Back-up middle infielder situation...

James Kannengieser of Amazin Ave. posted a great article on Alex Cora. I couldn't agree more with James in that Cora simply doesn't bring enough to the table for what he cost. Cora has great intangibles and I'm sure he's going to be a very good coach but at 2M or more the talent he brings to a team simply isn't worth it. Generally back-up middle infielders with better skill sets then Cora cost under 1M. Marty Noble addressed the back-up middle infielder in his latest mailbag, the contingency plan he speaks of is addressing a question about what the plan is if Reyes isn't ready or goes down again...

The contingency plan is not one I have heard addressed. The Mets appreciated all Cora provided but also realized they had asked more from him than they had expected to and more than he could provide. Moreover, there are indications the Red Sox might want Cora back. You're right on Anderson Hernandez as well. Wilson Valdez is a preferable understudy because defense is the primary component of any shortstop. source MLB.com