NEW YORK -- After weighing alternate possibilities, the Mets have decided not to remove Logan Verrett from their rotation before his scheduled Friday start against the Padres.
After Verrett gave up six runs in 3 2/3 innings last time out in Detroit, Mets manager Terry Collins did not commit to starting him again. But upon deliberating other options, including Jonathon Niese, Rafael Montero and No. 18 prospect Gabriel Ynoa, the Mets ultimately defaulted back to Verrett.
"We did all the investigation," Collins said. "We think he's the best matchup for San Diego right now."
Verrett pitched two innings of relief against the Padres earlier this season, allowing two runs on three hits including a homer. While that performance likely did little to inspire the Mets, the club has few viable alternatives at this point in the season. Niese struggled in the Pirates' rotation earlier this season before returning to New York, where he has worked out of the bullpen. Montero owns a 5.80 ERA between Triple-A Las Vegas and Double-A Binghamton, while Ynoa has a 6.70 mark over his last eight starts for Las Vegas.
General manager Sandy Alderson did not mention No. 14 prospect Robert Gsellman, who owns a 5.89 ERA over his last seven starts but has pitched somewhat better in his last four, as a candidate.
Prior to Saturday, Verrett held a 3.86 ERA in his previous four starts, receiving a no-decision in all of them. Ultimately, his rotation spot is likely to go to Zack Wheeler, once the latter completes a Minor League rehab assignment in early September.