Mets 2018 bullpen is shaping up to look quite different

It’s no secret how disappointing the bullpen has been through injury or ineffectiveness. Like Michelle, I believed Robles could take a step forward heading into the season but that quickly disintegrated by late May.

Perhaps Robles being sent down was a humbling experience. He still has the potential to be a viable piece and he’ll be in more low pressure situations with Ramos aboard.

The way we both see this bullpen beyond the newly formed trio hinges on Robles and Smoker to be the bridge. They’re also guys who can vacuum multiple innings if needed. Also, Paul Sewald has shown pretty well considering it’s his first season in the big leagues.

One drawback with Ramos is his walk rate (4.8 per nine innings). It’s a drastic contrast to Reed who has exemplified great command of the strike zone. Hopefully, Ramos can improve on that even slightly under a new staff but his diverse arsenal for a reliever is what makes him a solid piece in late game situations.

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Drew Smith is also someone who should be up at some point next season whether it’s Opening Day or otherwise. Smith is someone who may have been ranked lower than his stuff would suggest. He’s put together a sub-2.00 ERA in the minors and will get a chance to prove himself over a longer stretch in the upper echelon of the minor leagues for the rest of this season. Smith has only registered four appearances above A-ball. He should be a good asset to the bullpen next year.