The Mets aren’t likely to compete in 2013 and, as such, keeping Travis d’Arnaud’s service time clock from starting would probably be a wise thing for the Mets to do. And they probably will, but Sandy Alderson isn’t saying that’s a mortal lock:
“I just don’t want to rule anything out,” Alderson said. “But at the same time, I don’t want to create false expectations for our fans or put pressure on Travis. He hasn’t played since last June (because of a knee injury). . . . As far as Opening Day is concerned, he could be with us. But we have a very capable veteran in John Buck as well.
Sounds like if d’Arnaud clearly beats Buck out in camp, the job is his. But if I’m betting I say he starts the year in Las Vegas.
Get it? Betting? Vegas? I, uh … don’t bother, I’ll show myself out.