball regular season game against Atlanta Braves.
Some players believe training this way will help their cause, but others are confident of the fact that they will be able to make necessary adjustments there.
“You can change the chain links all you want on Field 7, but when you’re still in Florida, you take BP and the wind is howling and it’s a completely different feeling,” said Mets’ left fielder Jason Bay.
Citi Field is prone to more home-runs due to shortened left and right field and thus is going to be a disaster for pitchers if they are a little loose on the mound.
Due to the same reason, Mets are concerned about their starter Johan Santana. While his credentials are undoubted, the fact he will be starting first time after being pulled out in 2010 season due to injury makes management a little worried of him.
This, along with smaller outfield at Citi Field has made management so conscious of his opening day performance that even his amazing career 133-69 win-loss record and 3.10 ERA will not solace them anymore.
Apart from this, Mets confront the possibility of not having a sell-out on opening day, something that can only be embarrassing for the club.
One of the ways Mets can come through successfully from their financial mess is by experiencing more sell-out games at Citi Field. Since this is least likely to be a case, crisis will linger on.
“It wouldn’t be a downer for us, but it would be unfortunate,” said Mets’ catcher Josh Thole. “But as far as us, how we prepare, it doesn’t change anything. It’s still going to be a great time. The fans that are there are going to be into it.”
One of the ways Mets can force fans back to ballpark is by putting up stunning show in their game against Atlanta Braves. While experts envisage a disastrous 2012 season for Mets, opponents can never afford to underestimate their offence.
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