Cecchini is a HS shortstop, so if he makes it to the majors, it'll be in about 5 years. At that point, Tejada may be close to earning big money and may no longer be a Met. Maybe Cecchini plays 2B for a year before Tejada goes--we saw this last year. The IFA SS is insurance.

Yes and no.

I have no idea why the Mets didn't draft Giolito, but if they have a strong conviction about Cecchini's skills, I'll assume that's why they drafted him.

When dealing with HS players, you just can't look at the strength of your major league roster. You just draft the best available player. If the Mets are still broke, they can trade Tejada if Cecchini can play or if they have Tejada locked up long-tern, they can move Cecchini. Shortstops are good athletes and an early position change should be pretty easy (2B, CF, LF, 3B if he gets big). Flores played short for years and was moved to 3B this year and has gotten some opportunities at 2B and 1B.

You don't draft on need. Thats a really stupid plan. A lot can happen by the time either of them make it to the bigs including a change of position.

First of all, I don't know d*ck about evaluating young talent, but the problem appears to be that most people, not just on this board but scouts too, didn't think Cecchini was the best available player

They wanted to save some money to line the Wilpons' pockets.

maybe he was the best player available.
I always thought that was the best way to draft.

Alot can happen on the way to the majors

Tejada is arbitration eligible after next season.

They won't be able to pay him league minimum anymore. If he keep's playing the way he's playing they'll be looking at a hefty arbitration award.

collect athletes

Short Stops are a prime position so maybe they can eventually trade one for a Catcher?

So they can trade 1 of them down the road for something they need more (bullpen arm or catcher)?

So they can trade Murphy for something they need in a year or 2?

To have depth in the infield?

Because those were the most talented players available?

All of the above?

Who should they have drafted?