Feb
13
2011

Will Chris Capuano Win A Spot In The Rotation?

An article by Brandon Butler

Yesterday in my Key Players post, I included Chris Capuano as one of the players to watch this Spring because its going to be interesting to see whether or not he will win a spot on the rotation or be part of the bullpen.

I asked MetsBlog’s Michael Baron this particular, but yet intriguing question about Chris Capuano yesterday.

According to Michael, Capuano will apparently be competing early on for a spot in the rotation, but then again Terry Collins said that he won’t let Chris Capuano start until he first proves he is 100% healthy. Michael concludes that Capuano will likely end up in the rotation, but is better suited to work out of the bullpen as a lefty specialist.

I completely agree with Michael’s take. I too feel that Capuano would serve a more useful role working out out of the bullpen most likely as a lefty specialist to fill the role left vacant by Pedro Feliciano who signed with the New York Yankees.

Sure, he will get a chance to compete for the rotation, but my gut tells me that he’ll end up in the bullpen, regardless. Thanks to Michael Baron for fielding my question.

If you would like to ask me questions, or just follow me on Twitter, click here. I may put your questions up in a future post.

About the Author: Brandon Butler

Brandon is currently a MMO Minor League Staff Writer. He is also the co-host of the Mets Madness Podcast on Talkshoe Radio. Brandon lives in Hornell, NY.

8 Comments + Add Comment

86mets February 13, 2011 at 12:58 pm

If not Capuano in the rotation, then who? Dillon Gee? Joke. Boof Bonser? Joke. Capuano is needed in the rotation, especially since Chris Young is no lock to even be able to stay healthy past one start. I don’t think Young will stay healthy or even that he is healthy now. Don’t bet on more than 10-15 games from Young all season, and that might include spring training appearances as well. I thought Capuano was a better pickup anyway from a health and quality standpoint. Yes, Youngs #’s were better in ’10, but in only 4 games. I think Capuano can stay healthy and give the Mets 25-30 starts and 175 IP.
- Clayton Collier February 13, 2011 at 2:26 pm
  
  Gee is not a joke, an ERA under 2.50 in your first major league stretch is very good. not to mention a no-hit bid through the first 4 or 5 innings in his first major league start
  - 86mets February 13, 2011 at 6:18 pm
    
    Ever hear of a one hit wonder? That is what Dillon Gee is.
    - Chris February 14, 2011 at 1:59 am
      
      how do you know this?
    - Berbalerbs February 14, 2011 at 12:14 pm
      
      Ever hear of a one hit wonder? That is what Dillon Gee is.
      
      Based on..?
oktoday February 13, 2011 at 2:18 pm

All of them who came off of their injuries has had enough time to be over their problem.

So it is up to each pitcher to do the right thing as the season goes on.
- any February 13, 2011 at 2:26 pm
  
  that is a key, but often overlooked point. Most of these guys had surgery 2 years ago, so last year was their recovery year, which is particularly common with TJ guys (needing 2 years to come back fully).
  
  risky, but far less so than signing guys that didn’t pitch at all last year.
Metsie February 15, 2011 at 11:46 am

I can see Capuano serving in the long relief role early where he is likely to get some work at the beginning of the season where Pitchers only go 5 or 6 innings.

But he is probably the favorite for the 5th spot right now. he was the first guy anyone mentioned us wanting which means unless someone clearly out pitches him he will probably get a spot.

NL East Standings

Team	W	L	Pct.	GB
Braves	42	30	.583	-
Phillies	35	37	.486	7.0
Nationals	34	36	.486	7.0
Mets	27	40	.403	12.5
Marlins	22	48	.314	19.0

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