According to MLB.com’s Anthony Dicomo, Mets reliever Erik Goeddel has reported to camp fully healthy and will resume a normal throwing schedule as camp processes. Goeddel underwent surgery in October to remove a bone spur in his pitching elbow.
Goeddel called the diagnosis “a relief,” as he is currently competing for one of the final three bullpen spots for the 2017 ballclub. Goeddel, Josh Edgin, Josh Smoker, Paul Sewald, P.J. Conlon, and Ben Rowen amongst others are competing for the final three spots.
The operation helps provide the Mets with an explanation as to why Goeddel’s performance declined from a strong 2015 season to 2016. In 2015, Goeddel had a 2.43 ERA in 33 innings. He struck out 34 batters and allowed only 9 earned runs. He struck out 9.0 batters/nine innings. In 2016, his ERA spiked all the way up to 4.54, as he allowed 18 runs in 35 innings. He was able to strike out 9.1 batters/nine innings.
If Goeddel were to return to his 2015 form, he would prove to be a very reliable piece of the Mets bullpen in 2017, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Jeurys Familia.
