MLB

Mets’ Dellin Betances lasted one appearance before going on IL

Dellin Betances’ health was a significant factor in his underwhelming 2020 for the Mets, and concern already looms about this season.

On Thursday the veteran right-hander was placed on the injured list with a shoulder impingement, a day after his season debut in Philadelphia.

Trevor Hildenberger was selected to the major league roster to fill Betances’ spot in the bullpen.

Betances’ velocity was a concern in spring training, with his fastball consistently around 90 mph. He topped out at 93 mph against the Phillies, allowing one run in his inning of work.

“He told me he was pretty sore,” manager Luis Rojas said after the Mets rallied to beat the Marlins 3-2 at Citi Field. “I do believe heading into the game [Wednesday] and ramping up with intensity led him to more soreness today and he was checked and it led to a decision where he is going to need treatment and a buildup to come back from something like that.”

Betances, who is receiving $6 million this season, spent much of last year on the IL with a lat strain. He pitched to a 7.71 ERA in 15 appearances for the team.

Dellin Betances injury Mets
Dellin Betances during the Mets’ loss to the Phillies on April 7, 2021. Getty Images

Rojas was asked about the tenor of the clubhouse celebration after the Mets scored twice in the ninth for the victory.

“This year has been a little different,” Rojas said. “There was some dancing going on. I wasn’t present, but I did hear the shouting. I know Francisco [Lindor] was in the middle of it and other guys. They were definitely cheering [Jeff] McNeil for his birthday and they were cheering the walk-off with [Michael] Conforto for the hit by pitch.”


Vaccinations for COVID were available to Mets players and staff after the game. Pete Alonso was asked if he planned to receive a vaccination.

“Well, I’ll put it to you this way: I’m in a vaccine, commercial, right?” Alonso said, referring to a public service announcement endorsed by MLB.

But Alonso never directly answered the question, adding it’s “private medical information.” He said each player/staff member must make his or her own decision on the matter.


Brandon Nimmo went 3-for-5 and extended his on-base streak to 17 games. He has reached base in 11 of his 19 plate appearances this season for a .579 on-base percentage in those four games.