Mets Season in Review: Scott Atchison

Our player by player Season in Review pieces continue today with right handed reliever Scott Atchison.  The 38 year old was signed by the Mets prior to the season after spending three successful years with the Red Sox.

Apr 1, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Scott Atchison (50) throws a pitch against the San Diego Padres during the eighth inning of a MLB opening day game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

How he fared on the mound:

Atchison, who has been pitching with a partially torn UCL in his pitching elbow, was a decent contributor for the Mets before the injury forced him to the disabled list in the middle of May.

The partially torn UCL caused Atchison to spend roughly two months on the disabled list.  He returned on July 14th and contributed five scoreless appearances to close out the month.  However, he struggled in August and September, posting ERA’s of 4.63 and 5.91 respectively.

Areas to improve upon:

When he’s been healthy, Atchison has been effective.  The issue, is that he’s pitching with a partially torn UCL in his pitching elbow.  If he opts to repair it by having Tommy John surgery, it may very well end his career.  If he continues to pitch through it, trips to the disabled list are close to inevitable.

Projected role in 2014:

Atchison will turn 39 in March, and the safe bet is that he’s pitched his last game for the Mets.

Contract status and trade rumors:

Atchison made $700K in 2013, and is arbitration eligible.  It’s highly unlikely that the Mets offer him arbitration.  I expect that he’ll be non-tendered in order for the club to clear a spot on the 40-man roster.

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