Full Breakdown
Reed Garrett Undergoes Tommy John Surgery, Out for 2026 Season
10/10/2025, 5:47:03 AM
Overview of the Injury and Surgery
Reed Garrett, a 32-year-old right-handed reliever for the New York Mets, underwent Tommy John surgery on October 8, 2025, and will miss the entire 2026 season as he recovers. This decision follows a series of elbow issues that began with an initial diagnosis of inflammation in August, leading to a 15-day stint on the injured list. After returning briefly, Garrett experienced renewed discomfort, prompting further medical evaluation that revealed a UCL sprain. Ultimately, doctors recommended the UCL reconstruction surgery to address the injury.
Performance and Impact on the Team
Garrett's performance fluctuated throughout the 2025 season. He started strong, not allowing an earned run in his first 13 appearances and posting a 1.38 ERA in May. However, his performance deteriorated in the latter months, culminating in an 8.00 ERA in August. Over the course of the season, he appeared in a career-high 58 games, finishing with a 3-6 record, a 3.90 ERA, and 64 strikeouts in 55.1 innings pitched. His overall statistics with the Mets since joining the team in June 2023 reflect a 4.10 ERA over 129.2 innings.
Garrett's injury is particularly significant for the Mets, as he is the fifth pitcher from the team to undergo Tommy John surgery in 2025, joining Danny Young, Dedniel Núñez, Frankie Montas, and Tylor Megill. This trend raises concerns about the team's bullpen depth heading into the 2026 season, especially with the potential departure of All-Star closer Edwin Díaz, who has an opt-out clause in his contract.
Official Statements & Responses
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza noted Garrett's ongoing recovery challenges, stating, “He continues to have a hard time recovering after every time he’s pitched.” This sentiment underscores the difficulties Garrett faced throughout the season, ultimately leading to the decision for surgery.
Future Considerations
Garrett is projected to earn approximately $1.4 million in arbitration this offseason and remains under team control through at least 2028. However, the Mets face a critical decision regarding whether to tender him a contract, given the uncertainty surrounding his recovery timeline of 12 to 18 months. The loss of Garrett, combined with the potential restructuring of the bullpen, places additional pressure on Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns to address the team's pitching needs for the upcoming season.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the Mets' management may point to the increased workload Garrett faced over the past two seasons, which significantly exceeded his previous MLB appearances. This heavy usage could be a contributing factor to his injury, raising questions about the team's handling of player workloads and injury prevention strategies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He continues to have a hard time recovering after every time he’s pitched,” — Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager
Garrett's surgery marks a pivotal moment for the Mets as they navigate the challenges of rebuilding their bullpen for the 2026 season.
