The New York Mets are currently in a rough patch, having lost four consecutive games and fallen 1.5 games behind the Atlanta Braves for the final National League wild-card spot.
Their situation seemed to worsen on Tuesday night when their power-hitting designated hitter had to leave the game after being struck by a pitch during their 9-4 loss to the Oakland Athletics. However, it seems the team might have dodged a bullet regarding the injury.
J.D. Martinez’s x-ray came back clean
In a post-game press conference, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that J.D. Martinez’s x-rays were negative. The Florida native was diagnosed with a left elbow contusion and is listed as day-to-day.
Martinez was struck on the left elbow by a 99 mph fastball from Joe Boyle. Though he initially stayed in the game after being assessed by trainers, the 36-year-old was later replaced by a pinch-hitter in his next at-bat.
“Once I reached second base, I thought I’d be fine,” Martinez said after the game. “But then when I ran, it felt like I got hit all over again; my arm was in severe pain, and I had no strength left; the ball hit right on the nerve.”
Martinez expressed hope that he could return to the Mets lineup by Wednesday, but he mentioned that he would likely wear an elbow guard for the first time this season.
The 36-year-old signed a one-year, $12 million contract with the Mets this offseason and has delivered on expectations. Over 87 games, Martinez has posted a .257/.343/.436 slash line with 12 home runs and 53 RBIs.
What does this mean for the Mets?
“It’s a relief that Martinez walked away with only a contusion, especially considering how bad the play initially appeared. If Martinez had to miss some time, several players could step in, with Mendoza likely making significant lineup adjustments. The Florida native will aim to keep contributing to a lineup that urgently needs a boost as the team pushes for October baseball.”
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