Mike Pelfrey Named Mets' Fifth Starter

MIAMI — Mike Pelfrey walked slowly into manager Willie Randolph's office yesterday morning, knowing the moment of truth had finally arrived.

Exactly one minute later, Pelfrey walked out with a spot in the Mets' rotation.

The Mets made Pelfrey their fifth starter as they finalized their 25-man opening-day roster. He had some rocky moments in spring training, but showed Randolph enough to get the spot.

"He's a big, strong kid and has a bright future ahead of him," Randolph said. "It's time for him to step up and really get his career going. He'll get an opportunity to do that and I have confidence in him. He's got great stuff. He's had a nice spring, he really has."

The move means right-hander Orlando Hernandez, who has been bothered by a foot issue, will start the season on the 15-day disabled list.