Jenrry Mejia is already starting to become the tired out debate that Joba Chamberlain is over in the Bronx. Much has been made about Mejia being treated as a reliever the rest of camp, possibly preventing him from starting the season in the Binghamton rotation. This could mean that 1) the Mets are seriously considering the kid for the big league bullpen or 2) They have plans to develop him as a reliever in the minors. Personally, I think the Mets are going to see if Mejia can win a job in the big leagues. I am not sure I buy into Manuel’s statements about a pitcher learning more out of the big league bullpen than developing as a starter. The roles are completely different, as Mejia will need to work on more than just one pitch to succeed in the rotation.

Manuel mentioned how they use to bring up kids to start their careers in the bullpen when he was in Chicago. This statement actually doesn’t compute because I went back to all his team’s starting in 1998 and only Jon Garland seemed to spend any kind of time in the pen. Once you start there it seems to change the whole development cycle. Just look at the mess across town that pitched yesterday.

Should there be concern about the Mets bullpen? I personally think it’s too early to panic. Kiko Calero is a huge pickup if he can stay healthy. If they wind up signing a Joe Biemel, then you might be on to something. There are some question marks, but I think these arms have upside, unlike prior years. Its funny how Manuel spoke about an “eighth inning by committee” during the winter meetings, but now is committed to establishing someone in that role. Was bullpen management in session this spring?

Another good outing or two and I think Mejia has a shot to come north. The injuries, coupled with some subpar performances have enhanced this unlikely scenario. If it winds up happening you know it has Manuel, not Minaya, written all over it. Do you trust Jerry to manage the organizations prized arm? If you do, remember we were talking a week ago about his inability to grasp lefty/righty splits.

It appears Jenrry Mejia’s career is about to take a turn, but I am not sure if it’s for the better of either pitcher or the organization.

Mike Silva is a freelance writer and radio host since March of 2007. This website is his own personal "digest" of New York Baseball He's also hosts NYBD Radio on Blog Talk Radio and 1240 AM WGBB. Check out his sports media commentary at www.sportsmediawatchdog.com. Check out his official website, www.mikesilvamedia.com

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Tags: Chicago White Sox, Jenrry Mejia, Jerry Manuel, Joba Chamberlain, Jon Garland, Kiko Calero, New York Mets, Omar Minaya