The Mets Oliver Perez Banished to the Bullpen

So will a period of time in the bullpen be the key to getting Oliver Perez on the right track? I don't think so. I mean how is he supposed to gain any confidence and really work out the kinks while waiting to come into a game? (a game...by the way...where I expect the Mets to be down a few runs and trying to stop the bleeding...) Ollie himself knows he is in a funk and needs help. In another post, one of our very competent bloggers suggested the lefty seek psychological assistance. I know a couple of professional athletes who have benefitted from having someone help them work out their situations. No one will argue sports, at any level, is as much about the mental as the physical.

I don't know Ollie well enough to suggest anything as personal as seeking this type of assistance, but I will suggest some time in the minors. As a five year veteran, Perez has to accept the assignment. I believe he would do that, with the understanding that some time out of the limelight, starting games like he would in the majors, keeping the same routine but in a different place, might allow him to break out of the rut. I say, Omar (Minaya) sit down with Ollie, talk to him, give him a time table and ask him to take the assignment. It might just be the best thing. Thoughts?