Mets Face Challenges as Top Reliever A.J. Minter Goes on Injured List

WASHINGTON — The New York Mets placed top lefty reliever A.J. Minter on the injured list with a left lat strain on Sunday after he walked off the mound during the eighth inning of Saturday’s 2-0 win over the Washington Nationals.

Minter experienced discomfort in his triceps and echoed Mets manager Carlos Mendoza‘s cautious sentiment, acknowledging the need for a careful approach moving forward. “When you got a pitcher coming out of a game because of an arm, even if we get good news, you still gotta be careful,” Mendoza said.

Despite the injury, the Mets are enjoying a strong start to the season with a 19-8 record. Their pitching staff has been a bright spot, showcasing impressive performances from both the rotation and bullpen. Right-hander Clay Holmes notably shut down the Nationals for five innings in Saturday’s game.

The Mets’ bullpen boasts a 2.56 ERA, placing them fourth in Major League Baseball. They have logged the most innings in the top 10 for ERA with 98 1/3 innings. Minter, who signed a two-year deal worth $22 million before the season, was a key part of this success with a 1.67 ERA and 14 strikeouts in 11 innings.

“It’s super frustrating,” Minter said. “I was happy with the way the ball was coming out. Obviously, the team is off to a great start. But my job now is to get this thing fixed.”

With Minter sidelined, Danny Young is now the lone lefty in the bullpen. Young has a 4.32 ERA in 10 appearances and has shown promise with a scoreless inning and three strikeouts in his recent outing. “Every time we put him in the game, we feel good about our chances,” Mendoza remarked regarding Young’s potential to step up.

The Mets will look to maintain their early momentum as they adapt to challenges posed by Minter’s absence, putting trust in their depth and remaining versatile on the mound.