Jonathon Niese is ahead of schedule

On August 5th 2009, the Mets faced the Cardinals, and Jon Niese was on the mound. At the time the Ohio native was 1-1 in 5 starts and was one of the few Mets who avoided the DL. In the 2nd inning of that game, Niese suffered a strained right hamstring that required surgery.Jon did not return in the 09 campaign, but was and still is poised to make a return and make the 25 man roster out of camp.
As of today he is competing with Fernando Nieve, Nelson Figueroa, Hisanori Takahashi, and others. Niese has recently emerged as the favorite to win the 5th spot, and as of now is 100%
Many following the squad said there would be no way Jon could be ready for Opening Day none the less April, but it looks like Jon Niese is ahead of schedule, and Jerry and his coaches are confident he will make an impact in 2010.
According to Kevin Kernan of the New York Post, Kernan spoke with the skipper and Manuel said, "that he's good to go"