The Mets will be without AJ Minter for the remainder of this season as he prepares for surgery to address a torn lat muscle. He discussed his situation on Friday, sharing that the recovery could take anywhere from 10 to 12 months.
If all goes according to plan, Minter mentioned he could return to a “normal” spring training, possibly not long after the start of the next regular season. However, he expressed uncertainty since this type of surgery is quite rare, stemming from an injury he sustained against the Nationals on April 26.
The 31-year-old pitcher had joined the Mets earlier this offseason with a two-year, $22 million deal, which includes opt-out clauses starting this year.
Minter’s last season ended in Atlanta last August after he underwent hip surgery, which he said was “very frustrating.” He felt like he was getting back on track, especially since he hadn’t allowed a run in his last 12 appearances, where he struck out 13 batters over 10 innings.
While he noted improvements in his speed and hip mobility, Minter’s primary goal is to focus on being healthy for the 2026 season. “I was excited to help this team,” he said, indicating his commitment to returning next year.
With Danny Young also undergoing Tommy John surgery, Minter’s injury means there is currently only one left-handed pitcher available, Genesis Cabrera.
Meanwhile, Mark Vientos remains on the bench for a second consecutive game. Mendoza indicated he’s looking to utilize more left-handed players in the lineup, particularly against Cubs right-hander Jameson Taillon. Jeff McNeil would have started in center field had it not been for hamstring discomfort; instead, he served as the designated hitter while left-handed batters Brett Baty and Vientos occupy the bench.
On a more positive note, the Mets’ injured pitchers are nearing a return. Left-hander Sean Manaea is set to begin throwing at a distance of 120 feet, while right-hander Frankie Montas is preparing for live batting practice following his recovery from a muscle strain.
Paul Blackburn is expected to pitch for Triple-A Syracuse on Sunday, and Mendoza expressed optimism about the team’s improvement. Meanwhile, a right-hander sidelined due to knee inflammation is ramping up to throw around 70-75 pitches before returning to the rotation.
Mendoza also commented on Juan Soto’s recent performance, suggesting his numbers have improved because he might not be hitting as many ground balls as before. Soto is currently in the middle of a seven-game stretch, with impressive stats including six extra-base hits over 33 plate appearances.
“He’s a special hitter,” the manager remarked, reflecting confidence that Soto would continue to excel by utilizing the entire field.
Lastly, Ronnie Mauricio’s first game with Double-A Binghamton has been postponed due to bad weather, but he’s set to play on Saturday following his five-game stint with Class A St. Lucie.
In some notable MLB updates, Francisco Lindor was credited with a stolen base after a previous play was deemed defensively indifferent, while an error initially charged to Pete Alonso was corrected to a hit by Arizona’s Alec Thomas.
