Mets Option Zack Wheeler to Triple-A

As expected the Mets have optioned right-handed starter Zack Wheeler to Triple-A Las Vegas for the start of the 2018 season. 

Wheeler got shelled in his last outing of the spring, giving up five runs on seven hits over two innings of work against the Washington Nationals. Outside of a solid outing against the Yankees in the middle of Spring Training, Wheeler really struggled, posting an ERA of 8.10 in 10 innings of work. 

The Mets will insert Seth Lugo into the fifth starter's spot of the rotation, taking Wheeler's place. 

Lugo pitched four shutout innings in relief of Wheeler on Thursday night against the Nationals. This spring, Lugo has been marvelous, pitching to a 2.84 ERA in 15.2 innings of work as both a receiver and starter. His versatility will be of importance to Mickey Callaway this season. 

Jason Vargas, whom the Mets signed before camp opened to a two-year $16 million deal will likely open the season on the disabled list as he recovers from surgery on his non-pitching hand to correct a nondisplaced fracture in his hamate bone. 

The Mets hope that Wheeler can work out his mechanics and come back to the Mets a better starting pitcher. In the interim, the Mets will have a rotation of Noah Syndergaard, Jacob deGrom, Matt Harvey, Steven Matz, and Seth Lugo.