The New York Mets made Mike Pelfrey their fifth starter Sunday and moved closer to setting their 25-man opening-day roster.

The move means right-hander Orlando “El Duque’‘ Hernandez, who has been bothered by a foot issue, likely will start the season on the 15-day disabled list. Hernandez and Pelfrey were battling for the final rotation spot, which will come into play for the first time Saturday when the Mets visit Atlanta.