The state of the bullpen

While other sources will tell you that there is a void in the Mets bullpen with the departure of Chad Bradford, Roberto Hernandez and probable departure of Darren Oliver. On top of this is the 50 game suspension of Guillermo Mota for testing positive with drug enhancements.

I don't see it this way at all.

What about Duaner Sanchez? If I remember correctly, we got Hernandez to fill the void that Sanchez left when he got into the taxi accident.

Also, what about Juan Padillia? Padillia Posted a 1.49 ERA with the Mets in 2005. He didn't make an appearance with the Mets in 2006 because of Tommy John surgery. All indications say he will be 100% by spring training.

Then there is the long relief role that will be left by Darren Oliver. How about sticking Brian Bannister in that role? That seems to be the smartest move the Mets can make. If that doesn't work out, then they could put any one of the Mets emerging pitchers that don't fit on the roster in the beginning of the season in that role.

With the returning pitchers and the addition I suggested, the pen would shape up like this:

Pedro Feliciano
Juan Padillia
Duaner Sanchez
Aaron Heilman
John Adkins
Brian Bannister
Billy Wagner

This is a pretty solid bullpen as of right now. I really have no idea what everyone is getting nervous about.