2 NY Mets players other than Jose Urena who could start this weekend, 1 who shouldn't

Mar 2, 2025; Fort Myers, Florida, USA; New York Mets pitcher Brandon Waddell (82) during the third inning of their game with the Boston Red Sox at JetBlue Park at Fenway South. Mandatory Credit: Chris Tilley-Imagn Images
Mar 2, 2025; Fort Myers, Florida, USA; New York Mets pitcher Brandon Waddell (82) during the third inning of their game with the Boston Red Sox at JetBlue Park at Fenway South. Mandatory Credit: Chris Tilley-Imagn Images | Chris Tilley-Imagn Images
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Why Justin Hagenman shouldn't make a start

People will suggest that Justin Hagenman, a Syracuse starter, can make a spot start. He was brought in over the offseason to serve that exact role. However, from what we've seen from him in 2025, he should be nowhere near a big league mound. Through his 10.1 innings, he has an ERA of 6.97 with 12 strikeouts to four walks, a 1.84 WHIP, and a FIP of 7.37.

If Hagenman struggles to get outs in Triple-A players, it will be even harder for him to get out of MLB players. His track record only supports this claim. While he's never made the majors, he has spent the last three and a half seasons in Triple-A, and only once has he finished a season with an ERA under three.

A team with the goals the Mets have shouldn't have a pitcher with Hagenman's numbers starting games for them. While anything can happen in baseball, history would suggest that Hagenman will struggle if given the opportunity to start. The two previously mentioned pitchers give the Mets a much better chance to win despite the less-than-ideal circumstances.

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