Dillon Gee completed the fourth start of his career tonight. He pitched seven innings and surrendered only five hits and two runs to earn his second victory.
Through these four starts, Gee has thrown four quality starts, giving up only six runs in 27 innings of work (a 2.00 ERA). Though his first two starts were against the lowly Nationals and Pirates, the last two were against the potent Braves and Phillies.
Looking forward, Gee may have a chance at cracking the starting rotation in 2011. Yes, I know, four starts aren’t enough to determine his long-term success, but you can’t argue with his results.
From what we’ve seen so far (and more importantly the lack of other options), Gee may find himself playing a prominent role for the team next season.
The guy throws strikes and relies on his defense. He hasn’t struck out more than five batters in a start yet, but he has been economical in his approach.
With Johan Santana’s status up in the air for at least early in 2011, who will make up the starting rotation?
Naturally, Mike Pelfrey and Jon Niese will take up two of the five spots since they are both under team control. Most likely, the team will re-sign R.A. Dickey, so that takes care of three spots.
Santana will hopefully miss no more than a few weeks to start the season. That makes four.
So there’s one spot up for grabs. The Mets may explore the trade market, but who out there is available that would significantly improve this rotation? Ted Lilly? Fausto Carmona? They probably won’t be players for Cliff Lee.
There will probably be more pitchers available over the winter, but until I start hearing those rumors, I will stick with what I’ve heard.
John Maine is a walking question mark and the Oliver Perez ship has sailed. If the Mets re-sign Hisanori Takahaski, he may do some starting, but he is valuable in the bullpen, whether as a long reliever or a closer.
Jenrry Mejia may also be an option, but he has not experienced the success that Gee has.
Considering all these options, Gee could fit nicely into the fifth spot of the rotation. In my view, give the kid a chance.
His spring training performance will likely determine where he’s assigned, but if he keeps throwing quality starts, he will find himself with the big club.
Gee has been one of the few bright spots over the last few weeks and should have one more start to prove is worth.
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