Fernando Martinez has impressed me this Spring. Meija has impressed me this Spring. GMJ has suprised me this Spring. All of these good things for the Mets fail in comparison to Takahashi. From his attitutude to performance so far, he has proved that the Mets NEED him on the roster.
The statistics are startling, in 6 innings, he has allowed only 2 hits, no runs, no walks and has struck out 9. That would be a K/9 of 13.5. He is having this success because of his impecable control. He doesn't over power pitchers but he hits all of the spots that he is given. Another fun fact, he is here on a Minor League contract. This is why I like his attitude. He has been quoted saying that he came here on the minor league contract because it was going to be a challenge, because it was going to be hard.
Before I make too many bold predictions and opinions, this is contignent of course of him keeping up his work this Spring. Let him start a game, let's see him pitch 4 innings against major league hitters. If he can handle that, then he needs to be seriously considered for the the fifth starter spot. If he gets that, and Figgy gets the longman in the pen (but honestly they can be flipped) then the Mets can send Nieve down and Niese (who has options and contract wise, this may be a wise move).
Keep up the good work Takahashi, hope to see you in Queens.
