Closer Issues

Reports coming out of Port St. Lucie this weekend is that closer to be Frank Francisco has been battling a sore knee.  For some time, the reports have been that it was Francisco's toe which had been laboring him, but the truth came out recently about the knee.  Francisco had an MRI done on the ailing knee and results came back negative, but that still did not prevent the doctors from training fluid from the area.

This will be a worrisome issue for the Mets moving forward if Francisco is hampered.  The Mets restocked their bullpen this winter and feel very confident the group will be much better than last season.  However, dipping into the depth of the bullpen this early on can create a ripple effect the Mets don't want to see happen.

Should anything happen with Francisco long term, it seems as if Jon Rauch will be next in line to take over the closer responsibilities.  Although he has thrown the ball remarkably well this spring, Bobby Parnell is not an option right now to take over that role.  The front office is still a bit weary about Parnell since he had struggled last season in a small role audition for the closer spot.