Mets Sign John Lannan to Minor League Deal

The Mets announced on Saturday that they have signed lefty starter John Lannan to a minor league deal with an invitation to Spring Training. This is a great, no-lose move.

The 29-year-old Long Island product was a decent pitcher for the Nationals a few years ago. In fact, they thought enough of him to sign him to a $5 million deal for 2012, but then they kept him in the minors for most of the season because their rotation was full.

Lannan pitched to a 4.01 ERA in four full seasons and parts of two others in Washington. He signed on with the Phillies for 2013 and made the team out of Spring Training as the fifth starter. However, in mid-August he hurt his knee, requiring surgery, and missed the rest of the season. He finished with uninspiring numbers — 3-6 with a 5.33 ERA in 14 starts.

John Lannan will compete for the fifth starter job with the Mets. If he is healthy and can regain his form, then the Mets have found a cheap, young competent starter. If not, they cut him or stick him in Vegas. No risk at all.

A great move by Sandy Alderson. How often have we said that?!