Rafael Montero lost out to Dillon Gee in spring training for the fifth spot in the Mets’ starting rotation. As a result, he started off in the bullpen. The 2015 season has treated neither pitcher well, as Gee has allowed nine runs in 10 2/3 innings over two starts while Montero allowed three runs (two earned) in 4 1/3 innings over four relief appearances prior to a demotion to Triple-A Las Vegas.
Montero will be brought back soon, however, and it will be to start, ESPN New York’s Adam Rubin reports. The goal is to stretch him out at Triple-A, then bring him back for a spot start on April 28 against the Marlins. That will allow Matt Harvey and Jacob deGrom to get an extra day of rest. Gee, if he continues to pitch poorly, could be in danger of losing his rotation spot as well if Montero excels in his spot start.