Looks like Rafael Montero‘s spot start with Triple-A was actually just that. Adam Rubin tweeted earlier today that the right-hander is officially heading back to Binghamton to re-join the B-Mets rotation.
Montero impressed in his start against Iowa yesterday, going 6.2 innings and allowing two runs on four hits, one walk, and five strikeouts. While it was labeled as a “spot start”, I had a feeling that if he proved himself worthy, he would be staying with Las Vegas.
Sandy Alderson squashed those thoughts yesterday on SNY, saying that Montero would be heading back to Double-A. However, the GM did mention that he would likely return to the 51s mid-season, and went as far as saying he wouldn’t be surprised if he was in the big leagues by the end of the year.
If Montero was returned to Binghamton without those comments from Alderson, I would be more upset about him not staying in Triple-A. Knowing Sandy’s thinking helps ease some of the frustration. Do I still think Montero shouldn’t be heading back to Binghamton? You bet, but that’s how the cookie crumbles sometimes.
I’m hoping that after a few more starts with the B-Mets, Montero will re-join the Vegas rotation, one step away from the majors. In eight starts thus far in Double-A, the righty has compiled a 4-3 record, 3.47 ERA, and 54 strikeouts against six walks in 46.2 innings pitched.
He’ll be back when Wheeler gets promoted. He won’t be in Binghamton for long.
The ¨there was a feeling¨ that he would stay in Vegas was really just wishful thinking on the parts of bloggers, reporters, and fans. I didn´t see any quotes or even attributions from Mets sources that he would stay.
That said, I would have liked to see him stay too, but the Mets development people know a lot more about how his secondary pitches are developing than I do.
Sorry about that. I can correct that to “I had a feeling”.
Double-A/Triple-A it doesnt matter which league he pitches in Double A has all the talented players while Triple A has the experienced players….