Lugo is being strongly considered for a bullpen role if he does not make the starting rotation, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.
With Robert Gsellman expected to begin the season as the fifth starter, there isn't much room for Lugo in a talented Mets rotation, although the team had previously indicated that they would keep whoever didn't win the fifth starter role stretched out at Triple-A Las Vegas. It's important to note that the right-hander was used out of the bullpen nine times last season, so he could serve as a credible option for multi-inning relief appearances when needed. Although Lugo -- who has allowed four earned runs over seven innings in spring ball -- has long been considered a future starter, the major league experience may serve him better than opening the year at Triple-A.