Report: 2 New York Mets Starting Pitchers Likely To Begin Year In Triple-A

Two pitchers who were crucial members of the New York Mets' starting rotation at times last season appear to be trending towards starting 2023 in the minors. Both Tylor Megill and David Peterson are not part of the team's new vaunted 5-man rotation, and according to multiple reports, could actually start the year at Triple-A.

The Mets apparently don't view Megill or Peterson as bullpen arms, but rather as quality depth pieces for the rotation when the inevitable injuries strike the starting staff. 

This is the correct decision by the Mets. Megill/Peterson should not be pen options. Keep them stretched out in Syracuse. https://t.co/SygHCrC1oM

— Ben Yoel (@Ben_Yoel) January 30, 2023

With their two top arms, Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, 38 or older, the odds of an injury at some point are, naturally, greatly enhanced. In fact, the average age of the Mets' rotation is 35.6 years old. It's an inevitability that Megill and Peterson will be needed at various points. 

The Mets actually received 37 starts from those two last season, including Opening Day for Megill. 

“What a blessing it is for us,” pitching coach Jeremy Hefner told The New York Post. “Maybe not a blessing for them, because in a lot of ways they are on the outside looking in, but things change all the time in this game, so if those guys start the year in Triple-A, we have two guys that probably deserve to be in the big leagues just from their past performance and their stuff.” 

Peterson went 6-5 with a 3.86 ERA in 19 starts, though he did also make nine appearances out of the bullpen. 

Megill went on a run from his Opening Day start, posting a 1.93 ERA in five April starts. His season was derailed after that, however, by right biceps inflammation and a shoulder strain.

If there's one thing you can be sure of on a major league staff, it's that injuries will necessitate changes. The Mets appear to be as ready as they can be. 

Photo: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports