Mets' José Butto Takes Major Rehab Step as Bullpen Battles Injuries

Mets' José Butto Takes Major Rehab Step as Bullpen Battles Injuries

The New York Mets find themselves in a precarious situation as their bullpen continues to face significant setbacks due to injuries. Currently, seven key relievers are sitting on the sidelines, including Max Kranick, Dedniel Núñez, A.J. Minter, Brooks Raley, Drew Smith, Danny Young, and José Butto. This series of misfortunes could have serious implications for the team’s performance moving forward, especially with the competition heating up.

In the latest development, José Butto, who was placed on the injured list on July 4 due to an undisclosed illness, has shown signs of recovery. After a rather unclear timeline for his return, an update from Empire Sports Media reveals that Butto pitched a scoreless inning for the FCL Mets in Port St. Lucie. The placement on the IL was retroactive to July 1, which means he could potentially return soon, assuming his progress continues.

Injury Updates and Schedule Changes

Before the crucial home series opener against the Yankees, manager Carlos Mendoza provided further context about Butto’s situation. According to Yahoo Sports, he emphasized that Butto is expected back after the All-Star break. In response to the growing roster issues, the Mets called up Chris Devenski from Triple-A Syracuse.

The injury list isn’t only limited to Butto. Paul Blackburn has also been placed on the 15-day IL due to a shoulder impingement, while Núñez is dealing with significant ligament damage that might necessitate Tommy John surgery. A decision on Núñez’s future is expected soon, as he consults with a doctor next week to discuss his options.

Meanwhile, Justin Hagenman is slated to start Friday’s game, with Frankie Montas expected to follow on Saturday. The Mets are hopeful that Kodai Senga will begin a rehab assignment, throwing 60-65 pitches, which could help ease the burden on their troubled pitching staff.

The Bigger Picture

The Mets‘ bullpen crisis doesn’t end there, as reports suggest that they might also lose Max Kranick to Tommy John surgery. Kranick has been on the injured list since June 16 and is awaiting opinions on his elbow injury after a visit to Dr. Keith Meister. Having recorded a 3-2 record and 3.65 ERA before his injury, losing Kranick would add another layer of challenge to the Mets’ already beleaguered pitching lineup, as highlighted by Sports Illustrated.

The Mets are under pressure, not just to perform but to devise a strategy that can carry them through this turbulent time. Despite these challenges, there remains hope. Butto’s potential return and improvements among other players like Francisco Alvarez could provide that much-needed lift for the Mets as they look to turn their season around. The Subway Series against the Yankees, with both teams grappling with injuries and losing streaks, is sure to be an emotional and pivotal matchup, underscoring the importance of resilience for the Mets.