Topic: John Maine

What is everyone's take on how to handle John Maine's issues.  While his increased velocity is encouraging, it is clear that there is something wrong.  Assuming he cannot hurt his arm by pitching, how do you think we should handle him from here?

If it helps, I'd DL him.  This is a very valuable arm.  The guy is very important to this team, now and in the future. I'd start Stokes or Armas Jr, or Knight (back from Olympics) in his next start.  When Niese and Parnell come up on Sept 1, start them to cover Maine's slot and to give Pelfrey a little extra rest between starts.

I know it's risky with our slim lead but it's the right thing to do.  What good is making the offseason if your pitching staff falls apart getting there.  Or worse, you injure a valuable arm.  My way, Maine rests and returns mid September.  He misses 2, maybe 3 starts, but comes back healthier for the last push.  Pelfrey is not overworked and is strong at the end of the season.  Niese and Parnell get a chance to pitch one or two starts each.

What do the rest of you guys think?

Both of you make valid points.

I'm no doctor so I can't judge whether to remove him but, If it hurts , something is wrong. Can't figure how he throws 94 mph.

So, on the side of caution, I would move him to relief. Possibly close , if needed for a batter or two.

I understand your point Ron.  However, it seems that the stress on his arm of pitching more often than every 5 days is not an option.  He has eliminated side sessions between starts.  It looks like he'll be shut down, for his own good.  If that happens, we'll need Pedro.  Niese will make the September starts.  We'll be fine.  Just hope they don't take any chances with a good young arm.

Your wish has been granted! The Mets have shut him down and placed him on the DL. It sounds like he will be out three weeks from what I have read. That may mean he is done for the season. They are also talking athroscopic surgery after the season for the bone spurs. This puts a serious crimp in the playoff run. The offense needs to come to life and take some of the heat of the pitching staff.

I think they will be fine.  Niese will make a few September starts.  Even if Maine is done this year, we have 4 very good starters for the playoffs.  That's all we need.  It is a second major contributor lost for the stretch run but I'm confident that this team can overcome it.  It looks like a dogfight with the Phillies to the end. 

It's almost September and we're in the middle of a pennant race.  Doesn't get much better than that.  Let's go Mets!!!!!