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Thursday, September 11, 2008

HEILMAN FIGHTING TENDINITIS IN KNEE (RR)

Though he called it “manageable,” Aaron HeilmanAaron Heilman admitted last night that he’s been battling tendinitis in his left knee all season.

Heilman has had a brutal year, an anomaly for him considering his past success. After three straight strong seasons, Heilman has a 5.38 ERA this year, following the two-run homer he served up last night in the MetsNew York Mets ’ 13-10 win.

“His knee has been barking a little bit,” Jerry Manuel said after the game.

Heilman said the team has been aware of the problem since it began this past spring. He wouldn’t use it as an excuse for his poor season, saying it’s only been an issue in perhaps a few games.

Whether or not tendinitis is the primary reason for his struggles or not, Manuel needs to stop using him in anything resembling a close game this year. He just isn’t right.

Russlan will never be fond of Jason Bay Posted: September 11, 2008 at 08:47 AM | 5 comment(s) Login to Bookmark
Tags: mets

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1. Bobby Bonilla's Annuity (Matt) Posted: September 11, 2008 at 02:18 PM (#2937698)

At this point, were the Mets to make it, I would not include Heilman on a postseason roster.

2. Swoboda is freedom Posted: September 11, 2008 at 02:32 PM (#2937714)

I might include him but use him for all long relief.

3. Lassus Posted: September 11, 2008 at 02:42 PM (#2937723)

At this point, were the Mets to make it, I would not include Heilman on a postseason roster.

I see the argument for this, but I can't really see where anyone ELSE we'd have as a last reliever in the bullpen would really be any better. I'd definitely leave him on the roster.

4. rpackrat Posted: September 11, 2008 at 03:13 PM (#2937768)

Maybe this explains Heilman's transformation from reliable setup guy to disaster this season. He really is '08's version of the '07 Guillermo Mota. Hopefully, the tendinitis can be treated in the offseason. Heilman should only be used in mopup duty the rest of the way. No way should he ever be permitted to face the tying or go-ahead run. Maybe the tendinitis will provide a face-saving way to leave him off the postseason roster.

5. Bob Koo Posted: September 11, 2008 at 03:50 PM (#2937831)

I thought the Mets would give Al Reyes a look in September. But I'm guessing they haven't liked what they've seen from him since he was called up. The last two nights were good opportunities to use Reyes; instead, Jerry used Brandon Knight on Tuesday and Heilman yesterday.

If the Mets make the playoffs (yes i'm being cautious), the pitchers should be:
Santana, Pelfrey, Perez, Pedro
Ayala, Stokes, Smith, Feliciano, Schoeneweis, Sanchez.

If Maine comes back and can show anything out of the pen the last week or so, he should get the final spot. If not, I suppose it has to be Heilman (sigh).

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Thursday, September 11, 2008

HEILMAN FIGHTING TENDINITIS IN KNEE (RR)

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