New York Mets Make Another Small Splash: New York Signs Taylor Tankersley

The Mets have decided to do it again. They have signed another pitcher that has missed a full season in the past two years.

This time, the Mets have signed Taylor Tankersley.

He missed all of the 2009 season with an elbow injury. He split the 2010 season between the Triple-A and the majors. He pitched fairly well in the minors with a 3.42 ERA, but he struggled in the majors, posting a 7.50 ERA in 27 games.

Tankersley pitched very well in both 2006 and 2007. He has a career 4.58 ERA despite the fact that he struggled in both 2008 and 2010.

The Mets have given Tankersley a minor league deal. It has been confirmed that the deal also includes a Spring Training invitation. It appears as if Tankersley would be willing to accept a minor league assignment if he does not make the major league roster.

Tankersley is a former No. 1 overall pick by the Florida Marlins in the 2004 draft. Tankersley had previously spent his whole career with the Marlins. It is possible that a change of scenery may be what he needs to become successful.

This is yet another low-risk/high-reward signing for the Mets. 

If Tankersley can return to his 2007 form, then the Mets have found a great lefty reliever to have in their bullpen. The worst-case scenario is that Tankersley does not make the major league roster and he stays in the minors as organizational depth.

Either way, since he is signed to a small contract, the Mets can’t lose.