Chris Capuano, who is 9-11 on the season.
Over the course of this year, I have really enjoyed watching Chris Capuano pitch. I like watching Chris because rather than relying on purely stuff like most pitchers do, Chris uses his lanky yet deceptive delivery and control to work through the game.
But let’s face it, Chris has not been getting the job done lately. Over his last six starts, Capuano has posted a 2-4 record with a 5.14 ERA. The one bright side to Capuano’s skid is that he has still been eating innings, averaging 6 per start.
In the month of June, there was some speculation that Chris may end up a type B free agent, but due to his recent skid that is unlikely to happen. Even though he has been struggling lately, I think it would be wise for the Mets to bring back Capuano next year, if the price is right of course.
The first reason I see Chris as a viable option for 2012 is his versatility. We have all seen this year that Chris can be effective in the back end of the rotation but, with the wave of pitching prospects the Mets have coming through the system, and the expected return of Johan Santana, there may or may not be room for Capuano in the starting five.
Last year with the Brewers, he also showed he could be effective in a relief role, posting a 3.95 ERA in 24 games while averaging 7.4 strikeouts per nine innings.
Overall, I think Chris can be used in a role similar to how Hisanori Takahashi was used during his time with the Mets. Chris can be an effective lefty specialist or setup man, he can spot start, and could potentially close out games if needed for a short period of time.
I also believe Chris will be looking for a deal similar to the deal Takahashi received from the Angels in the off season (two years, 8 million). In addition, Capuano is a good role model to have around the clubhouse, especially for Jonathan Niese.
It is rumored that the reason the Mets held on to Capuano at the trade deadline was because they have genuine interest in resigning the lefty.
‘Although, Chris was recently placed on waivers and went unclaimed, meaning he could be traded to any team from now until the end of the season.
Another concern is Capuano’s injury history (two Tommy John surgeries), but I think Capuano has proved that he is indeed healthy, as he is on pace to pitch over 175 innings and make over 30 starts.
I think the only way the Mets do not resign Chris is if he is traded to a contender this year, or if Chris is given an inflated contract on the open market. In my eyes, Chris Capuano is a perfectly viable option for 2012.
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