Mike Pelfrey Named Mets’ Fifth Starter
This article is from the archive of The New York Sun before the launch of its new website in 2022. The Sun has neither altered nor updated such articles but will seek to correct any errors, mis-categorizations or other problems introduced during transfer.
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.
