Eddie C: Curtis Granderson Talks Upcoming Season, Kevin Long, Playoffs
By Ed Coleman
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Curtis Granderson's 2014 season had some wild swings. The one consistent thing about Granderson's career is that he's been very inconsistent, and last season was no exception. He had a .136 batting average at the end of April. May and June were much better months for him, but then he slumped again after the All-Star break into August before finishing strong in September.
Granderson was asked on Monday what he felt he accomplished during his up-and-down season.
Every player strives for consistency and not many achieve it, be it month to month or year to year. But Granderson is shooting for it again this year.
Everyone else seems to be impressed with the abundance of young pitching that the Mets possess, so where does Granderson fall on the issue?
Grandy also feels that with offense being down around the league, this Mets staff gives the team a great opportunity to win night in and night out.
Perhaps the biggest addition that may help Granderson in 2015 is former Yankees hitting instructor Kevin Long. The two were together for four seasons across town, and Granderson spoke about what he remembers most about the new batting coach.
The other thing that stood out about Long was that he realized people -- and players -- are different, and one approach doesn't necessarily work for everyone.
Granderson could hit anywhere in the Mets' lineup. He could be the leadoff hitter if the job is too much for Juan Lagares, he could hit in the familiar No. 2 spot or he could bat down in the lineup in the six hole. I asked him where he thinks he could have the greatest impact.
Granderson will shift to left field, with Michael Cuddyer coming aboard to man right. Cuddyer, like Granderson, is an ex-American Leaguer who is now in the National League. Granderson was asked about his new teammate, and he paid him a high compliment.
To a man, the Mets believe they are good enough to reach the postseason this year. What makes Granderson so confident that this is a playoff team?
C U soon
Eddie C.