Ronny Mauricio’s Rehab Update
The New York Mets’ infielder, Ronny Mauricio, continues to navigate a cautious rehabilitation journey following a challenging year of recovery from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery in his left knee. Initially, there was optimism that Mauricio might be ready to participate in Grapefruit League games by mid-March, but manager Carlos Mendoza clarified that this timeline was overly ambitious. Mendoza emphasized that Mauricio has not experienced any setbacks and is progressing well, though the team is taking a deliberate approach to ensure his recovery remains on track.
Mauricio underwent ACL surgery in January 2022, followed by a secondary procedure in August to remove scar tissue. Despite these challenges, Mendoza noted that Mauricio’s knee responded well after some initial inflammation in October or November. The manager stressed that Mauricio is “getting close” to returning to full activity but stopped short of providing a specific timeline. For now, Mauricio continues to follow his rehab program diligently, participating in full activities without any signs of regression.
Injury Updates and Roster Implications
While Mauricio’s recovery remains a focal point, other Mets players are dealing with their own injury-related challenges. Francisco Alvarez, the highly touted young catcher, is set to begin the season on the injured list after undergoing surgery to repair a broken hamate bone in his left hand. This injury has opened up a competitive battle for the backup catcher role, with Hayden Senger, Jakson Reetz, and Chris Williams vying for the position.
Senger, in particular, has made a strong impression during spring training. He showcased his defensive prowess with a pickoff at first base and contributed offensively with a double as part of a 1-for-2 performance. The competition for the backup catcher spot is expected to intensify as the spring progresses, with each candidate aiming to make a lasting impression on the coaching staff.
A Scare for Tyler Zuber
In a separate incident during the Mets’ exhibition game against the Houston Astros, reliever Tyler Zuber was removed from the game after being hit in the right elbow by a comebacker in the sixth inning. Fortunately, Mendoza later confirmed that the decision to pull Zuber was purely precautionary, and the pitcher did not suffer an injury. This scare served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the game and the importance of prioritizing player safety, especially during preseason matchups.
A Victory for St. John’s and a Shoutout from Mendoza
On a lighter note, Mendoza began his pregame media session with a heartfelt shoutout to St. John’s men’s basketball team, which had clinched the Big East Championship the night before. The manager, who watched the end of the game, noted the special connection between the Mets and St. John’s, both rooted in Queens. “It’s been 25 years,” Mendoza said with a smile, referencing the Red Storm’s last championship in 1998. The moment offered a glimpse into the camaraderie and shared pride that often exists between sports teams from the same region.
Competition Heats Up Behind the Plate
As the Mets continue to evaluate their roster options, the competition for the backup catcher role remains one of the most intriguing storylines of the spring. With Alvarez sidelined due to his injury, Senger, Reetz, and Williams are all making their cases to secure the position. Each player brings unique strengths to the table, and the coaching staff will be closely monitoring their performances in the coming weeks. Senger’s solid showing, including his defensive highlights and offensive contributions, has placed him squarely in the mix, but the race is far from over.
As the Mets approach the final stretch of spring training, the team’s focus will shift toward finalizing its Opening Day roster. While injuries and rehab progress continue to shape the lineup, the organization remains optimistic about the depth and talent at its disposal. With players like Mauricio on the mend and others stepping up to fill critical roles, the Mets are poised to enter the 2023 season with a renewed sense of hope and determination.
