Could Two Mets Pitchers Be Facing Tommy John Surgery?

Two New York Mets pitchers, Tylor Megill and Reed Garrett, are facing significant long-term injuries, prompting recommendations for Tommy John surgery. Both players are weighing their options while Garrett is also dealing with a planned nerve surgery. This article explores the implications of these injuries on their careers, the Mets' pitching depth, and what the future holds for both players.

Last updated: 28 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Both Tylor Megill and Reed Garrett are recommended for Tommy John surgery.
• Garrett is also facing a procedure to move a nerve in his right arm.
• Both pitchers are likely to miss significant time in the upcoming seasons.
• The Mets must address their pitching depth amid these injuries.
• Contractual implications exist for both players regarding arbitration eligibility.

Injury Context for Tylor Megill

Tylor Megill, who last pitched on 14 June, has been sidelined by an elbow sprain. Initially, he reported no structural damage, but renewed discomfort during a Triple-A start on 7 September led to further tests. Unfortunately, these tests revealed UCL damage, which is often a precursor to Tommy John surgery.

Megill has had a somewhat tumultuous career with the Mets, primarily serving as a back-end rotation arm. Over five MLB seasons, he has displayed promise, particularly in 2025, posting a 3.95 ERA across 14 starts and 68 1/3 innings. His impressive 29.2% strikeout rate indicates potential, but his high 10.8% walk rate raises concerns about consistency.

Reed Garrett's Ongoing Struggles

Reed Garrett has faced elbow issues for over a month. After missing two weeks due to inflammation, he was returned to the injured list with a sprain in his throwing elbow. Garrett is contemplating a PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection, but this option poses risks, given his upcoming nerve surgery, which necessitates a four-month recovery.

Aged 32, Garrett's situation is particularly pressing as he approaches a pivotal point in his career. His numbers since joining the Mets in 2023 have been solid, with a 3.83 ERA in 111 appearances and a striking 30.3% strikeout rate. However, his control issues with an 11.5% walk rate remain a concern.

What's Next for Both Pitchers?

Both Megill and Garrett are facing a bleak outlook for the 2025 season, with the possibility of missing the entire 2026 campaign looming large. The Mets, who are already grappling with pitching depth, will need to strategise accordingly. The absence of these two pitchers could significantly affect the team's performance, especially if they make it into the postseason.

Impact on the Mets' Pitching Depth

The injuries to Megill and Garrett exacerbate an already challenging situation for the Mets. With both pitchers likely out for the foreseeable future, the team must consider their options for bolstering the pitching staff. Potential trades, free agent signings, or promoting from within the minor leagues may be necessary to fill the gaps left by these injuries.

Contractual Implications

From a contractual perspective, Megill is in his first year of arbitration eligibility, earning a salary of £1.975 million in 2025. Garrett, on the other hand, will be arb-eligible for the first time this coming offseason. Despite their injuries, both players are likely to receive contract tenders from the Mets, as the team would retain control over them when they return to health in 2027.

Long-Term Career Considerations

The implications of these injuries extend beyond the immediate future. For both Megill and Garrett, the recommended Tommy John surgery represents a significant career milestone, often requiring a lengthy recovery period. The timeline for a return to form post-surgery typically spans 12 to 18 months. This raises questions about their effectiveness upon return and the potential for further injuries.

For Garrett, who turns 33 in January, the urgency to return to form is even more pronounced. As he navigates potential nerve surgery and the decision regarding Tommy John, the ticking clock on his career adds an element of pressure. The Mets will need to make strategic decisions that consider both the short-term and long-term implications for their roster.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead?

As the Mets grapple with the potential loss of Tylor Megill and Reed Garrett, the immediate focus will be on their recovery paths and the team's response to these setbacks. The decisions made now will significantly impact the franchises' future pitching depth and overall performance as they aim for success in the coming seasons.

How will the Mets adapt to these injuries, and what should fans expect for the 2026 season? The answers remain to be seen, but the need for resilience and strategic planning is more critical than ever. #Mets #TommyJohnSurgery #MLBInjuries

FAQs

What is Tommy John surgery?

Tommy John surgery is a common procedure to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in the elbow, often necessary for athletes, particularly pitchers, to regain functionality.

How long is the recovery period for Tommy John surgery?

The recovery period for Tommy John surgery typically ranges from 12 to 18 months, during which athletes undergo rehabilitation to regain strength and flexibility.

What are the risks of delaying Tommy John surgery?

Delaying Tommy John surgery can lead to further damage to the elbow, potentially prolonging recovery and complicating future performance and health.

What are PRP injections?

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections involve using a patient’s own blood components to promote healing in injured tissues, often considered a conservative treatment option before surgical intervention.

How does arbitration eligibility work in MLB?

In MLB, arbitration eligibility allows players with a certain amount of service time to negotiate their salaries with their teams, typically beginning after a player has accrued three years of major league service.