"Chris Young returns to the rotation on Tuesday. The assumption is Dillon Gee will be the odd man out to be sent to Buffalo. But I think it is time for some out of the box thinking, a six man rotation.

Before you dismiss the idea, consider the Mets bullpen issues and how this could help. Tim Byrdak is the only lefty in the bullpen. Terry Collins has, justifiably, shown little confidence in Byrdak as he has bypassed him a few times in game situations when the opponent's top lefty was at the plate in the late innings. Collins is managing at a distinct disadvantage.

Collins did something unusual in Atlanta during Dillon Gee's previous start. He used two "starters" in relief. With back to back double headers, Collins had to get creative. By using Dickey and Capuano on their "throw day", he preserved the bullpen and also managed himself to a much needed win. It was a formula that looked much more attractive than using the usual suspects in the bullpen.

Starters working in relief is never plan A, but I think the Mets current bullpen situation warrants some creative thinking. With no left handed reinforcements on the horizon, the answer may come from a few of the starters already on the staff. A six man rotation means Capuano, Dickey or Neise would be available quite often to face a left hander in a key situation. You would only use them to face 1 or 2 batters. But those at bats could be decisive. Today, Collins has no reliable arm in his bullpen to face lefties.

Another benefit of a six man rotation is the additional rest Young and Capuano would receive (both starters are returning from surgery). Young has been particularly fragile the last few years and extra rest could only help maximize his availability for the season. The extra day of rest could also influence Collins to go a little longer with his starter. Anything that helps to minimize the innings thrown by this bullpen is helpful to the success of the team.

I have always been one to dismiss the idea of a six man rotation for one major reason, I want my ace to pitch as often as possible. With Santana on the shelf, the Met staff has no standout. Their starters are all somewhat equal so the opportunity cost of taking away a couple of starts from any of these guys is not an issue. "