Left-handed reliever Josh Smoker had an impressive 2016. Playing in a very hitter-friendly environment with the Las Vegas 51s, he pitched 57 innings, striking out 81 and walking 18 with a 4.11 ERA. That impressive 12.8 K/9 was blown away, however, when after he was called up to the Bigs, he struck out 25 batters in 15.1 innings (14.7 K/9).
Smoker has the potential to have a breakout 2017. I am not the only one who thinks so, as Steamer projects he will have a 3.10 ERA (3.17 FIP) in 65 innings with an 11.1 K/9 and 0.9 WAR. As he is a lefty, the question many people will ask is: Can he get lefties out?
In his entire career, lefties have a .254 batting average against Smoker while righties have hit .225. He should not be counted on to be a lefty specialist, but trusting him with the 6th or 7th inning shouldn’t be a problem if he pitches close to his potential. He likes to keep the ball away from lefty hitters, rarely pitching inside. If he wants to be more successful against them, he must pitch inside more.
With the trade market for Jay Bruce fizzling each day, it seems more and more likely that a bullpen will have to come from within. I predicted Hansel Robles would breakout in 2017 as well, and if one or both of these guys produce, the Mets will have a very strong bullpen.
