If the Mets decide to go with a traditional longman they could be encouraged by Livan Hernandez's ability to come out of the pen and pitch two scoreless innings. Of Course, that success could be making him a favorite for the fifth starters spot. To make Hernandez the longman could cause more problem then it helps, the team would have to decide between Freddy Garcia and Jon Niese. Neither pitcher has been very effective, Garcia may ask to be released if re-assigned to the minor leagues and many feel Niese is being rushed if he's anywhere but in AAA.The Mets could decide to not use a longman and carry two right handed relievers for early in games. Hernandez would be the fifth starter with Niese in AAA and Garcia either in the minors or elsewhere. They would have room for Villone, Parnell ( or O'Day) and Stokes. If needed Stokes has been known to go more then one inning. Another candidate for the longman role is Tony Armas Jr, who according to Adam Rubin has been re-assigned to minor league camp..
But Hernandez adapted fine today in entering the game in the fifth inning. If he could grow accustomed to warming up quicker, Hernandez could provide the durability, resiliency and crossover innings that Manuel said he may be looking for. Of course, the Mets do not necessarily need a long man, particularly with the way the back end of their bullpen is structured and the increasing likelihood that Bobby Parnell and Brian Stokes, whose arm is stretched out, will make the team. On days he does not pitch, Hernandez could always pinch-hit. source NY Times
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