Heilman gets big nod for rotation...

It's been reported, analyzed and editorialized by every NY newspaper, sports outlet and Mets blog across the web that Aaron Heilman has requested to start or be traded (including me). Like I've said before, Heilman in my opinion needs a change of scenery and the Mets need move him as part of the face lift to the bullpen.

However, I will relent that if somehow the Mets decided to move him into the rotation, that would be such a significant move that it would be the change both sides need. I was one of the proponents for a very long time to allow him a chance as a starter but as the years went by and it appeared the team had no intention of making him a starter, I gave up. If this front office doesn't realize it became stagnant, all the proof needed is to read this Heilman post from last year on this very date ( it's almost identical to this post without realizing it ). At least if he started we could finally put this debate to bed, one way or the other......

Whether it was the standard statement that Aaron was too valuable in the pen or the leaked scouting reports that he only had two pitches and wouldn't be unsuccessful in the rotation, the organization was in agreement since spring training 2006 that he was a reliever. So it comes as a major surprise and a bit of a coupe-de-grace that Heilman receive the support of his manager and pitching coach. It continues to demonstrate a change in styles from the Randolph regime who always appeared publicly in agreement with Omar to Jerry who's willing to speak his mind if it's in the best interest of his team ( sometimes public support is more important then harmony and disagreement behind closed doors).

Here's what Marty Noble reported as the responses to Heilman's start me or trade demand. Of course, Omar still sees him as a reliever....

Heilman's push to change roles has received two important endorsements. Pitching coach Dan Warthen said, "I'm all for Aaron coming to Spring Training as a starter."

The other came from manager Jerry Manuel, who said, "For Aaron's benefit and for us as a team, we have to explore that option." source MLB.com