New York Mets reliever Jenrry Mejia has inflammation in his pitching elbow, but no structural damage was found during an examination on Tuesday in New York.
Mejia returned to New York after he felt the elbow tightening while warming up to pitch the ninth inning of Monday’s Opening Day game against the Washington Nationals. Mets relievers Jerry Blevins and Buddy Carlyle took Mejia’s place and closed out a 3-1 victory.
There is no word yet on whether Mejia will spend time on the disabled list or rest the elbow while remaining on the active roster. According to reports, he received a cortisone shot.
The Mets’ injury concerns were heightened because the 25-year-old Mejia had Tommy John elbow ligament reconstruction surgery in 2011 and bone chips removed in 2013.
Last season, Mejia posted a 6-6 record and 28 saves with a 3.65 ERA in 92 2/3 innings.
Mets manager Terry Collins indicated that Jeurys Familia is likely to take over as the closer until Mejia returns.
Fantasy Update: Keep an eye on Mejia’s status, but don’t pull the trigger on releasing him until further news comes out on his injury. If he has elbow damage, then you can proceed to finding a replacement.