The New York Post has confirmed that the Mets cleared up their bullpen picture tonight by releasing Ron Villone, reassigning Nelson Figueroa and optioning Carlos Muniz.
Barring a late move, Villone’s release means the Mets have decided to go with Pedro Feliciano as their lone left-handed reliever at the start of the season.
With Brian Stokes and promising prospect Bobby Parnell appearing to be locks, today’s moves also mean Fernando Nieve, Darren O’Day and Elmer Dessens are competing for the seventh and final bullpen spot.
The Mets also reassigned catcher Rene Rivera and infielder Andy Green and optioned outfielder Cory Sullivan.
Earlier this week I wrote that Jeremy Reed appeared to have locked up a spot and that Nick Evans may have forced himself onto the roster as well. So far, that scenario seems to be holding.
Darren O’Day is also looking like he may be close to securing a spot in the bullpen. I knew Muniz was never really an option and I still believe Nieve is just AAA fodder.
It’s really exciting to watch how the 2009 Mets are taking shape, but I must admit I can’t wait for Opening Day to get here already…
