New York Mets right-hander Christian Scott is set to undergo elbow surgery next week, which will address his troublesome ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and involve the installation of an internal brace. This procedure is expected to sideline Scott through the entire 2025 season, marking a significant blow to both the player and the team’s long-term plans.
Scott's Road to Surgery
Scott has been absent from the mound since July 21, with the Mets officially placing him on the injured list just two days later. Describing his injury as a UCL strain, the team hoped for a less invasive remedy. However, Scott’s elbow issues date back to last season, during which he missed over two weeks with similar problems. Despite starting nine big-league games this season, his elbow ultimately proved to be a persistent concern.
Before his injury, Scott compiled a 4.56 ERA and an impressive 3.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio, showing his potential as a reliable starter for the Mets. Nevertheless, the pain in his elbow has brought his 2023 season to a premature end. Speaking on the matter, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized a cautious approach, stating, "It's too early to tell. I'm not going to sit here and speculate when we don't have all the facts and all the information. We've got to wait till the doctors and all the people that have to read the MRI and all that, and then we'll make that decision."
Impact on the Mets' Rotation
Scott’s impending absence compounds the Mets’ rotation difficulties, with key starters Kodai Senga and Paul Blackburn also missing from action. Blackburn, who was recently shut down due to a spinal fluid leak in his back, adds to the team’s woes as they approach a critical juncture in their season.
Despite these setbacks, the Mets maintain a strong 83-68 record as of Wednesday. They are currently tied for the league's second wild-card spot alongside the Arizona Diamondbacks and hold a narrow two-game lead over the Atlanta Braves, the first team outside the playoff bracket. This standing underscores the resilience and depth of the Mets' roster, even as they navigate significant pitching challenges.
Upcoming Challenges
The Mets are set to travel to Atlanta next week for a pivotal three-game series. These matchups could have major playoff implications, particularly as the Braves are hot on their heels. With their roster hampered by injuries, the Mets must navigate the critical series with strategic precision and unwavering focus.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza has assured fans that the team is not letting these injuries deter them from their goals. Always the tactician, Mendoza’s approach emphasizes the importance of concentrating on the task at hand, taking each game as it comes despite the current roster challenges.
While the loss of Christian Scott for an extended period is undoubtedly a significant setback, the Mets are showing commendable tenacity. Whether they can maintain this momentum and secure their playoff spot remains to be seen, but the team’s dedication to perseverance suggests that they are not ready to back down just yet.