New York Mets: Mickey Callaway can be a difference maker

Matt Harvey and Steven Matz

Harvey has had a rollercoaster of a career with the New York Mets so far. The “Dark Knight” appeared to be the pitcher of the Mets future early in his career. However, injury (and stardom) have caused a massive decline in his production. Last season Harvey was clearly affected by injury, but also had off-the-field issues that could have contributed to his disappointment. A change in leadership may just be what Harvey needs to get back on track. So, can Mickey Callaway get Matt Harvey’s mojo back?

Matz, a young left hander, has shown glimpses of elite pitching. However, Matz has been unable to remain on the field due to various injuries. We have yet to see what Matz can do on a consistent basis because of these injuries. If Callaway can keep Matz on the field (something that Terry Collins and his staff failed to do), the young left-hander can be a huge factor for the Mets this season.

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Another important addition to Callaway’s cohorts is the hiring of a new medical staff. GM Sandy Alderson needed to address the medical staff after continuous years of devastating injuries for the team. It is rare that the firing of a member of the medical staff makes headline news, but previous trainer Ray Ramirez was nearly run out of town by Mets fans, who were frustrated by watching another season wasted in 2017 by an injury-decimated team. The Mets hope that a revamped training staff can help keep their players on the field.

With Callaway’s change of culture and pitching expertise, along with a healthy roster, the Mets have the potential to be playoff contenders in 2018. It will take a remarkable season for the Mets to win the division, but a Wild Card berth is not out of the realm of possibility.

As a new era is about to begin for the New York Mets, Mickey Callaway can be a difference maker for the franchise this season.