Rafael Montero could open 2015 in a bullpen role for the Mets while Bobby Parnell works his way back from Tommy John surgery, ESPN New York reports.

Montero could open 2015 in a bullpen role for the Mets while Bobby Parnell works his way back from Tommy John surgery, ESPN New York reports.

Analysis:

The Mets have an abundance of starters, even if Dillon Gee, Jonathon Niese or Bartolo Colon is dealt, meaning that Montero is on the outside looking in there. The Opening Day bullpen should be Jenrry Mejia, Jeurys Familia, Vic Black, Josh Edgin, Carlos Torres and probably another lefty. That would leave one open spot, which Montero - who bounced between relieving and starting last year for New York - could fill until Parnell is ready.