Isringhausen has elbow inflammation
Mets relief pitcher Jason Isringhausen throws during a spring training game. (Feb. 28, 2011) Credit: AP
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- Jason Isringhausen's spot on the Mets' Opening Day roster could be in jeopardy because of elbow inflammation he's been experiencing lately.
Expected to start the season as the Mets' setup man, Isringhausen was shut down from throwing Monday and given an anti-inflammatory medication that typically takes 24 hours to settle in.
Isringhausen expects to start playing catch again Tuesday morning and hopes this won't turn into a significant setback. He said doctors told him the inflammation in his elbow is muscle-related and has nothing to do with the ligament that he's had surgically repaired three times.
"It's one of those things where you just bang it out and keep going," Isringhausen said. "Granted, it's toward the end of camp, but we still got enough time to do what I need to do."
But given Isringhausen's lengthy injury history, the Mets have to take into account whether they are going to be able to count on the righthander to be available out of the bullpen on most days.
"It's a factor we'll have to take into account," general manager Sandy Alderson said. "Whether this turns out to be significant or not, we'll know in the next few days. Right now, we don't think it is."
Pelfrey hit hard
Mike Pelfrey, making his second-to- last start of spring training, lasted only 3 1/3 innings in the Mets' 8-7 win over Atlanta. He was charged with seven runs (four earned), all of which scored in the fourth inning.
The Braves began the inning with six straight hits, and that run was followed by an error by David Wright. Terry Collins said he took Pelfrey out in part because he had a blister on his finger.
"It snowballed quick," Pelfrey said. "I know that."
His final exhibition start is scheduled for Saturday, which provides him an additional day of rest before starting Opening Day against the Marlins April 1.
Beltran update
Carlos Beltran, rehabbing from knee issues, took live batting practice against minor-league pitchers and did some work in the outfield, both of which were activities he hadn't done in two weeks. Collins said Beltran could be the designated hitter in a minor-league exhibition game Tuesday afternoon, with a pinch runner subbing for him any time he reaches base.
