Mets RP Dellin Betances goes on IL with shoulder setback

Right-handed relief pitcher Dellin Betances had a nightmare start to his New York Mets tenure during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season and appeared in only one of the team's first three games this month. 

The 33-year-old has already been sidelined with a setback. 

Per Anthony DiComo of the official MLB website, the Mets placed Betances on the 10-day injured list with right shoulder impingement following his 2021 debut on Wednesday at the Philadelphia Phillies. He surrendered an earned run and showcased diminished velocity in the brief appearance. 

Betances pitched in 15 games for the Mets last season and finished the year with a 7.71 ERA. Formerly known for a blazing fastball, he earned four All-Star nods during a lengthy stint with the New York Yankees. 

"Obviously, in the past, I’d rely on the stuff I had," Betances told reporters last month during spring training. "I’m not there right now."

In a corresponding roster move, the Mets selected the contract of right-hander Trevor Hildenberger to replace Betances in the bullpen. 

During the winter months, Betances worked out at a biomechanics facility in New Jersey to improve his throwing and release points.