So by now I am sure you've heard that Rick Down has been replaced as hitting coach, by none other than Rickey Henderson. Personally I think this will be a good move, considering how he helped Jose Reyes become a better leadoff batter, and considering Rickey was a decent hitter in his day. One thing that does worry me and other Mets fans though is his ego, and the effect it could have on the team. I think this move can do nothing but help a struggling line up, and the Mets bats will catapult back into the top of the league.

The second move does not occur as a shock to many Mets fans as IF Julio Franco was released this week. While Grandpa Julio was a great mentor, especially for the Spanish ballplayers, most Mets fans grew tiresome of his “grounding out to second base” routine. I hope the Mets decide to make him a coach, because he truly would be great for that position on the team. Franco's roster spot will be filled by OF Lastings Milledge.

As I mentioned yesterday the Trade Deadline is coming, which means many rumors will begin to spread. Astros SP Roy Oswalt mentioned that he would waive his no trade clause in his 5-year $73 million contract if the Astros decided to trade him; however Astros General Manager Tim Purpura denied any interest in trading his ace. I imagine Omar will be on his cell phone about 20 hours a day for the next 3 weeks, trying to make a deal for Oswalt.

Since the trading deadline is fast approaching these are sure to be the first of many moves to come. It is a sigh of relief that Julio Franco was finally replaced with someone who can do more than just ground out to second base. Omar has to figure out how to improve the Mets in order to repeat as National League East Champions. An achievement we all are very hopeful for.