In the absence of John Smoltz or another big-name starter, the Mets have one more name to throw into the hopper for the final spot in their rotation.
The team yesterday signed veteran right-hander Josh Fogg to a minor league deal. The 33-year-old Fogg figures to join Fernando Nieve and Jonathon Niese in the battle for the fifth spot in the rotation. Fogg could also be a candidate for long relief.
Fogg spent last season primarily as a reliever for the Rockies and finished 0-2 with a 3.74 ERA. He has also pitched for the White Sox, Pirates and Reds and owns a 62-67 career record with a 5.08 ERA.
The Mets also officially announced the signing of Fernando Tatis to a one-year contract.