Minaya on the bullpen

Minaya appeard on the FAN earlier today and suggested that the Mets will most likely have to look within the organization to strengthen the bullpen:

“I think we’re gonna have to think within, also…some of our Triple-A starters could slide in to the bullpen, if that’s what it means. I don’t think there is gonna be a proven guy available.”

Clearly there is not much out their via trade, especially based on the guys that have already cleared waivers. Over at Metsblog, Cerrone makes the obvious assumption that Pelfrey should prepare himself for the move. I will add that Joe Smith, Dave Williams, Philip Humber, and Willie Collazo will most likely be considered. Smith should be a given assuming he continues to get his grove back with NO.

I will also say this, if the Mets do get a reasonable lead at some point in early september and Pedro is back pitching at least average, Willie should consider moving Maine to the pen to see what he can do. The bottom line is that they have a plethora of starters and at some point someone will lose their starting spot. You can be sure that El Duque and Glavine will start in the postseason. Which leaves Pedro, Maine, and Perez to fill at most 2 spots. If Pedro is productive then he gets the 3rd spot and it's between the other 2 to shift to the pen. If Pedro isn't strong enough to go at least 6 innings on a consistent basis then maybe he's in the pen. Anyway you look at Willie will have a lot of shuffling and evaluating to do come Sept.

Lastly, don't forget about Mr Burgos. He should be ready come september call ups. In three minor-league rehab appearances since July 27, Burgos has not allowed a run, while striking out one and walking none, in four innings for the Low-A GCL Mets.