The New York Mets are riding a wave of mixed emotions this week. Just as they welcomed back Frankie Montas, a key piece of their pitching puzzle, they suffered a blow with another pitcher, Griffin Canning, potentially facing a significant setback. During Thursday night’s clash with the Atlanta Braves, Canning was forced to leave the game early in the third inning after collapsing on the mound with a non-contact injury.
Non-contact injuries, especially involving the leg, often ring alarm bells for serious issues like an Achilles injury. This incident brought to mind a memorable reference made during the game broadcast, creating an unexpected crossover between the Mets’ situation and a moment involving NBA star Tyrese Haliburton during the Finals.
Post-game, manager Carlos Mendoza added weight to these fears, indicating the team suspects an Achilles injury for Canning. This is unsettling news for the Mets, who had signed Canning to a one-year deal in the offseason, hoping to fortify their starting rotation. This move also included strategic additions like Montas and Clay Holmes, along with the return of Kodai Senga, who spent much of the 2024 season sidelined by injury.
Canning has quietly been a strong pillar for the Mets, coming into Thursday’s contest with a respectable 3.91 ERA across 15 starts. While he might not be boasting All-Star statistics, his performance has been consistent, providing the stability of a dependable middle-of-the-rotation starter and giving the Mets a fighting chance in most games. Losing Canning for a prolonged period could create significant ripple effects for a pitching staff already navigating the challenge of maintaining peak performance amid early-season injuries.
