One of baseballs greatest charms is how unpredictable it can be at times.
We spent an entire off season arguing and debating who out fifth starter would be. When Livan Hernandez was finally tabbed for the job, I’m sure that many of us weren’t entirely thrilled, but as Mets fans we accepted it just the same.
Now, after one turn in the rotation, it’s Livan Hernandez who finally gave the Mets the length and endurance they’ve been looking for as he pitched into the seventh inning, picked up the win, and put the Mets back over .500 at 3-2.
Livan beat his former team the Marlins handily, going 6.2 innings and allowing just two runs on six hits. He gave the Mets every chance to secure the win, but most importantly he eased many of the concerns some have had about him. At this point, even after only one start (and a solid spring), you’d have to rank Livan above Oliver Perez in the pecking order.
Hernandez owns a 4.47 career ERA, so don’t expect him to maintain his current 2.70 ERA, but his start last night certainly gives me a good feeling about taking this series against the Marlins when Johan Santana takes the mound today.
Nice job Livan!
