MRI reveals no structural damage for Steven Matz

An MRI on Steven Matz revealed no structural damage and “just a little inflammation,” according to multiple reports. While this is welcome news for the New York Mets, the left-hander is still possibly headed to the disabled list, according to Mike Puma. The team plans to address the situation prior to tonight’s game at Citi Field.

Matz made the start on Tuesday against the Washington Nationals and was tagged for seven earned runs on eight hits while only recording two outs (the shortest start of his major league career). After the game, the team revealed that Matz was experiencing forearm tightness, and he was soon scheduled for an MRI. Mickey Callaway added that Matz had mentioned experiencing “dead arm” during his last three starts. On the season, Matz has pitched to a 4.35 ERA, a 4.74 FIP, and a 1.34 WHIP in 21 starts spanning 107.2 innings.

Matz has been plagued by injuries his whole career, dating back to a 2010 Tommy John Surgery while in the minors. Just two starts into his major league career, he suffered a partially torn lat in July and was forced to miss two months in 2015. His 2016 ended in late August with left shoulder tightness and his 2017 season ended in August as well with ulnar nerve irritation in his left elbow. Aside from exiting his May 29 start this year with a strained finger, he has remained relatively healthy up until this point and had not missed a start until now.

Matz was originally in line to pitch on Sunday afternoon in the series finale against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field. Even with the injury, he is listed as the probable starter for Sunday.