It’s not the news Mets fans were looking for on Scherzer. He joins co-ace Jacob deGrom and right-hander Tylor Megill on the injured list.
Scherzer’s MRI results revealed a “moderate to high grade internal oblique strain” , the team announced Thursday. The three-time Cy Young winner sustained the injury last night when throwing a slider to Albert Pujols. After the game, Scherzer told reporters that he’d been experiencing some tightness before feeling a “zing” down his side on the final pitch to Pujols.
When Scherzer called for the training staff he could be seen on television cameras clearly telling them “I’m done” as they approached him on the pitcher’s mound.
Scherzer, at 37 years old, is in the first year of a three-year deal worth $130 million. At $43.33 million, it’s the highest annual salary in baseball history.
The 1-2 punch of deGrom and Scherzer leading the starting rotation for the Mets remains on hold. deGrom continues to progress from a stress reaction in his scapula. The Mets, however, are right to continue bringing him along slowly.
Megill also remains sidelined while recovering from biceps inflammation.
Losing Scherzer for such a significant amount of time is a body blow for the NL East division-leading Mets. Their pitching staff, so far, has stepped up all season. They’ll be expected to continue holding the line while two of the game’s best work their way back into the mix.
Anthony Rushing is on Twitter @TonyRushingNY
Baseline Sports NY is on Twitter @Baseline_NY
