The news from the Mets keeps getting worse in regards to injuries. In a Newsday article today, Carlos Beltran admits he is worried in regards to the slow process of building up his leg strength. He cannot stop and turn in the outfield and has yet to slide on dirt. Beltran’s knees feel fine but it is his quads that are the problem.

To me it sounds as if Beltran will not be ready by opening day. That certainly would be disappointing especially after the centerfielder made such bold predictions about the Mets being the team to beat. Frankly, I see Beltran as being a much bigger key to the Mets offense than I do Delgado. I have already accepted the fact that Delgado’s skills have diminished. Last year, Beltran did a nice job in the cleanup position. I assumed he would continue to grow and be the power producer the Mets need in the middle of the lineup.

This spring is shaking out to be disastrous. The excitement and euphoria that accompanied the Johan Santana deal has now been offset by fear that many Mets players will be less than Major League caliber players. When the season starts, who will place centerfield, second base, and first base? No one now can say with confidence that it will be Beltran, Castillo, and Delgado.

Johan Santana is expected to pitch 3 innings today in Port St. Lucie against the Dodgers. The game will be broadcast on SNY and MLB.Com.