While speaking with the media via Zoom prior to Tuesday afternoon’s game again the Miami Marlins in Port St. Lucie, Mets manager Luis Rojas provided a brief update on the status of reliever Seth Lugo.
Rojas told reporters that Lugo has been in good spirits, has been working hard with the medical staff, and is responding well to treatment. The skipper said, “He’s responded really well to the treatment. I’ve been getting good reports, he’s very animated, and he has a great attitude.”
Though the right-hander hasn’t started throwing quite yet, Rojas said he expects that “should be soon.” Lugo underwent surgery five weeks ago to remove a bone spur from his pitching elbow, following the surgery the team said he’d be shutdown for about six week before transitioning into a throwing program.
Lugo’s versatility and late inning dominance will be greatly missed in the backend of the bullpen. The Mets are going to need the likes of Edwin Diaz, Miguel Castro, Trevor May, and Aaron Loup to step-up big time in his absence.
Lugo made sixteen appearances, seven of which were starts, during the pandemic shortened 2020 season, and struggled to the tune of a 5.15 ERA. However, he broke out during the 2019 season, posting a 2.70 ERA, 0.90 WHIP, 2.70 FIP, 11.7 K/9, and recording six saves over 80 innings of work.
