The New York Mets are facing challenges as the 2025 MLB season approaches, particularly with the recent injury setback of their left-handed pitcher Sean Manaea. Diagnosed with a right oblique strain, Manaea is expected to miss the start of the regular season, raising concerns within the rotation as they prepare for Opening Day.
Manaea, who emerged as the Mets’ top starter last season, announced on February 24, 2025, his diagnosis after experiencing discomfort throughout spring training. He detailed his struggle with the oblique issue, noting, "The worst part is it just never got anybetter over the last couple of weeks." This statement highlights the frustration many players feel when pushing through injuries, convinced they can manage the pain. Unfortunately for Manaea, this was not the case.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza indicated just how serious the situation is for Manaea, expressing regret over losing the pitcher early on. According to Mendoza, "It could take 7, 14, 21 days to heal." Manaea will be sidelined for two to three weeks as he undergoes recovery, and until he is free of symptoms, he will not resume throwing. Although the news is disappointing for Mets fans, Mendoza emphasized the positive aspect of the evaluation: "The good news is ... the tendon is not involved, the rib cage is not involved. So it's just straight muscle." This indicates there's hope for Manaea to return without major complications.
Adding to the Mets' troubles, fellow pitcher Frankie Montas was diagnosed with his own injury — a high-grade lat strain — just days before. Montas is projected to remain out for at least six to eight weeks, meaning the Mets will start the season without two of their main starters and have to rely heavily on the depth of their remaining rotation. With both players sidelined, the team is left with pitchers like Kodai Senga, David Peterson, Clay Holmes, Paul Blackburn, and Griffin Canning, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the organization.
The Mets’ strategic decision to bolster pitching depth during the offseason has become extremely pertinent. Instead of targeting just high-profile starters, they brought eight experienced pitchers to camp to prepare for potential injuries. While this strategy had seemed conservative, it has quickly turned out to be quite wise. Mendoza reflected on this climate of injury woes, saying, "You hate to see it, especially before we get to March, two of your guys are going down." The depth means alternatives are available, but it also puts pressure on those remaining to step up.
Reflecting on his injury and the effects it carries, Manaea revealed, "I’d rather miss a couple weeks now, the beginning of the season, instead of doing something and then missing a significant amount of time." This perspective stresses the importance of taking care of themselves, especially so close to the season. It portrays Manaea as eager to return but also responsible enough to prioritize his health for the long term.
With the two prominent injuries impacting the Mets, the organization faces the prospect of exploring internal solutions. They aren’t entirely without options both immediately and down the line but recognize the gravity of the situation. Mendoza pointed out, "We still feel really good with what we have internally." The Mets are resisting outside additions like re-signing Jose Quintana, believing the existing roster can cope until Manaea and Montas are ready for action. While the potential for trades remains, the recent injuries could sway their strategy significantly.
Throughout his career, Manaea has proven valuable, especially last season where he posted a 12-6 record alongside a 3.47 ERA, showcasing his talent to navigate tough matchups. His statistics reveal not only his importance to the Mets but also their hopes to build upon last year’s satisfactory performance. The club had committed to ensuring Manaea could start Opening Day, which now seems highly unlikely. If he can recover quickly, there’s also the chance his return could coincide with the easing of Montas’s injury woes.
For Manaea, returning to form is key, as he noted how he’s tackled the injury, stating, "I thought I was doing everything I could this offseason to train, and it just kind of popped up." His frustration resonates with many who are managing physical obstacles as they work hard toward their goals. With the Mets aiming for contention this season, ensuring both pitchers can fully heal before pushing them back out is of utmost importance.
The Mets, already dealing with the mounting effects of injuries within the starting rotation, will need its depth tested thoroughly as it hopes to start off strong when the regular season begins. With both internal candidates and strategic plans to monitor, the organization prepares for the road ahead. Manager Mendoza has expressed optimism about their remaining pitchers, but as injuries pile up, the pressure rises for everyone involved. Early hits to their star starters put the spotlight squarely on the other pitchers and understandably highlight the need for adaptable contingency plans.
This development not only impacts the Mets roster but sends ripples through its fanbase, eager for success. The season is still to come, but the groundwork laid today will be instrumental as they strive for victory amid the challenges of the baseball road.