The Mets have announced that they have invited five Minor Leaguer's to the Major League camp this Spring. The five players are pitchers Rafael Montero and Cory Mazzoni, catcher Juan Centeno, infielder Josh Satin, and outfielder Matt den Dekker.
Satin is the only player here who has had experience at the big league level, hitting .192 in 26 career at-bats. At 28 years old, it is unlikely that he has a future with this organization unless he can start replicating his solid minor league numbers. If he has a strong spring, there is a good chance that he makes the team to start the season, but I'd expect him to have a bench role.
I have heard quite a bit about Matt den Dekker, but at age 25, it seems like it is now or never for him. His offense doesn't really thrill me, but supposedly he has above-average defensive skills. The current outfield situation is wide open right now, so it is possible that he breaks camp with the team and finds playing time next season.Rafael Montero is an underrated Mets prospect and I am glad that we are going to see him in the Spring. He is still young (22) and still has a lot to learn before getting a shot at the majors, but it'll be interesting to see what he looks like next month. The Mets have thought highly of him in the past -- leaving him on the 40 man roster protecting him from the Rule 5 draft -- so it is clear that they have a plan for him.
I've always thought of Mazzoni as a possible #4 or #5 starter in the big leagues if he ended up panning out. He may find a spot in the rotation if the Mets end up not signing anyone this off-season. However, his minor league numbers don't look all that great, and I don't think he'll make the team out of Spring Training.
Finally, we have Juan Centeno, who is a 23 year old catcher that has put up decent offensive numbers in the minors. He doesn't possess much power, but could open a few eyes in Spring Training. He kind of reminds me of another Josh Thole, so don't expect a big impact from him.
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