The New York Mets are once again grappling with a familiar foe: the injury bug. This time, it’s reliever Justin Hagenman who has been placed on the 60-day injured list due to a fractured rib. In a corresponding move, the Mets have reacquired pitcher Richard Lovelady off waivers from the Washington Nationals.
Hagenman’s Setback and the Impact on the Mets’ Pitching Staff
Hagenman’s injury woes began after he experienced soreness in his rib following his most recent appearance on March 5th against the Nationals. The discomfort escalated, prompting imaging tests that confirmed a rib fracture. He is now expected to be sidelined until late May. However, manager Carlos Mendoza indicated that there is no definitive timetable for Hagenman’s return, leaving open the possibility of an extended absence. This latest development adds to what has been a spring training period filled with ongoing narratives surrounding the Mets’ pitching staff.
A Difficult Spring for Hagenman
Prior to his injury, Hagenman had not enjoyed a particularly successful start to spring training. He participated in three games, starting two, and accumulated an ERA of 5.40 over 8 1/3 innings pitched. In his 2025 season with the Mets, he appeared in nine games, with one start, finishing with a 4.53 ERA in 23 2/3 innings. Given his remaining minor league options and his sluggish performance this spring, Hagenman would have likely begun the season in Triple-A. The uncertainty surrounding his return date makes it unclear where he will be pitching during the season, suggesting that his first full year in the majors may be significantly impacted.
Richard Lovelady’s Return to Flushing
The Mets have welcomed Richard Lovelady back for a second stint with the organization. New York initially signed him to a one-year contract last season, but the tenure did not unfold as hoped. Lovelady made only eight appearances for the Mets, pitching 10 innings and posting a less-than-stellar 6.30 ERA. Despite his limited sample size, he was designated for assignment (DFA’d) three times during the previous season. He found his way back to the Mets this year via another one-year deal, only to be DFA’d again following the acquisition of Vidal Brujan.
Lovelady was then claimed by the Washington Nationals. During spring training with the Nationals, he showed promise, recording a 2.25 ERA in four innings of work. Despite this solid performance, he was DFA’d by Washington on March 10th. The Mets subsequently claimed Lovelady back off waivers, prompted by Hagenman’s injury.
Lovelady’s Chances of Pitching This Season
It remains to be seen whether Lovelady will actually throw a pitch for the Mets this season. With Brooks Raley healthy and A.J. Minter returning from injury, the Mets’ bullpen may not have a pressing need for another left-handed reliever.
The question of whether Lovelady will contribute to the Mets, or even make an appearance, is still up in the air. If he manages to navigate the team’s roster decisions and the returns of other pitchers, he might secure a spot. The Mets’ strategy regarding Lovelady as the season commences will undoubtedly be a storyline to watch.
