How long will Colin Holderman stay in the big leagues?

The New York Mets made a pair of roster moves prior to Sunday’s game with Tylor Megill landing on the 15-day IL and minor leaguer Colin Holderman getting called up to replace him. To make room for him on the 40-man roster, Trevor May was moved to the 60-day IL.

Holderman, as you may remember, caught our attention back in spring training when he was throwing heat and striking out batters like he belonged on the Opening Day roster. The Mets weren’t built to give the 6’7 righty a spot. Now, out of necessity, he gets one.

Colin Holderman has an opportunity to stick with the Mets for more than a few days but not for too long

Megill going to the IL means David Peterson will probably end up getting promoted soon. When it happens, the Mets will have a choice between sending Holderman back down or doing the same with Jake Reed. Until that day comes, every pitch either of these two throw will factor into the decision.

Catching everyone up on what Holderman did this year, the 9th round draft pick from the 2016 draft was 1-0 with a 2.92 ERA for Syracuse. He struck out 13 batters in 12.1 innings of work and saved 3 games. Holderman could absolutely turn into a mainstay in the club’s bullpen next year. Let’s not forget, they have Edwin Diaz, Seth Lugo, Trevor May, Trevor Williams, and Adam Ottavino on expiring contracts. Not all of them will be back.

Holderman’s role, at least for now, will be as a line of defense out of the bullpen in the same way as Reed. They won’t be called upon immediately in a big situation unless no one else is available. Buck Showalter will have to continue navigating his bullpen carefully. The loss of May has created an opportunity for several arms to step up and secure a spot. But because we have also reached mid-May and keeping fresh relievers in the bullpen is also important, this is a revolving door spot on the roster.

The time Holderman spends on the Mets will first depend on how well he and Reed perform. Secondly, the amount of taxation on everyone will play a role, too. Guys like Stephen Nogosek, Yoan Lopez, and Locke St. John are already on the 40-man roster and ready for their promotion whenever needed.

Holderman can stay a few days. What he won’t be able to do is hold his roster spot for too long no matter how well he performs. Consider this a mini tryout for later on this year and into next.