Every Thursday, here on Hot Stove New York, we will take a look at Mets of the future, and how they are fairing in their respective minor league seasons.

One time top prospect Mike Carp has gotten lost in the shuffle. After taking the Florida State League by storm in 2006 (.286/17/87), Carp struggled when he reached Double-A ball. His power disappeared (11 home runs), and his average dropped over 30 points (.251). Well this is a new year, and Carp again is beginning to look like the heir appearent to Carlos Delgado. Through 33 games, Carp is batting .339 with 6 home runs and 23 RBI’s. It’s still too early to hand the job to Carp in the coming years, but it’s something worth keeping an eye on.

Top prospect Fernando Martinez has had his challenged at Double-A. The nineteen year-old center fielder has hit .250 with only one home run and twelve RBI’s. At 19, he might be playing out of his league, but there’s no doubt about Martinez’s ability. Once he adjusts to Double-A pitching he’ll find his stroke.

Savannah Sand Gnats closer Jose Bierd has dominated at Low-A, and is should be getting a call to St. Lucie in the coming days. Beird is 1-0 with a 1.50 and 4 saves in 11 outings this season.

The Mets picked up Valentino Pascucci last week, after being released by the Phillies, and in his short stint in New Orleans, he’s beginning to impress. Through eight games, Pascucci is batting .333 with two home runs and seven RBI’s.

Ruddy Lugo, another minor league pick up when he was released by the Athletics, has impressed at New Orleans. Lugo leads Zephyrs starters in wins (3) and ERA (2.70). What’s more impressive is his 33/10 strikeout to walk rate. Given the injuries and struggles in the Mets rotation, should Mike Pelfrey continue to struggle, don’t be surprised to see Lugo get the opportunity to make some starts in Flushing this summer.