New York Mets: Jacob deGrom already throwing again

The New York Mets have had several scares when it has come to Jacob deGrom over the past month. From his brief stint on the Injured List due to discomfort on his right side, a lat issue, and a problem with his finger, the Mets’ ace has been suddenly fragile. That continued on Wednesday when he was removed after three innings due to shoulder soreness.

One would think that the Mets would be careful with deGrom due to his spate of injuries. Instead, he was out throwing before the game on Thursday.

New York Mets need to force Jacob deGrom to take step back

In theory, this is good news for the Mets. Seeing deGrom throwing already is a great sign that he is healthy and can make his next start. Considering the historic pace that he is on, having him on the mound every fifth day only helps the Mets’ chances of reaching the postseason.

But the Mets also have to balance those postseason plans against the here and now. Putting deGrom on the mound may be as close to a guaranteed victory as any team can have, but those wins in October are far more important.

With the Mets eyeing a playoff push, it is tempting to ride deGrom as much as possible during the dog days of the summer. Along with Taijuan Walker and Marcus Stroman, he gives the Mets the best top three of any rotation in baseball. But that success entirely hinges on deGrom’s health.

That health has been shakier than usual lately. Even though he may feel perfectly fine and is throwing once again, the Mets would be better off to make certain that everything is right. Having deGrom miss a start or two now is far more palatable than to run the risk that he will be sidelined during any run in the postseason.

Jacob deGrom is already throwing again. While that is positive news for the New York Mets, it may be best to have him back off for a few days.