Bullpen
- Edge: Even
The acquisition of Johnathan Papelbon at the trade deadline was one of those occasions for which the guy brought in may not be better than the incumbent. But what it did do for the Nationals is lengthen the backend? The 1-2 tandem of Drew Storen to Papelbon is a fine one indeed.
The Mets pen, seemed set when they acquired Tyler Clippard just before the deadline. It seemed as though it would be Bobby Parnell, Tyler Clippard and Jeurys Familia to close out a game. However, Parnell has faltered, making things very dicey. The Mets do not have time to wait out Parnell. Logan Verrett and Vic Black are waiting in Vegas and could see themselves pitching in some important situations come September.
Both teams have starters that can go deep, so the back end seem to be the more important group. Neither team’s pen is perfect. Both can get the job done, or blow it on any given day. Let’s call the pens even.
There you have it, the Mets win, and therefore should have the edge heading down the stretch of this exciting 2015 MLB season.
