CLEVELAND — The Mets’ top left-handed reliever at the start of the season won’t return this year.
After the Mets’ 7-6 loss to the Guardians on Tuesday, manager Carlos Mendoza announced that Brooks Lally would undergo surgery next week for torn ligaments and bone spurs in his left elbow.
Mendoza said it was not yet clear whether Reilly would undergo Tommy John surgery or internal corrective surgery.
But either way, Larry won’t be returning this season.
After being placed on the disabled list in late April with elbow swelling, Reilly spent the last month trying to find a non-surgical option.
He appeared in eight games this season and did not allow an earned run.
“It’s a shame because he was trying his best,” Mendoza said. “He kept trying. He went to get a second opinion, but he still felt something, so he’s going to go to the hospital and see what’s going on.”
The 35-year-old Larry will become a free agent at the end of this season.
After joining the team in a trade with the Rays last year, he pitched in 66 games and posted a 2.80 ERA, becoming a dependable mainstay for the club.
Jake Diekman served as the Mets’ primary left-handed pitcher during Reilly’s absence.
Diekman had a slump on Tuesday, allowing a home run to David Frye with runners on base in the sixth inning.
Diekman also allowed a home run in the last game against the Marlins.
Josh Walker is currently the second left-handed pitcher on the Major League roster.
Danny Young and Tyler Jay are also two left-handed pitchers in the organization who have been active in the Mets’ bullpen this season.
David Peterson, who is completing a minor league rehab stint with Triple-A Syracuse, also could be considered for the bullpen.
“[Raley] It’s a big loss for us, but it’s an opportunity for someone else and I think the players will step up,” Mendoza said.
