Livan for the fifth

Yesterday's performance all but secured Livan Hernandez as the Mets fifth starter. Between his five innings of five hit ball, allowing only one run and Freddy Garcia's two inning, five earned run outing, it seems like Hernandez will be tabbed for the final turn.

And then there is this quote from Jerry Manuel, via Adam Rubin:

"I'll tell you what, he was pretty good today," Jerry Manuel said about Hernandez. "He has a good presence about him on the mound, in the dugout. It's like he brings a different energy for us. I would have to say he's put himself in a real good position."

I'd say that's pretty telling if you ask me.

He may give up a lot of hits and he may look like he's throwing softball pitches at times, but if Hernandez can get out there for 200+ innings in 2009, he would save the bullpen a lot of work. Even if his ERA is nearing 5.00, I think the offense, on some days, can counter that.

Maybe, just for an added measure, the team can stitch "Traschel" into the back of his jersey, and Hernandez will magically win 15 games.

And as for Garcia, I wouldn't be surprised if by the time the World Baseball Classic is over, he's out looking for work again.