Pedro Martinez’s season debut only lasted 56 pitches as he limped off the mound in the 4th inning, in what appears to be a hamstring injury.  Given his age, this isn’t a good sign. He’ll fly back to New York tonight, and is scheduled for an MRI tomorrow. 

Pedro’s next start is the Mets home opener, a week from today against the Phillies.  Odds are, he’s not going to make that start. Oliver Perez will slide into the #2 spot and get the nod.

The newly favored Mets (at least since they landed Johan Santana), will miss Pedro if he does indeed miss extended time.  The team’s co-5th starters (Orlando Hernandez and Mike Pelfrey), will most likely slide into the 4th and 5th spots in the rotation.  Hernandez is currently on the disabled list, so if he’s unable to return Tony Armas, Nelson Figueroa, or Jorge Sosa would fill in the five-hole until Hernandez is able to return.

 While I don’t like to relish in a rivals injury, and I do with Pedro a speedy recovery, the weakening to the Mets pitching staff can’t be a bad thing…