New York Mets pitching depth takes hit with Seth Lugo injury

Seth Lugo may not be a big name, but he may be one of the most indispensable pitchers on the New York Mets. He has been everything the Mets have needed over the years, from a key piece in the late innings to a part of their rotation. Lugo has been someone that the Mets have been able to rely upon no matter the situation.

However, he will not be ready for Opening Day. The Mets announced that Lugo will undergo surgery to fix a broken bone spur on Tuesday, and will resume throwing in six weeks.

Losing Seth Lugo a major blow for New York Mets

Lugo had originally broken into the majors as a starter, making 26 of his first 36 major league appearances as part of the Mets rotation. While he found some success in that capacity, improvements to the starting cast moved him back into the bullpen for the start of the 2018 season.

It was as a reliever that Lugo truly shined. He posted a 2.68 ERA and a 0.998 WHiP in his 181.1 innings out of the bullpen, striking out 207 batters with 44 walks. While he was not the Mets primary closer, he still notched nine saves in that time, serving in any role needed.

Pressed back into action as a starter in 2020, Lugo had his struggles. His 5.15 ERA and 1.364 WHiP were hardly what the Mets had expected. But there were still positive signs – Lugo struck out 47 batters with ten walks in his36.2 innings between the rotation and the bullpen.

Lugo was expected to serve in a similar role again this year, possibly getting a few starts at the beginning of the season while Noah Syndergaard works his way back from Tommy John surgery. Although he should be healthy in the long haul, Lugo’s absence will be felt in the early part of the season.

Seth Lugo is a key part of the New York Mets pitching depth. His absence may hurt far more than expected.