ATLANTA — Oliver Perez is taking his 9.97 ERA to the New York Mets' bullpen.

Manager Jerry Manuel said Monday left-hander Ken Takahashi will replace the struggling Perez in the rotation.

Takahashi made his major league debut on Saturday at Philadelphia and worked 2 2-3 scoreless innings, allowing only one hit. He had his contract purchased from Triple-A Buffalo on April 27.

Perez is 1-2 with a 9.97 ERA only months after signing a $36 million, three-year contract. He lasted only 2 1-3 innings against Philadelphia on Saturday, giving up four runs and five hits.

Perez and Manuel spoke in a closed-door meeting before Sunday's game against the Phillies was rained out. Manuel announced his plans for Perez before Monday night's game against the Atlanta Braves.