New York Mets’ Jon Rauch Denies Continued Elbow Injury

Jon Rauch missed the last series before interleague play and stayed behind as the Mets hit the road for treatment of

irritation.  Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reported last week that Rauch had debris in the elbow, but Rauch denied this.  He also denied any discomfort in the elbow after serving up the game-winning home run to Russell Martin yesterday.

According to Rubin yesterday though, Rauch reported the irritation as two bones rubbing awkwardly together.  Rauch missed the entire series in Washington last week and has struggled since returning to the team.  In the last seven days, Rauch has pitched 1 2/3 innings and allowed two runs.

Rauch signed a one year, $3.5 million dollar contract with the Mets this offseason.  He is in his tenth year of Major League service and has a combined 42-36 record with six different teams.  His career ERA is 3.85.  Rauch was used sporadically as a starter early in his career, but he hasn’t started a game since 2005.

"“Obviously I wasn’t looking to throw it where I threw it,” Rauch added. “…. I’m out there to get the guys out. Historically, I’ve done a pretty good job of it. But I’ve been pretty horse [expletive] this year.”"

Ruach does not attribute his performance to any problems with his elbow even though he has his lowest ERA+ since 2007.  So far this year, Rauch is 3-5 with a 4.56 ERA.

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