The last-minute decision on the New York Mets’ final roster spots was influenced by a sudden injury.
Newsday’s Tim Healey reported that Sean Reid-Foley is sidelined with a right shoulder impingement, forcing him onto the injured list at the start of the season. Consequently, relievers Yohan Ramirez and Michael Tonkin secure Opening Day roles, as there were three pitchers competing for two available positions.
Reid-Foley assured reporters on Monday that he was in good health, despite his recent setback. He last pitched on Sunday, March 25, after experiencing biceps discomfort since March 9. However, his performance in that game was brief and unproductive, as he failed to record an out, conceding two hits and a walk. Throughout spring training, he pitched four innings, conceding only two earned runs while striking out seven batters.
Although there’s no evidence to doubt the Mets and their president of baseball operations, David Stearns, regarding Reid-Foley’s injury, the unexpected move to place him on the injured list brings to mind former general manager Billy Eppler’s situation. Eppler was banned by MLB until the end of the 2024 World Series due to improper utilization of the injured list.
Reid-Foley, 28, joined the Mets in 2021 as part of the Steven Matz trade. Over three seasons, he has pitched 38 1/3 innings, maintaining a 4.93 ERA, with only 7 2/3 innings pitched last year.
Completing the Mets’ eight-man bullpen are Edwin Díaz, Jake Diekman, Jorge López, Adam Ottavino, Brooks Raley, and Drew Smith.
The finalized Opening Day roster, announced on Thursday, is as follows: