Cowtipper

Paul Blackburn: Blackburn (knee) is expected to make one more rehab start Tuesday with Triple-A Syracuse before making his season debut for the Mets the following Monday against the Dodgers, Tim Britton of the Athletic reports. The 31-year-old right-hander has been sharp over three starts for Syracuse, posting a 2.63 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 13:6 K:BB through 13.2 innings, but the Mets have delayed activating Blackburn from the IL until they had a need in the rotation. That need arrives this weekend, when the team plays 10 straight games without an off day beginning May 30. It's not clear if New York will stick with a six-man rotation after that stretch, or if Blackburn will then shift into a long relief role. Injury Knee. Est. Return 6/3/2025. Sean Manaea: Manaea (oblique) will throw live batting practice Thursday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. Manaea will face hitters for the first time since being placed on the 15-day injured list Feb. 24 due to a strained left oblique. The next step in his recovery will be a rehab assignment, though he may throw multiple live sessions before heading out. While he'll likely need several rehab appearances before being activated, Manaea is on track to make his 2025 MLB in early July. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 7/4/2025. Frankie Montas: Montas (lat) said Friday he's beginning a rehab assignment at High-A Brooklyn and will make a start Saturday, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. Montas suffered a high-grade right lat strain in February and faced hitters for the first time May 16. He's now been cleared to begin what's expected to be a somewhat lengthy rehab assignment. Per Andrew Tredinnick of The Bergen Record, Montas will throw 30-to-35 pitches Saturday. The 32-year-old logged a 4.84 ERA across 150.2 regular-season innings in 2024. Injury Lat. Est. Return 6/23/2025. Rafael Ortega: Injury Undisclosed. Est. Return 5/30/2025. Jose Siri: Siri (tibia) is scheduled to hit live batting practice against Sean Manaea on Thursday, Laura Albanese of Newsday reports. Siri is recovering from a fractured left tibia and has been ahead of schedule in his rehab. Per Albanese, Siri is still limited to running in a straight line, but he's set to hit live pitching for the first time since sustaining the injury. He's on track to return in early to mid-June. Injury Lower Leg. Est. Return 6/7/2025.

They also sent Genesis Cabrera down so Brandon can Waddell his way up from Syracuse. Frankie Montas was sent on a rehab assignment to Syracuse.

So the Mets promoted Jared Young and demoted Jose Azocar, apparently.

27 1/3 innings in and he still has a 1.98 ERA.

Mets release Billy McKinney.

Paul Blackburn: Blackburn (knee) is expected to make two more rehab starts before being activated from the 15-day injured list, Joe Pantorno of AMNY.com reports. Blackburn reached 60 pitches in his last rehab outing with Triple-A Syracuse on Sunday and is aiming for the 75-pitch mark Friday with Double-A Binghamton. He's expected to make an additional rehab start after that. There doesn't appear to currently be room for Blackburn in the Mets' rotation, so he could be slotted into long relief when he's activated later this month. Blackburn has been out all season with right knee inflammation. Injury Knee. Est. Return 5/26/2025. Sean Manaea: Manaea (oblique) is slated to throw another bullpen session Tuesday, Laura Albanese of Newsday reports. Manaea resumed a throwing program in mid-April following a PRP injection and has progressed to throwing from the bump again. He shouldn't be far off from facing hitters and eventually going out on a rehab assignment, but no target date for either has been revealed by the Mets yet. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 6/17/2025. Frankie Montas: Montas (lat) will throw a live batting practice session Friday, Laura Albanese of Newsday reports. It appears to be the first time Montas will face hitters since he went down with a high-grade right lat strain in mid-February. The right-hander would appear close to a rehab assignment if all goes well, and the Mets have previously pegged early June as a possible return for Montas. Injury Lat. Est. Return 6/1/2025. Jose Siri: Siri is progressing more quickly than expected in his recovery from a fractured tibia and has already resumed baseball activities, Tim Britton of the Athletic reports. The Mets don't have a set date for Siri to begin a rehab assignment, but the 29-year-old outfielder was able to do some light jogging Monday and could beat the estimated 8-to-10-week timeline he was originally given for his return when he suffered the injury in mid-April. In his absence, Tyrone Taylor has received the bulk of the starts in center field, with Jeff McNeil also getting some occasional opportunities at the position. Injury Lower Leg. Est. Return 6/7/2025. Drew Smith: Smith (elbow) has been playing catch from 120 feet up to three times per week and threw 10 pitches from halfway up the mound earlier this week, Joe Pantorno of AMNY.com reports. Coming back from his second Tommy John surgery, Smith hopes to throw from the top of the bump in 2-to-3 weeks. The goal for the reliever is to begin a rehab assignment later this summer and return to the Mets before the end of the season, although he might not make it back until 2026. The Mets re-signed Smith in February to a one-year deal with a club option for next season. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 9/1/2025.

Ronny Mauricio activated and sent to Syracuse. Mets trade cash for a pitcher named Jose Castillo, who is now on the big league roster. Dedniel Nunez optioned to Syracuse. Kevin Herget DFA'd.

Jack Curtis died. https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/hickoryrecord/name/jack-curtis-obituary?id=58399268 Who was Jack Curtis? Jack Patrick Curtis (January 11, 1937 – May 12, 2025) was an American professional baseball player and left-handed pitcher who appeared in 69 Major League Baseball games between 1961 and 1963. A native of Rhodhiss, North Carolina, Curtis was known for his gritty performances and early promise, particularly during his standout minor league years. Curtis signed with the Chicago Cubs in 1955 after graduating from Granite Falls High School. He broke out in the minors, winning 20 games for the Wenatchee Chiefs in 1959 and earning Texas League Pitcher of the Year honors in 1960 with the San Antonio Missions. That same year, he led the league in complete games and went 19–8. He made his MLB debut with the Cubs in 1961, finishing third in National League Rookie of the Year voting behind Billy Williams and Joe Torre. That season, Curtis went 10–13 with a 4.89 ERA and six complete games, also serving as a batting practice pitcher in the All-Star Game. In 1962, Curtis was traded to the Milwaukee Braves for veteran Bob Buhl. He recorded his only career save on June 25, 1962, and finished the year with a 4–4 record. After another trade, he spent the beginning of 1963 with the Cleveland Indians, appearing briefly before being sent to Triple-A. He continued in the minors until 1967, finishing with a combined 14–19 MLB record and 4.84 ERA, along with 97 minor league wins. After retiring from baseball, Curtis worked in the private sector and later spent 25 years as a production manager for a manufacturing company. He was inducted into the Caldwell County Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his achievements. Jack Curtis passed away on May 12, 2025, at the age of 88. With the passing of Curtis, just 32 Milwaukee Braves players remain: Sandy Alomar, born October 19, 1943 Felipe Alou, born May 12, 1935 Ken Aspromonte, born September 22, 1931 Howie Bedell, born September 29, 1935 Wade Blasingame, born November 22, 1943 Clay Carroll, born May 2, 1941 Ty Cline, born June 15, 1939 Chuck Cottier, born January 18, 1936 Billy Cowan, born August 28, 1938 Ray Crone, born August 7, 1931 John DeMerit, born January 8, 1936 John Edelman, born July 27, 1935 Dave Eilers, born December 3, 1936 Hank Fischer, born January 11, 1940 Terry Fox, born July 31, 1935 Frank Funk, born August 30, 1935 Len Gabrielson, born February 14, 1940 Eddie Haas, born May 26, 1935 Bob Hendley, born April 30, 1939 Lou Klimchock, born October 15, 1939 Joe Morgan, born November 19, 1930 Johnny O'Brien, born December 11, 1930 Taylor Phillips, born June 18, 1933 Claude Raymond, born May 7, 1937 Phil Roof, born March 5, 1941 Amado Samuel, born December 6, 1938 Dan Schneider, born August 29, 1942 Bill Southworth, born November 10, 1945 Al Spangler, born July 8, 1933 Joe Torre, born July 18, 1940 Woody Woodward, born September 23, 1942 Mark Esser died. https://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/obituaries/pnys1179781 Who was Mark Esser? Mark Gerald Esser (April 1, 1956 – May 12, 2025) was a left-handed pitcher who had a brief but memorable stint in Major League Baseball, appearing in two games for the Chicago White Sox during the 1979 season. Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, Esser moved with his family to Poughkeepsie, New York in 1965. He starred in both baseball and basketball at Roy C. Ketcham High School before choosing to play college baseball at Miami Dade College, turning down an offer from the Baltimore Orioles, who had drafted him in 1975. The White Sox selected Esser in the 8th round of the January 1977 draft, and he quickly rose through the minor leagues. In 1978, he was a key bullpen piece for the Appleton Foxes, posting a 9–2 record with 7 saves, and earning All-Star honors on a championship team that included future MLB pitchers LaMarr Hoyt, Britt Burns, and Ross Baumgarten. Esser made his MLB debut on April 22, 1979, pitching 1.1 scoreless innings against the Cleveland Indians. A week later, he appeared in his second and final big league game against the Texas Rangers, surrendering three earned runs in just one-third of an inning. After returning to Triple-A, he spent the rest of the year with the Iowa Oaks, and was later converted to a starter in 1980. In 1982, Esser’s career peaked again when he combined with Bill Atkinson for a no-hitter with the Glens Falls White Sox, but injuries and inconsistent performance led to his retirement that same year. Over six professional seasons, Esser was recognized as a reliable minor league contributor with flashes of promise at the highest level. Following his playing days, Esser returned to Poughkeepsie and later settled in Florida. He passed away on May 12, 2025, at the age of 69.

Jason Conti died. Kevin Kramer (@iamkevinkramer) • Instagram photo WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM 80 likes, 1 comments - iamkevinkramer on May 17, 2025: "Jason Conti, our friend and teammate, passed away this morning. In this Big East Championship winning picture, he is farthest to the right. He will be remembered as a champion at every level. Rest in peace Jason.". Who was Jason Conti? Stanley Jason Conti (January 27, 1975 – May 16, 2025) was an American professional baseball outfielder known for his strong throwing arm and defensive prowess. A left-handed batter and right-handed thrower, he stood 5'11" and weighed 180 pounds. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Conti played collegiate baseball at the University of Pittsburgh before being drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 32nd round of the 1996 MLB Draft. Conti made his Major League debut on June 29, 2000, with the Diamondbacks and went on to play parts of five MLB seasons with four teams: the Diamondbacks, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Milwaukee Brewers, and Texas Rangers. His most productive season came in 2002 with Tampa Bay, where he batted .257 over 78 games. Over his MLB career, Conti played in 182 games, hitting .238 with 6 home runs and 47 runs batted in. Traded multiple times during his career, Conti continued to make an impression in the outfield, famously throwing out baserunners on consecutive nights in highlight-reel plays — including gunning down Brian Jordan at third base while with Arizona and Frank Thomas at home plate while with Tampa Bay. One of his most memorable defensive feats occurred as a Texas Ranger, when he robbed Carlos Beltrán of extra bases by scaling Tal's Hill in center field at Minute Maid Park. After his Major League career, Conti played in the minors and independent leagues, including stints with the Yankees' and Cardinals' Triple-A affiliates. He concluded his playing career internationally with Bologna Italieri in Italy’s Serie 1-A Championship League in 2007. Jason Conti passed away on May 16, 2025, at the age of 50. Rich Rollins died. https://www.wkyc.com/article/life/people/rich-rollins-former-mlb-all-star-parma-senior-kent-state-dies-87/95-3d5dd615-63cd-4792-9505-8b2dfbab611c Who was Rich Rollins? Richard John Rollins (April 16, 1938 – May 13, 2025), known as "Red," was a steady and talented third baseman who spent ten seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Minnesota Twins. A right-handed batter and thrower, Rollins was best known for his breakout 1962 season, his All-Star selections, and his role in the Twins' 1965 American League pennant-winning team. Born in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, Rollins moved to Ohio as a child and attended Parma Senior High School. He excelled at Kent State University, where he played second base and posted a collegiate batting average of .389. Signed by the Washington Senators in 1960, Rollins quickly rose through the minors and debuted for the franchise—by then relocated and renamed the Minnesota Twins—in 1961. Rollins' rookie season in 1962 was his finest, hitting .298 with 16 home runs and 96 RBIs, earning him team MVP honors and selections to both All-Star Games. He finished 8th in AL MVP voting and was praised for his consistency and poise. His nickname, "Pie," was a nod to Hall of Fame third baseman Pie Traynor, a comparison made due to his similar playing style and Pittsburgh roots. Throughout his Twins career, Rollins was a dependable contributor at the plate and an improving defender at third base. In 1964, he led the American League with 10 triples. He appeared in the 1965 World Series, though hitless in three pinch-hit appearances. On June 9, 1966, Rollins was one of five Twins to homer in a single inning—a still-standing MLB record. Injuries and chronic ailments, including a broken jaw, calcium deposits, and knee issues, gradually affected his performance. Left unprotected in the 1968 expansion draft, Rollins was selected by the Seattle Pilots and later played for the Milwaukee Brewers and Cleveland Indians before retiring after the 1970 season. Post-baseball, Rollins worked in the Cleveland Indians’ front office and later in sales for the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers. He also ran baseball camps and was inducted into several halls of fame, including those of Kent State, Summit County, and Greater Akron. Rollins was married to Lynn Maher and had six children. He passed away on May 13, 2025, in Akron, Ohio, at age 87, remembered for his work ethic, quiet leadership, and lasting contributions to the game. With the passing of Rich Rollins, just 25 Seattle Pilots players remain: Jack Aker, born July 13, 1940 Dick Baney, born November 1, 1946 Dick Bates, born October 7, 1945 Gary Bell, born November 17, 1936 Bucky Brandon, born July 8, 1940 Ron Clark, born January 14, 1943 John Donaldson, born May 5, 1943 Bill Edgerton, born August 16, 1941 John Gelnar, born June 25, 1943 Jim Gosger, born November 6, 1942 Larry Haney, born November 19, 1942 Tommy Harper, born October 14, 1940 Steve Hovley, born December 18, 1944 Skip Lockwood, born August 17, 1946 Jerry McNertney, born August 7, 1936 Bob Meyer, born August 4, 1939 John Morris, born August 23, 1941 John O'Donoghue, born October 7, 1939 Garry Roggenburk, born August 16, 1940 Diego Segui, born August 17, 1937 Dick Simpson, born July 28, 1943 Fred Stanley, born August 13, 1947 Gary Timberlake, born August 9, 1948 Steve Whitaker, born May 7, 1943 Dooley Womack, born August 25, 1939

Intriguingly, another James Robert Campbell also died in California in late 2024. This one played in 1962 and 1963. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=campbji01 Who was (the other) Jim Campbell? James Robert Campbell (June 24, 1937 – October 17, 2024) was an American professional baseball catcher who played 82 games in Major League Baseball for the Houston Colt .45s between 1962 and 1963. A right-handed batter and thrower, Campbell stood 6 feet tall and weighed 190 pounds. He was born in Palo Alto, California, and graduated from Palo Alto High School. Campbell began his pro career in 1955 with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization, spending several years in the minors without advancing past Class A. After being briefly loaned to the Chicago White Sox system and then selected by the Milwaukee Braves, he was traded in 1961 to the newly formed Houston Colt .45s, a National League expansion team preparing to debut in 1962. In 1961, he played as the starting catcher for the Houston Buffs, then moved to the Oklahoma City 89ers in 1962 where he excelled, batting .350 in 70 games. This performance earned him a midseason call-up to the Colt .45s, where he started 25 games and hit .221 with 3 home runs. Campbell made the 1963 Opening Day roster and caught the season opener, but after a slow start at the plate, he lost his starting role. His final MLB appearance came on July 23, 1963, when he singled as a pinch hitter. He ended his Major League career with 54 hits, including 7 home runs and 7 doubles. Campbell returned to Triple-A play and remained in the minors through 1965 before retiring from professional baseball. He passed away in Los Altos, California, in 2024 at the age of 87.

Marshall Edwards died. https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/mlb/brewers/2025/05/12/marshall-edwards-who-made-a-famous-brewers-catch-in-1982-dies-at-72/83582942007/ Who was Marshall Edwards? Marshall Lynn Edwards (August 27, 1952 – April 15, 2025) was a professional baseball outfielder best known for his time with the Milwaukee Brewers from 1981 to 1983. A skilled base-stealer and strong defensive player, Edwards was part of a rare trio of Major League brothers—his twin, Mike, and younger brother, Dave, also played professionally. Edwards starred in both baseball and track at Jefferson High School in Los Angeles and continued his athletic career at Los Angeles Community College and UCLA. Despite a record-setting senior season at UCLA, he went undrafted and signed with the Baltimore Orioles in 1974. After excelling in the minors—including leading the Florida State League in steals—he was acquired by the Brewers via the Rule 5 Draft in 1977. He debuted in the majors in 1981 and was a contributor to the Brewers' postseason runs in 1981 and 1982. His most memorable moment came during the 1982 ALCS when he made a critical defensive play to help Milwaukee reach its first World Series. Edwards batted .297 in 1983, his final major league season, before retiring from professional baseball in 1984. Following his baseball career, Edwards worked in real estate and construction, eventually becoming a minister at World Changers Church International in College Park, Georgia. Frank Johnson died. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=johnsfr03 Who was Frank Johnson? Frank Herbert Johnson (July 22, 1942 – May 7, 2025) was a professional baseball player whose Major League career spanned parts of six seasons with the San Francisco Giants from 1966 to 1971. A versatile right-handed hitter and thrower, Johnson played outfield, third base, and first base during a time when the Giants’ roster was rich with talent, including legends like Willie Mays and emerging stars like Bobby Bonds and George Foster. Originally from El Paso, Texas, Johnson stood 6'1" and weighed 155 pounds. He showed early promise in the minor leagues, batting over .290 in four of his first seven seasons. After two brief late-season call-ups, he saw his most consistent big-league action in 1968 and 1970. In the latter year, he hit a career-best .273 with 44 hits and 31 RBIs in 67 games, backing up in the outfield and at first base. Though his MLB stats include a modest .211 batting average, four home runs, and 43 RBIs in 196 total games, Johnson had standout moments in the minors, notably a .353 season in the Pacific Coast League in 1970. He also extended his career internationally, playing for the Lotte Orions in Japan in 1972 before retiring after the 1975 season. Johnson passed away at age 82 in Stockton, California, leaving behind a legacy as a dedicated athlete who played alongside some of the most iconic figures in baseball’s golden era. Also, who was Tommy Helms? Tommy Vann Helms (May 5, 1941 – April 13, 2025) was a gifted American baseball player and manager whose career spanned more than four decades across Major League Baseball (MLB) and its affiliated leagues. Known for his stellar defense and steady presence on the field, Helms made his mark as a second baseman, manager, and mentor. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Helms signed with the Cincinnati Reds in 1959 and climbed steadily through the minor leagues, developing as a reliable infielder. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, he broke into the majors in 1964. Helms earned National League Rookie of the Year honors in 1966, transitioning from shortstop to third base to fill team needs. He later became the Reds' starting second baseman, earning Gold Glove Awards in 1970 and 1971 and All-Star selections in 1967 and 1968. Helms was a key contributor to the Reds' 1970 World Series run, praised for his defense and leadership. In 1971, Helms was part of a pivotal trade to the Houston Astros that brought Joe Morgan to Cincinnati, helping shape the Big Red Machine. Helms continued to perform solidly in Houston before finishing his playing career with stints in Pittsburgh and Boston. Over 14 MLB seasons, he compiled a .269 batting average, struck out just 301 times in nearly 5,000 at-bats, and was long respected for his defensive prowess and baseball IQ. After retirement, Helms transitioned into coaching and management. He served on the Cincinnati Reds’ coaching staff throughout the 1980s and twice took over as interim manager, including during Pete Rose’s 1988 suspension and again after Rose's lifetime ban in 1989. Though Helms hoped for a permanent managerial role, he was passed over in favor of Lou Piniella. He later managed in the minors and independent leagues, including the Charlotte Knights and Atlantic City Surf. Off the field, Helms endured personal tragedy, losing both of his sons—Tommy Jr. and Ryan—in 2014. His nephew, Wes Helms, also played 13 seasons in the majors. Tommy Helms was inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame in 1979 and the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 2013. A gritty, dependable infielder and respected clubhouse figure, Tommy Helms leaves behind a legacy of quiet excellence and perseverance in the golden era of professional baseball. And who was Chet Lemon? Chester Earl "Chet" Lemon (1955–2025) was a standout American professional baseball player best known for his exceptional defense in center field and a consistent, productive career spanning 16 Major League Baseball seasons. Born in Jackson, Mississippi and raised in Los Angeles, Lemon was drafted in the first round of the 1972 MLB draft by the Oakland Athletics and later made his MLB debut with the Chicago White Sox in 1975. After six years in Chicago—where he earned two All-Star selections and set an enduring record with 512 outfield putouts in 1977—he was traded to the Detroit Tigers, where he spent the remainder of his career from 1982 to 1990. Lemon was a three-time All-Star (1978, 1979, 1984) and a key member of the 1984 World Series champion Tigers, anchoring center field and providing consistent offensive power. Known for his durability and fearlessness—leading the league in being hit by pitches four times—he logged over 400 outfield putouts in five different seasons, setting an American League record. His peak came during the early to mid-1980s, when he combined elite defense, gap power, and leadership on a dominant Detroit team. Off the field, Lemon was a devout Jehovah’s Witness, which shaped his public stances, including his refusal to stand for the national anthem, citing religious conviction. He faced criticism for this but remained unwavering in his beliefs. Lemon’s career was cut short by polycythemia vera, a rare blood disorder diagnosed in 1990. The condition led to recurring health issues, including strokes that eventually left him unable to speak or walk. Despite these challenges, Lemon remained active in baseball, founding a respected youth academy and mentoring future MLB stars like Zack Greinke and Prince Fielder. Chet Lemon passed away on May 8, 2025, at his home in Apopka, Florida, at age 70. Remembered as one of the finest defensive outfielders of his era and a devoted coach and mentor, his impact on baseball extended far beyond the field.

Mets sign reliever Colin Poche. They also sign a youngster named Henderson Hernandez. Blackburn sent on a rehab assignment to Syracuse. Ronny Mauricio on a rehab assignment to Binghamton.

Paul Blackburn: Blackburn (knee) will continue his rehab assignment Sunday with Triple-A Syracuse, Andrew Tredinnick of The Bergen Record reports. Blackburn was scratched from his second rehab start in late April due to an illness, but he's since made two appearances in the minors. The right-hander allowed a run on three hits with a 5:1 K:BB over 3.2 frames in his last outing with Syracuse, and he'll continue building up his workload Sunday. Blackburn was unable to earn a rotation spot during spring training and was poised to begin the campaign in a relief role before the knee inflammation surfaced, so a spot in the bullpen likely awaits once he's cleared to be reinstated. Injury Knee. Est. Return 5/16/2025. Sean Manaea: Manaea (oblique) played catch from 120 feet Friday and is soon expected to start throwing off a mound, Andrew Tredinnick of The Bergen Record reports. The left-hander restarted his throwing program in mid-April after receiving a PRP injection to address lingering problems with his strained right oblique, and he's now starting to ramp up in his progression. Manaea will still require a considerable buildup period and a lengthy rehab assignment, but it seems like he could make his season debut before the end of June. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 6/17/2025. Frankie Montas: Montas (lat) threw his third bullpen session Tuesday since resuming his throwing program in mid-April, MLB.com reports. After being diagnosed with a high-grade right lat strain in mid-February, Montas was shut down for nearly two months before receiving clearance to start throwing. He steadily increased his throwing distance off flat ground before recently being cleared for mound work, and he's thus far avoided any setbacks through his three bullpen sessions. Montas could soon advance to facing hitters in live batting practice, but he may be a week or more away from starting up a minor-league rehab assignment. The right-hander isn't expected to be ready to return from the 60-day injured list until around early June. Injury Lat. Est. Return 6/1/2025. AJ Minter: Minter will undergo surgery May 12 to repair a torn left lat, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. Minter was moved to the 60-day injured list Thursday, and it's since been disclosed that he's elected for season-ending surgery. The veteran southpaw was off to a strong start to the 2025 campaign, allowing only two runs in 13 appearances. Injury Lat. Est. Return 2/1/2026. Injury Lat. Est. Return 2/1/2026. Jesse Winker: Winker has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 oblique strain and is expected to miss the next 6-to-8 weeks, Abbey Mastracco of the New York Daily News reports. This is unfortunate news for Winker, who was officially placed on the 10-day injured list Monday after suffering a side injury during the first game of Sunday's twin bill against the Cardinals. The injury will open up plenty of opportunities for Starling Marte and Brett Baty in the DH slot. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 6/17/2025. Danny Young: The Mets transferred Young (elbow) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Sunday. According to Will Sammon of The Athletic, Young is slated to undergo Tommy John surgery in the near future, which will end his season and likely keep him out until the second half of the 2026 campaign. By shifting him to the 60-day IL, the Mets were able to open up a spot on the 40-man roster for right-hander Blade Tidwell, who was called up from Triple-A Syracuse to start the first game of Sunday's doubleheader in St. Louis. Before being shut down in late April with the elbow injury, Young had been a key piece in the New York bullpen, gathering four holds while pitching to a 4.32 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 13:3 K:BB across 8.1 innings in 10 appearances. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 7/1/2026.

I'd give Gilberto Celestino a shot.

There's one down! Tidwell Hamel Vasil and now Sproat were/are the 'big four.' At least one has made it with the Mets so far.

The Mets released Clark on November 19, 2024.

Tom Brown died. https://www.curlewhills.com/obituaries/Thomas-William-Brown?obId=42298246 Who was Tom Brown? Thomas William Brown (1940–2025) was a rare dual-sport professional athlete who played both Major League Baseball and in the National Football League. A standout at the University of Maryland in both baseball and football, Brown was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1963 but initially chose to pursue baseball with the Washington Senators. His baseball career was brief; he played just one major league season in 1963, struggling at the plate before returning to the minors and eventually quitting the sport in 1964. Brown then joined the Packers as a defensive back, playing from 1964 to 1968 and contributing to their three consecutive NFL championships, including victories in the first two Super Bowls. He is notable as the first athlete to both play in the MLB and appear in a Super Bowl. After a short stint with the Washington Redskins and a failed attempt with the Minnesota Vikings, Brown retired due to a chronic shoulder injury. Post-football, he earned his college degree and ran a youth sports league in Maryland for over two decades. He died in 2025 at age 84 in Palm Harbor, Florida.

Adcock down. Warren up. Minter to 60-day IL. Montas to 60-day IL. Chris Devenski down. Waddell down.

Paul Blackburn: Blackburn (knee/illness) resumed throwing Sunday and will throw a bullpen session Tuesday, Andrew Tredinnick of The Bergen Record reports. Blackburn was scratched from a rehab start last week due to a stomach bug that resulted in some weight loss. He's feeling better now, though, and should be able to resume his rehab assignment soon. The righty originally went on the 15-day injured list due to right knee inflammation. Injury Knee. Est. Return 5/9/2025. Ronny Mauricio: Mauricio (knee) went 1-for-3 with a run scored and a stolen base Sunday for Single-A St. Lucie. After missing the entire 2024 campaign due to ACL surgery that required a follow-up procedure last August, Mauricio was brought along slowly by the Mets this spring and didn't see his first game action of the year until Sunday. The 24-year-old wasted no time demonstrating that he was fully healthy, singling up the middle in his first at-bat and promptly swiping second base. Mauricio still has a minor-league option left, so there's no guarantee he'll be added to the Mets' 26-man roster once his rehab assignment is over, but it looks like he could be ready to bolster the big-league infield within a few weeks. In his last full season in the minors in 2023, Mauricio slashed .292/.346/.506 over 116 games for Triple-A Syracuse with 23 homers and 24 steals. Injury Knee. Est. Return 5/27/2025. A.J. Minter: The Mets transferred Minter (lat) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Thursday. Minter was initially placed on the IL on Sunday after being diagnosed with a left lat strain. The southpaw is still weighing whether to undergo season-ending surgery, but even if he elects to treat the injury through rest and rehab, he won't be on track to return to game action until September in a best-case scenario, per Anthony DiComo of MLB.com. Before getting hurt, Minter had been performing well as the top setup man in front of closer Edwin Diaz, logging a 1.64 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 14:5 K:BB in 11 innings while collecting seven holds over his 13 appearances. Injury Lat. Est. Return 9/1/2025. Sean Manaea: The Mets transferred Manaea (oblique) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Tuesday, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. Manaea has yet to make his 2025 debut after straining his oblique during the spring. He resumed playing catch earlier this month but appears to still be eyeing a return to the Mets in June. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 6/1/2025. Frankie Montas: The Mets transferred Montas (lat) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Thursday. The transaction won't affect Montas' timeline for a return, as the 32-year-old isn't expected to be ready to make his Mets debut until at least June while he recovers from the high-grade right lat strain that he sustained early in spring training. Per MLB.com, Montas has been throwing off flat ground since early April and should soon be ready for mound work, but he'll require an extended period of time to build up his pitch count and will need to make multiple rehab starts in the minors before being activated from the IL. Injury Lat. Est. Return 6/1/2025. Oliver Ortega: Injury Elbow. Est. Return 5/4/2025. Brooks Raley: The Mets transferred Raley (elbow) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Wednesday. Raley underwent Tommy John surgery last May and isn't expected to be available to make his season debut until around midseason, so his move to the 60-day IL has no impact on his return timeline. The southpaw seems to be progressing well in his recovery, as he's been throwing regular bullpen sessions since re-signing with the Mets on April 29 and is expected to resume facing live hitters at some point in May, per MLB.com. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 7/1/2025. Danny Young: Manager Carlos Mendoza said Wednesday that Young may need to undergo Tommy John surgery, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. Young landed on the 15-day injured list Wednesday due to a sprained left elbow, but he now may be at risk of missing the rest of the season plus a significant portion of the 2026 campaign. The Mets will know more about how to properly handle the southpaw's injury within the next few days, but he's likely facing an extended absence even if he doesn't undergo surgery. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 6/1/2025.

Waddell's done extremely well at Triple-A so far.

Manaea was moved to the 60-day IL.

Rick Peters died. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/281922403/richard-devin-peters Who was Rick Peters? Rick Peters (1955–2025) was an American professional baseball player known for his time as an outfielder with the Detroit Tigers and Oakland Athletics. A standout at Arizona State University, he led the Sun Devils to the 1977 College World Series championship with a .426 batting average. Drafted by the Tigers in 1977, Peters quickly rose through the minor leagues, helping the Evansville Triplets win the American Association championship in 1979. He made his MLB debut later that year and earned Tigers Rookie of the Year honors in 1980 after batting .291 as their starting center fielder. Injuries, including elbow surgery in 1982, curtailed his career, and after brief stints with the Oakland A’s from 1983 to 1986, he retired with a .277 MLB career batting average. Peters later played in the Senior Professional Baseball Association with the Sun City Rays in 1990 before transitioning into coaching and managing, including stints with the Auburn Astros and Burlington Astros in the early 1990s. After baseball, he worked for Tempe’s parks and recreation department. Peters passed away in 2025 in Maricopa, Arizona, at the age of 69. Chito Martinez died. https://crescentcitysports.com/former-brother-martin-major-league-outfielder-chito-martinez-passes-away/ Who was Chito Martinez? Chito Martinez (1965–2025) was the first and only Major League Baseball player born in Belize, then known as British Honduras. After moving to New Orleans at age two, he played high school baseball there and was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 1984. Despite years of struggling in the minors, Martinez found success after joining the Baltimore Orioles organization in 1990. In 1991, he hit .322 with 20 home runs at AAA Rochester, earning a promotion to the majors. That season, he batted .269 with a .514 slugging percentage and became the first Orioles player to record a hit in each of his first six MLB games. His major league career spanned parts of three seasons (1991–1993), but after a decline in performance, he faded from the majors. Martinez later played in the Yankees and Rockies minor league systems before retiring. His sons, Drew and Dalton, both pursued baseball careers, with Drew coaching in the Giants organization and Dalton coaching at Georgia State. Martinez died in 2025 in Lake Cormorant, Mississippi, at age 59.

Urena up. Minter to IL. Minor leaguer Rowdey Jordan traded to Astros. Rowdey Jordan is a name that fits Texas more, anyway. Niko Goodrum, who just signed a contract with NY, has retired. They must have really left a bad impression! He hit just .229 in 12 games with Syracuse, but his .391 OBP was still promising.

Paul Blackburn: Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said that Blackburn (knee) has been scratched from his scheduled rehab start Wednesday at High-A Brooklyn due to a stomach bug, Abbey Mastracco of the New York Daily News reports. Blackburn began a rehab assignment with Brooklyn on Saturday, allowing one run over two innings. He threw 38 pitches in that outing and had been set to get stretched out more Wednesday, but the righty's next start will be put on hold. Mendoza has said previously that he would like Blackburn to get his pitch count up to the 65-to-70 range before being activated, so he will likely need at least a couple more rehab starts. njury Knee. Est. Return 5/5/2025. Candido Cuevas: Injury Undisclosed. Est. Return 6/1/2025. Edwin Diaz: was able to play catch before Friday's game without any issues, but Mets manager Carlos Mendoza still elected not to use him in a save situation that night due to his recent workload, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. Ryne Stanek instead got a chance to protect a 4-3 lead against the Nationals in the ninth inning, but he served up a leadoff triple to Dylan Crews and an RBI single to Jose Tena to blow the save. Diaz had pitched five times in nine days heading into Friday, allowing just a solo homer in 5.1 innings with a 10:2 K:BB, so some extra rest was warranted after he developed cramping in his left hip Wednesday. He should be available to handle any save situation that arises Saturday. Injury Hip. Day-to-day. Ronny Mauricio: Mauricio (knee) will start a rehab assignment with Single-A St. Lucie on Sunday. Mauricio is in the final stages of his recovery from a procedure in January of 2024 to repair a torn ACL in his right knee. He participated in extended spring training, and he has progressed enough to embark on a rehab assignment in the minors. How Mauricio's knee reacts to increased competition will determine the next steps in his rehab program. Injury Knee. Est. Return 5/16/2025. A.J. Minter: The Mets placed Minter on the 15-day injured list Sunday due to a left lat strain. Minter was lifted in the eighth inning of Saturday's 2-0 loss to the Nationals due to what was initially reported as left triceps tightness. Further testing revealed a left lat strain, and the 31-year-old southpaw will be shut down from throwing until a rehab program is established. The Mets selected Jose Urena's contract from Triple-A Syracuse in a corresponding move. Injury Lat. Est. Return 5/12/2025. Oliver Ortega: Injury Elbow. Est. Return 4/30/2025. Rafael Ortega: Injury Undisclosed. Est. Return 4/27/2025. Yovanny Rodriguez: Injury Undisclosed. Est. Return 6/1/2025. Matt Rudick: Rudick is set to undergo Tommy John surgery, Will Sammon of The Athletic reports. While Tommy John surgery isn't as serious for position players as it is for pitchers, the timing of Rudick's injury figures to cost him most or all of the 2025 campaign. The 26-year-old outfielder slashed .239/.352/.366 with eight homers and 12 steals over 114 games at Double-A Binghamton last season. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 9/1/2025. JT Schwartz: Injury Undisclosed. Est. Return 4/28/2025. Calvin Ziegler: Ziegler has had terrible luck on the injury front the since the Mets selected him in the second round of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft. He's flashed plenty of promise when on the mound, including this season, when he had a 13:2 K:BB over six hitless innings with Brooklyn. However, the 21-year-old is now looking at a second straight lost season after elbow and quadricep injuries limited him to just one start in 2023. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 7/1/2025.

These are the latest updates from RotoWire and CBS; some may be somewhat dated already. Francisco Alvarez: Manager Carlos Mendoza said Sunday that Alvarez (hand) is scheduled to continue his minor-league rehab assignment this week, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. The skipper previously indicated that Alvarez could be back during the current homestand, which ends Wednesday, but it appears the 23-year-old backstop will be on the shelf for at least a few more days. Alvarez has gone 6-for-27 with a walk and three homers across seven rehab games in the minors, and he's still on track to make his season debut for the Mets before the end of April. Injury Hand. Est. Return 4/25/2025. Adbert Alzolay: Alzolay underwent Tommy John surgery in late August and was non-tendered by the Cubs in November. He's expected to miss the entire 2025 season while rehabbing, but the 29-year-old right-hander will have an opportunity to earn a spot in the Mets bullpen for the 2026 campaign if he makes a full recovery. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 2/1/2026. Paul Blackburn: Blackburn (knee) is scheduled to throw two innings in a live batting practice session Tuesday, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. Blackburn checked out fine after throwing a one-inning live BP session in Brooklyn on Friday, prompting the Mets to clear him to repeat the activity while increasing his pitch count. If all goes well Tuesday, Blackburn will then head out on a minor-league rehab assignment. Manager Carlos Mendoza said that the goal is to have Blackburn build up to around 65-to-70 pitches before coming off the 15-day injured list, so the right-hander will likely be in line for at least two starts on the farm. Injury Knee. Est. Return 4/30/2025. Nick Madrigal: Madrigal will likely miss the entire season after surgery to repair a fractured left shoulder, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. Madrigal suffered the injury during a Grapefruit League contest Sunday when he landed on the shoulder following an off-balance throw. He's already been placed on the 60-day injured list and his tenure with the Mets could be over before it starts, as Madrigal will be a free agent next offseason. Injury Shoulder. Est. Return 2/1/2026. Sean Manaea: Manaea (oblique) resumed playing catch from 60 feet Monday, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. Manaea was diagnosed with a right oblique strain early in spring training and was placed on the 15-day injured list to begin the season. After struggling in his recovery toward the tail end of camp, Manaea received a platelet-rich plasma injection for his oblique and was shut down from throwing for two weeks. With a recent follow-up MRI showing improvement, Manaea has been cleared to resume his throwing program but will need some extended ramp-up time before he's ready to head out of on a minor-league rehab assignment. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said that Manaea will be limited to throwing out to 60 feet for the next 10 days before being reassessed. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 6/1/2025. Ronny Mauricio: Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said that Mauricio (knee) is scheduled to serve as the designated hitter in an extended spring training game Tuesday, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. Mauricio will be participating in his first game action since December 2023, when he suffered a torn ACL in his right knee while playing in the Dominican Winter League. The 24-year-old infielder has faced a longer recovery than initially anticipated, as he required a follow-up procedure July 30, 2024 to remove scar tissue from the knee. He was eased along slowly this spring, but Mauricio is finally ready to test himself in a competitive environment, albeit in a controlled setting and in a non-defensive role. Mauricio could still be multiple weeks away from being ready to play the infield, and the Mets haven't yet offered a concrete timeline for him to be fully cleared. Injury Knee. Est. Return 5/2/2025. Jeff McNeil: McNeil (oblique) will start in center field during a rehab game with Single-A St. Lucie on Thursday, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. McNeil has limited experience in center field, having made three appearances there with the Mets in 2023 and another three in the minors. With Jose Siri (leg) sidelined, the club would like to have McNeil as an option to play center field. That said, most of McNeil's reps should still come at second base. The 33-year-old appears likely to be activated from the 10-day injured list early next week. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 4/25/2025. Frankie Montas: Montas (lat) has been playing catch from 90 feet and is expected to begin throwing bullpen sessions in two weeks, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. Montas began a throwing program in early April and has been brought along slowly as he works his way back from a high-grade right lat strain. He still has numerous boxes to check off in his rehab program but appears to be tracking toward a season debut in late May or early June, if all goes well. Injury Lat Est. Return 5/30/2025. Bryce Montes de Oca: Montes de Oca underwent a second Tommy John surgery toward the end of last year's minor-league season, Michael Mayer of MetsmerizedOnline.com reports. De Oca had his first Tommy John surgery in March of 2023 and needed the operation again less than two years later. The 28-year-old made only 13 appearances in 2024 after not making any in 2023, and he's now looking at another lost season. De Oca has a 31.9 percent strikeout rate during his time in the minors and fanned six batters in 3.1 innings with the Mets in 2022, but he also had a career 18.1 percent walk rate in the minors and a lengthy injury history. The odds are stacked against him for making it back to the big leagues. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 2/1/2026. Oliver Ortega: Injury Elbow. Est. Return 4/22/2025. Rafael Ortega: Injury Undisclosed. Est. Return 4/22/2025. Luis Ortiz: Injury Elbow. Expected to be out until at least Sep 1. Yacksel Rios: Injury Undisclosed. Est. Return 6/1/2025. Christian Scott: Scott will throw from 45 feet Monday as he continues his recovery from hybrid elbow surgery performed last September, Will Sammon of The Athletic reports. While he won't see any game action in 2025, Scott has progressed well so far in his rehab, and Monday will represent an important milestone -- his first time throwing since the surgery. "Counting down the hours," the right-hander said Tuesday. Scott has also improved his nutrition and overall fitness while rehabbing, and if he makes a full recovery, he's likely to be competing for a spot in the big-league rotation next spring. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 2/1/2026. Jose Siri: Expected to miss 8-10 weeks. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns said Monday that Siri (leg) is expected to be sidelined 8-to-10 weeks, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. Siri suffered a left tibia fracture last week and has already been placed on the 10-day injured list. The timeline puts Siri out until mid-to-late June. Tyrone Taylor has been making regular starts as the center fielder with Siri out, and Jeff McNeil (oblique) is also being cross trained in the outfield during his rehab assignment in the minors. Injury Lower Leg. Est. Return 6/7/2025. Drew Smith: The Mets placed Smith (elbow) on the 60-day injured list. Smith signed a one-year deal with the Mets that includes a club option for 2026. However, he isn't expected to pitch until very late in the season, if at all, after undergoing a Tommy John and internal brace hybrid procedure in July, so New York will move him to the 60-day IL to conserve a spot on its 40-man roster. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 9/1/2025. Mark Vientos: Vientos (groin) remains out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Phillies, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. Vientos was forced to leave Saturday's game against the Cardinals and will miss a second straight start, though he did take ground balls Monday and is scheduled to hit later in the afternoon, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. With Vientos still idle, Brett Baty will make the start at third base and bat eighth against Aaron Nola. Injury Groin. Day-to-day. Jared Young: Triple-A Syracuse placed Young on its 7-day injured list Thursday due to an unspecified issue. Young wasn't known to be dealing with an injury when the Mets optioned him to minor-league camp March 9, but the 29-year-old first baseman looks like he'll have to wait a bit to make his Syracuse debut while he tends to an undisclosed issue. After being granted his release from the Cardinals organization in the middle of the 2024 season, Young finished out the campaign in the Korea Baseball Organization with the Doosan Bears, producing a 1.080 OPS over 169 plate appearances.