The New York Mets have a tough schedule ahead as they face both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Francisco Giants for the next four series. Fortunately, the Mets have some positive news, as Noah Syndergaard is working on a comeback and joining the team in a couple of weeks.
As of August 13th, the Mets are half a game behind the Philadelphia Phillies for first place in the NL East.
The team’s ace Jacob DeGrom is also working to make a comeback by September, which is very key if the Mets can pull some important victories to gain much-needed momentum against two of the toughest opponents in the league. So what is the outlook on Syndergaard’s return, and what will his role be when he makes his return.
Noah Syndergaard’s Role When He Makes His Return
The Mets have played without their second starter for the last two years due to opting for Tommy John surgery in March of 2020. Before the 2021 season began, the organization expected him to be back by mid-July or post-All-Star Game. But not everything always goes as planned.
There is some positive news to look forward to as the Mets have swept the Washington Nationals and look to regain some momentum before the return of both Syndergaard and DeGrom. The organization assigned Noah to a minor league rehab in May but had to be shut down due to elbow inflammation.
The setback had to be devastating news, but the Mets seem to have a plan when he makes his return to the majors. Allowing Noah to work shorter stints upon his return may be beneficial to not only him but also the team as the pitching rotation needs as much help as possible as depth has been lacking due to constant struggles, spot starts, injuries throughout the year, and not adding talented pitchers at the MLB trade deadline
The extra six-week pushback might have ruined Syndergaard’s chances of being reinstated in the starting rotation. However, the Mets training staff and front office are being very cautious as one bad move could cost the right-hander another long stint on the IL beyond this season.
If the Mets find a way to hang on in the NL East race and win the National League East pennant by season’s end. Syndergaard will be a huge addition in the pen as playoff depth is crucial in many spots.
The Mets are looking forward to anything that brings big good news, as Javier Baez, who they recently acquired at the trade deadline from the Cubs, has been dealing with an injury as well. The Mets have also recently signed Josh Reddick to a minor league contract after being released by the Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday. Michael Conforto has struggled mightily this season, and Reddick may be able to get some reps in the OF as the Mets continue to make a playoff push.
Noah Syndergaard is a free agent by the end of the baseball season. He may have to sign a short-term with the Mets this offseason as he builds up his strength to be reinstated as a starter again. It would be interesting to see how things would unfold in the postseason.
