According to Adam Rubin, and for no apparent reason, the Mets "appear to be leaning heavily toward carrying five starters from the beginning of the season, regardless of whether Orlando Hernandez is ready from the get-go."
Um, why? The team doesn't need a 5th starter until April 12, so why would you carry one? This would open a spot for a tandem of Duaner Sanchez and Steven Register to break with the team. This would give Duaner more time to work into going back-to-back days and possibly showcase Register to other teams, if he doesn't stick.
El Duque and Mike Pelfrey are slated to split the game on Sunday against the St. Louis Cardinals.
If it was up to me, I wouldn't take a 5th starter, see how those two pitch in simulated games in minor league camp, and make your decision from there.
