The New York Mets were finally getting the help they needed for their rotation. While their top three starters had been dominating this season, the Mets needed the back of the rotation to step up. They were starting to get some of the support they needed, as Joey Lucchesi had begun to perform as the team had hoped.
Unfortunately, the Mets will once again need to find help for the rotation. An MRI showed a significant tear in his UCL, and he is likely to undergo Tommy John surgery.
Sources: MRI for Joey Lucchesi revealed a significant tear in the UCL. He will get a second opinion, but Tommy John is obviously a real possibility.
— Steve Gelbs (@SteveGelbs) June 22, 2021
Such a tough blow for the Mets and Lucchesi, who had been pitching so well. He had a 1.19 ERA in his last five starts.
Loss of Joey Lucchesi hurts New York Mets more than one would expect
At first glance, Lucchesi is not that major of a loss for the Mets. He had produced a 1-4 record with a 4.46 ERA, albeit with a strong 1.174 WHiP, over his 38.1 innings, striking out 41 batters with 11 walks. His record and ERA are decidedly mediocre, which will get a degree of focus.
But Lucchesi has been a lot better recently. He had allowed just three runs on 15 hits and six walks over his last 22.2 innings, striking out 24 batters with six walks. Lucchesi was also starting to build to a starter’s workload, as he had lasted at least five innings in his last two outings.
This injury adds another potential option for the Mets at the trade deadline. Owner Steve Cohen had indicated that the team could surpass the luxury tax threshold if the right player; i.e., a major upgrade or star talent, was available. Given the overall questions regarding the depth in the Mets rotation, and the ongoing injury concerns for several key arms, it would not be a surprise if they begin shopping for another piece of the rotation.
Although he will need to be replaced, and may be sidelined until 2023, Lucchesi gave the Mets reason to hope that he could be a viable part of the pitching staff with his performance over those final five games. As he is under team control through 2025, he could be a long term option for the pitching staff.
The New York Mets are likely to be without Joey Lucchesi for an extended period of time. His loss may hurt more than originally expected.