Mets’ Left-Handed Reliever, Brooks Raley, to Undergo Season-Ending Elbow Surgery
The Mets’ bullpen has suffered another blow as their top left-handed reliever, Brooks Raley, will be undergoing surgery for ligament damage and bone spurs in his left elbow. The news came after the team’s 7-6 loss to the Guardians on Tuesday, as manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that Raley will not be returning this season. The exact type of surgery is still uncertain, with both Tommy John and internal brace surgery being potential options.
Raley had been trying to avoid surgery over the past month after being placed on the injured list in late April due to swelling in his elbow. Despite his efforts, it became clear that surgery was necessary as he continued to feel discomfort. This is a significant setback for the Mets, as Raley had been a reliable and consistent contributor to the bullpen last year, posting a 2.80 ERA in 66 appearances after being acquired in a trade with the Rays.
The loss of Raley leaves a void in the Mets’ bullpen, with Jake Diekman taking on the role of primary lefty reliever in his absence. However, Diekman has struggled recently, giving up home runs in both Tuesday’s game against the Guardians and his previous appearance against the Marlins.
To compensate for Raley’s absence, the Mets have called up Josh Walker as a second lefty reliever. Additionally, Danny Young and Tyler Jay, who are both left-handed pitchers in the organization, have also seen action from the bullpen this season. There is also the possibility of David Peterson, who is concluding a minor league rehab assignment at Triple-A Syracuse, joining the bullpen.
Manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged that Raley’s absence is a significant loss for the team but expressed confidence that other players will step up to fill the void. It remains to be seen how the Mets’ bullpen will fare without their top left-handed reliever, but this setback presents an opportunity for other pitchers to showcase their skills.
