This past month, I had the honor of interviewing an esteemed member of the Major League Baseball community. John Thorn has been the lead historian of Major League Baseball since 2007. What does the lead historian have to say? You’re going to find out in my exclusive interview!

John Thorn Q/A:

Niko- How did you start being the historian of the Major League Baseball ?

John Thorn- I wrote my first baseball book in 1974 and never expected to occupy the post that, between 1999 and 2008, was first held by my friend Jerome Holtzman. All the same, I was delighted when Commissioner Selig offered me the position, beginning in March 2011.

-What exactly is the role of a MLB Historian?

It is a service position,to assist the media, fans, and the various divisions of Major League Baseball that may need proper documentation and perspective of new initiatives, press releases, and policy matters.

-What does the history of baseball, essentially the past of the game, tell us about the future?

The past is prologue. In other words, while one may not necessarily predict the future by having a knowledge of the past, a bit of history goes a long way in analyzing tomorrow’s prospects, and heighten’s today’s enjoyment of the game.

-Which historical event in our National Pastime has played the most pivotal role in the evolution of the game?

If I had to choose one, I would say that it was Jackie Robinson’s breaking of the color barrier on April 15, 1947. Until then, the idea of a national pastime that excluded anyone was a lie.

-The game has changed a lot from the late 1800s,more changes are being debated this coming year(shortening the game etc). What according to you is he biggest change that took place historically?

See my answer above. But if you’re asking about on-field innovations, I would offer the rule that a foul ball not caught on the fly is a strike unless two strikes have already been called. This rule was used by the National League in 1901 and 1902. The American League adopted the rule in 1903.

-Is there any advice you can give to a MLB Youth writer/blogger like me?

Strive to learn everything you can about the wide world–in history, science, math, literature, art–rather than simply adding to your knowledge of baseball. That way your writing about the game will be different from everyone else’s.

-And finally you may know, the main focus of my blog is the Mets, so I can’t leave you without asking you this: Do you think 2015 is finally the year the New York Mets make the postseason?

No, I think you’ll need to look to 2016. But the Mets should improve their record with Matt Harvey’s return and the continued development of their young starting pitchers.

I hope you enjoyed this MetsPlus.com exclusive. Interview conducted by Niko Goutakolis.

Ever since Ruben Tejada has come up in April 2010 as a young 20 year old, criticism has surrounded him. Either his defense was at par or his hitting was mediocre

The prime candidates for starting Shortstop in 2015 are:

1.Wilmer Flores (Evaluation Grade: B)

2. Ruben Tejada (E-Grade: D)

3. Matt Reynolds (E- Grade: B {potentially})

4. Outside Free Agent.

The main problem with the shortstop market is that it’s very slim. The only 3 “major” free agents are Hanley Ramirez, Troy Tulowitski and Starlin Castro (while not a FA, the Cubs are looking to trade.) Also, you have to remember that J.J Hardy’s contract was extended by Baltimore, which takes him off the grid. Tulo is injury prone, so the Mets should step back, and Hanley Ramirez is a side-show, something the Mets have delt with too much. That’s why the shortstop answer is within the organization. Wether it be Reynolds, Flores or Q. We know one thing: TEJADA is a great guy. I like Tejada as a person, but he is a AAAA player. Here are a couple of links to other articles that point away from Tejada:

http://www.amazinavenue.com/2014/10/15/6883513/2015-new-york-mets-improve

http://risingapple.com/2014/10/05/ruben-tejada-mets-season-review/