Griffin Canning Exits in Agonizing Non-Contact Injury
On Thursday, June 26, during the Mets’ 4–0 shutout over the Atlanta Braves, right‑hander Griffin Canning exited the game in the top of the third inning after sustaining a non-contact injury to his left leg . After delivering a pitch that resulted in a Nick Allen groundout, Canning stepped off the mound, moving to back up third base, only to crumble to the turf without any contact with another player .
Caught mid-stride, Canning raised his left leg and quickly collapsed—hopping on his right before dropping—and appeared to be in visible pain, covering his face with his hands as trainers, catcher Luis Torrens, and team staff rushed to assist . He was able to limp off the field with help, arms draped over two trainers, while showing no signs of self-mobility .
Immediate Aftermath and Diagnosis
Following the incident, the Mets identified the injury as a left ankle issue, but manager Carlos Mendoza later revealed they harbor “fears” it could be an Achilles tendon injury . Canning is slated for imaging—including an MRI—to ascertain the extent of damage, though early indications suggest a potentially serious Achilles tear .
At the moment of injury, Canning had delivered 2⅔ innings of sharp pitching: one hit allowed, zero walks, and three strikeouts—an efficient performance that further underscored the sting of his sudden removal .
Season Context: A Bright Start Turned Troublesome June
Canning’s season had begun promisingly. He entered the game with a 7–3 record and a 3.77 ERA across 16 starts. The first ten outings saw a sparkling 2.47 ERA, but in June he stumbled, posting a 6.47 ERA over his last six starts .
Yet, even amid inconsistencies, Canning was a crucial figure in a rotation already straining under injuries and underperformance.
Rotation in Crisis: Mets’ Growing Health Emergency
The Mets’ pitching staff had already endured a cascade of setbacks:
Kodai Senga (ace; right hamstring strain; injured June 12)
Tylor Megill (right elbow sprain; sidelined since June 14)
Sean Manaea (oblique injury in spring training, followed by bone chip/discomfort in his elbow during rehab)
Canning’s injury marks the third blow to the rotation in just two weeks—a jarring string of losses that occurred during the stretch when Senga and Megill went down .
Manager Mendoza, while expressing sympathy for his pitcher, emphasized resilience: “Nobody’s going to feel sorry for us… We’ll find a way. Guys will step up” .
Bullpen Perseveres, Offense Responds
Despite the setback, the Mets’ bullpen rose to the occasion. Austin Warren, called up from Triple-A earlier that day, relieved Canning and threw 2⅓ one-hit, scoreless innings to earn the win . He was followed by Dedniel Núñez, Ryne Stanek, and Edwin Díaz, who combined to cover the final four innings, allowing just one baserunner .
Offensively, New York supported the strong relief showing: a Tyrone Taylor sacrifice fly in the fourth, a Pete Alonso RBI single in the fifth, and a two-run Jeff McNeil knock in the seventh provided insurance runs .
The win helped the Mets regain first place in the NL East, finishing at 48–34—half a game ahead of the Phillies .
What Comes Next: Worst‑Case Scenarios and Strategic Planning
Possible Achilles Tear
If imaging confirms an Achilles tear, Canning could be out for the season. Recovery timelines vary from 6 to 12 months, and even with surgery and rehab, the end of his 2025 campaign is almost certain.
Rotation Adjustments
Mets front office—particularly president of baseball operations David Stearns—may need to pivot aggressively:
Sean Manaea might be accelerated off the injured list, assuming his rehab progresses smoothly.
Look to minor league arms: Nolan McLean, Blade Tidwell, or others may receive calls to fill gaps.
Potential trade additions before the July 31 deadline could become imperative if recovery drags or further injuries strike.
Bullpen Load Management
The back-end bullpen has been overtaxed. Sustained increased usage may erode stamina and effectiveness. Managers will need to monitor relievers closely and consider bullpen reinforcements.
The Human and Emotional Toll
The injury struck a personal chord. Canning, a one-year, $4.25 million addition signed in December, was not only crucial on the mound but also a visible morale booster. His 2020 Gold Glove season with the Angels, and the resilience he displayed through past injuries, had made him a popular presence in the clubhouse . Austin Warren, who took his place, expressed concern: as a close friend of Canning’s, the night was “emotional” .
Looking Ahead
MRI results expected soon, with further clarity on the injury and recovery timeline.
Mets coaching staff and front office will need to chart rotation contingency plans.
Future match-ups, including the upcoming road trip and the July 5 Subway Series start, remain uncertain.
Meanwhile, the Mets celebrate the resilience of their bullpen and clutch hitting while bracing for the potential long-term loss of a key starter. Their ability to adapt under duress could define the remainder of their season.
In Short
Canning’s non-contact injury may be the most serious of the Mets’ recent rotation setbacks. As imaging looms and uncertainty deepens, the Mets must navigate an evolving roster dyn
amic—balancing short-term survival with longer-term rebuilding of a deeply injured staff.
