Maple Street Press has published their Mets Annual 2009 edition. For 12.99, this 128 page volume written by Matthew Silverman and Greg Spira is a must for any Mets fan. The book includes lots of numbers, stories, and information on your favorite team and their brand new home.
This is a great resource for Mets information. The year book size soft cover book features much more information on each player than last year's edition. And there are no advertisements.
In Mets Annual 2009, each player is given a page with loads of stats, photos, and a write up. Statistics include charts depicting hitters hitting zone averages. They even break down averages on the types of pitches hitters saw, a very comprehensive analysis of each offensive player. Pitchers are given the same treatment. Stats include how pitchers fared against different types of hitters in different situations. An excellent analysis of the defensive aspect of the game. A must read for anyone who is a Mets fan or into fantasy baseball.
There are many articles included also, some that focus on Citi Field and the Mets former homes, Shea Stadium and the Polo Grounds. A nice feature of the book is in depth coverage of the Mets minor league system including schedules of all of the affiliates. Included is an article of how Buffalo, the Mets new triple A affiliate, served as the first triple A team in club history.
There is a wonderful piece on the 1984 Mets. This being the 25th anniversary of the first team Davey Johnson managed, it is interesting to look back and see how those great teams of the 1980s began with this club.
Speaking of anniversaries, this is the 40th for the 1969 Mets, the first Mets World Series championship team. Mets Annual 2009 includes a feature regarding that miraculous team. There is a detailed analysis of the NL East, a review of the 2008 draft class, many great photographs, and a lot more.
I highly recommend Mets Annual 2009. I wore out last year's edition, often going to it during the games. With all of the new statistics that have been added, I'm sure I will do so again this year. You will too. You can find Mets Annual 2009 here or at news stands.
ISBN: 1942-0560
