Heading into 2012, what the Mets need more than anything (other than starters), is a closer. One that they will stick with for the foreseeable future. We have seen J.J. Putz, K-Rod, and Heath Bell go on to have successful careers as closers WITH OTHER TEAMS, but unfortunately, not with the Mets.
Now I, being the hardcore fan that I am, followed all 162 Mets games either on radio or television, and it was blatant that after K-Rod left, the Mets did not have a successful closer.
Jason Isringhausen provided a solid TEMPORARY replacement, but injured his back during the final month of the season and therefore pitched what turned out to be his final game on September 6th, hurling two perfect innings in relief. While his performance was wonderful and I, with my bias toward good old athletes, definitely want to see him back in 2012, it will not be as closer. He can provide a solid presence in the bullpen as a setup man alternating with Parnell. A return to the Mets benefits all three sides of the triangle: I don't have to see him retire (and thus, don't have to write a farewell article!); He stays with Terry Collins, who in my opinion is one of the best managers when it comes to giving aging veteran players adequate rest; and he can continue to pitch, which he has stated is his desire for next year.
If the Mets give up on Bobby Parnell, it WILL come back to haunt them, (SEE: Heath Bell, J.J. Ptuz), he can be a reliable seventh or eight inning pitcher, alternating with the 39-year-old Izzy.
The Mets have a few options at closer in free agency (Heath Bell, K-Rod, Francisco Cordero), and I feel that they will delve into that pool this offseason.
Regardless, the Mets NEED a new closer in 2012 if they intend to hold leads in late innings.
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