The New York Mets’ pitching staff has been dealt a severe blow with Sean Manaea expected to miss Opening Day due to a right oblique strain. Manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed the left-hander will be shut down for 2-3 weeks, delaying his season debut until April at the earliest. Meanwhile, infielder Nick Madrigal suffered a fractured left shoulder during a defensive play, further straining the team’s depth.
Manaea revealed the injury has lingered since the start of spring training, hampering his recovery between sessions.
The tendon and rib cage are intact, so it’s strictly a muscle issue,Mendoza emphasized, underscoring cautious optimism. The Mets’ $75 million offseason signing had adjusted his mechanics last season to mirror Chris Sale’s delivery, sparking a dominant 6-2 finish with a 3.09 ERA.
New York’s rotation now faces immediate uncertainty:
- Kodai Senga
- David Peterson
- Clay Holmes (transitioning from closer)
- Paul Blackburn
- Griffin Canning
This makeshift group must compensate for Manaea’s absence and Frankie Montas’ back strain, which sidelines him until May. Madrigal, competing for a bench role, faces an uphill battle after his non-throwing shoulder injury during a groundball play. Additional tests will determine his recovery path.
Manaea’s 2023 resurgence—12 wins, 184 strikeouts, and a career-high 181.2 innings—positioned him as the Mets’ ace before his lucrative extension. His playoff performance (2-1, 4.74 ERA) during the NLCS run now heightens concerns about the rotation’s early-season stability. With critical matchups looming, New York’s depth will be tested as they navigate this dual injury crisis.
