Adam Rubin on his blog for the New York Daily News writes that former UCLA closer Brant Rustich will be converted to a starting pitcher by the Mets. The 6-foot-6 Rustich started as a college sophomore, then became the Bruins’ closer.

After the Mets traded Kevin Mulvey, Philip Humber, and Deolis Guerra they now are looking for more depth at the starting pitching position in their minors.

Rubin shares this anecdote about Rustich’s excitement in Mets camp…

Rustich was so mesmerized by a team-issued bat with his name engraved on it yesterday that he took a close-up picture with his cell phone to send to his family. “This is the coolest thing about being here,” he said of the personalized lumber. “And you get to wear helmets with only one earflap. That’s awesome.”

Filed under: Brant Rustich