So much for Mike Pelfrey the reliable innings-eater.

Big Pelf is heading to the disabled list this afternoon after an MRI revealed swelling in his right elbow. Over the course of his career with the Mets, Pelfrey has been described as many things, but he has been a fairly consistent back-of-the-rotation pitcher since he joined the team.

Through three starts this year, Pelfrey has pitched uncharacteristically well. His 2.29 ERA, 2.22 FIP, and 3.10 xFIP were all much better than his career numbers, thanks to a slightly higher strikeout rate and significantly lower walk rate. Chances are he would have returned to his career norms, but it looks like he'll be out for a while.

In the short term, the Mets are expected to recall Robert Carson, who will pitch out of the bullpen. Chris Schwinden was already expected to pitch on Friday and is expected to join the Mets to start in Colorado on Friday.