Breaking Mets News: Zack Wheeler Scratched After Aggravating Oblique in Cage

Per the Mets, RHP Zack Wheeler has been scratched from today’s start after straining his oblique while hitting in the batting cage.

Feb 21, 2013; Port St Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Zack Wheeler (65) poses for a picture during photo day at Tradition Field. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Sandy Alderson told reporters that Wheeler aggravated the oblique (in his right side) while hitting this morning, and that it’s viewed as a mild strain.  Wheeler threw after feeling the issue in his oblique, and felt fine.  However, the Mets are taking no chances with Wheeler in spring training (nor should they be).  Wheeler later said he expects to make his next start.

It’s customary for Mets fans to flip out over everything (no matter how small).  Fortunately, this appears more precautionary than anything.  The Mets view it as minor, and Wheeler and Alderson do as well:

Wheeler–

"It wasn’t on a certain swing or anything.  I came out and it was a little stiff. I don’t want to risk a bigger injury and be out longer."

Alderson-

"It’s mostly precautionary at this point.  He tried to throw and didn’t experience any problem, but he was sore to the touch, so we’re going to back him off.  [It’s] a lot more disappointing for the people who were going to watch him on TV back in New York."

Even though Wheeler said he expects to make his next start, it wouldn’t surprise me if the Mets made him wait a bit just to be safe.  That, of course, would stir the conspiracy theorists into a frenzy, but there’s simply no need to force the issue with Wheeler during spring training.

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