New York Mets lose key bullpen piece for extended period

Apr 25, 2022; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Trevor May (65) pitches against the St. Louis Cardinals during the eighth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 25, 2022; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Trevor May (65) pitches against the St. Louis Cardinals during the eighth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Mets have lived up to expectations thus far in 2022. After an offseason spree that saw them emerge as one of the favorites for the World Series, the Mets have lived up to expectations thus far with the best record in the National League.

Despite that success, there have been a few issues with the Mets this year. The bullpen needs some work, as several pieces have failed to live up to expectations. One of those disappointing arms is now out for eight to twelve weeks as Trevor May has been diagnosed with a stress reaction in his humerus.

New York Mets hoping Trevor May returns to form when healthy

Since he converted to the bullpen on a full time basis, May has been one of the better setup men in the game. That was the case last season as well as he was everything the Mets had hoped for in the first year of his two year contract. More of the same was expected in 2022.

Instead, May had struggled to start the year. He had allowed eight runs on 13 hits and three walks in his 8.1 innings, striking out only five batters. When he was initially placed on the Injured List with triceps inflammation, that appeared to be the explanation for those problems.

Instead, the issue was worse than the Mets had realized. While the bullpen has been relatively solid, they still needed May to be the pitcher he had been in the past. His presence in the eighth inning would make a difference.

Now, the Mets need to find other solutions. May should be fine once he returns, but his absence highlights a potentially fatal flaw. The Mets need to find some arms in the bullpen, something that is even more important with May being out for the next eight to twelve weeks.

The New York Mets bullpen has taken a hit with the loss of Trevor May. On the plus side, at least they have an answer to his struggles this year.