In a much-needed boost to the New York Mets’ playoff hopes, their ace pitcher has made a full recovery from a hamstring injury that sidelined him earlier this season. The right-hander is scheduled to begin a minor league rehab assignment this week, signaling a significant step forward in his return to the team’s starting rotation. With the Mets hovering around the postseason race, the timing couldn’t be better.
The injury, sustained in late May during a start against a division rival, was initially diagnosed as a low-grade hamstring strain. While the team avoided the worst-case scenario of a longer-term absence, the injury still disrupted what had been a strong campaign for the Mets’ top pitcher. Before hitting the injured list, he had been pitching to a sub-3.00 ERA with elite strikeout numbers and was firmly in the mix for midseason accolades. His absence was felt immediately, as the Mets’ rotation struggled to find consistency and quality innings from the back end of their staff.
Now, with his rehab process completed and a return to game action on the horizon, the Mets are optimistic that their ace can regain his form and anchor the rotation for the stretch run. The righty is expected to make at least one rehab start in Triple-A Syracuse, where his pitch count and mechanics will be closely monitored. If all goes well, he could rejoin the Mets within 10 to 14 days, possibly just in time for a critical division series later this month.
“This is exactly the kind of lift we’ve been waiting for,” said Mets manager Carlos Mendoza. “He’s the kind of competitor who sets the tone for the entire pitching staff. Getting him back not only strengthens our rotation, but it also adds confidence throughout the clubhouse.”
In the weeks since his injury, the Mets have been treading water, managing to stay in the thick of the National League Wild Card race but lacking the top-end pitching that had defined the early part of their season. While younger arms and journeyman starters have filled in admirably, they haven’t been able to replicate the dominance or experience of the team’s ace.
Beyond the physical impact of his return, the psychological effect could be just as meaningful. A healthy, motivated frontline starter can shift the energy of a roster. As the Mets enter a pivotal stretch of games against both division rivals and fellow Wild Card contenders, having their ace back on the mound could be the difference between merely competing and truly contending.
The team has been cautious in handling his recovery, emphasizing long-term health over short-term gains. During his rehab process, he has thrown multiple bullpen sessions and live batting practice, all without setbacks. According to team officials, his velocity is back to normal and his command has sharpened.
“We’re seeing everything we need to see,” said pitching coach Jeremy Hefner. “His mechanics are clean, the ball is jumping out of his hand, and he’s moving around with confidence. We’ll take it day by day, but he’s close.”
As the All-Star break approaches, the Mets find themselves on the edge of postseason contention, needing every bit of help to stay in the race. The return of their ace could be the defining storyline of the second half, and perhaps the spark that ignites a playoff run.
With a fully recovered arm and a renewed hunger to compete, the Mets’ ace is on the verge of returning to the mound—and potentially steering the team toward October baseball.
