Why Armas would be a good fit

Here is a background on Tony Armas Jr. from Wikipedia:

Armas uses a low-90s moving fastball and a sharp-breaking curve to establish what he wants to do with each hitter. He'll mix in an effective slider, a splitter and a changeup to keep opponents out of balance. His slide step has improved to the point where opposing baserunners no longer take him for granted.

However, few starting pitchers have had as much bad luck as Armas. Various injuries held him back until 2003, when he was the team's Opening Day starter, shutting down the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field, 10-2. But the strong start turned into a breakdown weeks later, after he was diagnosed with injuries in his arm and shoulder which required season-ending surgery. At that time, Armas was off to a fine start with a record of 2-1, 23 strikeouts and a 2.61 earned run average, while allowing barely more than a baserunner per inning (1.065) and not allowing a home run until his fifth and last start.

Armas worked out in 2004 spring training, and his recovery was proceeding. Although the team initially hoped he could be ready for the start of the season, the rehabilitation was slower than expected. He finished the season with a 2-4 mark in 72 innings.

In an eight-year career, Armas has a 48-60 record with 601 strikeouts and a 4.45 ERA in 820.1 innings. At bat, he is a .096 hitter (22-for-239) with eight RBI.

During the 2006 season, Armas is has a 9-12 record in 30 starts. Armas missed 1 month with arm problems but in his second game back from the disabled list he pitched 7 innings allowing only 1 run on three hits.

Armas could be a great fit as the Mets number 5 starter. He could anchor the rotation with a better record and reputation than Trachsel. I say give the old horse a try if the Mets can get him cheap. Otherwise leave it alone.