MLB New York Mets

Left-Handed Reliever Must Be Priority for New York Mets

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Josh Edgin

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Much of the talk surrounding the New York Mets this offseason has been how they plan on addressing the shortstop position. Look, there is absolutely nothing wrong with that because it’s difficult to have faith in Wilmer Flores, but lost in all of this is how the Mets will fill out their bullpen.

The bullpen was one of the strongest units on the Mets last season. One could argue that they were the best unit on the team. The combination of Jenrry Mejia, Jeurys Familia, Vic Black and the return of Bobby Parnell could be even better in 2015. But notice that each one of those pitchers is right-handed. Right now, Josh Edgin is the only left-hander in the bullpen. If Sandy Alderson and Terry Collins believe that it isn’t a big deal to enter the season with only one lefty, then they need to think again. Just look at recent history for your answer.

Two years ago, Scott Rice was used in 73 games, not to mention countless times warming up in the bullpen. His 2014 season was a waste because of a tired arm, and he was rendered ineffective for the season. He has been re-signed by the Mets, but it still remains to be seen whether or not he can return to his 2013 form. Before that, the Mets relied heavily on 37-year-old Tim Byrdak. You can even look back at how they overused Pedro Feliciano. He pitched in a record 92 games in 2010. After that, he hasn’t had the same sort of success.

Ideally, the Mets would like another power arm to compliment Edgin, but it’s hard to explain entering the season with only one lefty who has had only marginal success in the MLB in the bullpen.

The Mets do have options here. Rice was already mentioned, but there are two young, power arms who could be worth a call-up. The first is Dario Alvarez, who was a September call-up last season. He didn’t see much success in his limited time, but he has been successful in the minors. The other is Jack Leathersich. This guy can bring it. In a bullpen full of flamethrowers, Leathersich may be the hardest throwing one of them all.

The other option the Mets have is through a trade. Jonathon Niese and Dillon Gee have been the subject of trade rumors all offseason. The Mets can always ask for a left-handed reliever in return.

Either way, it’s important for the Mets to fill out their bullpen with another left-handed reliever before the season begins.

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