Where David Peterson's Role With the Mets Stands

Since the second half of last season, David Peterson has become an outcast in the New York Mets' starting rotation.

After struggling so mightily down the stretch last year, 2026 has not been any different for Peterson. The left-hander has been in and out of the rotation this season for New York and is now being used more as a bulk reliever despite the Mets having a depleted rotation.

While Peterson's downfall has certainly been stunning, considering the first half of last season saw him toss his first career complete game shutout as well as being named to his first All-Star Game, he is remaining committed to helping the Mets in any way he can.

During an exclusive interview with Mike Puma of the New York Post, Peterson admitted that while he still sees himself as a starter, he's now focused on his new role out of the bullpen.

David Peterson committed to Mets success despite long-term starter goal by @NYPost_Mets for @nypostsports: The lefty last pitched May 31, when he logged four... https://t.co/54wf3RgXUG#Metspic.twitter.com/ZiUHeOehKf

— New York BBWAA (@NYBBWAA) June 9, 2026

Peterson most notably did not appear in any game during the Mets' six-game road trip this past week. The 30-year-old's last appearance came on May 31 against the Miami Marlins when he tossed the final four innings of the game, allowing just one hit and one walk with three strikeouts.

That strong outing for Peterson should come as no surprise. In six apperances out of the bullpen, the lefty hurler had an impeccable 1.18 ERA in 24 innings. Those numbers are in stark contrast to his statistics as a starter. In seven starts this year, Peterson owns a dismal 7.56 ERA in 33.1 innings of work.

Overall, Peterson is 3-5 on the year with a 5.18 ERA, 56 strikeouts and a WHIP of 1.59 in 57.1 innings pitched.

Peterson also told Puma that since his adjustment as a bulk reliever, he's been in constant talks with the coaching staff on opportunities for him to pitch. Peterson said he still feels capable of throwing up to 80 to 90 pitches, albeit depending on the situation he is in during a game.

With the Mets slated to begin a six-game homestand with the first of three against the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday, it is widely expected that Peterson will make an appearance in some capacity.

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This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 11:03 AM.