AJ Minter’s Return from Recovery

AJ Minter is becoming quite accustomed to the ups and downs of surgery and recovery. His journey in 2024 was centered around issues with his lower back. Prior to that, he dealt with Tommy John surgery and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome surgery while at Texas A&M. However, his most recent operation to repair a tear, which happened in late May of last year, was described by Minter as a “strange operation,” even by his own standards.

Initially, the recovery felt manageable. It wasn’t until later that things became a bit rocky. Minter was careful not to rush the healing process but faced a setback when, just as a comeback seemed near, the Mets pulled him from rehab due to hip discomfort.

Minter characterized the setback as “extremely minimal.” After returning to play in the minor leagues on a Sunday, he might be ready to join the Mets again by Tuesday or Wednesday. Still, there’s the ongoing question of whether he’ll be quick enough to compete.

“It’s definitely been a tough time,” Minter shared about his recovery prior to the Mets facing the Reds. “I mean, I really want to be back soon, but it’s going to take some time. I’m feeling good both physically and mentally, though.”

There’s a chance we might see a different version of Minter when he returns, at least in the beginning. He might not have the same velocity. His fastball had an average of 94.5 mph in the past two years but only reached 93.7 mph in his latest outing with Triple-A Syracuse and even dipped to 90.7 mph on May 20.

He’s hopeful that things might improve once he’s back in the MLB atmosphere. Coach Carlos Mendoza noted Minter’s previous performance during spring training, though he acknowledged it could take a bit more time to get back to form.

“He’ll manage with what he has,” Mendoza commented. “Even at 91 or 92, he has the skills to challenge both righties and lefties. It’s something we’ll think about, but I’m confident in his ability to compete.”

While the Mets’ bullpen hasn’t been their biggest issue, with an ERA of 3.46 placing them ninth in the majors, the struggles have mainly been with their batting lineup and starting pitching.

Minter, who boasts a 1.59 ERA in 12 minor league games this season, will add another left-handed option alongside Brooks Lally and demoted starter Sean Manaea.

He’s tried not to focus solely on speed, saying he just aims to make hitters earn their success. If he achieves that, Minter’s anticipated return—something Mendoza said the pitcher “can’t wait to experience”—would signify the end of a year-long journey back to the Mets’ bullpen.

“Whether I’m throwing 92 mph or 97 mph, my plan is to attack the strike zone and see what unfolds,” Minter remarked.