Earlier this week, Mets Gazette writer Frank Gray suggested that the Mets look to former Brewers as a means to sure up their pitching staff. The Mets have done exactly what Frank suggested. They signed Chris Capuano to a one-year deal.
In addition to the Capuano signing, the Mets have also signed Taylor Buchholz. In response to these moves, the Mets designated Ryota Igarashi for assignment. It appears as if the Mets are looking to make low risk/high reward signings.
Both Capuano and Buchholz have undergone Tommy John surgery. Capuano has actually undergone the surgery twice. However, both were able to pitch fairly well in the majors last season.
Capuano went 4-4 with a 3.95 ERA and a 1.30 WHIP in 24 appearances (nine starts) last season. He has had some solid seasons in the past. In 2005 and 2006, Capuano posted a 3.99 ERA and 4.03 ERA, respectively. In ’06, he pitched well enough to earn a spot on the National League All-Star team.
Capuano provides the Mets with a versatile pitcher, since he has experience pitching in the rotation and out of the bullpen. He could start the year in the rotation and then move to the bullpen once Johan Santana recovers.
Buchholz was rated the 50th best prospect in baseball in 2004. He was originally a starter, but he struggled in that role. He was moved to the bullpen full time in 2008 and he was very successful there, posting a 2.17 ERA in 63 appearances. A pitcher like Buchholz would help fill one of the holes in the Mets’ bullpen.
After undergoing surgery, Buchholz was able to work his way back to the majors for nine appearances in 2010; he was able to post a 3.75 ERA. It is good to see that he was able to pitch well once he returned. He should be able to win a bullpen spot out of spring training.
This could also spell the end of Ryota Igarashi’s time with the Mets. There has been talk floating around that if he is not claimed, the Mets will bring him to spring training as a non-roster invitee. Unless he has learned to adjust to the American game, Igarashi will not make the roster next season.
Could these signings also spell the end of Oliver Perez’s time with the Mets? If both Capuano and Buchholz make the Opening Day roster, Perez might not have a spot. However, there is a chance that Perez would be given the opportunity to play until Johan Santana comes off the disabled list.
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