Last week, the New York Mets got a scare when star pitcher Carlos Carrasco, who was acquired alongside shortstop Francisco Lindor from the Cleveland Indians, reported some soreness in his right (pitching) elbow after throwing in the team’s complex.
However, the outlook of the talented Mets hurler has apparently taken a turn for the best, as Carrasco himself claimed he will be ready by the time Opening Day rolls.
He was seen smiling at the Mets’ camp on Sunday after testing his right arm in a throwing session for the first time since being shut down early last week.
“I don’t feel frustrated about this; this is something normal for me,†Carrasco said to MLB.com. “I’m really happy that I started throwing today, and I’ll just kind of take it day by day now.â€
The Mets want to proceed with caution
The pitcher had thrown live batting practice on Monday and was shut down on Wednesday after reporting the soreness. However, he always clarified that it isn’t uncommon for him to feel that soreness around this time in spring training.
The Mets decided not to order an MRI, and apparently, a few days of rest did the trick.
Carrasco threw from 75 feet on Sunday and reported no issues whatsoever. Today, he will throw from 90-120 feet and see where it goes from there for the rest of the spring.
“You’ve got to trust his feel for his body and his experience and our medical staff, trainers, our performance stuff getting a good connection with him,†Mets manager Luis Rojas said. “Learning today that he threw and he felt great and he’s looking at the next couple of days to throw a side, it definitely gives you that peace of mind. It’s a very good day.â€
Rojas isn’t so sure, but Carrasco is convinced he will be ready for the start of the season. “I know my body, I know my routine, I know everything,†Carrasco said. “I’m going to be ready for the season.â€