Potential NY Mets roster decision tells us the front office feels the same way as the fans

The New York Mets entered spring training with a fierce competition brewing for the final two spots in their starting rotation. After early injuries to Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas, the spotlight shifted to a trio of depth options in Paul Blackburn, Griffin Canning, and Tylor Megill.

Initially, Blackburn and Canning appeared to be the frontrunners, while Megill, plagued by inconsistency at the major league level and being the only player with a minor league option, seemed destined for the bullpen or Triple-A. However, as spring training progressed, the narrative dramatically shifted.

Tylor Megill's spring surge, Paul Blackburn's shifting role

As spring training approached its conclusion, Paul Blackburn has shown the worst performance among the three pitching candidates for the starting rotation. After five starts, he has allowed nearly a run per inning with a concerning 1.5 K/BB ratio. Meanwhile, Canning has impressed with his swing-and-miss stuff, surrendering just one run while striking out 1.6 batters per inning and demonstrating excellent control.

The battle for the final rotation spot appears to be a two-horse race between Blackburn and Megill. Recent projected roster decisions, however, strongly suggest that Megill has surged ahead. Megill's spring training performance has been nothing short of spectacular, boasting a strikeout rate exceeding one per inning and an astounding 6.5 K/BB ratio. His command and control have been exceptional, showcasing the swing-and-miss ability that had previously eluded him.

The Mets appear inclined to move Blackburn to the bullpen to be used as a long relief arm, a move that speaks volumes about the team's assessment of his starting potential. This is significant because Megill has minor league options remaining, granting the team the flexibility to send him to Triple-A while inserting Blackburn into the rotation.

However, the fact that they are not taking this route strongly suggests that the Mets, like many fans, harbor serious doubts about Blackburn's ability to consistently perform as a starter. By prioritizing Megill, despite his past inconsistencies and the availability of minor league options, the Mets are sending a clear message that they are not fully convinced of Blackburn's starting capabilities.

Essentially, the Mets are choosing to prioritize the pitcher who has shown the better results, and the better potential, during spring training. Choosing to put Canning and Megill in the starting rotation, based on merit, looks to be the best decision for the team going into opening day.