Mets Announce 2008 Roster

The Mets, favored by many to win the National League East, announced their 2008 Opening Day roster.

Rookie Nagel Pagan has shined with both his arm and his glove.

Mike Pelfrey was named the fifth starter, beating out Orlando Hernandez (El Duque), who has been placed on the 15-day disabled list. Pelfrey joined Johan Santana, Pedro Martinez, John Maine and Oliver Perez in the starting rotation.

Ryan Church will play right field and Brian Schneider will catch.

Brady Clark makes the team and Raul Casonova fills in as catcher for Ramon Castro.

Mets General Manager Omar Minaya said of Pedro Martinez, "I think he has done good. He is not even icing."

Of Delgado at first base Minaya said, "I expect a good year out of Delgado. He finished good in spring training."

The GM said that the trade sending Lastings Milledge to Washington for Ryan Church and Brian Schneider was good for both teams. Milledge homered versus Philadelphia, helping the Washington Nationals defeat the Phillies to take over first place with their second win in a row in as many games.

The Mets have started off their last season at Shea with a win on the road. Their new premier acquisition, Johan Santana, pitched a gem, holding the Marlins to three hits while striking out eight and giving up two walks in his first victory as a Met.

- Dan Miller