Brad Brach and Jared Hughes were the last to members of the New York Mets player pool who have not arrived at summer camp yet. With just a few days before the season begins, the Mets put them on the Injured List but did not specify the injury.
The Mets put Brad Brach and Jared Hughes on the injured list, but with no injury designation.
(Teams don't list a reason when players go on the IL for coronavirus reasons. They can't reveal that unless the player OKs it.)
— Tim Healey (@timbhealey) July 15, 2020
The assumption is that both players tested positive for COVID-19. Since teams do not list a reason for COVID related IL stints, the only confirmation will come from the players themselves. Both players did not have any lingering injuries, and if they suffered an injury, like Jacob deGrom, they would have reported that first.
Replacement Options
The Mets looked to have about two extra relievers when camp broke, but now they will have to replace Hughes and Brach as well. Out of the starting pitchers, Walker Lockett or Corey Oswalt likely make the team for starting pitching depth. For the relievers, the Mets can opt for veterans Hunter Strickland or Chasen Shreve. If they wanted to stay within the organization Paul Sewald, Tyler Bashlor, Daniel Zamora are candidates along with top option Drew Smith.Â
The options are not limited to the listed names since the Mets added more pitchers to their player pool. deGrom’s health and the length that Brach/Hughes remain on the sidelines.