As the final third of the season draws closer, the innings limits for three of the Mets pitchers is approaching as well.
The Mets have attempted to buy their starters some extra rest by employing various iterations of a six-man rotation, and utilizing off-days to manage their young starters regimens.
But since Steven Matz went on the disabled list in early July, the Mets have been using a five-man rotation which is accelerating the innings count, albeit in a very successful manner.
While the Mets wait for Matz to complete his rehab, the Mets will continue to use a five-man rotation, but will also use a spot starter at least once during the month of August.
Terry Collins said on Monday in Miami they’ll use a spot starter soon, but not on the current road trip.
Presumably, the Mets will use Logan Verrett as their spot starter, who has been working in Las Vegas as a starting pitcher. The Mets could use Carlos Torres as well for this role, although this would limit Terry Collins’ flexibility in the bullpen for a few days following that start, which isn’t ideal considering they don’t have too many off-days in August.
Collins also assured reporters the Mets young starters will not be shutdown should the club reach the playoffs.
Collins said on Sunday Matz is expected to return in early September. He just began a throwing program on Monday in Port St. Lucie.
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