As the New York Mets contemplate their pitching staff for the NLDS, it looks like lefty starter Jon Niese will be headed to the bullpen for the final week of the regular season as he showcases his ability for a spot on that postseason roster.
Manager Terry Collins told reporters on Sunday, that Niese approached him 10 days ago and asked to pitch out of the bullpen to get more familiar in that role if he can’t start in the playoffs.
So far, the postseason rotation will definitely include Jacob deGrom, Noah Syndergaard and Matt Harvey, most likely in that order. The fourth starter hasn’t completely been decided of yet, but it’s between rookie Steven Matz and veteran Bartolo Colon according to the Mets manager. That said, most analysts believe Colon will shift to the bullpen and take on a long relief role.
As a result, Niese will not make his scheduled start against the Phillies in Philadelphia. Logan Verrett will start in Niese’s place on Thursday, while Colon and Matz will start against the Phillies on Tuesday and Wednesday respectively.
Niese could play a huge part in the bullpen since the Mets don’t have a true reliable left-hander out of the pen, as Adam Rubin of ESPN New York points out.
Dario Alvarez has a groin injury and according to Collins, has still not resumed throwing in Port St Lucie, Florida.
Eric O’Flaherty has a 13.50 ERA in 16 appearances with the Mets and would unlikely make the postseason roster.
Sean Gilmartin is more of a multi-inning reliever. Lefties have also fared better against Gilmartin, hitting .264, while righties batted .220 vs Gilmartin.
The Mets did have a reliable lefty reliever in Jerry Blevins before he fractured his left forearm off a line drive back in April. However, has yet to throw a major league pitch since April.
Collins praised Niese for being selfless and putting the team first in expressing his willingness to work out of the bullpen.
“The one thing I like about him is that, certainly if they pinch hit, he does have the tools to get righties out, too,” said Collins.
