Mets left-hander Steven Matz has left the club's road trip to San Diego to return to New York for an arm examination.
The 27-year-old starter is dealing with a "nerve issue," Mets manager Mickey Callaway told reporters Sunday. He said it doesn't appear the issue is related to nerve surgery he underwent in August 2017.
“He has been battling it for about two weeks now, has been able to pitch fine and swing the bat fine,” Callaway said (via tne New York Post). “But at this point when it was bothering him today we figured we better get it checked out.”
According to MLB Network, tests confirmed it is indeed a nerve problem for Matz, who reportedly will miss a start or two as the team takes a cautious path with his treatment.
Matz, now in his fifth season with New York, has a 3-2 record this year with a 3.86 ERA and 1.20 WHIP. In his last appearance, in Milwaukee Friday night, he gave up nine hits — including two homers — and three earned runs in 5 2/3 innings.
It's just the latest bad news for the Mets staff. Jacob deGrom spent time on the IL last month, and Noah Syndergaard struggled in April, although he looked great in pitching a shutout against the Reds in his last start.
The Post notes that if Matz is shelved for any length of time, it might prompt the Mets to find another starter. Free agent Dallas Keuchel is still "on the team’s radar," the Post reports.