The Mets sign Ron “Suitcase” Vilone to a minor league deal

Villone, 39, went 1-2 with one save and a 4.68 ERA in 74 games with the Cardinals last season. Despite Ron Villone’s sizable 4.68 ERA last year he held lefties to a measly .176/.311/.318.

Ron’s inflated ERA was a result of issuing 37 BB in 50 IP which breaks down to a ghastly 8.2 BB per 9 IP. Ron’s Whip(1.64) also was grossly effected by the numerous BB’s, but when used by the Mets I expect that it’ll be 1-or-2 batters an appearance, a role much more specialized than the one LaRussa and Duncan defined for Ron last year with the Cardinals.

The 39 year old, 14 year vet, has been affectionately referred to as “Suitcase” Villone by teammates for playing no longer than 2 years for any ML team. And although it’s hard to see Ron pitching in 2011 while dawning an Amazin uniform, it’s far from beyond the realm of possibility especially considering the shelf life of lefty relievers now-a-days.

megamets commentary

Ron’s acquisition is much better than a sharp stick in the eye, but Dennys Reyes would’ve been the perfect fit. This Mets blogger has been clamoring for Dennys Reyes for quite sometime know, and is probably a little peeved at the decision to go after Villone.