Jon Niese to have knee surgery, season likely over

After leaving last night’s game against the Cardinals in the first inning with a knee injury, Jonathan Niese is set to have surgery on his knee that will probably end his season.

In his absence, Robert Gsellman will take over for Niese in the starting rotation. After the ailing Niese got the early hook in St. Louis on Tuesday, it was up to Gsellman to put out the flames. He did so admirably, recording 3.2 scoreless innings, albeit with some help on defense from Asdrubal Cabrera.

On Sunday he’ll face the Phillies, led by their ace pitcher, Vince Velasquez. Though Gsellman technically picked up his first official win on Tuesday, his first start this weekend should give him a chance to establish himself as a reliable starter going forward. With the Mets still in the thick of the Wild Card race, a strong outing from Gsellman against a talented pitcher would be massive boon as the team heads into September.