The Clock Is Ticking For Duaner Sanchez

Duaner Sanchez continues to struggle in his attempt to hold onto a spot in the bullpen.

Yesterday he pitched one scoreless inning against the Cardinals, but walked another two batters as he continues to battle control issues.

Bart Hubbuch of the NY Post explains the particulars regarding what’s at stake.

Duaner Sanchez might not have much longer to prove himself to the Mets.

If the Mets release the right-handed reliever by April 1, they would save three-fourths of his $1.6875 million contract, and yesterday, manager Jerry Manuel made it clear Sanchez is in a dogfight this spring.

Jerry Manuel has made it very clear that a players salary or seniority won’t buy them any free credits or passes. He once said when he took this job, “I’m not here to make friends, I’m here to win ballgames.”

After the game yesterday, Manuel pointed some strong remarks toward Duaner Sanchez.

“There is competition in that spot he’s in. I don’t deal with money. For me, it’s what’s best for the team, and there are some guys other than Sanchez who are pitching very well right now that have to be considered.” 

It doesn’t seem like Sanchez has any margin for error.

“He’s got to pitch well and convince us that, hey, he’s the guy he was two years ago.”