Parnell “Optimistic” He’ll Return This Season

Bobby Parnell, who’s been on the disabled list for the last few weeks with a herniated disk in his neck, spoke with Jorge Castillo of the Star-Ledger about the likelihood of returning this season.  Parnell, while acknowledging that surgery is still a possibility, told Castillo that his therapy has been going well and that he’s optimistic he’ll be back before the season ends.

Jul 23, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Bobby Parnell (39) pitches in the ninth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: John Munson/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports

The 28 year old Parnell did note, however, that if he isn’t healthy enough to return in three weeks, Doctor’s have advised him that surgery would be the wise option at that point.  Said Parnell:

"If it was a disc job, I’d be back in two weeks.  But the doctors I’ve talked to so far aren’t really baseball guys, or athletic guys, so they can’t really give me a me a timetable.  Right now, just going the therapy route, trying to get better and trying to get educated as much as possible with all the surgery stuff if that has to happen."

If Parnell is able to return this season, that would be a bonus for the Mets.  If he doesn’t feel 100 percent, though, there’s no need to rush him back for the final few weeks of a non-contending season.

Before hitting the disabled list on August 2nd, Parnell had emerged as a legitimate shutdown closer.  In 50 innings pitched, Parnell allowed 38 hits, walked 12, and struck out 44.  He compiled a 2.16 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, and saved 22 games.

We’ll know in three weeks (or sooner) whether those will be Parnell’s final 2013 numbers.

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