72 is a welcome number for Johan Santana and Mets

Added by Eddie Utley on February 27, 2012.

What is 72?

The number of wins the Mets may have this year? Possible. I believe that’s where the betting line is right now.

A uniform number of a surprise player in Spring Training? Again possible but not likely.

Number of double plays JasonBay will hit into? I hope not.

Could it be the number of pitches Johan Santana completed Sunday?

YES!

Johan Santana threw 72 pitches Sunday and had no ill effects. He has been doing more long tossing and getting the arm stretched out. His next bullpen he will pitch then sit down then pitch again as if it’s a simulated game. Then Friday, he should be pitching live batting practice. We may be getting to the point where we can expect Santana to be ready to go when the bell rings.

I personally expect 25+ starts from Santana, he’s well enough removed from the surgery and has followed his guidelines without overthrowing which is what usually sets people back.

One thing the Mets will probably consider early is using him for 5-6 innings and letting the bullpen shut it down. Of course the Mets have to take the lead for that to happen.

The only thing that bothers me is something that always bothered me about him. His arm pronation through his pitches. The way he does it puts additional stress on the shoulder. This was one of the reasons people raved about Roger Clemens and his curveball, the way he pronated his arm saved him from injury. Don’t worry, I’m not about to go scientific.

I’m not hoping for 19-2 2.11 ERA or anything like that but 15 wins and a 3.00 ERA would be within his reach if he can stay on the field and the Mets can score runs like they did last year.