Mets revamp medical staff, hire director of performance and sports science

The New York Mets have substantially revamped their medical staff by restructuring their training staff, as well as bringing in someone to oversee the entire medical side of the operation.

The biggest move, reported by Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, is the hiring of former US Army supervisor Jim Cavallini to serve as director of performance and sports science. Cavallini is expected to oversee all medical matters from sleep science to injury rehabilitation. Previously, he has worked as a strength coach at the University of Virginia and the University of Iowa.

Additionally, longtime Mets staffer Brian Chicklo has been promoted to head trainer. Chicklo takes over for Ray Ramirez who was fired in October. Furthermore, Joseph Golia will assume the role of assistant trainer.

These changes come on the heels of a season laden with injuries. Key players like Yoenis Cespedes and Noah Syndergaard spent a significant amount of time on the disabled list.

“We felt not only beginning this offseason but as early as last year midseason, that it was something we needed to address,” said general manager Sandy Alderson. “I think we’ve done that in a variety of different ways.”

On Tuesday, Alderson said the Mets upcoming season will be largely dependent on the health of their pitchers. The Mets have made it clear that they are committed to keeping all their players in good health.