Mets pitching prospect Rafael Montero most likely punched his ticket to make the big club Wednesday with a solid four-inning start against the Yankees.

In his first start of the spring, Montero allowed one earned run, three hits and struck out four.

Montero officially remains in competition with Dillon Gee for the rotation's fifth spot, but it appears he'll be added to the Mets bullpen when the season begins.

When asked where Montero fits into the Mets' pitching staff, manager Terry Collins said "On the team - somewhere."

Montero suggested he is fine with any role.

"[In the] minor leagues I was a starting pitcher," Montero said through an interpreter. "Now, in the big leagues, I'm ready to pitch ... In the minor leagues, I want to start. That's in the minor leagues. But here in the big leagues that's their decision."

Montero has pitched nine innings in the spring so far, posting a 4.00 ERA with nine hits and eight strike outs.

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