New York Mets: Zack Wheeler Has More Elbow Discomfort
By David Hill
Zack Wheeler was expected to give the New York Mets pitching staff a boost down the stretch this year. However, with his latest bout of elbow discomfort, he seems unlikely to contribute this year.
The New York Mets have quite the impressive collection of young pitchers. With arms like Jake DeGrom and Steven Matz, Wheeler was expected to be a part of the next wave of excellent starters. Instead, he has dealt with injury, undergoing Tommy John surgery and missing the entire 2015 season.
Although his rehab lasted into the 2016 season, Wheeler was anticipated to be a part of the Mets rotation down the stretch. Instead, his rehab had been delayed due to elbow discomfort, bringing Wheeler’s return into question. Now, one has to wonder if he will pitch for the Mets this season, as Wheeler will meet with Dr. James Andrews to discuss further discomfort in his elbow.
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It is a particularly tough blow for Wheeler, who lasted only one inning in his first rehab start. He allowed a run in his inning of work, throwing 17 pitches before the outing was interrupted by rain. Now, this discomfort is just the latest setback, following a procedure to remove an undissolved stitch in April and a cortisone shot that he received in April for nerve irritation.
The Mets certainly could have used Wheeler this season. Matt Harvey struggled before being placed on the disabled list due to thoracic outlet syndrome and the subsequent removal of a rib. His replacement, Logan Verrett, has been solid at times, yet has been inconsistent. With the Mets struggling to remain on the periphery of the playoff hunt, having Wheeler back would have been the boost they need.
Instead, there is more uncertainty. Not only is it questionable as to when Wheeler can continue his rehab, but he may not appear for the Mets this year. In fact, it may be better just to shut him down, regardless of the findings, and focus on getting him ready for next year.
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Zack Wheeler is still a key part of the New York Mets future. However, his continued elbow woes are beginning to be worrisome.