Before every series, Mets Manager Terry Collins receives a three-ring binder full of scouting reports, charts and numbers. Collins combs through the information, wearing his glasses, highlighting things as he goes, making notes in pencil. He uses the binder to help fill out his lineup each day, a task that has become much more complex lately.
Since the Mets traded for Yoenis Cespedes, Kelly Johnson and Juan Uribe, their offense has looked a bit crowded — but in a good way. Collins has 11 viable outfielders and infielders to play in seven spots. He has the luxury of essentially using two lineups, one for right-handed pitchers and one for lefties, and of resting his veterans to keep everyone fresh.