Fansided

Mets’ Zack Wheeler wants to start Opening Day

By Corey Leahy

Sep 17, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Zack Wheeler (45) throws the ball against the San Francisco Giants during the first inning of a game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Zack Wheeler (45) throws the ball against the San Francisco Giants during the first inning of a game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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At the start of last season, Mets pitcher Zack Wheeler was looking for a spot in the starting rotation. Well this time around, he’s got his sights set on something much more, the chance to be the team’s Opening Day Starter.

According to ESPN, Wheeler knows anything can happen.

"“I am a rookie still. And it’s nothing on those guys, on the other starters, because anybody in the starting rotation could be the Opening Day starter. But that’s just my mindset coming in — to push myself to try to get the Opening Day spot.”"

It seems as though Wheeler isn’t currently the front runner for the job.

"Terry Collins already has suggested Niese is the likeliest choice for this season as well, although that obviously could be revisited if Niese is the lone southpaw in the rotation and the Mets feel the need to separate specific right-handers, such as Bartolo Colon and Wheeler.Wheeler went 7-5 with a 3.42 ERA in 17 major-league starts last season, beginning with his June 18 debut in Atlanta. He was shut down after a Sept. 17 start, with his innings count between the majors and minors at 168 2/3. That should mean Wheeler should be permitted to throw at least 200 innings this season."

Do you think Wheeler should be the starter for Opening Day? Leave a comment down below.

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