Mets' Marcus Stroman 'optimistic' about making next start after injury scare
New York Mets starting right-hander Marcus Stroman gave the club its latest injury scare when he exited Tuesday's home game against the Atlanta Braves in the top of the second inning due to what was later reported to be soreness in his left hip.
An MRI on Wednesday showed no serious setback, however, and manager Luis Rojas told reporters Stroman believes he won't miss a single start because of the issue.
"This guy, he's a warrior. He's got a big heart," Rojas said of Stroman. "He thinks he can do everything, even when he's limited. But I think right now, the smart thing is to get treated today and get some soreness out of there.
"The day off tomorrow helps when it comes down for his next time to pitch. That's probably why he's optimistic. But, right now we still want to work with him and give him the treatment that he needs to get that out of the way."
Stroman is listed day-to-day and is not expected to land on the injured list at a time when the Mets are down several arms and will be without Joey Lucchesi for anywhere between 12-18 months due to upcoming Tommy John surgery. Following Tuesday's brief appearance, Stroman holds a 6-5 record with a 2.32 ERA and 75 strikeouts across 85.1 innings this season.
The Mets have lost six of eight contests but are 37-31 and in first place in the National League East standings, four games ahead of the Braves, Washington Nationals and Philadelphia Phillies as of the start of the Wednesday afternoon contests.
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