New York Mets: 5 reasons for optimism – Part 4 Revamped Bullpen
By Ed Stein
Middle Innings
If New York Mets fans want to get excited about young talent in the pen, look no further than the holdovers from last season Robert Gsellman (6-3, 4.28) and Seth Lugo (3-4, 2.66). Both are under 28 and throw some serious heat.
Their roles will be to primarily carry the mid-to-late innings. If the starters can turn in six strong innings, it will be up to Lugo and/or Gsellman to keep the opposition in check until its time for the closing duo to take over.
Either of them could be a starter on many Major League teams, but the solid Mets rotation will keep both in relief roles to start the season. They both pitched well in 2018 as they adapted well to new roles. This year could be a stepping stone to greater things. Either could develop into a closer or become a solid third/fourth starter in the show.
It’s an era of specialization which has led to big bullpens. Every team uses a pitcher who can get lefties out. In the offseason, Van Wagenen signed free-agent Justin Wilson to fill that role. A major leaguer since 20-12, the 32-year-old owns a career 26-19 record and 3.33 earned run average in 370.2 innings pitched. More importantly, Wilson is a winner, he’s been to the postseason five of his seven seasons. He also won a College World Series with Fresno State in 2008. That’s a quality pedigree.