For Whom the Bell Tholes

Josh Thole had a rough night tonight in a 7-6, 10 inning loss to the Giants. Grounding into a double play with the winning run on 3rd base was not even the issue. We have seen countless Mets fail in that spot. The problem with Thole tonight and, in truth, for the bulk of this season has been his defense. Thole looks lost behind the plate. It is understandable to have difficulty catching the knuckleball but Josh has been letting, straight as an arrow, strikes get by him and roll to the backstop. The Mets are not happy with his ability to call a game either. Dan Warthan made that pretty clear after Pelfrey’s last nightmare game. A solid defensive catcher that takes control of the game from behind the plate is vital in baseball.


Henry Blanco was not much of a hitter but he was a hell of a take charge defender. When he spoke, Mets pitchers shut up and listened. Sure they worried that Henry might rip their larynx out if they spoke up but that was part of Henry’s charm. There is nothing wrong with pitchers fearing their catcher. Even if Thole improves his defensive skills, he will never make Major League pitchers quake in their cleats. Face it, Josh looks like the paperboy. Henry Blanco, on the other hand, looks like a guy that might kill the paperboy.

Enjoy the recap from San Fran