Some big names for the New York Mets are finally rehabbing and trying to return to the big leagues this season. The Mets relievers continue to take another hit as two of their pitchers are trying to return from injury.
Phillip Evans (fractured tibia) was officially moved to the 60-day DL on August 17 and will be out for the rest of the season. This opened up space on the 40-man roster for relief pitcher Daniel Zamora. Evans only had three hits in 21 at-bats and one stolen base with the Mets this season.
Bobby Wahl (right hamstring strain) was placed on the 10-day DL on August 17 with a grade 1 strain. He suffered the injury in the second game of Thursday’s doubleheader against the Philadelphia Phillies. Wahl could return once his time on the DL ends. The Mets acquired Wahl from the Oakland Athletics for Jeurys Familia. Wahl has struggled with the Mets, allowing six runs in 5.1 innings pitched.
Will Nimmo Play Tonight?
Brandon Nimmo (finger) had his X-Rays and MRI came back negative after he took a fastball of his left index finger during the series against the Baltimore Orioles. He has not played in any of the four games against the Phillies, but can return to the lineup at any moment. Nimmo was on fire before the injury, going 15-35 with a .500 on-base percentage.
Anthony Swarzak (shoulder) still has not resumed throwing yet. He has been on the DL since August 4 with the discomfort in his shoulder. Swarzak is expected to be back by early September, but the Mets will not rush him back. Swarzak has been a disappointment in his first year with the Mets. He has a 6.00 ERA in 21 innings pitched.
Jay Bruce (hip) played nine innings at first base for the St. Lucie Mets on Saturday. Bruce will continue to see a lot more first base because of his sub-par outfield defense and Brandon Nimmo, Michael Conforto and Austin Jackson becoming the everyday trio of outfielders. His rehab assignment will last about a week and he can return before the end of the month.
Return of the Captain?
David Wright (shoulder) played seven innings in another St. Lucie Mets game. The captain has been on his rehab assignment for about a week and is starting to stretch out his playing time more. Wright has been hitless in 14 at bats, but it is understandable because he has not played in any games in over a year. He has to play a full nine inning game and figure out his swing before he even thinks about making a return this season. He is running out of minor league games to get ready, but if he is making the right strides forward his return can happen this season.