Jeremy Hefner

The Mets split Hefner's time between the rotation and bullpen in 2012, and the better results from his workload came in a relief role (4.44 ERA, 1.23 WHIP). Still, in his 13 appearances as a starter, he carried an impressive 3.8 K/BB and was generally victimized by a .342 BABIP. Historically, he has shown a limited ability to miss bats after making the leap from High-A (8.5 K/9) following the 2009 season. If his 4.21 xFIP is any indication, Hefner appears to have some value as a potential No. 5 starter given his ability to limit the free passes and keep the ball in the yard (0.7 HR/9). Long relief might be his Opening Day role, but it would not be surprising to see him make a few spot starts if the need arises.

First claimed by the Pirates off waivers from San Diego in November and now more recently by the Mets from the Pirates, Hefner will struggle to make it in the majors as anything more than a temporary call-up. During his first full season at Triple-A last year, his overall numbers conitnued their annual drop, including a 1.97 K/BB ratio and a HR/9 that more than doubled to a 1.29 mark. He'll fight his way through the Mets system for now, but the likelihood of him having any sort of major league impact is incredibly low.