Terry Collins says Mets used Tim Byrdak too much
Tim Byrdak pitches in relief during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. (May 22, 2012) Credit: Getty Images
It seemed likely that Tim Byrdak's pitching shoulder injury, diagnosed as a tear in the anterior capsule of his left shoulder, came from simply too much wear and tear for a 38-year-old who led the majors with 56 appearances this season after making 72 appearances last season.
Not even Mets manager Terry Collins disagreed yesterday. "No question we used him more than we should have," Collins said before last night's game. "Injuries are caused by overuse. I've had too many doctors say it: When they're gonna break, they're gonna break. There's not much you can really do about it."
The Mets didn't add a second lefthander until recalling Josh Edgin on July 13. Byrdak, who was 2-2 with a 4.40 ERA this season, complained of shoulder soreness on the recent road trip.
The Mets recalled LHP Garrett Olson from Buffalo to keep a second lefty in the bullpen.
All-Star logo revealed
The Mets unveiled the official logo for the 2013 All-Star Game at Citi Field, providing a symbolic face for a game that will not be played until next July 16.
Collins, R.A. Dickey, Johan Santana and David Wright joined Mets alumni Ron Darling, Keith Hernandez, John Franco and Dwight Gooden during the brief ceremony. This will be the first time the Mets have hosted the Midsummer Classic since 1964, Shea Stadium's debut season.
COO Jeff Wilpon added levity to the proceedings when discussing the Home Run Derby.
"I don't know if you are going to do it, David, or not," Wilpon said, referring to Wright's potential participation. Wright, in turn, thanked Wilpon and the organization for moving in the fences.
"It would've been unprecedented to have to hit from second base," Wright joked.
