The New York Mets are facing a significant setback with Dedniel Nunez, who will be sidelined for at least a couple of months, possibly the entire 2026 season. Nunez, a surprising standout in the Mets' 2024 bullpen, has been plagued by injuries, undergoing Tommy John surgery twice. His journey back to recovery is a familiar tale of resilience.
In 2024, Nunez showcased his talent with a 2.31 ERA, striking out 48 batters over 35 innings in the majors. He emerged as an unexpected yet reliable arm in the bullpen, finally giving the Mets some homegrown relief talent to count on.
However, a season-ending injury slowed his momentum, leading to a demotion at the start of the 2025 season. Unfortunately, he managed only 9.2 innings before another surgery became necessary.
Nunez's path to the Mets is unique, having been a Rule 5 Draft pick by the San Francisco Giants in 2020 after his first surgery. He was returned to the Mets in 2021 without ever pitching for the Giants. This story mirrors that of another Mets prospect, Nate Lavender.
Lavender, like Nunez, was picked in the Rule 5 Draft by the Tampa Bay Rays ahead of the 2025 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery. He never pitched for the Rays and was returned to the Mets in November. Unlike Nunez, Lavender is already accustomed to the demands of a relief role, having posted a 3.27 ERA over 44 innings for Triple-A Syracuse in 2024.
Lavender is on track to make his major league debut sooner than Nunez did, as he will play this season at 26. His left-handedness further boosts his prospects.
With A.J. Minter currently out, there’s an opportunity for Lavender to step up.
However, the Mets are likely to manage his progression carefully, considering his potential as a long-term asset rather than a quick fix.
Selected in the 14th round of the 2021 draft, Lavender's journey is one to watch. His story, marked by perseverance and potential, adds an intriguing chapter to the Mets' ongoing quest for bullpen stability.