PORT ST. LUCIE – The Mets’ fifth-starter job is up for grabs. And once again, Aaron Heilman sees an opportunity.
“Certainly I want to try to win a spot,” the young righthander said yesterday at the start of the Mets’ mini-camp here. “That’s what I’m trying to get ready for.”
Heilman has been here before, of course, having competed for the fifth starter’s job last year. Not only was Heilman beaten out by David Cone, but also he flopped when he did get the chance to pitch in the majors in mid-season. In 14 games (13 starts), he went 2-7 with a 6.75 ERA, grappling with his command.
Heilman was so unimpressive that after his second-to-last start on Sept. 20 – a four-inning, four-hit, four-walk struggle against Montreal – GM Jim Duquette admitted, “Standing here now, it’s hard to imagine he’s the fifth starter on our club.”
But Duquette also said Heilman would have a shot at making the team, and the fact is, the Mets are still seeking that elusive fifth starter. And so barring a bargain find, Heilman will enter spring training, along with Tyler Yates and Jeremy Griffiths, with a shot at being that guy.
Last year’s experiences, he believes, will only benefit him this time around.
“I think it will help me prepare for spring training and be ready to compete for a job,” Heilman said. “I just want to show I can get the job done on a consistent basis and get big-league hitters out.”
The Mets would love to see it, considering that despite Heilman’s struggles, the 25-year-old remains a top prospect. The Mets also are confident that new pitching coach Rick Peterson can help. Peterson said yesterday that after watching tape of Heilman, he wants to help make the righty’s delivery more consistent.
“We haven’t really gone over any specific things,” Heilman said of Peterson, adding that he wasn’t sure if he would accompany the pitching coach to Alabama for a biomechanical breakdown. “But we had good conversations and I’m really looking forward to being able to work with him.”
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Free-agent RHP Scott Erickson plans to showcase his arm in Arizona for prospective teams, a workout that could come late next week. Erickson also could be a fit for the Mets’ fifth-starter hole . . . New closer Braden Looper passed his physical yesterday and will be introduced today.
