The other day I read a really interesting article in the New York Times last week about the dirt in St. Lucie. Apparently they finally decided to bring the same dirt that is used in the infield in Queens down to Florida. The coaches interviewed in the article talk about how it just makes logical sense to practice on the same material that you will playing on all year.
I full heartily agree.
I am also confused. Why did this take so long to figure out (assuming that St Lucie didn't have Shea dirt when Shea was made). Playing on a different surface is like using an SAT study guide to prepare for GRE Exam. Or actually, better yet, it's like learning how to drive in a broken down car, when you are going to use a clean, efficient, working car on the driving exam. It just makes sense to practice in the closest scenario to the real thing as possible.
So rather than complain about the Mets not making good decisions early, let's celebrate them switching over to correct idea. I'm sure the playing surface in Spring Training will not impact the team significantly going forward, but it may have some impact.
Anyway, if you get a chance read the article. It's a good read.
