Denver News Update
DENVER — The return of the Mets’ top reliever has hit a snag.
AJ Minter is dealing with discomfort in his left hip, leading to his removal from minor league rehab assignments, according to manager Carlos Mendoza.
The lefty was in the process of recovering from latissimus dorsi surgery while at Triple-A Syracuse and was close to returning to the team.
“I’m not overly concerned about it,” Mendoza said Wednesday, just before the Mets secured a 10-5 victory over the Rockies. “I think I’ll give him a couple of days and then he’ll resume throwing.”
Minter was slated to pitch in consecutive games during his rehab, a critical step before rejoining the Mets.
“He’s not too worried, but the fact that he mentioned it means we’re being cautious,” Mendoza added.
Minter signed a two-year, $22 million contract before last season but hasn’t taken the mound for the Mets since April 2025.
Once cleared to pitch again, the Mets have the option to extend Minter’s rehab time by an additional 30 days in the minors if necessary.
In other news, Luis Torrence started as catcher, taking on the designated hitter role for the second straight game alongside Francisco Alvarez. Mendoza noted that with Juan Soto back in left field, he can utilize both Torrence, the more defensive-minded catcher, and Alvarez, who offers more offensive strength.
However, Soto is likely to play as the designated hitter for at least one game during Thursday’s series finale after spending time on the injured list due to a right calf strain.
Mendoza mentioned that he might frequently use Torrence and Alvarez together in the lineup until other injured players return.
“It really depends on the matchup,” Mendoza remarked. “Do you want to go with a lefty? There are many factors, especially during day games following night games, and considering Juan’s ability to keep playing.”
Additionally, Kodai Senga has started playing catch as part of his recovery from lumbar spondylitis after receiving an epidural during the last homestand.
Mendoza also reported that Jorge Polanco is still engaged in pregame activities but is not yet ready to begin a minor league rehab assignment for a right wrist contusion.
On Tuesday, which was unexpectedly free due to bad weather, Mendoza spent his time analyzing video of the players. “I really enjoy baseball,” he said. “There’s not much else to do.”
