Steven Matz
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2016Stars664041048.04015163222.81
2017Stars2121711150141.1126642614744.08
2018Stars13131035076.08439196184.62
2019Stars28286112120177.1166836016064.21
2020Stars30307313150201.119710965188154.87
2021Stars16161049091.010257329405.64
2022Stars2828817140195.218910170186254.65
2023Vigilantes550022030.0442263656.60
2024Vigilantes151510820109.179322710922.63
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 3 2025The Cardinals are likely to use a spot starter at times in June but appear to be leaning toward keeping Matz in a traditional bullpen role, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz operated in a hybrid role in April but was used exclusively in relief in May. While the Cardinals are likely to incorporate a spot starter during a stretch of 28 games in 29 days this month, Matz appears set to remain in the bullpen since he's no longer stretched out sufficiently to start. Instead, Michael McGreevy is the top candidate to draw a spot start or two with the big club.
May 3 2025Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Friday that he plans for Matz to pitch out of the bullpen "at the moment," Daniel Guerrero of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Cardinals went to a six-man rotation during a stretch of the schedule that was light on off days. However, they are idle for every Thursday in May, allowing them to shift back to a five-man setup for the time being. It sounds like Matz could re-enter the rotation at any point, though, with Marmol saying of Matz's usage that the club can "pick and choose based on how things are going." Matz has pitched well in both roles this season, posting a 1.00 ERA and 11:0 K:BB over nine innings in two starts and a 1.80 ERA and 9:3 K:BB over 15 frames covering seven relief outings.
Apr 30 2025Matz didn't factor into the decision in the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Reds, allowing five hits over four scoreless innings. He struck out six without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw may not have been available for a full workload after working in relief Saturday, but Matz gave the Cards 73 pitches (55 strikes) in an impressive outing, including 26 called or swinging strikes. He's been brilliant in a swingman role to begin the season, posting a 1.50 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 20:3 K:BB through 24 innings. If St. Louis sticks with a six-man rotation into May, Matz would line up to make his next start at home early next week against the Pirates.
Apr 20 2025Matz's turn through the rotation will be skipped for the upcoming series against Atlanta, which begins Monday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander made his first start of the season last Wednesday and was expected to operate as St. Louis' No. 6 starter going forward, but the club will temporarily move him back to the bullpen due to Thursday's team off day. Matz is expected to re-enter the rotation next weekend versus Milwaukee, and he's likely to get at least a couple turns since the Cardinals have a stretch of 13 straight games from April 25 to May 7.
Apr 16 2025Matz (1-0) earned the win Wednesday over the Astros, allowing one run on two hits and no walks over five innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz allowed a run on a pair of hits in the first inning before settling in and blanking Houston over his final four frames, setting down the final 15 batters he faced. Matz, who made five appearances out of the bullpen before starting Wednesday's outing, now sports a 2.16 ERA, 0.90 WHIP and 11:2 K:BB through his first 16.2 innings this year. Matz figures to see at least two more starts, with the Cardinals electing to utilize a six-man rotation for the next three weeks.
Apr 14 2025The Cardinals are expected to use Matz as part of a six-man rotation for at least three weeks, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Cardinals are moving to a temporary six-man rotation because they have just one scheduled off day from April 11 to May 7. Matz will enter the rotation this week and appears in line to make at least four starts before the team re-evaluates its pitching plan. The left-hander has collected a 2.31 ERA and 6:2 K:BB over 11.2 innings covering five relief appearances this season.
Apr 13 2025Matz appears to be lined up to enter the St. Louis rotation Thursday against the Mets at Citi Field. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Earlier Sunday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reported that Matz was slated to start Wednesday's game against the Astros, but with Andre Pallante now being listed as the Cardinals' probable starter for that day, St. Louis looks set to wait until the series with the Mets to expand its rotation to six men. The Cardinals are likely electing to push Matz back an extra day after he tossed 2.1 innings of one-run ball in relief during Saturday's 4-1 loss to the Phillies. The left-hander has made five appearances out of the bullpen so far in 2025, surrendering four runs (three earned) on 11 hits and two walks while striking out six batters over 11.2 innings.
Apr 12 2025Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Friday that Matz remains on track to start April 16 against the Astros as part of a six-man rotation, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz will be available out of the bullpen this weekend against the Phillies, although maybe not for multiple innings since he has a start looming Wednesday. It's not yet clear how long the Cardinals plan to use a six-man rotation, but it sounds like Matz will be in line to make multiple starts. The left-hander has pitched well out of the bullpen so far this season, permitting three runs (two earned) with a 5:1 K:BB over 9.1 frames. Matz's high pitch count among his four appearances is 53, and that came back on April 4. He's thrown 16 and 11 pitches over his last two appearances, respectively, so he'll likely have workload limitations versus Houston.
Mar 30 2025Matz allowed one hit over four shutout frames during a win over Minnesota on Sunday. He struck out two and earned a save. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz entered the game with an 8-2 lead and had no problem finishing off the game for St. Louis. He fired 39 of 51 pitches for strikes and allowed just one runner to reach scoring position. The veteran southpaw should continue seeing long-relief action and likely won't be used in many save situations.
Mar 23 2025Matz will work in long relief to begin the campaign, though he is expected to enter the rotation as a sixth starter April 16 against the Astros, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was a candidate to land a spot in the Opening Day rotation, but he'll instead come out of the bullpen until St. Louis shifts to a six-man unit. The southpaw had a strong spring, posting a 2.29 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 11:6 K:BB over 19.2 innings, but he's had trouble staying healthy while working mostly as a starter during his 10-year big-league career.
Mar 19 2025Matz limited the Nationals to one run over six innings in Grapefruit League action Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander permitted just four hits and two walks while recording a pair of strikeouts and getting his pitch count up to 85. Matz has fanned only 11 batters over 17.2 frames this spring, but he's allowed just five runs and looks to have a firm grip on a rotation spot in St. Louis.
Mar 7 2025The Cardinals are leaning toward putting Matz in their Opening Day rotation, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has yielded just one run with a 3:3 K:BB over five innings in his first two starts this spring. Michael McGreevy would seem to be Matz's biggest competition, but the signs for now point to the veteran lefty getting another chance to start. Injuries have limited Matz to fewer than 50 innings in two of his three seasons with St. Louis.
Feb 20 2025Matz is scheduled to start the Cardinals' third spring training game Monday versus the Mets, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz is coming off an unproductive 2024 season in which he turned in a 5.08 ERA and 1.44 WHIP over 44.1 frames, with recurring back problems playing a part in his deflated innings count. The veteran lefty was deployed out of the bullpen for much of September, but with Kyle Gibson and Lance Lynn reaching free agency this winter and the Cardinals not making any major offseason additions to the pitching staff, Matz should be in good position to open the season as the club's No. 5 starter. Matz is entering the final season of a four-year, $44 million contract and likely won't have much job security if he emerges from camp with a rotation spot. St. Louis has a pair of intriguing young pitching prospects in Quinn Mathews and Michael McGreevy waiting in the wings to step in if Matz falters or gets injured.
Sep 6 2024Matz will be available out of the bullpen going forward from Sunday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander returned from the 60-day IL as a starter Tuesday in Milwaukee and allowed three runs over 4.2 innings, but he'll be shifted to the bullpen with Lance Lynn (knee) on the cusp of rejoining St. Louis' rotation. Matz has a 6.12 ERA, 1.61 WHIP and 24:12 K:BB across 32.1 innings this season and is now likely to operate as a long reliever.
Sep 3 2024Matz did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's 7-4 win against Milwaukee, allowing three runs on three hits and one walks over 4.2 innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In his first appearance since April 30 due to a back injury, Matz surprisingly flashed the ability to punch out hitters, posting a season-high seven strikeouts generated via a solid 14 whiffs. However, the veteran southpaw struggled to limit damage against the first-place Brewers, as all three hits he yielded went for extra bases (two home runs and one double). Prior to this outing, Matz had pitched to a 6.18 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and 24:12 K:BB across 32.1 innings this season, so this performance did represent progress despite his inability to escape the fifth inning. The 33-year-old's future in the rotation is uncertain as Lance Lynn (back) is on a rehab assignment and could overtake Matz's spot.
Sep 2 2024Matz will start Tuesday's game in Milwaukee, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was activated from the 60-day injured list Sunday and available out of the bullpen for the Cardinals' win over the Yankees. He was not used, however, and the team has opted to give him a spot start while they push other rotation members back. Matz seems likely to shift back to a relief role after Tuesday's outing, although it's possible he earns additional starts if he pitches well.
Sep 1 2024The Cardinals reinstated Matz (back) from the 60-day injured list Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz will rejoin the big club for the first time since early May after he completed a lengthy recovery from a lower-back strain and the subsequent setback he experienced in June. He restarted his rehab assignment Aug. 1 and built up to five innings and 85 pitches over the course of six outings at Triple-A Memphis, but Matz doesn't appear as though he'll be reclaiming a spot in the St. Louis rotation in September. Miles Mikolas is starting Sunday's series finale against the Yankees, while John Denton of MLB.com relays that Andre Pallante, Sonny Gray and Erick Fedde are listed as the Cardinals' three starters for the team's upcoming series in Milwaukee. While St. Louis could expand its rotation to six men, Lance Lynn (back) is poised to make a rehab start Sunday and could be activated later this week to fill a potential opening. As such, Matz could be relegated to a multi-inning role out of the bullpen.
Aug 29 2024Matz (back) is traveling with the Cardinals on the road trip starting Friday and is expected to be activated from the injured list during the weekend, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: If activated as expected, it seems Matz will be added as the extra pitcher when rosters are expanded Sunday. The southpaw completed his sixth rehab start Tuesday with Triple-A Memphis in which he gave up two eared on five hits over three innings. It still remains to be seen or reported if he will return as a starter in the rotation or long reliever. A factor that may play a part in that decision is JoJo Romero's health, who was reported as a bit more sore than his usual.
Aug 28 2024Matz (back) struck out three batters and gave up four runs (two earned) on five hits and no walks over three innings in his rehab start Tuesday with Triple-A Memphis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz tossed 64 pitches (45 strikes) in his sixth rehab start, with the Cardinals deliberating scaling back his workload Tuesday after he tossed 85 pitches and five innings his last time out for the Triple-A club Aug. 21. Though Matz is expected to return from the 60-day injured list to make his next appearance with the Cardinals, a decision hasn't been made whether he'll slot into the rotation or serve as a multi-inning option out of the bullpen. Per Chris Kirschner of The Athletic, the Cardinals have already confirmed their starting pitchers through Sunday, so if Matz does in fact rejoin the rotation, he won't take the hill until at least Monday's series opener in Milwaukee.
Aug 26 2024Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Monday that Matz (back) will have his pitch count scaled back to 65 in Tuesday's rehab start with Triple-A Memphis, Lynn Worthy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That's after he threw 85 pitches in his last outing with Memphis. The idea behind reducing Matz's workload is to keep him flexible for a variety of roles when he rejoins the Cardinals, as it sounds like he could be used as a starter or a reliever or both. Tuesday's rehab appearance is expected to be the final one before Matz is activated from the 60-day injured list. He's been out since late April due to a herniated disc in his back.
Aug 22 2024Matz (back) is expected to make one more minor-league rehab start prior to being activated from the 60-day injured list, Lynn Worthy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: On Wednesday, Matz made his third rehab start for Triple-A Memphis, striking out three batters in five innings and giving up four earned runs on nine hits and one walk while pushing his pitch count up to 85. Though Matz looks to be fully stretched out at this point, the Cardinals may want to see a sharper outing from the lefty before bringing him back from the IL. According to John Denton of MLB.com, Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak previously floated the idea of the team using a six-man rotation down the stretch, though Matz could still find himself as the odd man out for a starting role once he's activated. Lance Lynn (knee) looks to be tracking toward a return from the IL around the same time as Matz, and current fifth starter Andre Pallante (3.81 ERA and 1.20 WHIP in five starts since the All-Star break) may be pitching well enough to keep his spot in the rotation.
Aug 20 2024Matz (back) is scheduled to throw about 90 pitches in his rehab start with Tripel-A Memphis on Wednesday, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has a 1.38 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 11:3 K:BB across 13 frames in his four previous rehab outings, and Wednesday's start is likely to be his last before being reinstated from the injured list. The left-hander will be fully stretched out as a starter, though his official role upon being activated has yet to be determined. Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak indicated the club could move to the six-man roster with Lance Lynn (knee) also on the cusp of returning from the injured list.
Aug 17 2024Matz (back) will require one more minor-league rehab start before being activated from the 60-day injured list. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz struck out six in 4.1 scoreless innings during a rehab outing with Triple-A Memphis on Friday, but hasn't been deemed ready to return. Despite being on the shelf since May 3, Matz shouldn't have any restrictions once activated from the injured list considering he threw 76 pitches Friday. Following the trade deadline acquisition of Erick Fedde, it's unclear who'll be the odd man out in the St. Louis rotation once Matz is healthy.
Aug 12 2024Manager Oli Marmol told reporters Monday that Matz did not feel any back pain following his rehab outing with Triple-A Memphis on Sunday, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz came away with the no decision Sunday after allowing one run on two hits while striking out three across four frames. His next rehab appearance will take place Friday, and the plan is for the 33-year-old southpaw to toss five innings and approximately 75-to-80 pitches. Matz has not pitched for the Cardinals since late April due to a herniated disc in his back, though he could be on his way back to the big club if he comes out of Friday's outing unscathed.
Aug 1 2024Matz (back) threw two innings, allowing one run on one hit while striking out two with no walks in a rehab outing with Triple-A Memphis on Thursday, Lynn Worthy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz's outing met the team's expectations in terms of both number of pitches and innings. Assuming he avoids any setbacks, he should be in line for a few more rehab outings before being activated from the injured list and likely to rejoin the rotation.
Jul 28 2024Matz (back) will begin a rehab assignment Thursday and is expected to throw about 30 pitches over two innings, Lynn Worthy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander is hoping to return from the injured list sometime in August, and beginning a rehab assignment at the start of the month should give him a chance to make that happen. Matz has been sidelined since late April and will likely need a least a few rehab starts before rejoining the Cardinals.
Jul 22 2024Matz (back) is hoping to return sometime in August, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander threw his second bullpen session Saturday since resuming a throwing program. Matz has been on the injured list since May 3 due to a lower-back strain and had to be pulled off his initial rehab assignment in June following a setback. He'll need another rehab assignment before returning and any timetable at this point is very rough.
Jul 19 2024Matz (back) will throw a bullpen session Saturday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Saturday will mark the second time Matz has thrown off a mound since he moved to the 60-day IL in late June. If he's able to get through his next session without any issues, the Cardinals may clear him to face live hitters before sending him back on a minor-league rehab assignment shortly afterward. The 33-year-old southpaw has been on the injured list since May 3 due to a lower-back strain, and his recovery has been slowed by a setback he suffered during a rehab appearance.
Jun 28 2024Matz (back) was transferred to the 60-day injured list Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Cardinals had to clear up a spot on the 40-man roster for Gordon Graceffo to be called up and opted to push Matz to the 60-day IL to create the opening. Considering Matz was put on the injured list May 3, his move to the 60-day injured list won't impact his timeline for return. The 33-year-old was shut down from throwing for two weeks June 22.
Jun 22 2024Matz (back) suffered a setback during his rehab process and will be shut down from throwing for the next two weeks, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz reported soreness in his back after making his last rehab start Sunday, and the issue will now push his return date back even further. The lefty will have to restart his throwing program once his no-throw period is over, and the Cardinals estimate that he could return within 4-to-6 weeks in a best-case scenario.
Jun 18 2024Matz experienced soreness following Sunday's rehab start and will receive a second opinion on his lower-back strain in the next few days, Lynn Worthy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander initially suffered the injury during his start in Detroit on April 30. Prior to the aggravation, he was closing in on his return to the Cardinals, as Sunday was his third rehab start. It's unclear how much longer Matz will be sidelined, but there should be more clarity once he's further evaluated.
Jun 13 2024Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Matz (back) will make the third start of his rehab assignment Sunday with Double-A Springfield, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In his most recent outing Tuesday with Springfield, Matz surrendered five unearned runs on three hits and one walk while striking out three over 1.2 innings. After Matz tossed 35 pitches Tuesday, Marmol said that the veteran lefty is in line to throw approximately 50 pitches Sunday. The Cardinals are aiming for Matz to build up to the 75-to-80-pitch mark before he returns from the 15-day injured list, so he'll presumably need at least one more rehab start after Sunday to get fully stretched out.
Jun 8 2024Matz (back) will start Tuesday for Double-A Springfield, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was able to get through two shutout innings on 24 pitches during his first rehab start at Triple-A on Thursday. Manager Oli Marmol said Saturday that the 33-year-old southpaw will build up to 40 pitches in his upcoming start, and the team will aim to get him up to about 75-80 pitches before returning him to the big-league rotation, making it likely he'll require at least one more rehab start after Tuesday.
Jun 5 2024Matz (back) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Memphis on Thursday, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Recovering from a protruding disc in his lower back, Matz was cleared for a rehab start after completing two high-intensity bullpen sessions. He is slated for 40-to-45 pitches Thursday, so he will need at least one additional rehab start before rejoining the Cardinals' rotation. A mid-June return is on the table if Matz doesn't have any hiccups.
Jun 1 2024Matz (back) will throw a full-intensity bullpen Monday and could get sent on a minor-league rehab assignment if the bullpen session goes well, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Monday's bullpen session will be Matz's third since he hit the IL with a back injury. The southpaw has missed a full month of action and would likely need a couple of rehab starts before returning to the Cardinals' active roster. In the meantime, Andre Pallante is set to fill Matz's spot in the rotation.
May 31 2024Matz (back) will throw another bullpen session Friday, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz threw a light bullpen session Wednesday, which evidently went well. It's not clear whether he'll throw with more intensity Friday, but it would appear he's taking baby steps in the right direction. Andre Pallante is currently filling in for Matz as the Cardinals' fifth starter.
May 27 2024Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Monday that Matz (back) will throw a "light" bullpen session Wednesday, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz began playing catch last week following a pair of pain-killing injections in his lower back and he's almost ready to try things from the bump with low intensity. The left-hander still looks to be several weeks away from a potential return.
May 21 2024Matz (back) was cleared to resume playing catch Tuesday, Lynn Worthy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has been shut down from throwing since receiving a second pain-killing injection in his lower back May 12. The Cardinals haven't set a return timeline for the 32-year-old lefty, though a clearer picture may emerge once he gets back to throwing off a mound.
May 12 2024Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Sunday that Matz will require another pain-killing injection for the protruding disc in his lower back and won't resume throwing for at least another week, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Matz having yet to even resume playing catch since landing on the 15-day injured list May 3 due to the back issue, he appears safe to rule out for a return when he's first eligible to come off the IL next weekend. The southpaw had initially been scheduled to throw a bullpen session Tuesday, but the Cardinals opted to have him get another injection for his back after he hadn't responded to a week of rest as well as the team had hoped. The Cardinals will turn to Matthew Liberatore to make a second straight start in place of Matz on Monday versus the Angels.
May 10 2024Matz (back) played catch off the mound Friday in St. Louis, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has been on the 15-day injured list since May 3 while dealing with a lower-back strain, more specifically a protruding disc, but manager Oli Marmol said Friday that the expectation for the left-hander is for him to throw at a higher intensity Monday. It's unclear how close Matz is to returning to game action, but prior to being activated from the injured list, he'll likely have to make at least one rehab start with a minor-league affiliate.
May 3 2024Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Friday that an MRI showed that Matz has a "protruding disc" in his lower back, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was placed on the 15-day IL on Friday after sustaining a lower-back injury in Tuesday's loss to the Tigers. Matz received a pain-killing injection for the injury Friday, and the southpaw will be reevaluated early next week. He went 1-2 over six starts with a 6.18 ERA and 1.73 WHIP before landing on the injured list.
May 1 2024Matz will undergo an MRI on his injured back Thursday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz attempted to pitch through a back issue during a loss to the Tigers on Tuesday, but he struggled and will now undergo testing. The Cardinals will wait until the results of the exam come in before deciding on a potential stint on the injured list for the left-hander. Of the potential candidates on the Cardinals' 40-man roster that could take Matz's rotation spot, Sem Robberse has pitched the best at Triple-A Memphis, sporting a 1.82 ERA and 29:6 K:BB over 29.2 innings.
Apr 30 2024Matz escaped with a no-decision in the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Tigers, giving up four runs on seven hits and two walks over 3.1 innings in an 11-6 loss. He struck out only one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw got the hook after 73 pitches (45 strikes) with the Cardinals in a 4-0 hole, but Matz avoided the loss when the two teams combined for eight runs in the fifth inning. It was his shortest start of the season so far, but he's failed to complete five innings in three of his last four outings, getting tagged for 17 earned runs in 17.1 frames over that stretch. Matz will carry a 6.18 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and 17:11 K:BB through 27.2 innings into his next start, which could come at home this weekend against the White Sox.
Apr 29 2024Matz and the Cardinals won't play Monday against the Tigers after the game was postponed due to inclement weather in Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The game will be made up as part of a traditional doubleheader Tuesday. As a result of the postponement, Matz will likely just be pushed back one day in the pitching schedule to start one half of Tuesday's twin bill.
Apr 23 2024Matz (1-2) took the loss Tuesday against Arizona, allowing seven runs on six hits and three walks over 4.1 innings. He struck out four ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All of the runs against Matz came in the third and fifth innings. In the third, he walked a pair of batters and allowed an RBI base hit to Lourdes Gurriel before Christian Walker launched a three-run homer. in the fifth, Matz allowed hits to three straight batters, two of which scored after he was pulled. After giving up three earned runs in his first 15.0 innings, Matz has surrendered 12 earned runs in his last two starts (9.1 innings) with eight K's and six walks. He's lined up to face the Tigers in Detroit on Monday.
Apr 18 2024Matz (1-1) took the loss against Oakland on Wednesday, allowing five runs on seven hits and three walks over five innings while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz got off to an decent start, striking out three of the first six batters he faced before getting tagged for two runs on an Esteury Ruiz home run in the bottom of the third. The lefty would then allow three consecutive hits to open the fifth, leading to three more runs coming across for Oakland as he took his first loss of the season. Matz had not allowed more than two runs in any of his first three starts coming in, though he's now given up 15 hits over his last 9.2 innings of work. The home run from Ruiz was also the first long ball that Matz has allowed this season.
Apr 12 2024Matz yielded four runs (one earned) on eight hits over 4.2 innings during a no-decision Friday. He struck out two in the win over Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz repeatedly worked around potential danger through four shutout frames before Arizona woke up and scored six in the fifth inning, with four going on Matz's line. Fortunately for him, only one run was earned due to his own throwing error. Matz had allowed just two runs through 10.1 innings before Friday's start and he turned in his shortest outing of the year. The veteran southpaw is sporting a 1.80 ERA with an 8:3 K:BB over 15 frames. Matz is projected to start in Oakland next week.
Apr 6 2024Matz (1-0) picked up the win Saturday, allowing four hits and a walk over five scoreless innings in a 3-1 victory over the Marlins. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw wasn't dominant, generating only 10 swinging strikes among his 85 pitches, but all four hits off Matz were singles as he again limited hard contact. He sports a 1.74 ERA through 10.1 innings to go with a 6:3 K:BB, and Matz lines up to make his next start on the road next weekend in Arizona.
Mar 31 2024Matz did not factor in the decision Sunday after allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over 5.1 innings. He struck out three in the Cardinals' loss to the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz rolled through five shutout frames before the Dodgers finally got a couple of runs home in the sixth inning. He threw 51 of 81 pitches for strikes and forced 11 swings-and-misses, including seven with the changeup. The 32-year-old posted a solid 3.86 ERA through 105 frames last year and will be relied on in the back end of the Cardinals rotation all year. Matz is currently projected to face the Marlins next.
Mar 1 2024Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said recently that Matz will not be as stretched out as the team's other starters at the beginning of the season, Lynn Worthy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz is healthy, but the Cardinals are electing to methodically build him up this spring after he dealt with numerous injuries in his first two seasons with the club. The left-hander has been throwing live batting practice sessions, but Marmol said the next time Matz faces hitters could be in a Grapefruit League appearance. While he is expected to open the season as St. Louis' No. 5 starter, it sounds like it might be a little while before Matz is ready to go five-plus innings.
Feb 15 2024Matz (lat) threw a bullpen session Wednesday, the first day for pitchers and catchers at Cardinals camp, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was limited to 105 innings in 2023, posting a 3.86 ERA and a 1.33 WHIP over 25 appearances (17 starts) before being shut down in August. It's encouraging that the southpaw is throwing to begin camp after avoiding offseason surgery. The Cardinals focused on pitching in the winter, but Matz is still penciled in for a rotation spot regardless of if the team breaks camp with a five-man or six-man unit. From a fantasy perspective, the injury-prone 32-year-old is a low-end option after showing significant year-to-year inconsistency, but he should be considered fully healthy once he gets into spring games.
Sep 3 2023Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Sunday that Matz (lat) remains week-to-week and "probably" won't pitch again this season, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz landed on the 15-day injured list Aug. 14 with a left lat strain and has yet to resume throwing. While the Cardinals haven't indicated that his lat strain is serious enough to require surgery, the team won't look to rush back a historically injury-prone pitcher in the midst of a non-contending season. Assuming Matz remains shut down, he'll finish his second season in St. Louis with a 4-7 record, 3.86 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 98:32 K:BB over 105 innings. He'll head into the 2024 campaign with two seasons remaining on the four-year, $44 million deal he signed in November 2021.
Aug 28 2023Matz (lat) underwent an MRI on Monday, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has been shut down since landing on the injured list Aug. 14, and the Cardinals decided it was time to send him for a test. The team will decide on the next step after the results have been read, and per Denton, "If cleared soon, (Matz) could be brought back as a starter or reliever depending on the number of games left."
Aug 17 2023Matz (lat) will be in no-throw mode until at least late August, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was diagnosed with a left lat strain earlier this week, in the midst of his best stretch since signing a four-year, $44 million contract with the Cardinals in November of 2021. He's scheduled to undergo a checkup MRI toward the end of this month that will likely determine whether he can pitch again in 2023.
Aug 14 2023St. Louis placed Matz on the 15-day injured list Monday with a left lat strain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This injury comes with brutal timing for the 32-year-old southpaw, who has delivered a 1.86 ERA and 38:7 K:BB in 38.2 innings (seven starts) since returning to the Cardinals' rotation in early July following a month-long stint in the bullpen. Zack Thompson will take over the vacant rotation spot, possibly through the remainder of the 2023 campaign. Lat strains usually require several weeks of rest and rehab, and St. Louis is fully out of contention here in mid-August.
Aug 12 2023Matz (4-7) earned the win Saturday, allowing two runs on four hits over six innings in a 5-4 victory over Kansas City. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz earned his fourth consecutive quality start, a stretch in which he's 3-0 with a 1.13 ERA and a 19:3 K:BB over 24 innings. His lone blunder Saturday came in the third inning, where he allowed a two-run home run to Nelson Velazquez. Matz is tentatively scheduled to face the Mets in his next start, who strike out the fourth least in MLB but rank 21st in runs scored.
Aug 5 2023Matz (3-7) allowed a run on five hits and two walks while striking out six over six innings to earn the win Saturday over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz gave up a run for the first time in three starts, but he turned in his third straight quality start. It's been a strong reversal of fortune for the southpaw, who has rebounded from an awful start to the season. He's now at a 3.91 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 93:32 K:BB over 99 innings through 24 appearances (16 starts). Matz will looking to keep it rolling next weekend in a road start versus the Royals.
Jul 31 2023Matz (2-7) tossed six shutout innings Sunday against the Cubs. He allowed just four hits and no walks while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz tossed his second straight start of shutout baseball and put a stamp on an excellent month of pitching. Over five starts in July, Matz posted a 1.69 ERA, 0.86 WHIP and 27:5 K:BB in 26.2 innings. Matz has allowed just one run over his last 17 innings and a home start against the Rockies this coming week should set him up for another favorable outing.
Jul 25 2023Matz allowed five hits and a walk while striking out six over six scoreless innings in a no-decision versus the Diamondbacks on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz completed six frames for the first time this season, and this was one of his sharpest outings. He's allowed six runs (five earned) over 20.2 innings across four starts since rejoining the Cardinals' rotation. The strong stretch has him at a reasonable 4.34 ERA despite a 1.44 WHIP and 85:30 K:BB through 87 innings through 22 appearances (14 starts). Matz has likely solidified his place in the rotation, so he can be projected for a home start against the Cubs this weekend.
Jul 20 2023Matz (1-7) earned the win over the Cubs on Thursday, allowing one run on three hits and one walk while striking out six batters over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has bounced between the rotation and bullpen this season, but coming into Thursday he hadn't picked up a victory in either capacity. The left-hander finally found himself in the win column in his 21st appearance of the campaign, going just deep enough to qualify for the victory. Matz needed 97 pitches (59 strikes) to get through five frames, though he gave up just three hits and one walk and didn't hit any batters. The veteran hurler has pitched well in two of three starts since returning to the rotation, and he's likely to stick in that role as long as he continues to be effective.
Jul 15 2023Matz did not factor into the decision Saturday, allowing four runs on four hits and three walks over 4.1 innings against Washington. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After tossing a gem in his return to the starting rotation last time out, Matz retired his first seven batters Saturday. However, the start went downhill fast, as Matz served up a pair of solo homers in the third to Alex Call and CJ Abrams. Through 12 starts (60 innings), Matz is 0-6 with a 5.40 ERA and a 58:23 K:BB but he's been much improved since moving to the pen. Considering his struggles as a starter, it's unclear if Matz will stick in the rotation, however, he may be forced into at least one more start with Adam Wainwright (shoulder) shelved.
Jul 14 2023Matz is scheduled to start Saturday's game against the Nationals in St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Given the Cardinals' thin starting pitching depth along with the fact that Matz struck out nine while allowing an unearned run over 5.1 innings in his outing last Sunday against the White Sox, it's not surprisingly that he'll get another turn through the rotation. Despite his excellent showing his last time out, the southpaw is sitting on an 0-7 record, 4.65 ERA and 1.51 WHIP over 71.2 innings this season, so he's still tough to rely on as a streaming option even in what profiles as a strong matchup. To Matz's credit, he's been far more effective while working primarily as a reliever since the beginning of June, pitching to a 1.93 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 20:5 K:BB in 18.2 innings over the past six weeks.
Jul 9 2023Matz allowed an unearned run on two hits and struck out nine over 5.1 innings in a no-decision versus the White Sox on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was taken out of the rotation in late May and showed well as a reliever with a 2.81 ERA and 1.13 WHIP over 16 innings across eight relief appearances. He carried over the success in a return to the rotation Sunday, where he was only charged with a run on an RBI single by Elvis Andrus in the third inning. Matz concludes a challenging first half with a 4.65 ERA, 1.51 WHIP and 69:25 K:BB over 71.2 innings through 19 appearances (11 starts). With the rest of the Cardinals' rotation lacking consistency, Matz may have a good chance to remain a starter following the All-Star break.
Jul 6 2023Matz will start for the Cardinals on Sunday against the White Sox, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That would have been Matthew Liberatore's turn, but he was optioned back to Triple-A Memphis on Thursday. Matz has pitched a little better since being moved to the bullpen in late May and could get an extended rotation opportunity with Adam Wainwright (shoulder) also out of the picture, but there's not much fantasy appeal here in general.
Jul 5 2023Matz is no longer in line to start Wednesday against the Marlins, as the Cardinals have confirmed that Matthew Liberatore will draw the start in Miami, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though prior reports suggested that Matz would get the starting nod Wednesday, the Cardinals will instead turn to Liberatore on three days' rest after the rookie covered 4.1 innings in the second game of this past Saturday's doubleheader with the Yankees. Manager Oliver Marmol hasn't revealed whether Matz will be available in relief Wednesday, but if the veteran southpaw goes unused, he'll likely be a candidate to fill the spot in the rotation vacated by Adam Wainwright (shoulder), who was placed on the 15-day injured list earlier in the day. Wainwright had been lined up to make his next start Sunday versus the White Sox.
Jul 3 2023Matz will start for the Cardinals on Wednesday in Miami, Isaac Azout of SBNation.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Cards needed a spot starter following a doubleheader over the weekend. Matz has posted a 1.98 ERA since being demoted to the bullpen a month ago, which includes 6.2 scoreless frames over his last two appearances. That was preceded by a 5.72 ERA in 10 starts, though, making him a poor streaming option especially since he won't be ready for a full workload.
Jun 15 2023Matz (0-7) allowed three runs (two earned) on three hits and struck out two in one inning to take the extra-inning loss versus the Giants on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This is Matz's first loss since moving to the bullpen. He's given up four runs (three earned) over seven innings with a 7:0 K:BB in that span, though he's also yielded two hits and hit two batters. The southpaw is still on the outside looking in for the Cardinals' starting plans, but Matthew Liberatore hasn't exactly run away with the No. 5 starter job with mixed results over his last three outings. Matz is at a 5.49 ERA, 1.66 WHIP and 52:20 K:BB over 57.1 innings this season, and he'll likely remain in a bullpen role until the struggling Cardinals opt to mix up the rotation.
Jun 2 2023Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Friday that there is a plan in place to work Matz back into the starting rotation, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz is sitting as the odd man out after the Cards decided to implement a five-man rotation instead of six. Matthew Liberatore currently holds the No. 5 spot and is scheduled to start Tuesday against the Rangers, but it seems nothing is set in stone just yet.
May 28 2023Matz will be available out of the bullpen for the upcoming two-game series versus the Royals, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz remains winless at 0-6 with a 5.72 ERA through 10 starts this season. With a scheduling quirk leading to consecutive days off (Wednesday and Thursday), the Cardinals won't need a fifth or sixth starter for a while. It's possible Matz could rejoin the rotation during a road series in Texas from June 5-7. With Matthew Liberatore up in the majors, Matz may eventually be ticketed for the bullpen on a more permanent basis if he can't get his season on track.
May 20 2023Matz (0-5) allowed an unearned run on six hits and two walks while striking out six over 4.2 innings to take the loss Friday versus the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz needed 103 pitches (66 strikes) to get 14 outs in an inefficient outing. He's yet to complete six innings in any of his nine starts this season, though this was the second time in his last three games that he's been able to limit the damage to one run. The Cardinals still aren't giving him much run support even when he has a good showing. Matz owns a 5.05 ERA, 1.62 WHIP and 43:18 K:BB across 46.1 innings this season. With Matthew Liberatore up from Triple-A Memphis, it appears the Cardinals will work with a six-man rotation for a while. Matz should not be considered safe to remain a starter if or when the team returns to a five-man rotation. He's tentatively projected for a road start in Cincinnati next week.
May 13 2023Matz did not factor into the decision Saturday, allowing three runs on eight hits and one walk over 5.1 innings against Boston. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Matz was tagged for eight hits, the most he's given up since April 10, he managed to keep the ball in the park, allowing no home runs for just the second time this season. The veteran southpaw has yet to earn a win in 2023 while holding a 5.63 ERA and a 2.3 K/BB. He may have to wait one more start to pick up the elusive victory, as Matz is tentatively scheduled for a matchup with the Dodgers, who are scoring 5.44 runs per game this season and boast the fourth-best record in MLB.
May 8 2023Matz did not factor into the decision Sunday against the Tigers, allowing one run on five hits and no walks. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz surrendered a solo home run to Spencer Torkelson in the fourth but otherwise kept the Tigers in check. He left after the fifth with a 3-1 lead, which was promptly blown by James Naile the following frame. Matz has been rocky so far this season, but Sunday was the first outing during which he did not walk a batter and gave up fewer than two runs. The 32-year-old now sits at a 5.70 ERA, 1.60 WHIP and 33:15 K:BB over 36.1 innings. He lines up for a difficult matchup on the road against Boston next weekend.
May 5 2023Matz is listed as the Cardinals' probable starter Sunday against the Tigers, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: There has been some thought that Matthew Liberatore might get the call to take Matz's rotation spot, but Jones also notes that Liberatore is the listed starter at Triple-A Memphis on Saturday. Matz is seemingly going to get at least one more turn before perhaps sliding into a bullpen role. He is 0-4 with a 6.39 ERA, 1.71 WHIP and 31:15 K:BB through 31 innings (six starts) this season with St. Louis.
May 4 2023Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol was noncommittal Thursday when asked whether Matz will remain in the starting rotation, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 31-year-old southpaw is currently lined up to start Sunday's series finale against the Tigers, but the Cardinals seem to be considering other options -- maybe even a promotion of Matthew Liberatore from Triple-A Memphis. Matz has gone 0-4 with a 6.39 ERA and 1.71 WHIP through 31 innings (six starts) in the second season of a four-year, $44 million deal.
May 3 2023Matz (0-4) took another loss Tuesday against the Angels, allowing four runs on six hits and two walks while striking out four over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz wound up surrendering all four runs in the first frame. He walked Mike Trout, who came around to score following back-to-back singles, and Taylor Ward capped off the inning with a three-run blast to left field. Matz would settle in the rest of the way, tossing four scoreless innings, but he would not get the run support to help erase the damage done. The 31-year-old has yet to reach six innings and has given up at least four runs in four of his six starts this year. Matz now owns a 6.39 ERA, 1.71 WHIP and 31:15 K:BB over 31 innings and will try to get his first win in a projected matchup with the Tigers over the weekend.
Apr 27 2023Matz did not factor in the decision against the Giants on Wednesday, allowing two runs on six hits and three walks while striking out three batters over four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All things considered, Matz was fortunate to have just two runs charged to his line, as he allowed nine batters to reach base over just four frames. The southpaw escaped a bases-loaded jam in the third but yielded a pair of runs on four hits in the fourth and wasn't allowed to continue into the fifth. Matz needed 90 pitches -- only 51 of which were strikes -- to get through his four innings, continuing what has been a rough season thus far. He's 0-3 on the campaign with a 6.23 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and 27:13 K:BB across 26 frames.
Apr 4 2023Matz (0-1) was charged with the loss Tuesday against Atlanta after he allowed four runs on 10 hits and one walk across 5.1 innings. He recorded seven strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander surrendered just three runs in four outings during spring training, but Atlanta got to him quickly Tuesday with home runs from Austin Riley and Orlando Arcia in the first and second innings, respectively. Matz generated 15 swinging strikes and topped out at 95.7 mph, which is a tick faster than his average fastball velocity last year, but he had trouble keeping runners off the bases. Matz will have to contend with the Rockies at hitter-friendly Coors Field for his next start, which tentatively lines up for Monday.
Mar 7 2023Matz said after throwing three perfect innings against the Astros on Monday that "I feel the strongest I ever have in my career," Lynn Worthy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz struck out four while needing just 39 pitches to navigate through his three perfect frames. He touched 95 mph with his sinker, which is more velocity than he typically shows at this point in camp. Matz is looking to bounce back from a disappointing first season in St. Louis which saw him limited to just 48 innings due to injuries.
Sep 17 2022Matz (5-3) struck out one in a perfect inning to earn the win in the second game of Saturday's doubleheader versus the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz made his return from a torn left MCL in this appearance. He was immediately rewarded as the Cardinals won in the 11th inning after generating the lone run of the game on an error. This was Matz's first relief outing since 2020 with the Mets and just his sixth appearance out of the bullpen in his career. He has a 5.56 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 52:9 K:BB through 43.2 innings this year, though it's expected he'll serve as a multi-inning reliever for the rest of the campaign.
Sep 16 2022Matz (knee) will continue his rehab assignment with Triple-A Memphis on Sunday, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It will be the fifth rehab appearance for Matz, who to this point has given up two runs on three hits with five strikeouts and four walks over 4.1 innings. The veteran southpaw will finish the season as a reliever for St. Louis and could be activated from the injured list as early as Tuesday.
Sep 13 2022Matz (knee) will make another rehab appearance with Triple-A Memphis on Tuesday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran left-hander will cover an inning for the Redbirds before being re-evaluated Wednesday. Matz has pitched 2.1 innings over his first two rehab outings, and he's expected to stretch out to cover multiple innings before being reinstated by St. Louis. He has a 5.70 ERA through 10 starts this year but will rejoin the Cardinals for the stretch run as a reliever.
Sep 7 2022Matz (knee) is scheduled to make his second rehab appearance Friday, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: St. Louis is planning on bringing Matz (knee) back from the 15-day injured list later this month as a reliever, but he's still expected to get stretched out enough during his rehab assignment to handle multiple innings as needed out of the bullpen. Denton notes that Matz is expected to work into the third inning of Friday's outing after he struck out three while allowing no hits and three walks in 1.1 scoreless innings for Double-A Springfield on Tuesday. The appearance with Springfield was just his second in the majors or minors since the All-Star break.
Sep 6 2022Matz (knee) will start Tuesday for Double-A Springfield. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He has been throwing bullpen sessions and is finally ready to begin his rehab assignment. It's been a rough first season for Matz in St. Louis, as injuries have limited him to 42.2 innings and he hasn't been consistently effective (5.70 ERA, 1.31 WHIP) when healthy. That said, he has a chance to return later this month and end the year on a high note.
Sep 3 2022Matz (knee) will throw a bullpen Sunday and then report to Double-A Springfield for a rehab assignment next week, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz continues to work his way back from an MCL strain in his left knee. He's still not expected back until late September, which suggests the southpaw may spend more than one week in the minors working his way back to full health. Matz will pitch out of the St. Louis bullpen once he's activated from the injured list.
Aug 28 2022Matz (knee) is scheduled to throw two more bullpen sessions during the upcoming week before potentially advancing to facing hitters, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz's fastball topped out at 89 miles per hour in his most recent side session Saturday, so his main focus this week will be increasing the intensity of his throwing and upping the velocity as he works his way back from an MCL sprain in his left knee. The southpaw still appears on track to return from the 15-day injured list before season's end, but if he does, he'll be deployed as a reliever.
Aug 26 2022Matz (knee) will likely focus on returning as a reliever, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has been throwing low-intensity side sessions recently and is slated to throw a high-intensity bullpen Saturday. The Cardinals don't think that the southpaw will have enough time to stretch out prior to the end of the regular season, but he'll likely be able to return sometime in September if he doesn't experience any issues preparing for a bullpen role.
Aug 24 2022Matz (knee) threw a 30-pitch bullpen session Wednesday with no problems, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander threw a low-intensity side session over the weekend but has now progressed to mound work, and the Cardinals are apparently quite pleased with his recovery progress. Matz has pitched in only one game since May and is likely to require a multi-start rehab assignment in the minors before being reinstated from the injured list, so he shouldn't be expected back for at least a couple more weeks.
Aug 22 2022Matz (knee) threw 30 pitches during a low-intensity side session this weekend, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although Matz didn't throw with much intensity over the weekend, he apparently felt good afterward since he'll throw another bullpen session Wednesday. It's not yet clear when the southpaw will be able to begin a rehab assignment, but he's trended in the right direction over the last few weeks.
Aug 18 2022Matz (knee) could throw off a mound this weekend, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Per Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat, Matz played catch off a mound Wednesday and did some running on the field, so throwing pitches off the mound would mark another step forward in his recovery from a torn MCL in his left knee. Matz is still likely a week or more away from beginning a minor-league rehab assignment, so he's not expected to be a rotation option for the Cardinals until September at the soonest.
Aug 13 2022Matz (knee) has begun a throwing program, which including flat-ground throwing prior to Saturday's game, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Denton adds Matz remains optimistic that he'll return before the end of the season. He's still early in the rehab process, so Matz isn't expected back before September at the earliest due to a torn MCL in his left knee. A clearer picture of his recovery timeline should emerge once he begins to face hitters.
Jul 26 2022The Cardinals, according to Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat, will wait a week before deciding whether or not Matz will need surgery on his injured left knee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was reported Sunday that Matz has a torn MCL in his left knee, and if he goes under the knife he will miss the rest of the season. There remains a chance he could recover without undergoing a procedure, though, and the Cardinals will wait and see how things play out. While he could still pitch again in 2022, Matz is looking at a minimum 4-to-6 week absence regardless of the final decision that is made.
Jul 24 2022Matz has been diagnosed with a torn left MCL, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz landed on the 15-day injured list with a knee issue Sunday and will visit with the team surgeon Monday to determine whether he'll require a procedure to address the issue. Manager Oliver Marmol didn't rule out the possibility of Matz returning to the field this season, but it seems likely that he'll be forced to spend more than the minimum of 15 days on the injured list. Marmol said that the team will be able to use a four-man rotation until early August since Dakota Hudson (neck) seems to be closing in on a return.
Jul 23 2022Matz suffered a left knee strain in Saturday's start against the Reds, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz left Saturday's outing with what was originally reported to be a right ankle injury, but it has now been determined that he strained his left knee while trying to field a ball at first base in the sixth inning. Unfortunately, the left-hander will likely be placed on the 15-day injured list after making just one start since his last trip to the IL.
Jul 17 2022Matz (shoulder) and the Cardinals won't face the Reds on Sunday after the game was postponed due to inclement weather in St. Louis, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz, who was reinstated from the 15-day injured list Sunday, will thus have to wait until after the All-Star break to make his first start with the big club since May 22. The Cardinals and Reds will make up the postponed game Sept. 17 as part of a split doubleheader.
Jul 16 2022Matz (shoulder) will be reinstated from the 15-day injured list to start Sunday's game against the Reds, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz hasn't pitched for the Cardinals since May 17 due to left shoulder inflammation, but he recently made four rehab appearances at Triple-A Memphis and posted a 2.13 ERA, 17:3 K:BB and 0.95 WHIP in 12.2 innings. The southpaw made four starts in May prior to landing on the injured list, and he logged a 5.95 ERA and 1.12 WHIP in 19.2 innings over that span.
Jul 14 2022Matz (shoulder) is targeting a return from the 15-day injured list for Sunday's game versus the Reds, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz pitched well in his fourth rehab appearance Tuesday, striking out seven while allowing two hits and two walks in 4.1 innings for Triple-A Memphis. He threw 81 pitches in that contest for the Redbirds, which suggests he'd have only a minimal workload restriction, if any, should he return Sunday. Matz has been out with the shoulder injury since May 22.
Jul 10 2022Cardinals president of baseball operations said Friday that Matz (shoulder) will make one more minor-league rehab start before returning from the 15-day injured list, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz completed his third rehab start Thursday with Triple-A Memphis, working 3.1 innings while striking out four and allowing two earned runs on two hits and one walk. Since Matz exited after throwing 59 pitches, the Cardinals will likely want to see the lefty get stretched out to the 70-to-80-pitch range in his upcoming rehab start before bringing him back from the IL. Matz is likely to make his next minor-league appearance Tuesday before potentially slotting back into the St. Louis rotation for the Cardinals' final game of the first half July 17 against the Reds.
Jul 6 2022Matz (shoulder) is scheduled to make the third start of his rehab assignment Thursday with Triple-A Memphis, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to Denton, the Cardinals had considered bringing Matz back from the 15-day injured list to start Thursday's series finale in Atlanta, but the organization's brain trust ultimately decided he was better off getting stretched out in the minors for one more outing. After he worked three innings and tossed 45 pitches his last time out for Memphis on Saturday, he'll be aiming for around four innings and 60 pitches Thursday. He'll report back to St. Louis following the start to be re-evaluated, and if the Cardinals are satisfied with the condition of his shoulder, he should be activated and re-enter the rotation during the final week before the All-Star break.
Jul 3 2022Matz (shoulder) made the second start of his rehab assignment Saturday with Triple-A Memphis, striking out three over three innings while allowing one earned run on four hits and no walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pitching on three days' rest after making a two-inning rehab start for Memphis on Wednesday, Matz was capped at 45 pitches Saturday. He'll likely require at least one or two more outings in the minors to ramp up his pitch count before the Cardinals activate him from the 15-day injured list and reinstall him in the rotation.
Jun 28 2022Matz (shoulder) is slated to build up to 30 pitches in his rehab start Tuesday for Triple-A Memphis and will attempt to throw 45 pitches in a second rehab start this weekend, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Given this slow progression, Matz figures to need at least a third rehab start before he's ready to join the big-league rotation, unless the Cardinals opt to bring him back for what would amount to a bullpen game next week. He could return right before the All-Star break if all goes well.
Jun 24 2022Manager Oliver Marmol said that Matz (shoulder) will throw a "vigorous" bullpen Friday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz threw a bullpen session last weekend, and he'll increase his intensity during Friday's throwing session. If all goes well, the southpaw is expected to begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Memphis on Tuesday. Once he ultimately reports to the minors, Matz is expected to require multiple rehab starts prior to returning from the injured list.
Jun 19 2022Matz (shoulder) threw a bullpen session Saturday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz progressed to throwing from flat ground last week, and he's now advanced to pitching off a mound. He's still likely a few weeks away from a return -- he'll need additional bullpen sessions without setbacks before throwing live batting practice, and it's expected the southpaw will ultimately need multiple rehab starts. Matz's absence is now expected to stretch at least into mid-July.
Jun 14 2022Manager Oliver Marmol said that Matz recently received another injection Monday in his troublesome left shoulder, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He hasn't pitched since throwing four pitches against the Pirates on May 22 and MRIs have shown no structural damage. The fact that Matz has had multiple injections -- the first one came May 23 -- in his shoulder is not a great sign, but it sounds like the Cardinals and Matz are doing everything possible to try to get him past this issue. He threw off flat ground Sunday.
Jun 13 2022Matz (shoulder) threw off flat ground Sunday, Joe Harris of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz, who recently hit a snag in his recovery from left shoulder inflammation, said Sunday marked his "best day" since being placed on the 15-day injured list May 23. The southpaw will need to graduate to mound work and resume facing hitters before the Cardinals send him out on a minor-league rehab assignment likely consisting of one or two starts.
Jun 8 2022Matz (shoulder) has yet to throw off of a mound, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was expected to throw side sessions Thursday and Sunday, but it appears those plans are now on hold after his setback. It was already determined the left-hander would need a rehab appearance, but he'll need to build back up a bit and begin a throwing program before that can happen. As such, Matz shouldn't be expected back until late June at the earliest.
Jun 3 2022Matz (shoulder) will require at least one rehab appearance prior to rejoining the Cardinals' rotation, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz is scheduled to throw side sessions Thursday and Sunday, but he'll be forced to miss at least one more turn through the rotation since he'll make an appearance with a minor-league affiliate. The Cardinals haven't yet revealed who will step in as a starter next week, but manager Oliver Marmol listed Andre Pallante, Zack Thompson, Johan Oviedo, Packy Naughton and Jake Woodford as candidates for a spot start.
May 31 2022Matz (shoulder) will throw side sessions Thursday and Sunday, at which point the Cardinals will determine his next steps, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz will be eligible to return from the injured list June 7. It's possible he'll be able to return then or soon after if he demonstrates in his side sessions that he doesn't need a rehab assignment.
May 29 2022Matz (shoulder) received a cortisone shot in his left shoulder Friday and played catch Sunday, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: How Matz responds to this latest round of treatment and the resumption of activity will likely determine how much longer he's sidelined. He's not eligible to return from the 15-day injured list until June 7. It's unclear if he'll need to make a rehab start prior to rejoining the Cardinals' rotation.
May 23 2022The MRI that Matz underwent Sunday revealed nothing overly concerning, though the Cardinals still elected to place him on the 15-day injured list Monday after he was diagnosed with a left shoulder impingement, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: President of baseball operations John Mozeliak wasn't willing to commit to Matz returning from the IL after a minimum stint, as the Cardinals first want to see how the southpaw responds to a few days of rest before a determination is made on the next course of action. Mozeliak acknowledged that he was hopeful Matz will be able to pitch "through the season," which suggests the Cardinals aren't fearing a long-term absence for the 30-year-old, who has turned in a 6.03 ERA and 1.39 WHIP through his first nine starts with St. Louis. Matthew Liberatore is in line to replace Matz in the rotation beginning with Saturday's game against Milwaukee.
May 22 2022Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said after Sunday's 18-4 win over the Pirates that Matz (shoulder) will undergo an MRI later in the day, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though St. Louis ran away with a comfortable victory in the series finale, Matz couldn't work long enough to qualify for the win, as he tossed just four pitches before exiting with what the Cardinals labeled as a stiff left shoulder. The MRI should provide more information on the severity of Matz's injury while potentially determining whether or not he'll require a trip to the injured list. If Matz is shut down with the injury, Angel Rondon -- who struck out four over five scoreless innings of long relief to grab the win Sunday -- could get the nod the next time the Cardinals require a fifth starter May 30. Prospect Matthew Liberatore is also an option to receive a call-up from Triple-A Memphis to replace Matz in the rotation, if necessary.
May 17 2022Matz allowed two runs on three hits and zero walks over five innings during Game 2 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Mets. He had seven strikeouts and didn't factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran left-hander surrendered a pair of solo homers but otherwise kept New York off the board, but he missed out on the victory since the St. Louis bullpen was unable to maintain a one-run advantage. Matz has a 3.86 ERA and 14:0 K:BB covering 11.2 innings over his past two starts, though he's also allowed four long balls.
May 12 2022Matz (3-3) took the loss, allowing three runs on seven hits while striking out seven in 6.2 innings of a 3-2 defeat Thursday against Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After allowing a second-inning solo homer to Jorge Mateo, Matz cruised through the Baltimore lineup over the next four innings, at one point retiring 11 straight. He retired the first two batters in the seventh but then gave up a solo shot to Anthony Benboom and a single to Chris Owings and was removed. The veteran lefty allowed only one home run in his first five starts but has been tagged five times over his last two starts, spanning 8.2 innings. His next start will likely be early next week against the Mets.
May 8 2022Matz (3-2) suffered the loss against San Francisco on Saturday, allowing eight runs on five hits and three walks over two innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander's outing got off to an ominous start when the first three batters reached base via two walks and an infield single. Wilmer Flores ensured that the Giants took advantage of the situation, belting a grand slam to clear the bases. Matz gave up two more homers -- both of the two-run variety -- in the second frame and didn't come out for the third. It was the first time this season that Matz has given up multiple long balls in a contest, and it unsurprisingly resulted in the veteran yielding a season-worst eight runs. He'll try to bounce back in his next start, which is tentatively scheduled for Thursday at home versus Baltimore.
May 6 2022Matz (personal) was activated from the bereavement list Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was placed on the bereavement list Tuesday but has rejoined the team as expected without missing his turn through the rotation. The left-hander is scheduled to start Saturday against the Giants and has a 4.56 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 27:5 K:BB across 23.2 innings this season.
May 3 2022Matz (personal) is expected to be ready to go for his start Saturday against San Francisco, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz landed on the bereavement list Tuesday, but it looks as though he'll avoid missing any outings. He started Monday against the Royals and will be back with the team before his next scheduled start.
May 2 2022Matz (3-1) picked up the win Monday after he tossed six scoreless innings, allowing four hits while striking out four in the victory over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz looked strong Monday, out dueling Zack Greinke in what was a 1-0 win. It was the second time this season he didn't walk a batter and he logged his first quality start of the campaign. Matz has had a mixed bag of production on the mound this season. He's had two starts where combined he's given up 11 runs in seven innings, but otherwise he's surrendered just one run over 16.2 frames in his other three outings. Matz's season long numbers now stand at a 4.56 ERA and 1.44 WHIP as he starts his second month with the Cardinals.
Apr 22 2022Matz (2-1) earned the win Friday at Cincinnati after giving up one run on seven hits with six strikeouts and two walks across five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander surrendered a run on two hits and walk during the fifth inning, though he otherwise kept the Reds off the board. Matz surrendered seven runs in his first start of the season, but he's allowed only one run with a 12:2 K:BB across 10.2 frames in his past two outings. The 30-year-old lines up to pitch against the Mets next week.
Apr 17 2022Matz (1-1) earned the win over Milwaukee on Saturday, hurling 5.2 scoreless innings during which he allowed three hits and no walks while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After surrendering seven earned runs over three innings in a disappointing season debut, Matz turned things around with 5.2 scoreless frames and his first win Saturday. He allowed only one extra-base hit and struck out six in the performance. Fantasy managers in leagues that count quality starts may be disappointed that he was removed from the contest one out shy of completing six frames, but it's worth noting that Matz battled a blister in his first start, so it's a net positive that he was able to throw 77 pitches without the issue reoccurring Saturday. Matz is tentatively slated to make his next start Friday at Cincinnati.
Apr 12 2022Matz (finger) is scheduled to make his second start of the season Friday against the Brewers in Milwaukee, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz dealt with a blister in his Cardinals debut in Sunday's loss to the Pirates, with the issue likely playing a part in the southpaw getting tagged for seven runs on nine hits and a walk over three innings. The Cardinals are apparently confident the blister won't present too many problems for Matz moving forward, though fantasy managers may want to tread carefully with the southpaw as he heads to Miller Park.
Apr 11 2022Matz developed a blister on his left hand in his Cardinals debut during Sunday's 9-4 loss to the Pirates, an issue manager Oliver Marmol attributed to the southpaw's poor outing, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While Matz struck out five batters while walking just one, he also allowed seven runs on nine hits in his three innings, giving him a loss in his first outing of the season. Five of those runs came in the third inning -- the frame in which the blister reportedly developed -- with two more scoring in the fourth before he was able to record an out. The rough season debut followed a shaky spring in which he stumbled to a 5.23 ERA in three starts, but the Cardinals are seemingly considering all of his struggles Sunday to be blister-related and aren't worried about him long-term. He's expected to take his next turn in the rotation, which lines up to come Friday in Milwaukee.
Apr 3 2022Matz is set to start the Cardinals' third game of the season April 10 versus the Pirates, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz hasn't had a great spring, allowing six runs on nine hits with five strikeouts across 3.2 innings. He'll likely get one more tuneup in Grapefruit League action before the team breaks camp. Matz was never in any real doubt for a rotation spot, but he has some work to do to get back into the form that allowed him to post a 14-7 record, 3.82 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 144:43 K:BB in 150.2 innings last season with Toronto.
Nov 23 2021Matz agreed to a four-year, $44 million contract with the Cardinals on Tuesday, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Blue Jays declined to extend Matz the $18.4 million qualifying offer, and it didn't take long for him to find a new team on the open market. The 30-year-old lefty had a bounceback 2021 campaign with a 3.82 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 144:43 K:BB across 150.2 innings (29 starts), and he'll bring some stability to St. Louis' rotation behind Jack Flaherty and Adam Wainwright.
Nov 7 2021The Blue Jays did not give Matz an $18.4 million qualifying offer, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz recently turned down a multi-year contract offer, the value of which is unknown. The lefty excelled in 2021 with a 3.82 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 144 strikeouts in 150.2 innings, but for a back-end starter in Toronto's rotation, $18.4 million would have been a steep price. Matz, entering his age 31 season, figures to draw plenty of interest on the open market.
Sep 24 2021Matz didn't factor into the decision Thursday against the Twins after allowing two runs on seven hits and two walks across three innings, fanning six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has now fanned at least five in five straight starts, though he only lasted three innings and departed the contest after hurling 80 pitches (57 for strikes). Matz has gone undefeated in each of his last eight starts and has given up more than two earned runs just once in that span, which translates to a 2.95 ERA across 42.2 innings in that stretch.
Sep 18 2021Matz (13-7) allowed two runs on three hits and two walks with five strikeouts through 5.2 innings, picking up the win in Saturday's 6-2 victory over the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz gave up a two-run homer to Josh Donaldson in the first inning but settled in to blank the Twins for the remainder of his outing. He did leave the game with runners on the corners, but Trevor Richards closed the book on the southpaw with no further damage. The 30-year-old Matz pushed his streak of going at least five innings to seven straight starts and has struck out at least five batters in four consecutive appearances. For a player who finished 2020 with a 9.68 ERA, Matz's 2021 has been nothing short of resurgent. He'll look to keep the good vibes going in his next start, which is tentatively set for Thursday against these same Twins in Minneapolis.
Sep 12 2021Matz (12-7) earned the win over Baltimore on Sunday despite allowing five runs on six hits and two walks with six strikeouts in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: When Matz left the contest, Toronto held a 22-5 lead, although reliever Trent Thornton allowed a couple of runs in the seventh. Needless to say, Matz got away with less than his best in the lopsided game. He allowed more than two earned runs for the first time since July 28. The southpaw has a 3.87 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 128:38 K:BB in 135 innings overall. He projects for a home start versus Minnesota next weekend.
Sep 8 2021Matz (11-7) picked up the win in Tuesday's 5-1 victory over the Yankees, allowing one run on seven hits over six innings. He struck out six without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw fired 65 of 93 pitches for strikes en route to his third quality start in his last four outings and his eighth of the season. Matz has been stingy since the All-Star break, posting a 2.22 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 40:15 K:BB through 52.2 innings over his last 10 starts.
Sep 1 2021Matz allowed two runs on five hits and four walks with five strikeouts over five innings in a no-decision versus Baltimore on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old matched his season high with four walks, two of which led to the only runs scored against him in a troublesome second inning. Matz hadn't allowed multiple runs in his last three starts, but Wednesday wasn't a total disaster for him despite taking a third straight no-decision due to Joakim Soria surrendering a game-tying run in the seventh inning. Matz has a 3.80 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 116:36 K:BB across 123 innings this season. He projects for a road start versus the Yankees next week.
Aug 28 2021Matz didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 2-1 loss to the Tigers, allowing one run on four hits over six innings. He struck out two without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw fired 85 pitches (57 strikes) during a pitchers' duel with rookie Matt Manning, and Matz was forced to settle for his second straight quality start and third in August. He'll carry a 3.81 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 111:32 K:BB through 118 innings into his next outing.
Aug 22 2021Matz allowed one run on five hits and struck out one in six innings versus Detroit on Sunday. He walked none and took a no-decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only run on Matz's ledger was Miguel Cabrera's 500th career home run, a solo shot in the sixth inning. Other than that historic blast, Matz was dominant, although Toronto's offense and bullpen were both unable to secure a more favorable result for him and the team. The southpaw lowered his ERA to 3.94 with a 1.36 WHIP and 109:32 K:BB across 112 innings. He lines up for a rematch in Detroit during next weekend's three-game series.
Aug 15 2021Matz (10-7) earned the win Sunday against Seattle after allowing one unearned run on three hits and three walks while fanning four across five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz recorded his 10th win of the season and while he ended just three outs away from recording another quality start, it's worth noting that he has allowed two or fewer earned runs in each of his last three contests. Perhaps more importantly, Matz managed to bounce back following a woeful effort in his previous start when he only tossed 4.2 innings while allowing four runs (two earned). The left-hander owns a 1.18 ERA through three appearances this month.
Aug 11 2021Matz (9-7) took the loss in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Angels, giving up four runs (two earned) on six hits and three walks over 4.2 innings as the Blue Jays were downed 6-3. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: His defense did him no favors, but the southpaw also wasn't very sharp, throwing 59 of 97 pitches for strikes before getting the hook. On the bright side, Matz didn't serve up a homer for his third straight start, and since the beginning of July he sports a 3.45 ERA despite a 1.47 WHIP across six outings and 28.2 innings.
Aug 5 2021Matz (9-6) picked up the win Wednesday, allowing six hits and a walk over six scoreless innings in an 8-6 victory over Cleveland. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The strikeout total was his highest since June 12 as Matz put together his fifth quality start of the season, but only his second since April. The southpaw will carry a 4.30 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 99:26 K:BB through 96.1 innings into his next outing.
Jul 28 2021Matz (8-6) allowed four runs on nine hits and one walk in 3.1 innings Wednesday in a loss to Boston. He had two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz didn't have any answers for the Red Sox, with the big blow coming on Jarren Duran's two-run triple in the fourth inning. The 30-year-old southpaw has dropped three four four decisions in July, with all three losses coming on the road. Matz has shown periodic flashes of effectiveness in his first year as a Blue Jay, but he now owns a bloated 1.38 WHIP in 18 starts and his spot in the rotation could be in jeopardy if Toronto adds any starting pitching prior to Friday's trade deadline.
Jul 24 2021Matz (8-5) took the loss Friday as the Blue Jays fell 3-0 to the Mets, giving up two runs on four hits and three walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pete Alonso launched a two-run shot off Matz in the first inning, giving the former Met a rude welcome in his return to Citi Field, but he locked things down after that and kept the Jays in the game. Unfortunately for the southpaw, his team's offense was uncharacteristically flat and managed only three singles all night. It was Matz's longest outing in four starts since returning from the COVID-19 list in late June, and on the season he sports a 4.34 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 89:24 K:BB through 87 innings.
Jul 18 2021Matz (8-4) won Game 2 of Sunday's doubleheader 10-0 in shutout of the Rangers, allowing three hits with two strikeouts in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was staked to 10-run lead after two innings and didn't allow any Ranger past second base as Toronto hurlers permitted just four baserunners total. It was the 30-year-old lefty's first scoreless performance since May 14 and he's yet to go six innings since May 25 as Matz has pitched to a 4.43 ERA and is averaging just over five innings per start.
Jul 9 2021Matz is available to pitch out of the bullpen this weekend, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was squeezed out of the rotation plans this weekend in Tampa Bay following Thursday's postponement, so he'll be available to pitch as a reliever with the All-Star break coming next week. If he doesn't take the mound, the lefty will finish the first half with a 4.72 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 82:21 K:BB across 76.1 innings. He should rejoin the rotation coming out of the break.
Jul 6 2021Matz (7-4) took the loss Tuesday at Baltimore after giving up four runs (three earned) on six hits with four strikeouts and zero walks across four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander generated 10 swinging strikes on only 68 pitches, but he also gave up plenty of hard contact with Pedro Severino and Cedric Mullins taking him deep. Matz has allowed seven earned runs over 6.2 frames in two starts since returning from the injured list. He has a 4.72 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 82:21 K:BB in 76.1 innings this season, and he's projected to start Sunday in Tampa Bay to close out the first half of the season for Toronto.
Jul 1 2021Matz didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 9-7 extra-inning loss to the Mariners, giving up four runs on five hits over 2.2 innings. He struck out three without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw threw 32 of 48 pitches for strikes after being activated from the COVID-19 list for his first start since June 12, and he clearly didn't have his best stuff. Matz will take a 4.60 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 78:21 K:BB through 72.1 innings on the year into his next outing.
Jun 30 2021Matz (illness) was activated from the COVID-19 injured list to start Wednesday's game against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander hasn't started since June 12 because he tested positive for COVID-19, and he'll rejoin the rotation after spending nearly three weeks on the shelf. Matz completed a 60-pitch live bullpen session Thursday and will be on an unspecified pitch count in his first start back.
Jun 29 2021Matz (illness) will be on a pitch count in Wednesday's outing, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty threw a 60-pitch live session Thursday, but apparently the Blue Jays aren't letting him start without limitations Wednesday following a stay on the COVID-19 injured list. There's yet to be any indication of what Matz's pitch limit will be.
Jun 26 2021Matz will return from the COVID-19 injured list to start Wednesday against Seattle, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz tested positive for COVID-19 in mid-June. He's been able to throw while in isolation, however, and returned to the team to throw 60 pitches of live batting practice Thursday, so he shouldn't be on too much of a reduced workload in his return.
Jun 24 2021Matz (illness) threw about 60 pitches in live batting practice Thursday and is expected to start during the Blue Jays' upcoming three-game series against the Mariners, which begins Tuesday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander has cleared the COVID-19 protocols and is on the cusp of rejoining the rotation after testing positive for the virus June 13. Matz figures to face minor workload limitations coming off the absence, but he should be able to reach 75-80 pitches after nearing 60 during Thursday's session.
Jun 23 2021Matz (illness) will throw a bullpen session at his home Thursday, Mitch Bannon of SI.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Blue Jays were hopeful that Matz would be able to return from the COVID-19 injured list this week, but he'll require at least one more throwing session before he's cleared to return. The southpaw has continued to throw while he's been in quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19, and he was reportedly built up to 70 pitches during his most recent throwing session. If Matz is able to clear COVID-19 protocols in the near future, he could return to the rotation early next week.
Jun 20 2021Matz could be available to return from the COVID-19 injured list this week if he's negative for the virus when he gets tested again Wednesday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since going into quarantine last weekend after testing positive for the virus, Matz has resumed throwing on his own in attempt to remain stretched out for starting duty while he's on the IL. Matz has reportedly built up to 70 pitches in his most recent throwing session, so he could be an option to make his return to the rotation as soon as Wednesday in Miami if he clears all COVID-19-related protocols.
Jun 14 2021Matz has tested positive for COVID-19, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was placed on the COVID-19 injured list Sunday due to an inconclusive test, but the team confirmed Monday that his test came back positive. While the southpaw is currently asymptomatic, he'll need to spend time away from the team as a result. It's not yet clear who will take Matz's place in the rotation in the near future.
Jun 13 2021Matz was placed on the COVID-19 injured list Sunday because of an inconclusive test, Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw will undergo additional testing. If his tests come back negative, he should be able to make his next start, which is expected to come Thursday against the Yankees. Jeremy Beasley was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo in a corresponding roster move.
Jun 12 2021Matz (7-3) earned the win Saturday against the Red Sox after tossing 5.2 innings of one-run ball, giving up four hits and two walks while fanning eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz bounced back from an ugly outing the last time out and while he couldn't clinch what would've been his fifth quality start of the season, he still looked solid on the mound. The left-hander has given up two or fewer runs in four of his last six contests and is projected to make his next start next week at home against the Yankees.
Jun 6 2021Mats (6-3) allowed four runs on eight hits and four walks in 4.1 innings in a loss to Houston on Sunday. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Sunday marked the second time in four starts Matz allowed 10 or more baserunners. This was also just the second appearance where he allowed multiple home runs, as Jose Altuve and Chas McCormick each hit a solo shot off the southpaw. Matz has a 4.50 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 67:19 K:BB across 64 innings this season. He lines up for a tough matchup in Boston next weekend.
May 30 2021Matz started Game 2 of Sunday's doubleheader against Cleveland and didn't factor into the decision, allowing four runs (two earned) on four hits with four strikeouts in a 6-5 loss. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was cruising with a no-hitter through five innings but ran into trouble in the sixth, allowing three straight base hits following a leadoff error before being removed. All four runs eventually scored to put a damper on an excellent game through five innings. The lefty now has a 4.22 ERA and lines up to tentatively face Houston at home next Sunday.
May 25 2021Matz (6-2) earned the win Tuesday against the Yankees after giving up one run on six hits while striking out 10 across 6.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has been a reliable presence in the Blue Jays rotation, and he's now delivered two strong performances over his last three appearances. Matz, who has given up nine or more strikeouts in two of his last three games, is scheduled to start Sunday on the road against Cleveland.
May 21 2021Matz allowed five earned runs on 10 hits and two walks while striking out four across six innings in a loss Thursday against the Red Sox. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz surrendered five runs in the second inning, capped off by a three-run home run by Bobby Dalbec. He retired the first two batters of the inning before allowing eight straight batters to reach safely. However, he shut out the Red Sox over the rest of his outing. Matz's 10 hits allowed is a season high, although he made it through six innings for the first time since April 17. The 30-year-old has a 4.69 ERA and a 1.38 WHIP with 50 strikeouts in 48 innings.
May 14 2021Matz allowed four hits and three walks with nine strikeouts in five scoreless innings versus Philadelphia on Friday. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz kept runs off the board, but he needed 106 pitches (65 strikes) to get through five frames. It was the first time he allowed fewer than three runs since April 17, his third start of the year. The southpaw has a 4.29 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 46:13 K:BB across 42 innings in eight starts. Matz is still at 5-2 on the year, and he lines up to face Boston next week.
May 8 2021Matz (5-2) allowed three earned runs on eight hits while striking out four across five innings to earn the win over the Astros on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz picked up his fifth win Saturday, tying him for the most wins in the American League. The bulk of his damage came from a two-run home run by Yordan Alvarez in the fourth inning. The 30-year-old has struggled with the long ball, holding a 1.46 HR/9, which is good for ninth-highest in all of baseball. However, he didn't walk anyone in a start for the first time this season. Matz carries a 4.86 ERA and 1.27 WHIP through 37 innings.
May 3 2021Matz (4-2) allowed five runs on seven hits and a walk over five innings Monday, striking out six and taking a loss against Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Athletics got to Matz early, scoring three runs in the second inning including a two-run shot by Stephen Piscotty. He later served up another two-run homer, this time off the bat of Ramon Laureano. His season ERA spiked to 4.78 with a 33:10 K:BB over 32 innings. Matz is lined up to take the mound in Houston this weekend.
Apr 29 2021Matz (4-1) took the loss Wednesday as the Blue Jays fell 8-2 to the Nationals, coughing up six runs on eight hits and a walk over 3.2 innings. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While the southpaw wasn't hit especially hard -- only one of the eight hits, a Josh Harrison homer, went for extra bases -- it was still his worst start of the year so far. He threw 54 of 80 pitches for strikes and doubled the number of earned runs on his ledger. Matz will carry a 4.00 ERA and 27:9 K:BB through 27 innings into his next outing.
Apr 23 2021Matz (4-0) allowed three runs on five hits and two walks while striking out seven in five innings to earn the win against the Rays on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz began Friday's game with four scoreless innings, but he gave up a three-run home run with no outs in the fifth frame. However, he still picked up his fourth win in as many starts since the Blue Jays put up four runs in the first inning. Matz now carries a 2.31 ERA and 0.94 WHIP in 23.1 innings to begin the season. His next start should come at home against the Nationals on Wednesday.
Apr 17 2021Matz (3-0) picked up the win in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Royals, allowing one run on two hits and two walks over six innings while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw has been outstanding to begin the season, reeling off three straight quality starts and giving up only one run in each of them. Matz tossed 48 of 82 pitches for strikes in Saturday's effort, and he'll take a 1.47 ERA and 18:6 K:BB through 18.1 innings into his next start Friday in Tampa Bay.
Apr 16 2021Matz and the Blue Jays won't play the Royals on Friday since the game was postponed due to rain, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old will receive at least one extra day of rest due to the postponement. The game will be made up via a doubleheader Saturday, with Matz taking the hill for the first game.
Apr 10 2021Matz (2-0) took the win against the Angels on Saturday, tossing six innings and allowing one run on five hits and three walks while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz endured a nearly three-hour rain delay before the contest, but the weather didn't appear to cause any disruption to his routine as the left-hander collected an easy victory. The only run he allowed in the outing came on a fourth-inning solo homer off the bat of Anthony Rendon, but that was merely a whisper among a loud chorus of Toronto bats that put up 15 total runs. Matz is off to a strong start in his first season with the Blue Jays, collecting a pair of wins in his first two appearances and giving up only two runs across a combined 12.1 frames. He'll look to keep things going Thursday when he heads to Kansas City to face the Royals.
Apr 5 2021Matz (1-0) earned the win Monday against the Rangers by allowing one run on two hits and one walk while striking out nine over 6.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was locked in to kick off the 2021 campaign, surrendering just one run in the fourth inning on an RBI single by Nate Lowe. The southpaw was eventually lifted with a 6-1 lead and his pitch count at 91 (62 strikes). He'll look for his second victory of the season in his next scheduled start Saturday against the Angels.
Mar 26 2021Matz gave up two runs on six hits and two walks over 5.1 innings in Thursday's Grapefruit League game against the Tigers. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw got stretched out to 81 pitches (55 strikes) and he appears just about ready for Opening Day. Matz had a shaky track record with the Mets, but he's posted a 1.76 ERA and 15:2 K:BB over 15.1 innings this spring, and the Jays are counting on him to provide some consistent innings from the back half of the rotation in 2021.
Mar 21 2021Matz threw 74 pitches (53 strikes) over five innings in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Phillies, allowing one run on five hits. He struck out six without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw continued a very impressive spring that has seen him post a 0.90 ERA and 12:0 K:BB over 10 innings. Command, rather than control, has been Matz's downfall in the past -- he surrendered 14 homers over 30.2 innings in 2020 despite a 36:10 K:BB -- but so far he's been locating the ball well within the zone and hasn't given up a long ball yet this spring. Matz will begin the year in the Jays' rotation, and his ability to avoid loud contact will determine if he keeps the job.
Mar 18 2021Matz is expected to begin the regular season in the starting rotation, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz served as a swingman for the Mets during the abbreviated 2020 season and posted a 9.68 ERA and 1.70 WHIP over 30.2 innings while making nine appearances (six starts). While the Blue Jays could use openers to begin the regular season, Matz is expected to have a starting role, although his spot in the rotation hasn't been determined. The southpaw has made two Grapefruit League starts for the Blue Jays after he was traded to the team in January, and he's allowed two hits and no walks while striking out six across five scoreless innings.
Jan 27 2021Matz was traded from the Mets to the Blue Jays on Wednesday in exchange for Sean Reid-Foley, Yennsy Diaz and Josh Winckowski, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander struggled in 2020 with a 9.68 ERA across 30.2 innings, and he'll now get a fresh start with Toronto before hitting free agency at the end of the season. Matz started 60 games for the Mets between 2018 and 2019, and he had a 4.09 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 305:110 K:BB over 314.1 innings. The Blue Jays have their clear ace in Hyun-Jin Ryu, and behind him Matz joins a group of Nate Pearson, Ross Stripling, Robbie Ray and Tanner Roark in the mix for the starting rotation.
Dec 2 2020Matz signed a one-year, $5.2 million contract with the Mets on Wednesday, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old lefty had a 10.17 ERA in 25.2 innings as a starter and a 7.20 ERA in five innings out of the bullpen, but he should return to the rotation in 2021. He logged a 4.21 ERA in 160.1 innings in 2019 and a 3.97 ERA in 154 innings in 2018.
Sep 22 2020Matz will pitch out of the bullpen going forward, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz would have been on schedule to start Wednesday against the Rays, but it will be Michael Wacha getting the nod in his place. Matz can't exactly claim he deserves a starting role at the moment, as he owns a 9.79 ERA on the year in six starts and one relief appearance. With just five days left in the season, it would be a surprise if he makes another start.
Sep 19 2020Matz allowed six runs on eight hits and three walks while striking out five across 2.2 innings in a loss to the Braves on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Friday was Matz's first time pitching since he was activated from the injured list Sunday, and it was his first start since Aug. 15. The rust was clearly evident as he allowed eight hits (including two home runs) and three walks to the first 16 batters he faced. Matz's outing makes him the third consecutive Mets starter to fail to go at least three innings after both Jacob deGrom (hamstring) and Seth Lugo were pulled before the third in their respective starts. The southpaw owns a 9.79 ERA to go along with a 30:9 K:BB across 26.2 innings this season. It's unclear if he'll get another turn in the rotation, or if he'll shift back to the bullpen moving forward.
Sep 17 2020Matz will start Friday's game at home against Atlanta, Justin Toscano of The Bergen Record reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Sunday after recovering from shoulder discomfort and hasn't pitched since. He was transitioned to a bullpen role prior to heading to the injured list, but he'll return to the mound to make a spot start for the series opener against Atlanta. The southpaw has an 0-4 record with an 8.63 ERA and 1.50 WHIP over 24 innings this season.
Sep 13 2020Matz (shoulder) was activated off the 10-day injured list Sunday, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander landed on the injured list at the end of August with the shoulder discomfort, and he'll rejoin the team after recovering for the past two weeks. Matz began the season as a starter before shifting to the bullpen and has a 8.63 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 25:9 K:BB over 24 innings.
Sep 11 2020Matz (shoulder) threw a bullpen session Friday and is expected to return from the injured list soon, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz has already served the required 10 days on the injured list due to shoulder discomfort. If Friday's bullpen session is the last one he needs, he could make a start sometime early next week.
Aug 30 2020Matz (shoulder) was placed on the 10-day injured list Sunday, Justin Toscano of The Bergen Record reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old exited Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader with left shoulder discomfort and will require at least 10 days to recover. It's unclear if Matz is expected to be healthy when eligible to be activated Sept. 9.
Aug 29 2020Matz reportedly experienced some left shoulder discomfort during the first game of Saturday's doubleheader with the Yankees and is probably headed to the injured list, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz relieved Robert Gsellman in the bottom half of the fifth and pitched a 1-2-3 inning while striking out two batters. Mets manager Luis Rojas claims Matz "didn't feel right" despite an efficient outing. Matz will most likely officially move to the injured list either Saturday or Sunday.
Aug 25 2020Matz could be an option to start later this week, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The team is hoping not to use Matz out of the bullpen during Tuesday's doubleheader, as they have nine games over the next six days and while Matz has been bad as a starter this year, these are desperate times. Matz has a 9.00 ERA and 1.57 WHIP in 23 innings this year.
Aug 19 2020Matz was removed from the starting rotation and will be available out of the bullpen for Thursday's game against the Marlins, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Mets left the southpaw's status in the rotation up in the air coming out of his ugly outing Saturday, and he'll move to the bullpen rather than start Thursday. Seth Lugo will take his spot in the rotation, though Matz could still see work Thursday since Lugo isn't close to being stretched out as a starter. Matz has surrendered 23 runs on 30 hits, including nine homers, through 23 innings this season.
Aug 16 2020The Mets have not yet decided whether Matz will remain in the rotation for his next scheduled start Thursday against the Marlins, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He has a 14.66 ERA and 1.97 WHIP over his last three starts. If the Mets had quality options behind Matz, he would have likely already been bumped from the rotation, but the team's rotation depth has really been tested so far this season.
Aug 15 2020Matz (0-4) took the loss Saturday as the Mets were downed 6-2 by the Phillies, coughing up six runs on five hits and three walks over 4.1 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw held his own through four innings, but the Phillies broke it open the third time through the order with five runs in the fifth. There was very little that could be taken from Matz's final line that might be called encouraging, as he got tagged for another homer -- already the ninth he's served up -- and doubled the number of walks he's issued on the year for good measure. He'll carry a ghastly 9.00 ERA and 23:6 K:BB through 23 innings into his next outing Thursday in Miami.
Aug 10 2020Matz (0-3) took the loss Monday as the Mets were routed 16-4 by the Nationals, surrendering eight runs on eight hits -- including three home runs -- over 4.1 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The ball was flying out of Citi Field in this one, and the lefty served up a gopher ball to Asdrubal Cabrera in the second inning before Trae Turner and Juan Soto tagged him in the third. Matz finally got chased from the game in a seven-run fifth during which the Nats sent 12 men to the plate. His ERA now stands at a bloated 8.20 largely thanks to the efforts of the depending champs -- over his last two starts, both against Washington, Matz has coughed up 13 runs and five home runs in only 7.1 innings. He'll try to right the ship during his next outing Saturday in Philadelphia.
Aug 4 2020Matz (0-2) allowed five earned runs on seven hits and no walks while striking out three across three innings to take the loss Tuesday against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz allowed two home runs for the second consecutive outing, this time solo shots by Howie Kendrick and Josh Harrison. However, he was also tagged by a lengthy rally in the third inning, when the Nationals collected four hits -- three were singles -- to tally three more runs. Through three starts this season, Matz has a 5.65 ERA, though he has also managed a 13:3 K:BB acros 14.1 frames. He currently lines up for his next start on Monday in a rematch against the Nationals.
Jul 30 2020Matz (0-1) allowed three earned runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out three across 5.1 innings to take the loss Thursday against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All of Matz's earned runs came from the bat of Christian Vazquez, who took him yard twice. While he was hardly dominant otherwise, his line was inflated by allowing four infield hits. Matz was unable to follow up his strong opening start of the season, but has shown the ability to work deep into games early on, throwing 11.1 innings across his two outings. He currently lines up to make his third start of the campaign on Tuesday at the Nationals.
Jul 25 2020Matz allowed one run on two hits and a walk while striking out seven in six innings, but he took a no-decision Saturday versus the Braves. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was excellent, with the only blemish on his line the result of a second-inning Adam Duvall solo home run. Matz had 15 quality starts in 30 starts last season and he's already added his first this year. The 29-year-old southpaw lines up to face the Red Sox at home Thursday.
Jul 22 2020Matz will start Saturday against the Braves, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz will serve on the front end of the Mets' starting rotation to begin the season after Marcus Stroman (calf) was placed on the injured list Wednesday. The southpaw drew positive reviews from manager Luis Rojas about his performance during camp. Matz made 32 appearances (30 starts) for the Mets last season, posting a 4.21 ERA and 1.34 WHIP over 160.1 innings.
Jul 7 2020Matz drew raves from manager Luis Rojas for his performance during a simulated game Monday, Bradford William Davis of The New York Daily News reports. "Eye-popping," Rojas said during a Zoom call with the media. "All the pitches are looking great." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Mets manager further said that Matz's command appeared to be ahead of schedule. The southpaw will be counted on to fill a spot behind Jacob deGrom and Marcus Stroman at the back of the team's rotation this season, but Matz's erratic track record in the majors makes him a somewhat risky fantasy option.
Mar 8 2020Matz tossed three perfect innings in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Nationals, Alyson Footer of MLB.com reports. He threw 30 of 44 pitches for strikes before tossing another 15 pitches in the bullpen after his start. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander continues to make a strong case to open the season as a starter, either for the Mets or for another team if the Mets elect to trade him. Matz has a 1.50 ERA and 5:0 K:BB through six spring innings.
Mar 7 2020Matz (illness) will start Saturday's spring game against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: An illness had sidelined Matz since Feb. 29, but he is ready to get back on the bump Saturday. He should have plenty of time to be ready by Opening Day, but his role remains somewhat uncertain, as it was reported on the first day of the month he could be used as a primary pitcher behind an opener to kick off the campaign.
Mar 4 2020Matz (illness) threw a side session Wednesday, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was sent home sick Tuesday, but the illness evidently wasn't particularly severe. He's scheduled to pitch Saturday against the Nationals.
Mar 3 2020Matz was sent home from Mets camp Tuesday after coming down with an illness, David Lennon of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz's ailment isn't believed to be anything significant; the Mets are just keeping him away so he doesn't pass his illness around to the team's healthy players. The southpaw will miss out on his scheduled bullpen session as a result, though he still anticipates that he'll be ready to go when his next turn in the Grapefruit League pitching schedule comes up Friday versus the Astros.
Mar 1 2020Matz could be used as the primary pitcher behind an opener this season, Mike Puma of The New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Mets haven't yet embraced some of the new-fangled pitching strategies that are spreading around the league, so at this point the team having anything beyond five traditional starting pitchers is just speculative. Matz struggled in the first inning through the early part of last season, however, and if those issues return it could spur the organization to get creative, assuming he breaks camp in the rotation. For his part, the southpaw didn't seem terribly enthusiastic about the prospect. "It's definitely intriguing," Matz said, when asked about the idea of an opener. "But for me personally it's just my whole career I have never done that, so it's different. I am used to starting, warming up for the game, long tossing all that stuff. I think that [opener] stuff is more different. I don't know how they do it. We've never done it really in the big leagues with the Mets, so I don't know how it is, I don't know what it's like so I can't comment on it." Matz has had a solid start to his spring, allowing one run and posting a 2:0 K:BB through three innings, but he'll need to keep pitching well over the rest of the spring to secure a rotation spot.
Feb 24 2020Matz is focused on staying aggressive this spring after changing his approach following a brief demotion to the bullpen last season, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw is battling with Rick Porcello and Michael Wacha for the final two spots in the Mets' rotation this spring, but the fact that he would be the only left-hander in the group, as well as his holdover status, would seem to give Matz the edge. Prior to his demotion to a relief role last July, he'd posted a 6.21 ERA in the first innings of his starts, but Matz then learned to be more aggressive attacking hitters rather than being overly concerned over which of his pitches were "working" on any given day. He posted a 3.52 ERA over his final 14 starts after rejoining the rotation, allowing only one first-inning run along the way. "Some days, you just feel like you don't have it," Matz said. "And so sometimes, you've got to just trust -- trust that what you have, all the work you put in, all the preparation that you put in, that it's going to be there, instead of, 'I don't feel like I have a good curveball today,' so you shy away from it or whatever. You put in all these hours of work, just trust it, go out and execute. That mentality, I think translates well for me."
Jan 10 2020Matz signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Mets on Friday, avoiding arbitration, Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz threw a career-high 160.1 innings last season. His 4.21 ERA was the second worst of his five-year career, good for a slightly worse than average 102 ERA-.
Sep 28 2019Matz (11-10) earned the win Saturday versus the Braves after allowing two hits across six shutout innings. He struck out seven and walked five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz dealt with baserunners for most of the evening but kept the Braves off the board by inducing 17 swinging strikes and giving up only one extra-base hit. The left-hander finishes 2019 with a 4.21 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 153:52 K:BB through 160.1 innings.
Sep 23 2019Matz (10-10) took the loss against the Marlins on Monday, giving up six earned runs on nine hits over five innings, striking out three with no walks in an 8-4 loss for the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After getting lit up for seven earned by the Rockies in his last start, Matz had a rough go again in this contest, giving up four of his six runs in the sixth inning and eventually ending up with his 10th loss of the season. The pair of blow-ups leaves the left-hander with a 4.37 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 146:47 K:BB across 154.1 innings. He's scheduled to make one more start to close out the season in a Saturday home matchup against the Braves.
Sep 20 2019Matz will make his next start Monday against the Marlins, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz was on track to make his next appearance Sunday in the series finale against the Reds, but he'll be pushed back a day. Marcus Stroman is set to toe the rubber Sunday.
Sep 17 2019Matz (10-9) took the loss against the Rockies on Monday, giving up seven earned runs on six hits over four innings, striking out four and walking two as the Mets fell 9-4. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Matz blanked the Diamondbacks his last time out, but he was shelled in this one, with most of the damage against him coming on long balls he gave up to Ian Desmond and Trevor Story. The 28-year-old left-hander now sports a 4.16 ERA and 1.33 WHIP across 149.1 innings ahead of his next start, which is scheduled for Sunday in a road matchup against the Reds.
Sep 11 2019Matz (10-8) allowed four hits and three walks while striking out seven across six scoreless innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Mets gave Matz plenty of run support early by jumping out to a 5-0 lead in the first inning. He proved plenty capable of maintaining that, generating 15 of his 18 outs via strikeout or ground ball. After being tagged for several blowup outings throughout the first half of the season, Matz has allowed two or fewer earned runs in 10 of his last 11 starts since a brief stint in the bullpen that ended on July 16. For the campaign, he now touts a 3.84 ERA and 1.31 WHIP with 139 strikeouts across 145.1 innings. He's currently projected to make his next start in a tough matchup Monday at Coors Field against the Rockies.
Sep 7 2019Matz didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 5-4 win over the Phillies, allowing two runs on six hits and three walks over 5.2 innings while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw tossed 109 pitches (67 strikes) and ran out of gas just short of his 14th quality start of the season. Matz has a 2.78 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 54:13 in 58.1 second-half innings, and he'll look to keep rolling in his next outing Wednesday, at home against the Diamondbacks.
Aug 31 2019Matz (9-8) allowed three runs (two earned) on seven hits with one walk and six strikeouts across five innings while earning a victory against the Phillies on Saturday.
Aug 29 2019Matz (finger) is listed as the Mets' probable starter for Saturday's game against the Phillies.
Aug 25 2019Matz (8-8) has a left middle finger blister, Tim Britton of The Athletic reports. He took the loss Sunday against the Braves after giving up one run on two hits with
Aug 20 2019Matz (8-7) earned the win Tuesday versus the Indians after allowing two runs (one earned) on five hits with seven strikeouts and two walks over 6.1 innings.
Aug 14 2019Matz gave up one run on two hits and one walk while striking out five through six innings in a no-decision against the Braves on Wednesday.
Aug 7 2019Matz (7-7) allowed two runs on seven hits with two walks and seven strikeouts across 6.2 innings to earn a victory against the Marlins on Wednesday.
Jul 28 2019Matz (6-6) allowed five hits with no walks and seven strikeouts in a complete-game shutout against the Pirates on Saturday.
Jul 28 2019Matz (6-6) allowed five hits with no walks and seven strikeouts in a complete-game shutout against the Pirates on Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Matz allowed two runs on six hits and a walk over six innings Sunday, striking out six and taking the no-decision in the loss to the Giants.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 16 2019Matz won't throw more than 80 pitches in his start Tuesday against the Twins, Matt Ehalt of Yahoo Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 16 2019Matz allowed two runs on five hits with one walk and two strikeouts across four innings during a no-decision against the Twins on Tuesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 15 2019Matz is scheduled to rejoin the starting rotation Tuesday against the Twins, Tim Healey of Newsday<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 13 2019Matz will rejoin the Mets rotation and start Wednesday against the Twins in Minnesota, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 13 2019Matz will re-enter the Mets rotation and start Tuesday against the Twins in Minnesota, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 2 2019Matz will pitch out of the bullpen until the All-Star Game and may remain a reliever to start the second half of the season, Tim Healey of Newsday<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 2 2019The Mets will skip Matz's next scheduled start Saturday against the Phillies, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 2 2019The Mets will skip Matz's next scheduled start Saturday against the Phillies, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 29 2019Matz struck out three and allowed two runs on three hits and zero walks over two innings in a no-decision against the Braves on Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 29 2019Matz received a no-decision Saturday as the Mets fell 5-4 to the Braves, allowing two runs on three hits and no walks over two innings while striking out three.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 24 2019Matz (5-6) took the loss Monday as the Mets fell 13-7 to the Phillies, coughing up seven runs on 10 hits -- including three home runs -- and three walks over 4.1 innings while striking out one.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 19 2019Matz (5-5) allowed five earned runs on six hits and four walks while striking out two across five innings to take the loss Wednesday against the Braves.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 14 2019Matz allowed four runs (three earned) on three hits with six strikeouts and two walks across six innings during a no-decision against the Cardinals on Friday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 8 2019Matz (5-4) picked up the win Saturday, giving up three runs (two earned) on six hits and two walks over six innings while striking out a season-high 10.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 2 2019Matz (4-4) took the loss against Arizona on Sunday, completing six innings and giving up five runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out five.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 28 2019Matz (4-3) took the win versus the Dodgers on Tuesday, tossing six innings and giving up two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out six.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 23 2019Matz allowed one earned run on 10 hits and two walks while striking out seven across six innings Thursday against the Nationals. He did not factor into the decision.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 18 2019Matz (3-3) took the loss against the Marlins on Saturday by allow two runs on five hits across 3.2 innings. He struck out six and walked two.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 18 2019Matz will be limited to 75-80 pitches Saturday against the Marlins, Matt Ehalt of Yahoo Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 18 2019Matz (forearm) was activated as expected ahead of his scheduled start Saturday against the Marlins, Matt Ehalt of Yahoo! Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 18 2019Matz will be limited to 75-to-80 pitches Saturday against the Marlins, Matt Ehalt of Yahoo Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Matz (forearm) relayed that he felt completely healthy following his 45-pitch bullpen session Wednesday, but manager Mickey Callaway wasn't willing to commit to the left-hander being ready to return from the 10-day injured list to start Saturday's game against the Marlins, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Matz (forearm) will start Saturday against the Marlins, Mike Puma of the New York Post<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 14 2019Matz (forearm) will throw another bullpen session Wednesday, Matt Ehalt of Yahoo Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 13 2019The Mets are hopeful Matz (forearm) will be ready to return from the 10-day injured list to make a start in Miami during the upcoming weekend, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 10 2019Matz will test his injured forearm in a bullpen session Saturday to determine whether or not he'll be able to make his next scheduled start Thursday against Washington, Deesha Thosar of the New York Daily News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 9 2019Matz (forearm) is expected to rejoin the rotation May 16 against the Nationals, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 9 2019Matz (forearm) was placed<\/a> on the 10-day injured list Thursday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 8 2019Manager Mickey Callaway said the Mets are waiting to see if Matz (forearm) can start Tuesday against the Nationals, Matt Ehalt of Yahoo Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 6 2019Matz received a cortisone injection in his left forearm and won't make his scheduled start Wednesday against the Padres, Mike Puma of the New York Post<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 6 2019Matz underwent tests on his forearm Monday which confirmed that he's dealing with a nerve issue and has no structural damage on his elbow, Jon Heyman of MLB Network<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2018Matz fell to 4-8 on the year after allowing five runs on nine hits and a walk Saturday against the Yankees, striking out three in five innings.Matz didn't get into any real trouble until the fourth inning, when he was knocked around for four runs on five hits, including three straight extra-base hits. He was pulled with no outs in the sixth inning after allowing another run on back-to-back hits. Despite the poor showing, the southpaw still has a solid 3.65 ERA through 19 starts. He'll get the chance to bounce back Thursday in Pittsburgh.
Jul 12 2018Matz (4-7) allowed three earned runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out four across 6.1 innings to take the loss Thursday against the Nationals.Matz was taken deep twice -- both came off the bat of Anthony Rendon -- which accounted for all three of his earned runs. He scattered six other hits -- none for extra-bases -- but was able to avoid more damage to his ERA by stranding five runners in scoring position. This was hardly his strongest effort -- he generated only four swinging strikes -- but his velocity was up from him season-long averages so there are no obvious signs of fatigue. Matz now has a 3.38 ERA and 1.25 WHIP through 96 innings, putting him well on his way to rebounding from a disappointing 2017 season.
Jul 7 2018Matz (4-6) allowed one earned run on five hits and three walks while striking out five across 6.1 innings to take the loss Saturday against the Rays.Four of the five hits Matz allowed went for extra-bases, but he used timely strikeouts and groundball outs to limit the damage. He has been on a nice run, lowering his ERA from 4.42 to 3.31 over his last ten starts while allowing only six home runs in 57 innings. Though he hasn't been rewarded with wins, Matz has also done well working deeper into games as he has completed at least six innings in five of his last seven starts after accomplishing that only twice in his first 10 starts this season.
Jul 1 2018Matz (4-5) threw 5.1 innings Sunday, yielding one unearned run on three hits and two walks while striking out six batters in a 5-2 win over Miami.Matz picked up his second win in his last four starts with the solid performance Sunday. Granted, the only run that scored was off an error by Matz. The 27-year-old southpaw lowered his season ERA to 3.46 alongside a respectable 76:32 K:BB. Matz will take the mound again next Sunday against the Rays.
Jun 26 2018Matz allowed three runs on six hits while striking out seven over seven innings in Tuesday's win over the Pirates. He did not factor into the decision.Matz faced the minimum over the first four innings before allowing a pair of runs on four consecutive hits to begin the fifth inning. The Pirates tacked on another run with a Gregory Polanco solo shot in the seventh before Matz was lifted after throwing a season-high 110 pitches. The southpaw has now posted quality starts in four of his last five starts and currently owns a respectable 3.69 ERA on the season. His next start will come Tuesday against the Blue Jays.
Jun 21 2018Matz (3-5) allowed five runs in 5.2 innings Thursday, striking out six batters while yielding two walks and eight hits in a 6-4 loss to Colorado.All the damage to Matz came in the first two innings and both off the bat of Nolan Arenado, as he tagged the Mets starter for a home run, a double, and five RBI. On the bright side, he was solid once he got out of that mess in the first two innings. The five earned runs are the most he's allowed in any start this year, raising his season ERA to 3.68. Matz will take on the Pirates at home early next week.
Jun 16 2018Matz (3-4) allowed one earned run on six hits and one walk while striking out three across 6.2 innings to earn the win Saturday against the Diamondbacks.Matz allowed at least one baserunner in five of the seven innings he pitched, but limited the Diamondbacks to just one extra-base hit. After allowing 2.08 HR/9 in April, Matz has alllowed only two home runs in his last 28.2 innings pitched. He has also consistently pitched deep into games over his past three starts, topping 100 pitches and working at least six innings in each of them. His combination of groundball and strikeout rate make him a quality option in most league formats, so long as he remains healthy.
Jun 16 2018Matz (finger) was confirmed as the starter for Saturday's game at Arizona, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Matz was supposed to start Thursday but had his start pushed back two days due to a blister on his middle finger, but apparently had no further issues. The left-hander will face a Diamondbacks team that is averaging over eight runs during their last eight games.
Jun 13 2018Matz will make his next start Saturday against the Diamondbacks, Tim Britton of The Athletic New York reports.Matz was originally scheduled to start Thursday's series opener, but Jason Vargas will toe the rubber instead. There has been no word of any injury at this point, so he'll simply be afforded a couple of extra days of rest before his next outing. Matz owns a 3.53 ERA across 12 starts this season.
Jun 13 2018Matz had his start pushed to Saturday due to a blister on his middle finger, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.Jason Vargas will pitch in Matz's place Thursday, while Matz will presumably take the mound two days later assuming the blister is no longer an issue. The 27-year-old Matz owns a 3.53 ERA across 12 starts this season.
Jun 9 2018Matz allowed three earned runs on five hits and four walks while striking out six across six innings Saturday against the Yankees. He did factor into the decision.Matz labored through this start, throwing only 57 of his 105 pitches for strikes while also allowing two home runs. However, he fared well given the circumstances by posting a baseline quality start. He surprisingly navigated the Yankees' big three hitters -- Aaron Judge, Gary Sanchez and Giancarlo Stanton -- without allowing any major damage but was taken yard by both Miguel Andujar and Gleyber Torres. Despite the poor context to this outing, Matz continued his run of strong results as he now has allowed only five earned runs across his last 22 innings pitched.
Jun 3 2018Matz (2-4) surrendered two runs on five hits and two walks while striking out seven over seven innings as he took the loss Sunday against the Cubs.Matz gave up both of his runs in the seventh inning, one on a steal of home and the other on a sacrifice fly. He's been pretty solid in his last three appearances, allowing just two runs over 16 innings of work. Despite a 2-4 record, Matz sports a 3.42 ERA and 1.23 WHIP with 48 strikeouts over 52.2 innings.
Jun 2 2018Matz (finger) will make his scheduled start against the Cubs on Sunday, Tim Healey of Newsday reports.Matz played catch Thursday and had an uneventful bullpen session Friday, paving the way for his start against the Cubs. Assuming the finger issue doesn't crop up again, the Mets' left-hander should be fresh for the matchup with Chicago after throwing only 43 pitches during Tuesday's injury-shortened outing.
May 31 2018Matz (finger) felt well enough to play catch Thursday, James Wagner of The New York Times reports.Matz exited Tuesday's start against the Braves with a slight strain of his left middle finger and remains questionable for his scheduled start Sunday against the Cubs. The left-hander playing catch is a good sign but doesn't indicate much for his Sunday availability. The Mets can ill afford his absence given the struggles of the back-end of the rotation and with Noah Syndergaard (finger) on the disabled list.
May 30 2018Matz was diagnosed with a slight strain of his left middle finger and it is unclear if he will be able to make his next scheduled start, James Wagner of The New York Times reports.The strain, which is near the knuckle, has rendered Matz day-to-day, and the Mets have yet to determine whether he will be able to start Sunday's game against the Cubs. New York has been ravaged by injuries and poor performances in the rotation of late, so they will likely turn to Matz if at all possible.
May 29 2018Matz left Tuesday's game against the Braves with discomfort in the middle finger of his left hand, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.Matz allowed one hit and two walks with two strikeouts through three scoreless frames, but was examined and then removed after throwing his warm-up pitches prior to the fourth inning. Fortunately, the X-ray results came back negative, but the 27-year-old's status for his next expected start -- Sunday against the Cubs -- remains unclear.
May 24 2018Matz (2-3) picked up the win against the Brewers on Thursday, scattering four hits over six shut-out innings with three strikeouts and three walks in the Mets' 5-0 victory.Matz lasted just four innings and gave up four runs against the Diamondbacks in his last start, but he was able right the ship in shutting out the Brewers to pick up his second win of the season, and his first since April 13. It was the third time in his last four outings Matz has given up one or fewer earned runs, so he's been on a solid run lately and that last start against Arizona was actually the only time he's given up more than three earned runs in a game this season. However, he hasn't been working very deep into games, so his lack of efficiency, as well as his unremarkable strikeout rate, are both factors holding him back from posting higher marks than his 3.80 ERA and 1.29 WHIP.
May 19 2018Matz allowed four earned runs on six hits and one walk while striking out two across four innings Saturday against the Diamondbacks. He did not factor into the decision.After allowing two extra-base hits and an earned run in his first two innings of work, Matz appeared to be settling into his start with a smooth third inning. However, things fell apart for him in the fourth inning as he allowed two home runs and was taken advantage of on the basepaths by Jarrod Dyson. The short outing was a continuing trend as he has now failed to work for more than five innings in six of his eight starts this season. While he provides decent ratios and strikeouts, his inability to work deep into games limit his upside.
May 12 2018Matz didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 3-1 win over the Phillies, allowing one run on five hits and four walks over five innings while striking out three.The left-hander threw only 54 of 95 pitches for strikes and walked more batters than he struck out for the first time in seven starts, but Matz was able to limit the damage and got taken off the hook for his fourth loss of the season when the Mets knocked Hector Neris around in the ninth inning. Matz will carry a 3.86 ERA into his next outing Wednesday at home against the Blue Jays.
May 5 2018Matz (1-3) took the loss Saturday against the Rockies, allowing one run on three hits and a walk across six innings. He struck out five.It was a tough-luck loss for Matz, as the 26-year-old certainly pitched well enough to win but was out-dueled by Chad Bettis, who tossed seven scoreless innings for the Rockies. The only run Matz allowed came from a Nolan Arenado first-inning homer, but it was ultimately enough as the Mets were blanked for the third time in four games. The right-hander was able to complete six innings for the first time all season, which is encouraging after his start was pushed back due to back stiffness. He'll carry a 4.23 ERA and 10.1 K/9 into his next start, which will come on the road against the Phillies.
May 5 2018Matz (back) will make his scheduled start Saturday against the Rockies, Tim Healey of Newsday reports.Matz had his start pushed back due to back stiffness but is good to go Saturday. The southpaw has a mediocre 4.98 ERA through five starts so far this season, with a career-best 27.4 percent strikeout rate and a career-worst 10.5 percent walk rate.
May 1 2018Matz says his back feels fine and doesn't expect any issues making his next start Saturday against the Rockies, Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News reports.Matz had his Tuesday start pushed back to Saturday due to back soreness, but he doesn't appear likely to miss any more time. The 26-year-old has a 4.98 ERA through his first five starts, though his 3.82 xFIP suggests that he's been pitching fine. He's walking too many batters at 10.5 percent, but his 27.4 percent strikeout rate is an encouraging sign.
Apr 29 2018Matz (back) will make his next start Saturday against the Rockies, James Wagner of The New York Times reports.Matz was originally scheduled to start Tuesday against the Braves, but the lefty will now have his upcoming start pushed back in order to buy him more time to rest his sore upper back. Manager Mickey Callaway did announce that Matz would be available in relief Tuesday if need be, though Noah Syndergaard will draw the start in his place.
Apr 29 2018Matz (back) said he felt good after completing a pre-start bullpen session Sunday, but it hasn't been determined whether the lefty will take the hill for Tuesday's series opener against the Braves, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.Despite posting a 6.39 ERA over his past three outings to put his rotation spot in jeopardy, Matz had initially been in line to start Tuesday, when his normal turn in the rotation was due to come up. Matz's back issue has since added a wrinkle to the Mets' plans, however, though the positive bullpen session suggests a trip to the disabled list probably isn't on the table. It will be up to manager Mickey Callaway to decide if Matz will pitch on regular rest Tuesday, or if it would be more prudent to move ace Noah Syndergaard up a day in the schedule. If Callaway opts for the latter measure, Matz likely wouldn't pitch again until a fifth starter is required Saturday against the Rockies in New York.
Apr 29 2018Matz is suffering from back stiffness and it's unclear if he'll be ready to make his scheduled start Tuesday against the Braves, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.Matz will throw a bullpen session Sunday to gauge how his back is feeling. If he responds negatively, he'll likely be scratched from his next scheduled outing, in which case Noah Syndergaard will get the nod versus Atlanta.
Apr 26 2018Matz will likely take the mound against Atlanta on Tuesday, though manager Mickey Callaway is not ready to confirm next week's starting rotation at this time, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Following Matz's latest start against St. Louis on Wednesday, Callaway implied that there would be discussions considering the southpaw's status moving forward, stating "we need to sit down and talk to Matz and figure out exactly how we can help him in that regard." Over five outings this season, Matz has logged a 4.98 ERA and 1.29 WHIP with a 26:10 K:BB in 21.2 innings. Expect him to pitch against the Braves on Tuesday, but there should be some confirmation this weekend.
Apr 25 2018Manager Mickey Callaway wouldn't commit to Matz making his next start, Matt Ehalt of The Bergen Record reports. "We need to sit down and talk to Matz and figure out exactly how we can help him in that regard," Callaway said.Matz scuffled through another outing Wednesday, allowing seven runs (three earned) on five hits and two walks while striking out three batters across 3.1 innings against the Cardinals. He retired the first six hitters he faced before running into trouble in the third and fourth frames. The 26-year-old lefty now owns an unremarkable 4.98 ERA through 21.2 innings this season and has failed to make it more than 5.1 innings in each of five of his starts, throwing four innings or fewer on three occasions. His next turn in the rotation is scheduled for Tuesday against the Mets, though there will be some deliberation over who will be taking the mound before then. The Mets recently moved Matt Harvey to the bullpen, and Matz could be soon to follow.
Apr 18 2018Matz (1-1) gave up three runs on three hits and a walk while striking out six over four innings in Wednesday's win over the Nationals. He did not factor into the decision.Matz had thrown just 74 pitches and had retired 10 in a row after giving up a three-run homer in the first inning, so the quick hook was a bit of a surprise. The 26-year-old hasn't provided much length in any of his starts, failing to go beyond 5.1 innings in all four. He still sports an impressive 10.7 K/9 though, so if he's able to consistently get deeper into games, Matz could be worth a look. He'll take his next turn in the rotation Tuesday against the Cardinals.
Apr 13 2018Matz (1-1) picked up the win against Milwaukee on Friday, giving up four runs (three earned) on three hits, striking out five and walking two in the Mets' 6-5 win over the Brewers.After giving up just one unearned run to the Nationals in five innings in his last start, Matz wasn't lights-out against the Brewers but he pitched well enough to get his first victory of the season. It would be nice to see him pitch a little bit deeper into games going forward, but he still owns a respectable 3.77 ERA and a solid 1.19 WHIP ahead of his next start against the Nationals next Wednesday.
Apr 7 2018Matz tossed five innings Saturday against the Nationals, striking out eight and earning a no-decision. He allowed just one unearned run on three hits and two walks.It was a strong performance for Matz, who successfully navigated a tough Nationals lineup. The only run he allowed came after an error, a sacrifice bunt and a single, and he did not allow a single extra-base hit. The only real negative in his performance was that he allowed four stolen bases, though none of them ended up hurting the Mets. It was a promising outing for the 26-year-old lefty following his disappointing first start against the Cardinals. He now has a 3.00 ERA with 12 strikeouts and five walks through nine innings of work.
Apr 1 2018Matz allowed three runs on four hits and three walks across four innings while taking the loss Sunday against the Cardinals. He struck out four.Matz worked from behind in the count for much of the day and paid the price on a pair of solo home runs as well as an RBI double spread across three different innings. He managed to punch out four batters, but a trio of walks contributed to his struggles. Matz, who is attempting to bounce back from a miserable 2017 campaign, will look to improve on this showing Saturday against the Nationals.
Mar 29 2018Matz will start the third game of the season for the Mets on Sunday at home against the Cardinals.The left-hander started only 13 games last season, opening the year on the disabled list and then ending it there after surgery to re-position a nerve in his elbow, but Matz appeared healthy this spring and posted a 21:9 K:BB in 20 innings. He has yet to throw more than 132.1 innings in a big-league season, though, so while he should improve on his 6.08 ERA and 1.53 WHIP from 2017, his history suggests he'll need some time off over the summer.
Mar 21 2018Matz will pitch third in the Mets' rotation, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Matz had been in competition with Zack Wheeler for a spot in the Mets' rotation, but Jason Vargas' broken hand allows them both in to start the season. With Matz lining up as the third starter, ahead of both Wheeler and Matt Harvey, he appears the early to favorite to keep his place once Vargas returns, though that could of course change if Wheeler outpitches him over their opening few starts of the season.
Mar 20 2018Matz allowed two runs on five hits over six innings while striking out nine in Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Astros.Jason Vargas' broken hand has ended the competition for the fifth starter spot between Matz and Zack Wheeler, as both will now make the rotation to begin the season, but the lefty is still pitching like he's fighting for a job. After a few rough outings to begin the spring, Matz has a 16:4 K:BB over his last 14.1 innings, but he still needs to prove that he can be effective in the regular season without relying on his slider -- or prove that his elbow can hold up if he does lean on it as an out pitch.
Mar 14 2018Matz could be ahead of teammate Zack Wheeler in the battle for the Mets' fifth starter role due to the team seeing Wheeler as a better fit for a bullpen role, Matt Ehalt of The Bergen Record reports.Both pitchers have significant injury histories and both were similarly ineffective in abbreviated 2017 seasons, with Matz posting a 5.05 FIP and Wheeler a 5.03. Wheeler has a profile which looks more likely to play up in relief, as he throws harder with more strikeouts and walks. Matz is more of a sinker and control specialist, a profile which better fits as a backend starter. That could be enough to decide the battle, as there's little else to differentiate the two pitchers. Matz will need a rotation spot if he's to have a significant amount of fantasy value this season, though he'll also need to throw a good deal better than he did in 2017.
Mar 10 2018Matz tossed four scoreless innings in Friday's Grapefruit League game against the Tigers, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out two.It wasn't exactly a sharp outing, as Matz threw only 21 of 53 pitches for strikes, but he did get six swinging strikes and the outing was a marked improvement over his prior two awful spring performances. The left-hander is still in the mix for the Mets' fifth starter spot, but he'll need to keep improving through the rest of camp if he wants to fend off Zack Wheeler for the job.
Mar 8 2018Matz could be behind Zach Wheeler in the battle for the Mets' fifth starter spot, John Harper of The New York Daily News reports.While the team would prefer to have a second lefty in the rotation alongside Jason Vargas, Matz's poor spring so far -- and Wheeler's impressive one -- may force the Mets' hand. He still has time to turn things around before Opening Day, and even if Matz isn't in the initial rotation, chances are he'll get a shot at regaining his spot when one of the other fragile starters hits the DL. Until his performance improves, though, he shouldn't be viewed as much more than an endgame lottery ticket in most fantasy formats given his 6.08 ERA and 1.53 WHIP in 2017.
Mar 4 2018Matz did not make it out of the first inning Sunday after allowing five runs and recording just two outs, Tim Healey of Newsday reports.In a post-game interview, Matz asserted that his struggles were not health related, but simply a matter of him missing his spots high. Even though it's just a spring game, this is a bit concerning for prospective fantasy owners given the young left-hander's struggles last year. The price on draft day will be low given his injury-plagued 2017 campaign, but that could trend upwards if Matz is able to string together a few quality spring outings. There's an inherent amount of upside if Matz can get back some of his 2016 magic, but Sunday's outing did nothing to increase his value.
Feb 27 2018Matz (elbow) is starting on the mound Tuesday against the Astros, Tim Britton of The Athletic New York reports.Matz has been recovering from August elbow surgery. He'll be fighting with Jason Vargas, Zack Wheeler, Seth Lugo, and Robert Gsellman for the final two spots in the Mets' rotation. He struggled to a rough 6.08 ERA last year in an injury-plagued 66.2 innings, but if healthy could return to some semblance of his 2016 form, when he posted a 3.40 ERA with above-average strikeout, walk, and groundball rates. His health is worth monitoring as he attempts his comeback this spring.
Feb 25 2018Matz (elbow) is scheduled to start Tuesday's game against the Astros, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Since the start of spring training, Matz has gradually increased his level of activity and has recently been pitching live batting practice. After a subpar 2017 season that was hindered by injuries, Matz appears to be on track to open the season in the Mets' rotation. He'll aim to bounce back from last season's dismal showing, as he threw to the tune of a 6.08 ERA and 1.53 WHIP over 13 games (66.2 innings).
Feb 22 2018Matz (elbow) threw his second live batting practice session of spring camp Thursday, Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News reports.Matz continues to work his way back from an August procedure to reposition a compressed nerve in his left elbow. He appears to be right in line with the other pitchers at this point in spring training, as he's now tossed a pair of live batting practice sessions in addition to a couple bullpens at the start of camp. Expect to see him on the mound in a Grapefruit League outing in the near future.
Feb 18 2018Matz (elbow) threw his first live batting practice session of spring training Sunday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Matz underwent surgery last August to reposition a compressed nerve in his left elbow, but it doesn't seem as though the procedure has put him behind his fellow pitchers in the early stages of the spring. After throwing off the mound a few days earlier, Matz's progression to a live session suggests that his elbow hasn't provide any complications to date. The 26-year-old is one of several pitchers competing for a spot at the back end of the Mets' rotation, but if he avoids any health setbacks in the spring, Matz should be in a good position to come away with a starting gig. Though avoiding the disabled list has been a struggle for Matz during his three seasons in the majors, he's generally been serviceable when he's been able to take the hill, producing a 3.99 ERA and 8.1 K/9 mark in 234.2 career innings.
Feb 14 2018Matz (elbow) threw a bullpen session Wednesday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.The embattled southpaw underwent surgery on his throwing elbow in August, but it seems like he's close to fully recovered from the operation. Given his injury history, it will be important for Matz to prove his health in a game situation, but this is an encouraging sign nonetheless. If he's healthy, the 26-year-old should open the season in the rotation.
Nov 4 2017Matz (elbow) was reinstated from the 60-day DL on Friday.Matz underwent season-ending left elbow surgery in late August, to reposition a compressed nerve, and wound up starting just 13 games for the Mets this season. The expectation is that he will be fully recovered and ready for spring training.
Sep 8 2017Matz (elbow) was transferred to the 60-day DL on Friday, Matt Ehalt of The Record reports.This move has no effect on Matz, as the club needed extra roster space for Phillip Evans, who was called up prior to Friday's game against the Reds. The left-hander underwent season-ending surgery a couple weeks ago, but should be able to return for the start of spring training.
Aug 23 2017Matz underwent season-ending surgery to reposition a compressed nerve in his left elbow on Wednesday, Marc Carig of Newsday reports.While this is an unfortunate way for Matz's season to end, he's expected to be ready for the start of spring training. The 26-year-old ended his 2017 campaign with a disappointing 6.08 ERA, 1.53 WHIP and 48:19 K:BB in 66.2 innings, though some of his struggles can likely be attributed to the elbow ailment. A healthy Matz will look to bounce back in 2018.
Aug 22 2017Matz (elbow) was placed on the 10-day disabled list Tuesday.This is simply procedural, as Matz is already expected to undergo season-ending surgery to repair his injured left elbow. His injury is thought to be similar to the one Jacob deGrom suffered last season, and deGrom has bounced back with a stellar 2017 campaign, so there is hope for Matz next season despite the procedure. Kevin McGowan was recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas to take his place on the roster, while Tommy Milone is set to take his place in the rotation.
Aug 21 2017Matz will undergo surgery to repair his left elbow, which was diagnosed with irritation in the ulnar nerve Monday.The club announced that the surgery would be scheduled within the next few days. This obviously ends Matz's season, and depending on the severity of the surgery required, could cost him some time next season as well. Matz's injury has been compared to the one that ended Jacob deGrom's season in 2016, and he has come back strong in 2017 (3.49 ERA, 165 IP), so Matz could still be an impact contributor in 2018 despite the surgery.
Aug 21 2017Matz has been diagnosed with a nerve issue in his elbow and could require surgery, Marc Carig of Newsday reports.Apparently Matz has been pitching through pain all season, which would help explain his sharp drop-off in performance from last season (6.08 ERA in 66.2 innings this season after 3.40 ERA in 132.1 innings last season). The nerve issue he's dealing with is thought to be similar to the one that forced fellow starter Jacob deGrom to undergo season-ending surgery last year. Tommy Milone is expected to take his place in the rotation Tuesday, and would likely continue to do so if Matz is forced onto the DL.
Aug 21 2017Matz is expected to be placed on the 10-day disabled list, Matt Ehalt of The Record reports.It's unclear what Matz is dealing with at this point, but this may help explain his poor performance last week in which he conceded seven runs (six earned) in just 3.1 innings. He went to the doctor to be examined Monday, according to Mike Puma of the New York Post, and more should be known once the results of his visit are disclosed. Tommy Milone is expected to take his place in the rotation while he's sidelined, starting Tuesday against the Diamondbacks.
Aug 17 2017Matz (2-7) failed to make it out of the fourth inning during his loss to the Yankees, giving up seven runs (six earned) on seven hits while striking out four in 3.1 innings.The night started out rough for Matz, giving up a three-run homer in the first inning to Gary Sanchez before being pulled in the fourth after allowing four more runs to score. Matz, who was once thought to be one of many talented young arms in the Mets' organization, now has an ERA of 6.08, struggling to live up to the expectations many fantasy owners had hoped he would be.
Aug 12 2017Matz (2-6) allowed two runs on four hits and two walks while striking out one over 5.2 innings to take the loss Saturday against the Phillies.Matz had fired four shutout innings before giving up a pair of runs in the fifth, but overall he kept the Mets in the game with his solid outing. Despite throwing well against the Phillies, this was the first time in seven outings that he's allowed fewer than three runs, and his ERA is now at 5.54, and unless he puts together a few strong outings, he's a difficult player to trust in fantasy lineups. He'll make his next start Thursday against the Yankees.
Aug 6 2017Matz allowed five earned runs on six hits across 5.1 innings in a 8-0 loss to the Dodgers on Sunday. He walked two and struck out seven.The loss, Matz's fifth of the season, extends his winless streak to seven starts, as his last victory came on June 28 in Miami. The third-year big-leaguer's ugly 5.77 ERA and 1.51 WHIP are far worse than his career marks of 3.72 and 1.28, so owners should keep their fingers crossed for some positive regression in the season's final stretch.
Aug 1 2017Matz gave up three runs on six hits and two walks over five-plus innings in a no-decision against the Rockies on Tuesday. He struck out two.For a while, Matz was in the midst of a stunningly good Coors Field start, only to fall apart in the sixth inning, when he allowed a single, a double, a three-run homer by Nolan Arenado, then another double before manager Terry Collins came with the hook. It's been a rough year for the lefty, as his 5.50 ERA will attest, and there's a simple reason for that: Opposing hitters are barreling him up more while swinging and missing much less. There's still reason to believe in Matz's long-term potential, but this is clearly not his year, so owners in shallower leagues may want to cut ties. He'll draw another tough matchup against the Dodgers on Sunday.
Jul 27 2017Matz (2-4) surrendered six runs on nine hits over three innings in Wednesday's 6-3 loss to the Padres. He struck out four.The southpaw lasted just 66 pitches (46 strikes) before getting the hook, as five of San Diego's nine hits off him went for extra bases. After posting a 2.12 ERA and 1.03 WHIP in his first five starts of the year, Matz has completely regressed and been tagged with a 14.18 ERA and 2.70 WHIP over his last four outings. His 12:2 K:BB in 13.1 innings over that stretch offers a glimmer of hope that he can turn things around, but with his next trip to the mound coming Tuesday at Coors Field, he should be nowhere near an active fantasy roster right now.
Jul 21 2017Matz (2-3) allowed three runs and nine hits while striking out five across five innings, but didn't factor into the decision Friday against the Athletics.Matz entered the fifth inning with a 2-1 lead, but gave up a pair of runs to hasten his exit from the contest, however, the offense was able to wipe out the deficit, keeping him from dropping his fourth decision of the season. As recently as July 3, he had a 2.12 ERA before a couple of horrible outings inflated his ERA, and he's hopefully turning the corner to return to his status as a reliable fantasy option. He'll make his next start Wednesday against the Padres.
Jul 16 2017Matz (2-3) wasn't able to record more than three outs during Sunday's loss to the Rockies, allowing seven runs off nine hits and one walk while striking out two.This disastrous outing marked the shortest of Matz's young career, while also tying the most amount of runs he has given up in any contest throughout his 35 starts at the big-league level. From the beginning of the game, it was apparent that Matz just didn't have his typical stuff, giving up five hits in the opening frame. This was the second underwhelming start in a row for Matz after pitching two seven-inning shutouts during his previous two times on the bump. His next scheduled start comes Friday against the A's, where he will look to bounce back from Sunday's loss.
Jul 9 2017Matz (2-2) lasted just 4.1 innings in Sunday's loss to the Cardinals while allowing five runs on seven hits with one walk and one strikeout.Matz came in with a 2.19 ERA through five starts despite a lack of strikeouts this season, but it could be time to start worrying about the 26-year-old lefty's 5.40 K/9. He finished each of his first two seasons over 8.50, so it's not surprising that Matz's current 5.11 FIP is 1.50 higher than his previous worst mark. Matz's next start is scheduled for next Sunday at home against the Rockies.
Jul 3 2017Matz threw seven scoreless innings in a no-decision Monday against the Nationals, allowing four hits and two walks with four strikeouts.Matz pitched to contact effectively in this one, allowing just three men past first base as he shut down one of baseball's most potent lineups. He notably worked up to 112 pitches in this one -- his highest pitch count of the year -- and seems to be at full capacity after missing the first two months of the season with elbow issues. Matz now earns a sterling 2.12 ERA through 34 innings in 2017 and will look to continue his fine form Sunday against the Cardinals.
Jun 28 2017Matz (2-1) held the Marlins scoreless on six hits over seven innings Wednesday, striking out four and walking one in an 8-0 win.After missing the first two months of the season to an elbow issue, Matz has completed seven innings in three of his first four starts, compiling a 2.67 ERA and 1.07 WHIP in that time. It's clear that a healthy Matz can be a rock-solid No. 2 or 3 starter, but injuries have dogged the lefty throughout his career. He's ditched his slider to avoid straining his elbow, and while that may help keep him healthy, it also seems to be affecting his ability to miss bats.
Jun 23 2017Matz is not using his slider in an effort to stay healthy, Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News reports.Matz is trying to avoid strain on his left elbow by ditching an offering that requires plenty of it -- by some studies, the pitch most responsible for those types of issues, as noted by Ackert. He's relied on his fastballs (four- and two-seam/sinker), changeup and curveball on his way to a 3.60 ERA in his first three starts of the year. The southpaw's extensive injury history, which includes Tommy John surgery and a bone spur in his pitching elbow that was removed this past winter, is causing him to take new precautions. Matz gutted through a messy outing Thursday to spin a quality start. He should remain an option for many mixed-league fantasy lineups, though it'd help if he can regain the strikeout promise he's shown in previous years: He has only 14 in 20 innings so far.
Jun 22 2017Matz gave up three runs on three hits and five walks while striking out eight over six innings in a no-decision against the Dodgers on Thursday.He managed to turn in a quality start in his third outing of the season, but Matz was playing with fire with five free passes and two home runs allowed. The lefty managed to work around baserunners thanks in large part to the strikeout -- his eight strikeouts exceeded his total from his first two starts combined (six). Matz lines up for a road start against the Marlins his next time out.
Jun 16 2017Matz (1-1) allowed four runs on eight hits -- including three home runs -- while striking out four over seven innings in Friday's 7-2 loss to the Nationals.He only made a few mistakes on the evening, throwing 66 of 100 pitches for strikes, but the Nats made the lefty pay for every one. Things won't get much easier for Matz in his next start Thursday on the road against the Dodgers.
Jun 10 2017Matz (elbow) allowed one run on five hits and one walk while striking out two batters over seven innings in a win over the Braves in Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader.The strikeout total was low, but it goes down as a highly successful 2017 debut for Matz nonetheless. He retired 15 of the first 17 batters he faced and was efficient throughout the outing, needing 98 pitches to complete the seven frames (67 strikes). A tough test awaits Matz next week in the Nationals, but the early returns are looking promising for those who stashed the lefty as he worked his way back from an elbow injury.
Jun 10 2017Matz (elbow) will start the second game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Braves, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.It was confirmed earlier this week that Matz would start one of the Saturday games, and with the corresponding move of Matt Reynolds heading to Triple-A Las Vegas, Matz is set to join the roster and hit the bump for game two against Atlanta. The southpaw has been out since September of last season, and is ready to roll after completing four rehab starts over the past month.
Jun 6 2017Matz (elbow) has been named the starter for one of the Mets' games Saturday against the Braves, Matt Ehalt of The Record reports.No word has been revealed on which game of the doubleheader Matz will toss, but it confirms a previous notion that he'd be ready for action this weekend. This likely will line him up to face a starter from the Braves' Triple-A affiliate, although official word on that front has yet to come forth. This news, paired with the upcoming activation of Seth Lugo (elbow) also likely means that Tyler Pill and Robert Gsellman will lose their rotation spots.
Jun 4 2017Matz (elbow) is scheduled to come off the disabled list and rejoin the Mets rotation either June 10 or June 11 against the Braves, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Manager Terry Collins confirmed Saturday that Matz wouldn't require any further rehab starts with Triple-A Las Vegas after the lefty tossed 90 pitches and allowed five runs over 4.1 innings earlier that day. While injuries have dogged Matz throughout his career, he's been a fantasy asset when healthy, churning out a 3.16 ERA and 163 strikeouts over 168 MLB innings. Matz, who has been sidelined all season with elbow soreness, isn't expected to face any limits with his pitch count upon rejoining the Mets. With Matz and Seth Lugo (elbow) both set to come off the disabled list next weekend and take back rotation spots, Robert Gsellman and Tyler Pill will either move to the bullpen or head to the minors.
Jun 3 2017Matz (elbow) is tentatively scheduled to rejoin the Mets' rotation next weekend, provided that his final rehab appearance goes without a setback, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Saturday is a significant day for the Mets' rotation plans as both Matz and Seth Lugo (elbow) will take the hill for rehab outings. Matz is coming off his strongest rehab start to date, shutting down the Padres' Triple-A affiliate with eight strikeouts over five scoreless frames. Provided he makes it through Saturday's outing unscathed, Matz should get the start for the evening installment of the Mets' doubleheader against the Braves on June 10.
May 29 2017Manager Sandy Alderson said Matz (elbow) will need at least one more minor-league rehab start before rejoining the Mets, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.Alderson noted the Mets' upcoming schedule (two off-days next week) along with a desire to build up Matz's pitch count as reasons for extending his rehab assignment. The 26-year-old tossed 73 pitches across five scoreless innings in his last rehab appearance, so if all goes well in his next appearance, he could rejoin the Mets' rotation sometime next week. Robert Gsellman is expected to slide to the bullpen once Matz is activated.
May 29 2017Matz fired five perfect innings Sunday while striking out eight in a rehab start for Triple-A Las Vegas.Making the outing even more impressive was the fact that it came in a day game at Cashman Field, a notorious hitter's park. Matz threw 50 of his 73 pitches for strikes, and while the Mets haven't yet announced their plans for the left-hander, his next start seems almost certain to come in the majors. If he stay on schedule, he could take the mound Friday at home against the Pirates, although a Saturday start in place of Robert Gsellman also seems plausible.
May 25 2017Matz (elbow) is likely to receive another rehab start at Triple-A Las Vegas before returning from the 10-day disabled list, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.The Mets had been entertaining the idea of activating Matz over the weekend had he pitched well during his start for Las Vegas on Tuesday, but the left-hander was beaten up for five runs on five hits over four innings, effectively putting the kibosh on that plan. Matz didn't report any issues with his elbow following the rehab outing, so if he's able to find more success his next time out with Las Vegas, he could make his subsequent start with the Mets.
May 24 2017Matz (elbow) allowed five earned runs on five hits, including two home runs, over four innings with Triple-A Las Vegas on Tuesday, his second rehab start.The good news here is Matz increased his pitch count from 53 to 78 and reported no issues after the start, but Las Vegas manager Pedro Lopez said he expects the 25-year-old to make at least one more rehab appearance. The Mets are desperate to get the southpaw back in their struggling rotation, so his activation may not be too far off. However, until things improve, it appears Tommy Milone and Robert Gsellman will maintain starting spots.
May 23 2017The Mets could activate Matz (elbow) from the disabled list if he performs well during his rehab start with Triple-A Las Vegas on Tuesday, David Lennon of Newsday reports.The Mets were initially planning on having Matz make two rehab starts with Las Vegas before having him rejoin the big club in early June, but with the ongoing struggles of back-end rotation members Tommy Milone and Robert Gsellman have kept GM Sandy Alderson open to the idea of accelerating Matz's timetable. Matz, who has been sidelined since spring training with a left elbow issue, looked strong during his first rehab start at High-A St. Lucie on May 18, tossing three innings and giving up one run on two hits and two walks. He'll likely have his pitch count bumped up when he starts for Las Vegas on Tuesday.
May 22 2017Matz (elbow) will make a rehab start with Triple-A Las Vegas on Tuesday, Justin Tasch of The New York Daily News reports.Assuming all goes well Tuesday, the left-hander will make one more rehab start for Las Vegas before rejoining the Mets in early June. Matz has yet to pitch in the majors this season but posted a 3.40 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 129:31 K:BB through 132.1 innings in 2016.
May 21 2017Matz (elbow) is expected to make two more rehab starts before rejoining the Mets, Daniel Popper of The New York Daily News reports.The beleaguered Mets rotation gets some good news for a change. Matz's current schedule would see him return to the big leagues during the first weekend in June for a home series against the Pirates, but the lefty will need to make it through the rehab process without any setbacks first.
May 19 2017Matz (elbow) threw 53 pitches, allowing a run on two hits and two walks, striking out three over three innings in his first rehab appearance Thursday at High-A Port St. Lucie, the New York Daily News reports.Matz, working his way back from elbow discomfort, threw 30 pitches in extended spring training Saturday paving the way for his first rehab start Thursday. He likely will need between two and four more rehab outings before rejoining the Mets, probably in early-June. The Mets' rotation has been a tire fire this season and in need of a major boost, which Matz would provide, health permitting.
May 15 2017Matz (elbow) will make a rehab appearance Thursday at High-A Port St. Lucie, Matt Ehalt of the Bergen Record reports.Matz threw 30 pitches in extended spring training Saturday, his first game action since he was placed on the disabled list to open the season. He has had no issue since returning to throwing in Florida, and if all continues to go well, expect a return to the Mets rotation sometime in early June.
May 13 2017Matz (elbow) threw 30 pitches in an extended spring training game Saturday, Marc Carig of Newsday reports.No setbacks were reported following Saturday's workout, so Matz appears to be on track to return in early June. Matz will aim to steadily increase his level of throwing activities, so further information regarding the next steps of his rehab should become available in the coming days.
May 12 2017Matz (elbow) will throw in extended spring training Saturday, Marc Carig of Newsday reports.Apparently Matz has a chance to return to the Mets in early June if all goes well. Matz resumed throwing in mid-April after being shut down for several weeks with a flexor tendon strain. The talent is there, but Matz's extended injury history should be at the forefront of all prospective owners' minds.
May 3 2017Matz (elbow) threw about 20 pitches off the rubber in a side session Tuesday, Matt Ehalt of The Bergen Record reports.It's a small step forward in the recovery process for Matz, who had previously been limited to throwing off the slope of the mound in his last workout Sunday. Matz should gradually increase his pitch count in subsequent bullpen sessions before advancing to facing hitters. The Mets don't have an official timetable for his return from the 10-day disabled list, but it's still looking as though he's multiple weeks away.
Apr 29 2017Matz (elbow) is slated to throw off the slope of a mound Sunday and is targeting a late-May return, MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reports.This will be the first time he throws off an elevated surface since he was shut down with the flexor tendon strain. Other than Noah Syndergaard, who is day-to-day with biceps tendinitis, and Jacob deGrom, the Mets have struggled to get solid work from their starters, so a spot in the rotation should be waiting for Matz once he is healthy. Seth Lugo (elbow) is at the same stage in his recovery, but Matz is ahead of him in the pecking order.
Apr 26 2017Matz (elbow) is expected to start throwing off a mound in the coming days, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.With Matz having advanced to throwing long toss from 120 feet without incident, it looks like the Mets are ready to let him move on to the next phase of the recovery process. He's likely require multiple bullpen sessions of gradually escalating pitch counts before being cleared to face hitters in batting practice. After that, Matz, who has been out since late March with the elbow issue, would likely require multiple rehab starts in the minors before he's finally activated from the disabled list. While the news is certainly encouraging, the left-hander still looks to be two or more weeks away from rejoining the big club.
Apr 20 2017Matz (elbow) continued his throwing program Thursday and felt good afterward, Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News reports.The left-hander still seems to be a ways away from returning to the Mets rotation, but it seems like the progress he has been able to make has gone off without a hitch. It's unclear how much throwing Matz was able to partake in, but as long as everything goes as planned, he likely will continue to ramp up his throwing over the next week before resuming mound work.
Apr 18 2017Matz (elbow) is scheduled to begin a throwing program Wednesday, Marc Carig of Newsday reports.Matz hasn't experienced any setbacks since the Mets shut him down in late March with a flexor tendon strain in his throwing elbow, so he'll receive the green light to start working his way back to active duty. It's expected that he'll be limited to long toss in the early stages of his throwing program before advancing to mound work, followed by facing hitters in batting practices and then heading out for a minor-league rehab assignment. Given the multiple hurdles he still has to clear before the Mets activate him from the disabled list, Matz could still be several weeks away from making his season debut.
Apr 4 2017Matz (elbow) will be shut down for a few weeks before resuming a throwing program in late April, Kristie Ackert of The New York Daily News reports.Diagnosed with a strained flexor tendon in his left elbow Monday, Matz will essentially have to go through spring training all over again, which puts his potential return to the Mets rotation some time in May at the earliest. His recovery timetable should become clearer once he's able to resume throwing.
Apr 3 2017Matz (elbow) revealed Monday that the elbow injury he is dealing with has been diagnosed as a flexor tendon strain, Matt Ehalt of The Record reports.Matz was placed on the 10-day disabled list Sunday with the elbow issue. The 25-year-old is expected to miss the first few weeks of the season, so Zack Wheeler and Robert Gsellman will round out the Mets' rotation to begin the year.
Apr 2 2017Matz (elbow) was placed on the 10-day disabled list Sunday, Marc Carig of Newsday reports.Matz is dealing with an injured elbow and is expected to miss the first few weeks of the regular season. He won't attempt to throw for another three weeks as part of his recovery. Zack Wheeler and Robert Gsellman will round out the Mets' rotation to start the year.
Mar 30 2017Matz (elbow) won't attempt to throw for another three weeks, MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reports.His MRI came back negative, but he still received a PRP injection, and is now a lock to open the year on the disabled list. Zack Wheeler and Robert Gsellman won the final two rotation spots, but both are overqualified to pitch at the back of a rotation, so the Mets can afford to be patient with Matz.
Mar 29 2017Matz (elbow) won't be ready for the start of the season, MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reports.He went for an MRI on his elbow Wednesday and regardless of the result, DiComo says Matz won't be ready for the start of the season, meaning he will start the year on the disabled list. Manager Terry Collins first mentioned Seth Lugo and Rafael Montero as potential replacement options, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. This comes with the territory with Matz, as he always offers mid-rotation production when healthy, but is essentially a lock to miss time due to injury each year. Lugo is the most promising replacement option for fantasy purposes, as he boasts one of the best curveballs in the world.
Mar 28 2017The Mets want Matz (elbow) to throw an 80-pitch bullpen session before having him make a start, Matt Ehalt of The Record reports.The club said that they'd like to have Matz participate in said bullpen session either Wednesday or Thursday. However, considering he threw both Monday and Tuesday, it seems more likely that the workout will take place Thursday. If Matz is able to successfully complete the upcoming bullpen session, he'd reduce the likelihood of starting the season with a brief DL stint, so owners should monitor his status over the coming days.
Mar 28 2017Matz (elbow) threw again Tuesday and looked "pretty decent," according to pitching coach Dan Warthen, the New York Post's Mike Puma reports.FanRag Sports' Jon Heyman reported earlier in the day that Matz felt good Tuesday morning after throwing Monday, which is a positive sign. There is still a chance that Matz opens the year on the disabled list, with Seth Lugo or Zack Wheeler opening the year in the rotation, but early indications are that any DL stint would be brief.
Mar 27 2017Matz (elbow) is in danger of missing the start of the season, Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports reports.Matz said Sunday that there is no ligament damage in his elbow and he expects to make his first start of the season, but manager Terry Collins admitted to MLB.com that "it's going to be tough for him [to make the Opening Day roster] if he's not going to pitch this week." According to both Heyman and Matt Ehalt of the Bergen Record, the Mets are preparing to turn to Zack Wheeler or Seth Lugo if Matz is unable to go early on. Matz was able to throw off flat ground from roughly 70 feet Monday after being scratched from his scheduled Grapefruit League outing.
Mar 27 2017Matz was able to throw off flat ground from about 70 feet Monday, Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News reports.Just as the Mets had suggested after Matz was scratched from his scheduled Grapefruit League start Monday after experiencing elbow discomfort, the lefty opted for a light throwing session instead. Matz reportedly looked fine during the session, and the expectation remains that he'll be able to make his first start of the season, though the team hasn't provided an official timeline for when he'll get back on the mound in spring training. With Robert Gsellman seemingly locking down the final spot in the rotation, Seth Lugo or Zack Wheeler would likely fill in for Matz if his injury lingers longer than anticipated.
Mar 26 2017Matz (elbow) plans to throw off flat ground Monday, MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reports.The Mets scratched Matz from his scheduled Grapefruit League start Sunday after he experienced elbow irritation, but the team seems to be downplaying the setback. The fact that Matz will be able to throw in some capacity Monday offers credence to the notion that the lefty is still on track to be ready for the start of the season, though his checkered injury history makes it worthwhile to track his progress. If Matz's latest elbow issue proves to be more serious than the team has let on, it could potentially create room for both Robert Gsellman and Seth Lugo in the rotation to begin the season.
Mar 26 2017Matz has been scratched from his scheduled Grapefruit League start Monday with elbow discomfort, David Lennon of Newsday reports.Mets GM Sandy Alderson insisted that Matz isn't dealing with a ligament issue and wouldn't require an MRI, but did note that it was "worrisome" that the left-hander continues to experience recurring injury setbacks. The team is hopeful that by backing off Matz for a few days, he'll be ready to go for the start of the regular season. Even so, Matz still carries plenty of risk as a draft-day investment, given that he previously had a bone spur removed from his elbow last fall. Seth Lugo would presumably be first in line to start if Matz or any of the Mets' other projected rotation members is forced to miss time this season.
Mar 18 2017Matz allowed one run on two hits and three walks while striking out three over 3.2 innings in Friday's Grapefruit League game against the Cardinals.He wasn't particularly sharp, but Matz avoided serious trouble and now sports an impressive 1.04 ERA through 8.2 innings, with Friday's three walks being his first free passes of the spring.
Mar 12 2017Matz allowed just an unearned run on three hits over three innings in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Nationals, striking out two.His ERA remains at 0.00 through his first two spring starts, and the lefty appears to be rounding into form after offseason surgery to remove bone spurs from his elbow. With Matt Harvey not yet looking like his old self, Matz could open the season as the Mets' No. 3 starter.
Mar 7 2017Matz threw two shutout innings in Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Marlins, allowing three hits and striking out one.He was primarily focused on locating his fastball and incorporating a slight hesitation into his move from the stretch to try and keep baserunners guessing, but overall Matz's first game action since having bone spurs removed from his elbow in the offseason was a success. The talented but oft-injured lefty will look to make 30 starts, and win at least 10 games, for the first time in his career in 2017.
Feb 28 2017Matz (shoulder) is scheduled to make his first Grapefruit League start Monday against the Marlins, Marc Carig of Newsday reports.Though the Mets purposely delayed his spring debut, Matz entered camp without any notable limitations following an injury-plagued 2016 season. The lefty was sidelined for the final six weeks with a shoulder injury that ultimately didn't require surgery, though he did go under the knife to remove a bone spur from his pitching elbow. Durability concerns have followed Matz throughout his professional career, but when healthy, he's proven himself as one of the better mid-rotation starters in baseball. So long as fantasy owners don't draft Matz expecting him to throw 200 innings, he's still capable of delivering helpful ratios and strikeout totals when he's able to take the mound.
Jan 29 2017Matz (shoulder) is "ramping up" his throwing program and expects to be fully ready when spring training begins, John Harper of the New York Daily News reports.Matz saw his 2016 season end early because of a shoulder injury, and then also had a bone spur removed from his elbow in October. He finished the season with a 3.40 ERA in 132.1 innings, and enters 2017 as the Mets' No. 4 starter.
Oct 4 2016Matz underwent successful surgery to remove a bone spur from his left elbow Tuesday morning, Jon Heyman of Today's Knuckleball reports.The procedure will prevent Matz from pitching again in 2016, but it is anticipated that it will fix any and all issues with his shoulder and elbow that sidelined him since Aug. 14. Matz is expected to be fully recovered at some point during spring training, but heading into next season there will certainly be doubt about his ability to stay healthy given his injury history.
Sep 27 2016Matz (shoulder) "imminently" will have surgery to remove bone spurs on his left elbow, but probably will avoid shoulder surgery, Adam Rubin of ESPN reports.The Mets knew that surgery would be needed to remove the bone spurs on Matz's pitching elbow, but the fact that it seems like the young pitcher will not need an operation on his shoulder is great to hear. That being said, this news nullifies any chance that the left-hander could return this season, even if the chances were low before. The expected recovery time following Matz's elbow surgery is three months, so as long as everything goes without a hitch, the 25-year-old should be ready to go once spring training rolls around.
Sep 26 2016Matz (shoulder) likely won't appear in any games this week, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Mere days after the Mets thought that Matz could return to the rotation, the left-hander now seems to be unable to appear for the rest of the regular season. Manager Terry Collins also stated that Matz will likely not start any games in the postseason, and that even an appearance out of the bullpen during the playoffs is still up in the air. If your league only runs during the regular season, it's probably safe to say that the 25-year-old won't be contributing any points until next season.
Sep 24 2016Matz (shoulder) will pitch out of the bullpen if he pitches at all again this season, ESPN.com reports. "Right now, if he's able to throw -- able to pitch -- maybe we'll put him in the 'pen and see if we can get him an inning here or an inning there to see how he reacts to it," manager Terry Collins said Saturday.Renewed pain in the lefty's shoulder following a bullpen session earlier this week forced the Mets to scratch Matz from his scheduled start Friday. He has not been shut down -- in fact, Matz played catch prior to Saturday's game -- but he no longer has enough time to build up for a start during the regular season. Matz has never made a relief appearance in the major leagues.
Sep 22 2016Matz (shoulder) experienced a setback in his rehab and will not start Friday's game as planned, Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports.Matz had a throwing session Thursday to make the final preparations prior to Friday's start, but the left-hander reportedly felt sore following the session, leading the Mets to pull him from his scheduled start. This setback comes at the worst possible time for the young pitcher, as it now makes a return to the Mets rotation prior to the postseason (and possibly even during the postseason) very difficult. He'll likely resume his rehab once his shoulder is feeling good again, but there's no telling if and when he might be able to get back to game action this season. Gabriel Ynoa will fill in for Matz as Friday's starter.
Sep 21 2016Matz (shoulder) is the probable starter for Friday's game against the Phillies, MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reports.He looked good in Wednesday's bullpen session and threw "nice and easy," according to manager Terry Collins. The Mets will still have to officially activate Matz in advance of Friday's start, but it sounds like owners can pencil him in to take the ball in that favorable matchup against the Phillies. Considering he hasn't started a game since Aug. 14 and has been unable to go on a true rehab assignment, it's possible he won't be able to pitch deep enough Friday to qualify for a win.
Sep 20 2016Matz (shoulder) said Tuesday that he feels great and hopes to start Friday against the Phillies, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports.Matz has been throwing bullpen sessions at the Mets' facility in Florida of late, and he's slated to throw again Wednesday. If that session goes off without a hitch, the left-hander could conceivably return to the rotation Friday as the Mets try to hold on to a Wild Card spot in the NL. If Matz is given the green light, it will be his first start since an Aug. 14 win over the Padres, in which he allowed just one hit while striking out eight over 7.1 innings.
Sep 19 2016Matz (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session Wednesday and could start for the Mets on Friday, Newsday reports.It was reported Sunday that Matz could rejoin the big league rotation this week, and a few more of the particulars have now been released. The Mets figure to provide an update on Matz's status after watching him throw Wednesday.
Sep 18 2016The Mets believe that Matz (shoulder), who has been throwing bullpen sessions in Florida, will be back in New York and available to pitch this week, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz, sidelined since his August 15 start, has thrown several bullpen sessions the past week-plus. Given what happened with Jacob deGrom, hold off on placing Matz in your active roster until it's confirmed he will pitch and it's just before game time.
Sep 17 2016Matz (shoulder) threw a bullpen session Saturday, ESPN.com reports.The team will wait and see how Matz responds to Saturday's activity before settling on the next step for the lefty. Manager Terry Collins said Matz "had no complaints" after completing the session, and added that the hope is that Matz will be able to pitch in at least one more regular season game in preparation for the postseason.
Sep 16 2016Matz (shoulder) will throw a full bullpen session Saturday, Adam Rubin of ESPN.com reports.Matz threw just 20 pitches in his last bullpen session Wednesday, so he still needs to stretch out a bit before he's ready to return to the rotation. He hasn't appeared in a game since August 14, and as such, when he does return, expect Matz to be on a pitch limit. He was pitching very well before he went down, with four quality starts and a 34:7 K:BB over 31.1 innings in his last five outings.
Sep 14 2016Matz (shoulder) threw a 20-pitch bullpen session Wednesday, but it remains unclear if he will be able to rejoin the rotation Sunday, the New York Times' James Wagner reports.With Rafael Montero getting banished to the bullpen, the hope is that Matz or Jacob deGrom can return from injury in time to take the vacated spot in the rotation Sunday against the Twins. More information regarding Matz's potential return date should be available later this week.
Sep 13 2016Matz (shoulder) is being considered to start Sunday's game against the Twins, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.The Mets vacated Rafael Montero's spot in the rotation after another rough outing, and Matz's return timetable could line up with that next scheduled start. It's unclear how far into the game manager Terry Collins would let the left-hander would pitch if he was selected, although there has been speculation that he could piggyback the start with Jacob deGrom (forearm). The Mets could also opt to start Noah Syndergaard on normal rest for that contest, but this convoluted situation should become clearer as the weekend approaches.
Sep 12 2016Matz (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session Tuesday, Newsday's Marc Carig reports.Matz was able to throw off a mound over the weekend, and he will do so again Tuesday. He is making progress in his recovery, but it's not clear if Tuesday's outing will be his final hurdle to cross before rejoining the rotation.
Sep 9 2016Matz, sidelined with a strained shoulder, threw off flat ground Friday and will try to throw off a mound on Saturday, though there is no timetable for his return, SNY.TV reports.It sounds as if the Mets will be cautious with Matz rather than rushing him back, aided by the solid pitching of Seth Lugo and Robert Gsellman. If Matz has no issues Saturday, he could progress to a simulated game and then possible return to the rotation.
Sep 2 2016Matz (shoulder) will begin throwing Monday, Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News reports.Fortunately, it appears that Matz is still on track to return this season. An approximate return for Matz will likely be known after he increases his baseball activity and progresses through his throwing program.
Aug 31 2016Matz (shoulder) will get another medical opinion Wednesday, but there are currently no plans to shut him down for the season, ESPN's Adam Rubin reports.The fact that he is getting a second opinion isn't a great sign, especially given the nature of the injury. While the team is saying they still expect Matz back this season, that could completely change following the results of Wednesday's evaluation, so stay tuned.
Aug 30 2016Matz (shoulder) has been scratched from his scheduled start Thursday, ESPN's Adam Rubin reports.Jacob deGrom will be moved up a day to start in place of Matz, who is still dealing with some irritation in his shoulder. According to Mike Puma of the New York Post, the Mets are hoping that Matz could return at some point next week. However, that may be overly optimistic given that manager Terry Collins was non-committal about Matz coming back to the rotation this season. A further update on Matz's status figures to be made available in a few days once he has a chance to rest and get treatment on his shoulder.
Aug 28 2016Matz (shoulder) is expected to return from the DL to start Thursday against the Marlins, ESPN.com's Adam Rubin reports.Matz has been sidelined since Aug. 14 with a strained shoulder, but he's progressed well in his recovery and if Tuesday's side session goes as anticipated, he'll be cleared to rejoin the rotation. Since rosters are set to expand Thursday, the Mets wouldn't need to make a corresponding roster move to accommodate Matz's return, which likely factored into manager Terry Collins' decision to schedule Matz for that day. The right-hander is expected to replace either Seth Lugo or Robert Gsellman in the club's rotation.
Aug 28 2016Matz is scheduled to throw off a mound Sunday for the first time since he landed on the disabled list with right shoulder discomfort. That session will determine if he is able to start Wednesday, ESPN New York reports.Seth Lugo is starting in Matz's spot Tuesday, affording the lefty one more day of rest. If Matz has any lingering discomfort from the throwing session, look for Bartolo Colon to start in his place Wednesday.
Aug 26 2016The Mets will make a decision on if Matz (shoulder) will start Tuesday following his throwing session Friday, Anthony DiComo of the MLB.com reports.If Matz gets through it unscathed, he should be activated off the disabled list and start. If not. Seth Lugo, who started for Matz on Thursday, should replace him again in the rotation.
Aug 23 2016Matz (shoulder) is expected to rejoin the Mets' rotation next Tuesday, Adam Rubin of ESPN.com reports.Matz just landed on the disabled list Monday, but the move was made retroactively to Aug. 15, so he will have a chance to return to action after just one more week. Seth Lugo will get the start next time Matz's spot in the rotation comes up Thursday.
Aug 22 2016The Mets placed Matz (shoulder) on the 15-day disabled list Monday.It was announced earlier Monday that Matz would be placed on the disabled list, and the Mets did not wait long to make the move official. Matz's last start came August 14, so he will be eligible to be activated from the disabled list August 30. Whether or not he will return that day remains to be seen, however. Seth Lugo is expected to take Matz's place in the rotation for the time being.
Aug 22 2016The Mets are planning to place Matz (shoulder) on the disabled list, Adam Rubin of ESPN.com reports.The Mets don't believe Matz is dealing with any structural damage in his shoulder, but he will still get some time off in order to rest and recover. It's not clear how long Matz will be sidelined, but he has not appeared in a game since Aug. 14, so he will be eligible to be activated from the disabled list Aug. 30.
Aug 22 2016Matz (shoulder) is dealing with a "mild" shoulder strain, Jon Heyman of Today's Knuckleball reports.Matz met with doctors Monday, and while the strain could land him on the shelf, the results have to be considered somewhat of a relief overall. The young left-hander has no structural damage but is also battling some rotator cuff irritation, in addition to the previously discovered bone spur in his elbow, which he's pitched through for several months. All of that could add up to another skipped start, or perhaps even a stay on the disabled list, though the Mets are yet to comment on how they'll handle the situation. Manager Terry Collins intimated that Matz could make his next start Thursday, but if he's ultimately skipped, it will be Seth Lugo, who took the hill in Matz's place Friday night, serving as the replacement. "He's done a very nice job here," Collins said, regarding Lugo. "Even though [the Giants] hit some balls pretty hard, he didn't shy away from the strike zone. That's impressive."
Aug 20 2016Matz (shoulder) will visit a doctor Monday, Matt Ehalt of the Bergen Record reports.Matz was able to play catch Saturday after missing his scheduled start Friday due to shoulder soreness, and he said he felt "fine" afterward. However, he did not incorporate any breaking pitches into his flat-ground work and the Mets will have Matz evaluated Monday before allowing him to ramp up his throwing any further.
Aug 19 2016Matz will miss his scheduled start Friday against San Francisco with lingering discomfort in his shoulder, Newsday reports. "It's just discomfort ... I'm really not worried about it," he said.Seth Lugo will get the start with Matz sidelined. Matz says he hopes to miss just one turn in the rotation.
Aug 15 2016Matz (9-8) tossed 7.1 no-hit innings Sunday, walking two and striking out eight, before an Alexei Ramirez single broke up his bid and ended his day in a 5-1 win over the Padres.He was at 105 pitches by that point, so manager Terry Collins was taking no chances with the lefty's workload. Matz has now delivered quality starts in six of eight outings since the beginning of July but has just a 2-5 record over that stretch thanks to the struggles of the Mets' offense, with both wins coming in starts when he held the opposition off the scoreboard entirely. He'll likely need to be stingy once again in his next start Friday on the road against Johnny Cueto and the Giants.
Aug 9 2016Matz was solid Tuesday against the Arizona, striking out nine over six innings while allowing just two runs, five hits, and a walk. He earned a no-decision after his bullpen blew a 3-2 lead.Matz bounced back from a rough outing last Wednesday in which he allowed six earned runs against the rival Yankees. The nine strikeouts Tuesday tied a season-high, and brought Matz's season total to 121 over 125 innings pitched. Matz has had rough luck of late, going 1-5 in his last six starts entering Tuesday, despite throwing quality starts in four of them. His ERA is now 3.60.
Aug 3 2016Matz (8-8) gave up six runs on six hits and a walk while striking out six in Wednesday's road loss to the Yankees.All the damage came in the first two innings -- a three-run rally in the first, a three-run homer by Mark Teixeira in the second -- and then Matz settled down, allowing only a single baserunner over his final four innings. The silver lining of six whiffs and good WHIP helps a little, but it doesn't get easier for Matz, as his next start will come against the Diamondbacks on Tuesday.
Jul 29 2016Matz (8-7) pitched six innings, allowing two runs, ten hits and a walk while striking out five in Friday's loss to the Rockies.Despite notching his fourth quality start in five July outings, Matz finished the month with a 1-4 record thanks to a lack of run support. In his past five starts, the Mets have scored a combined six runs, and no more than two in any of those games. Matz will look for better luck in his next start Wednesday versus the Yankees.
Jul 24 2016Matz (8-6) threw six scoreless innings Sunday, scattering four hits and walking two while striking out six, to get the win against the Marlins.It was his first victory since May 25, ending his winless streak at nine starts. Matz commanded the zone well all day. throwing 64 of 99 pitches for strikes, as he picked up his third quality start in four July outings and 11th of the season. He'll look to keep his positive momentum going Friday when the Mets host the Rockies.
Jul 18 2016Matz (7-6) took the loss on Monday, allowing four runs in five innings against the Cubs. The lefty allowed eight hits, walked one, and struck out five.The 25-year-old lefty has now lost five straight decisions for the Mets, watching his ERA rise from 2.39 to 3.56 in the process. That being said, Matz has still allowed just nine runs over his last three starts. The lefty will make his next start Sunday against the Marlins.
Jul 13 2016Matz will start the Mets third game after the All-Star break, Sunday against the Phillies, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Bartolo Colon will start Friday and then be followed by Logan Verrett, Matz, Jacob deGrom and Noah Syndergaard. The Mets were looking to give Matz, deGrom and Syndergaard some additional rest and accomplish this by starting Colon and Verrett the first two games after the break. Matz is pitching with a "significant" bone spur in his elbow that will require surgery after the season, but the injury won't cause any additional damage to his arm. He is taking anti-inflammatory medicine on the day he starts to help him make it through each outing and Matz has said he is more at ease on the mound knowing the injury won't cause long-term damage.
Jul 11 2016Matz (7-5) allowed three runs on six hits and four walks over seven innings Sunday, striking out five, to take the loss against the Nationals.Daniel Murphy's two-run shot in the first inning put the Mets in a hole they couldn't recover from, but Matz did his best to keep them in the game afterwards despite some control issues. The lefty now hasn't won a game in eight starts, but his 4.47 ERA and 40:14 K:BB in 46.1 innings over that stretch isn't exactly terrible. The Mets will need him to be a bit sharper, as well as providing Matz with a bit more run support, if they're going to make a move up the standings in the second half.
Jul 5 2016Matz (7-4) took a hard loss Tuesday against the Marlins. He tossed seven quality innings, allowing two runs on six hits and one walk while striking out six.The lefty was cruising and seemed to have a tight grip on a 1-0 lead deep into the ballgame, until Giancarlo Stanton mashed a two-run shot in the top of the seventh to turn the tables on Matz and the Mets. Overall, it was an encouraging outing for the sophomore after his last two outings were disappointments. Matz is scheduled to toe the rubber once more before the break when he faces the Nationals on Sunday.
Jun 30 2016Matz (7-3) allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out six over 5.1 innings, but received no decision Thursday against the Cubs.Matz, who had his start pushed back two days due to an elbow issue, gave up homers in the first and sixth innings to account for all three runs he allowed, but the offense came up big after his departure to take him off the hook for a potential loss. He's now failed to post a quality start in three of his last four outings, and his ERA has risen to 3.40. He'll make his next start Tuesday against the Marlins.
Jun 28 2016Matz (elbow) will have his next scheduled start pushed back to Thursday, Matt Ehalt of The Record reports.The young lefty is dealing with a bone spur issue on his pitching elbow that has caused him noticeable discomfort. ESPN's Adam Rubin adds that, aside from Thursday, skipping Matz in the rotation or pushing him back will not be the norm as the Mets will try to have him pitch every fifth day. However, surgery to remove the bone spurs is inevitable, it's just a matter of whether Matz will be able to push through the remainder of the season with them or undergo surgery that would likely end his season.
Jun 27 2016Matz has a bone spur in his elbow that is likely causing his discomfort, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.It appears the Mets have identified the cause of the discomfort for Matz's elbow, and it can't be fixed without having surgery. Undergoing the knife would sidelined Matz for six weeks before he could even begin throwing, For now, it seems as though Matz will try to pitch through it, though surgery will be discussed as part of an organizational meeting that is scheduled for Tuesday. Matz is 7-3 with a 3.29 ERA and 1.19 WHIP this season, so his status is definitely worth monitoring over the next few days.
Jun 27 2016Matz is still experiencing elbow tightness and could miss Wednesday's start, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.The Mets have stated that they are confident that there is no structural damage in Matz's elbow and that he will be evaluated again Tuesday, but it appears that they are likely to be conservative with him in order to avoid a more serious injury. More information regarding his status should be released after he meets with the doctors again Tuesday.
Jun 24 2016Matz revealed after Friday's start against the Braves that he has still been dealing with some tightness in his elbow, MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reports.Matz said after Friday's game that he felt fine, and manager Terry Collins did not seem overly concerned about Matz's health when asked, but it seems Matz may not be out of the woods with his elbow injury just yet, particularly with him being forced from Friday's contest after giving up six earned runs during the fifth inning. Matz is next scheduled to take the ball Wednesday against the Nationals, but the tightness in his elbow leaves his status uncertain until the Mets confirm their rotation for next week.
Jun 24 2016Matz (elbow) has been confirmed as Friday's starter against the Braves.Any lingering doubt as to Matz's status was effectively put to rest with a successful bullpen session Wednesday, but the Mets will monitor him closely during Friday's outing. Matz reported experiencing some elbow tightness late in his last start, which helps explain the home run given up to Jeff Francoeur.
Jun 23 2016Matz (elbow) will be watched cautiously by the Mets during his outing Friday, Adam Rubin of ESPN reports.Matz left Saturday's game after experiencing elbow tightness in the sixth inning against the Braves. He completed a bullpen Wednesday, and has progressed without any setbacks to his elbow. Matz will be back on the mound Friday to face a Braves team that he allowed two runs against while striking out seven in his last outing.
Jun 22 2016Matz (elbow) said he felt fine after throwing a bullpen session Wednesday, Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News reports.Matz had reported elbow soreness in his last start but this is some positive news for the Mets. Matz is scheduled to start Friday's game and would have a great matchup with a offensively-challenged Braves lineup should he be ready to go.
Jun 18 2016Matz experienced some elbow tightness in the sixth inning of Saturday's game against Atlanta, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz pitched well Saturday before leaving the game, giving up two runs on four hits and two walks while striking out seven and leaving the game with the Mets holding a 3-2 lead. Mets manager Terry Collins said he is unconcerned about the elbow.
Jun 6 2016Matz will pitch Tuesday against the Pirates due to Monday's rainout, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Matz, along with all of the Mets' starting pitchers, will be pushed back a day. He will do battle with the Pirates' Jon Niese, who was also pushed back.
May 31 2016Matz allowed three runs on seven hits and two walks with three strikeouts over 5.2 innings in a no-decision Tuesday against the White Sox.Matz had a solid start going with just one run allowed until Todd Frazier touched him up for a critical two-run home run in the sixth inning. He finished just one out away from extending his quality start streak to eight. Still, Matz owns a 2.60 ERA, and after he posted a 2.27 ERA in six starts last season, Matz has been performing at an ace level for about half a season at this point in his young career.
May 25 2016Matz (7-1) threw eight shutout innings, allowing four hits, striking out seven and walking one in a 2-0 victory over the Nationals on Wednesday.The lefty was hitting all his spots, inducing 28 called strikes. After the second inning, Matz didn't allow another base runner to reach second, and at one point, he retired 15 straight batters. Since allowing seven runs over 1.2 innings during his first start of the year, Matz has yielded just six runs in his last 48 frames. His next start will be Tuesday against the White Sox.
May 20 2016Matz allowed two runs on three hits, he did not walk a batter, and struck out eight over seven innings of a 3-2 win against Milwaukee on Friday night.Matz (6-1) had his last start skipped when he suffered some forearm soreness, but he appeared to be in fine form against the Brewers. He was efficient, tossing 65 of 88 pitches for strikes, but was removed after seven innings as a precautionary measure to make sure the forearm doesn't cause any more problems. Assuming he checks out tomorrow, he'll face the Nationals on the road in a key divisional match-up next time out.
May 20 2016Matz (forearm) has been confirmed as Friday's starter against the Brewers.By completing a successful bullpen session Wednesday, Matz eliminated any lingering doubt as to his status for Friday's game. However, manager Terry Collins said he is going to be "a little conservative" with Matz's pitch count against Milwaukee in hopes of avoiding any further trouble with the forearm.
May 19 2016Manager Terry Collins is going to be "a little conservative" with Matz's (forearm) pitch count Friday against the Brewers, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Although Matz is still expected to start for New York, it seems that the Mets don't want to rush Matz back after he was forced to miss a start with the issue. Collins doesn't plan to be too cautious considering he only missed one start, but if things get dicey or if his pitch count gets a bit elevated in the early going, it wouldn't be too surprising for the left-hander to be removed from the game rather than being allowed to grind out an extra inning or two.
May 18 2016Matz (forearm) threw a successful bullpen session Wednesday, reaffirming his availability to start Friday's series opener against the Brewers, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Matz seems to be getting better every day after skipping his start last Wednesday due to the ailment. This news virtually ensures that Matz will make his scheduled start, where he'll face a Brewers lineup that's 14th in the majors in scoring.
May 17 2016Matz (forearm) will be able to make his next scheduled start, Adam Rubin of ESPN.com reports.Matz had his turn in the rotation skipped Saturday due to some forearm discomfort, which was a cause for concern for Mets fans and Matz owners alike. However, after meeting with doctors Monday, it was determined that Matz' arm issue was "not significant," which allowed Matz to get the green light for his next start. Look for Matz to get back on the mound for the Mets' upcoming weekend series against Milwaukee.
May 16 2016Matz (forearm) had an encouraging visit with the doctor Monday as no ligament damage was found in his arm, Marc Carig of Newsday reports.The Mets are expected to provide an official report on Matz on Tuesday, but his status for the upcoming week is up in the air despite the good news Monday. Matz has not pitched since May 9 against the Dodgers. Logan Verrett is expected to handle any turns in the rotation that Matz is unable to take in the near future.
May 12 2016Matz (forearm) played catch Thursday, Matt Ehalt of the Bergen Record reports.A bout of forearm soreness will force Matz to miss his scheduled start Saturday, but his ability to throw some Thursday, even if it was just long toss, is encouraging. There's still the possibility of a DL stint depending on what's found in his upcoming doctor's exam in New York, but owners would be wise not to panic, at least not until more information becomes available.
May 11 2016Matz will have his start skipped Saturday due to elbow soreness, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz's elbow reportedly flared up following Monday's start, so the Mets will take the cautious approach with the young left-hander. Matz hasn't undergone an MRI yet, but he will see a doctor in New York in the coming days and could get one then. Logan Verrett is temporarily slated to take his spot in the rotation unless he is forced to be used in relief before Saturday.
May 9 2016Matz (5-1) allowed two runs on six hits and a walk with five strikeouts over six innings in a win Monday over the Dodgers.Since allowing seven runs in 1.2 innings in his first start, Matz has rattled off five consecutive quality starts, earning the win in each one. The only blemish on Matz's line was a Trayce Thompson fourth inning home run, which snapped an 18.1 innings scoreless streak for Matz dating back to April 29 against the Giants. His ERA is down to 2.86 as he has allowed just four runs in his past 33 innings (1.09 ERA).
May 4 2016Matz allowed just two hits and no runs with eight strikeouts and no walks over 7.2 innings against the Braves on Wednesday afternoon.The left-hander has won four straight outings and currently owns a 13.2 scoreless innings streak. During that time, he has 12 strikeouts and three walks. After allowing seven runs in his first start, Matz has yielded just two runs in his last 27 frames. For the season, he has 30 strikeouts in 28.2 innings. Matz is scheduled to make his next start Monday against the Dodgers.
Apr 29 2016Matz tossed six shutout innings, allowing seven hits, and walking three, while striking out four as the Mets decimated the Giants 13-1 Friday night.After being shelled in his first start, Matz (3-1) has now held opponents to just a pair of runs over his last 19.1 innings. He needed 110 pitches (71 for strikes) to make it through six innings in this one, and the seven hits and three walks stand out, but with a huge lead, throwing strikes can make a pitcher somewhat more hittable. He'll try to keep things rolling with a favorable match-up against the Braves at home next time out.
Apr 23 2016Matz (2-1) allowed nine hits but just two runs over 6.1 innings in a victory over the Braves. He also struck out eight and walked none.The left-hander had a nightmarish start in his first outing of the season, but since then, he has allowed two runs over his last 13.1 innings. Matz has also struck out 17 and walked just two during that time. His next scheduled start is Friday against the Giants.
Apr 17 2016Matz rebounded from his nightmarish first start by tossing seven shutout innings in a win Sunday against the Indians.Matz allowed three hits while striking out a career-high nine batters and retired 12 of the final 13 batters he faced. His fastball sat in the 94-95 mph range and his curveball had more more bite than in his abbreviated first start.
Apr 11 2016Matz (0-1) took a beating from the Marlins, as he lost after allowing seven runs on six hits and two walks over 1.2 innings. He struck out one.All the damage came in the second inning, as Matz managed the first inning around only a Christian Yelich infield single. But after a pair of walks to lead off the second inning, Matz gave up four singles and a Giancarlo Stanton home run before he was removed. Matz's bad inning leaves him with a ridiculous 37.80 ERA after two starts, and no matter how well he pitches for the next month or two, this one will leave a mark.
Apr 1 2016Matz pitched five scoreless innings while allowing two walks and striking out six batters in a 8-1 victory over Chicago Friday.Matz is one of the Mets' most highly-touted prospects as in the minors, he holds a career 2.25 ERA over 380.2 innings to go along with 393 strikeouts. In his limited time in the majors last year, he continued to display his abilities as he posted a 2.27 ERA in 35.7 innings with 34 strikeouts. The Mets are stacked at starting pitching and Matz only enhances that talent pool. He'll likely be on an innings limit this year but even with that, the 24-year-old could offer great fantasy value given his track-record of producing in every pitching category.
Mar 8 2016Matz allowed one run on a hit and two walks while striking out three in three innings in his first spring start Monday.Matz had better than expected life and velocity on his fastball with a solid curveball in his outing. The Mets delayed that outing a week to make sure Matz was fresh after pitching deep in October last year. Matz will open 2016 as the Mets' fourth or fifth starter, ahead or behind Bartolo Colon.
Oct 24 2015Matz will start Game 4 of the World Series versus the Royals next Saturday, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz will follow Matt Harvey, Jacob deGrom, and Noah Syndergaard in the Mets' four-man rotation, from which manager Terry Collins won't deviate. Consequently, Matz may make his only appearance of the season-ending series in Game 4. In two starts (one loss) this postseason, he's been hit and miss, yielding four runs on 10 hits and four walks while striking out eight in 9.2 innings.
Oct 13 2015Matz (back) has been confirmed as the starting pitcher for the Mets in Game 4 of the NLDS Tuesday against the Dodgers.Matz has not pitched since Sept. 24 due to a sore back, but he will get back on the bump Tuesday night as the Mets try to clinch their opening-round series. Both Matz and the Mets hitters will have their work cut out for them squaring off against Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw.
Oct 11 2015Matz (back) will start Game 4 for the Mets, Marc Carig of Newsday reports.Matz's addition to the playoff roster seemed to signify his potential availability for Game 4, and that is indeed the case. He'll likely match up against Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw unless the club decides to give Brett Anderson a start.
Oct 9 2015Matz (back) is on the NLDS roster and will likely pitch Game 4 against the Dodgers, Matt Ehalt of The Record reports.While the Mets haven't officially announced who will pitch Game 4 if need be, his status on the playoff roster is a clear sign the rookie will be available if needed.
Oct 8 2015Matz (back) said he felt "really good" during an 80-pitch simulated game Thursday, ESPN New York reports. "I took two weeks off, so I was a little rusty the first couple innings, but I feel really good, really strong," Matz said. "My arm feels great, back feels great. I'm ready to go."It certainly seems like Matz will rejoin the Mets and start Game 4 of the NLDS after multiple reports suggested the 24-year-old was in mid-season form, however nothing official has been announced as of yet. That being said, his status with the club should be decided sometime in the coming days.
Oct 8 2015Matz said his back felt fine after an 80-pitch outing during an instructional league game Thursday, but his status with the Mets during the playoffs is still up in the air, Jon Santucci of the Scripps Treasure Coast Newspapers reports.It certainly seems like Matz will rejoin the Mets and start Game 4 of the NLDS after multiple reports suggested the 24-year-old was in mid-season form, however nothing official has been announced as of yet. That being said, his status with the club should be decided sometime in the coming days.
Oct 7 2015Matz (side) completed a bullpen session Tuesday at Citi Field, MLB.com reports. "I think we've been encouraged over the last couple of days," General manager Sandy Alderson said. "Things have improved. Certainly, today was a step forward."Now that the bullpen session is behind him, Matz has just one more hurdle to clear -- a simulated game Thursday -- to solidify his spot on the NLDS roster. If Matz makes it through the live session unscathed, he will likely start Game 4 against the Dodgers on Oct. 13. Sean Gilmartin would likely make the roster if Matz is deemed unavailable, while Jacob deGrom would be an option to start Game 4 on short rest.
Oct 7 2015Matz, who is slated to throw a 90-95 pitch simulated game Thursday, said that the tightness behind his right shoulder blade was "feeling better," NY Daily News reports.Matz, who was scratched from his final regular season start due to the injury, completed a bullpen session Tuesday at Citi Field without incident. If he makes through Thursday's sim game with no ill-effects and shows good command and stuff, he is likely to make the Mets' NLDS roster as the Game 4 starter.
Oct 4 2015Matz (side) will need to get through a long-toss session Monday, bullpen session Tuesday and 90 to 100 pitches in an instructional league game in Florida on Thursday before he deemed ready to make the Mets' divisional series roster, ESPN New York reports.If Matz, who had an injection Friday to relax his back, which has been spasming, is able to get through all three of those requirements without incident, he could be added to the roster and be penciled in as the Game 4 starter. If not, the Mets may go with a three-man rotation or start Bartolo Colon.
Oct 3 2015Matz (side) received an injection Saturday and in hopes of returning for the NLDS, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Originally, the Mets had hoped he could pitch this weekend against the Nationals, but that now seems out of play. Matz's return for the NLDS would be a boost for the Nationals, who hasn't pitched since September 18th.
Oct 2 2015Matz (side) visited the doctor and has now rejoined the Mets, but indicated that he's "not better," Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz was believed to be an option to pitch either Saturday or Sunday in relief, but it's unclear if that will be the case given the most recent news. If he does appears, he's expected to throw five or six innings, which could potentially leave him in line for a win.
Oct 1 2015Matz (side/back) was feeling better Thursday and the Mets plan to use him in five-to-six innings of relief Saturday or Sunday, ESPN New York's Adam Rubin reports.Fantasy owners now know that he will probably not be used as a starter again during the regular season. However, if he pitches five-plus innings of relief, he could still offer strikeouts, good ratios and qualify for a win against the Nationals.
Sep 30 2015Tests on Matz's back were returned negative, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. "It looks like he's going to be just fine," manager Terry Collins said.Muscle spasms in Matz's side/back area will prevent him from taking the hill Thursday, but the Mets are hoping to use him at some point this weekend. Matz may need to prove his health on the field to secure his spot on the NLDS roster.
Sep 30 2015Matz (side) will not start Thursday against the Phillies, Newsday's Marc Carig reports.The hope was that one additional day between starts would allow Matz to take the hill against Philadelphia, but with the side soreness lingering into Wednesday, manager Terry Collins has opted to scratch the 24-year-old. Matz could still slot in as a reliever this weekend, but if he's unable to turn the page on the issue by then, his spot on the NLDS roster could be compromised.
Sep 29 2015The Mets confirmed that Matz's next start has been pushed to Thursday in Philadelphia, ESPN New York's Adam Rubin reports.This was anticipated, but manager Terry Collins confirmed the change Tuesday. Logan Verrett will start Wednesday in Philadelphia as a result.
Sep 29 2015Matz will likely have his next start pushed back to Thursday due to right side stiffness, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Details are still relatively scarce, but GM Sandy Alderson suggested Tuesday that the issue may be related to how Matz slept overnight. Manager Terry Collins was cryptic when talking about Matz's status Tuesday, saying Bartolo Colon may be a postseason starter "by default," but the team clarified that it still expects Matz to be on the NLDS roster. The injury is not believed to be at all related to the left lat issue Matz dealt with earlier this year.
Sep 24 2015Matz struck out eight without a walk, but allowed three runs on 10 hits in 5.2 innings in a no-decision against the Reds on Thursday.Nine of the hits were singles, as the Reds kept finding gaps against Matz despite shining work from the young lefty. In terms of hits and runs allowed, this was the worst start of Matz's young career, which should highlight just how good he's looked in his first six career outings. He gets a tasty matchup against the Phillies his next time out.
Sep 18 2015Matz allowed just one run on seven hits, walking one and striking out four over six innings of a 5-1 win against the Yankees on Friday night.Matz (4-0, 1.80 ERA) turned in another gem, albeit he still wasn't as efficient as you would like to see. He needed 102 pitches (67 for strikes) to cover the six innings, but he issued just one walk and kept the ball in the park - the two areas he has struggled with a bit in his young big league career. The Mets feeling it, and their young starting pitchers, including Matz, are front and center in their push to the playoffs.
Sep 11 2015Matz (3-0) tossed five innings, giving up one run on six hits and two walks while striking out two in Friday's win over Atlanta.Matz delivered another short and sweet start in his encore performance since rejoining the big-league club. His 1.88 ERA and 8.25 K/9 ratio in his four starts look very, very appealing for those looking for a September call-up to help lead a playoff push. There are two red flags on Matz's short resume, however. He's averaging 3.38 BB/9 to go with 1.5 HR/9 in his brief tenure in the league. It'll be hard for Matz to continue his success if those rates continue.
Sep 11 2015Matz (finger) has been confirmed as the starting pitcher for Friday's game against the Braves.Matz left his left start after developing a blister on one of his fingers, but the setback will not prevent him from making his scheduled start Friday. He will take on a Braves team that has won just two games in September.
Sep 9 2015Matz, who left Sunday's game in the sixth inning due to a blister on his left middle finger, threw a 25-pitch bullpen session Wednesday, after which he said the blister was a non-issue and he should start Friday, ESPN New York reports.Matz said after Sunday's game that he gets blisters in humid weather, which was the condition in Miami. The humidity causes the skin to soften up but that the issue has significantly healed since Sunday, enabling him to make his next start.
Sep 6 2015Matz allowed two runs on four hits and two walks while striking out six over 5.1 innings, but received no decision Sunday against Miami.Matz pitched well, but was forced from the game with a blister on his left middle finger after throwing just 81 pitches. He left with a 2-1 lead before the bullpen gave up a pair of late runs to cost him a chance at the victory. He has now made three starts on the season, and has an impressive 1.89 ERA along with a 0.95 WHIP. His next start will be Saturday at Atlanta,provided his blister has healed sufficiently.
Sep 6 2015Matz left Sunday's game due to a blister on his left middle finger, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz left the game after just 81 pitches, cashing in 5.1 innings of two-run ball and six strikeouts. If the score holds, the rookie pitcher will be in line for the victory. Consider him day-to-day in advance of his next start.
Sep 2 2015Contrary to a previous report, Matz will return to the mound Sunday in Miami, ESPN New York's Adam Rubin reports.The Mets released their starters for the weekend and Bartolo Colon will get the ball Saturday with Matz closing out the series against the Marlins. The Mets are skipping Noah Syndergaard this week, but Matz will likely remain a part of the Mets' rotation over the rest of the season to help rest Syndergaard and Matt Harvey.
Sep 1 2015Matz will return to the rotation Saturday in Miami, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz made his final rehab start Monday, and he's officially been activated from the disabled list. He'll take the spot of Noah Syndergaard, who was initially scheduled to pitch Saturday, enabling Syndergaard skip a turn and gain extra rest. Following that start, the Mets will finish out the season with a six-man rotation featuring Mats, Syndergaard, Matt Harvey, Jacob deGrom, Jon Niese and Bartolo Colon.
Aug 31 2015Matz (lat), who made his final rehab start Monday, was activated and promoted following the Mets' game that evening, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz allowed one hit and two walks while striking out four in tossing 78 pitches and 5.1 scoreless innings Monday. In his four rehab outings, Matz gave up two runs and nine hits while striking out 13 in 15 innings. He could start Sept. 5 or 6 as the team goes to a six-man rotation.
Aug 30 2015Matz (lat) will not be used as a reliever by the Mets in September, Matt Ehalt of The Bergen Record reports.Mets manager Terry Collins made the announcement while speaking to reporters Sunday morning, but he did not elaborate as to whether the team will go to a six-man rotation, or simply elect to bump Bartolo Colon from the mix as a starter. Given that Matz was being stretched out during his rehab assignment, this announcement is hardly surprising.
Aug 27 2015Matz (lat) will make another rehab start with Double-A Binghamton either Monday or Tuesday, David Lennon of Newsday reports.This will be Matz's fourth rehab start, and his second at Double-A after he threw six shutout innings there Wednesday. He'll likely increase his workload to around 70-to-80 pitches his next time out and could rejoin the big league team after that if all goes well.
Aug 27 2015Matz (lat) allowed just one hit over six shutout innings, walking none and striking out six, in his first rehab start with Double-A Binghamton (and third overall) on Wednesday.Matz was slated to throw no more than 60 pitches, but he cruised through six innings with just 56, 41 of which went for strikes. After his prior start, Matz and the Mets were concerned with his lack of control, but that was not an issue Wednesday. Matz will make one more minor-league start, tossing 70 to 80 pitches, before rejoining the Mets.
Aug 26 2015Matz (side) is schedule to throw 60 pitches in a rehab start with Double-A Birmingham on Wednesday, so it's possible he'll require an extra one, ESPN New York reports.Matz should rejoin the rotation when healthy, but it's a bit unclear at this point when that will be. When he does return, the Mets may decide to employ a six-man rotation throughout the month of September to save their young arms some stress.
Aug 22 2015Matz (lat) will make his next rehab start for Double-A Binghamton on Wednesday, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.After a positive, 41-pitch start for High-A St. Lucie on Thursday (one run allowed in 2.2 innings), Matz will join Binghamton and look to continue progressing in his recovery from a lat injury. The 24-year-old is still a few more rehab starts away from rejoining the Mets' rotation.
Aug 20 2015Matz (lat) allowed one run on four hits and 41 pitches in 2.2 innings during his second rehab start Thursday for High-A St. Lucie.Matz threw 23 pitches in his first rehab start last Saturday and upped that output by 18 in Thursday. He likely will make three more rehab starts to get up to 90 pitches and then rejoin the Mets, probably to start September 5.
Aug 19 2015Matz (lat muscle) will make his second rehab start Thursday for High-A St. Lucie, Newsday's Anthony Rieber reports.The Mets may skip Matt Harvey this weekend in Colorado, but Matz is clearly not an option to make that start. However, he could be used in another such a situation once he is stretched out to around 90 pitches (he threw 23 pitches in his last outing).
Aug 15 2015Matz felt no discomfort in his strained left lat muscle during his first rehab start Saturday, the NY Daily News reports.Matz threw one inning, giving up one earned run on three hits with two strikeouts. He threw 18 of his 23 pitches for strikes. Matz will need to be stretched out and throw 90 pitches before he is activated, so look for him to likely join the Mets to start September 5.
Aug 14 2015Matz (lat) will in fact make his first rehab start Saturday with High-A St. Lucie, MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reports.He will need multiple rehab starts before rejoining the Mets, and may not be back with the big league club until September. With Matt Harvey's innings being watched, Matz will likely have some role as a starter for the Mets, but he may not be used as a regular member of the rotation down the stretch.
Aug 14 2015Matz (lat) will throw 25 pitches in his first rehab appearance Saturday with High-A St. Lucie.Matz is without a firm timetable to return to the Mets' rotation, but it sounds as though the team will bring him along slowly. Manager Terry Collins said he hopes to work up to Matz throwing 90 pitches in a rehab assignment, so Matz is likely to make at least one or two more appearances before his pitch count reaches that number.
Aug 10 2015Matz (late) is tentatively scheduled to embark on a rehab assignment Saturday for High-A St. Lucie, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.Matz hit the DL with a strained lat muscle on July 10, and his recovery remains in line with the original, early-September estimate. Matz will likely make multiple rehab starts, as the organization does not expect to have him back until "around September 1st."
Aug 7 2015Matz (lat) is expected to throw a bullpen session next week, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.With Matz reporting no issues with flat-ground work, the lefty is now setting his sights on a return to elevated ground. Matz, who hit the DL in early July with a partially torn lat muscle, figures to require several mound sessions and at least one minor league rehab start before returning to the Mets' rotation.
Aug 3 2015Matz threw off flat ground Monday, which is the first time he threw since being shut down with a strained lat muscle retroactively to July 6, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz throwing on Monday is in line with what was expected, as he was told by team doctors last Monday not throw for at least one more week. He will need to progress to throwing off a mound, then to bullpen sessions, a sim game and probably a rehab start or two before rejoining the team. The latter is expected to occur in about a month, at which point the Mets will go to a six-man rotation.
Aug 2 2015The hope is that Matz (strained lat muscle) will return in early-September at which point the Mets will go back to a six-man rotation.Matz should be able to start throwing early this week, as he was told by team doctors last Monday not throw for at least one more week. His return would allow the tear to possibly skip turns in the rotation for Jacob deGrom, Matt Harvey and Noah Syndergaard, each of whom may approach innings shutdown limits in September.
Jul 10 2015Matz (lat) was placed on the 15-day DL on Friday, retroactive to July 6.The Mets held a press conference Friday, during which Matz said that he believes his injury is "just a minor thing." However, the official diagnosis is a partially torn left lat muscle, and the team is reportedly looking at three weeks as an absolute best-case scenario for his return. Matz was treated with a platelet-rich plasma injection after the tear was discovered.
Jul 9 2015Matz is expected to miss "at least several weeks" with a lat injury, Andy Martino of the New York Daily News reports.The Mets have not confirmed that Matz will miss time -- he's still listed as Sunday's probable starter on the team's official site -- but it sounds like a DL stint is a real possibility. If the lefty does wind up on the DL, look for New York to move back to a traditional five-man rotation coming out of the break. Matz acknowledged that he felt some tightness in his lat muscle in his big-league debut, but said that it didn't notice it in his last outing.
Jul 9 2015Matz has suffered a partially torn left lat muscle, and will miss at least three weeks, Mike Vorkunov of The Star-Ledger reports.The Mets are now officially confirming the injury, and the 25-year-old hurler has already received a PRP injection. He won't be able to start throwing for three weeks, at which point he will be re-examined. He's likely more than a month from a return, so the Mets will likely return to a five-man rotation. Either Bartolo Colon or Jon Niese are expected to start in his place Saturday.
Jul 5 2015Matz said he felt some tightness in his left lat/arm during his first start, but he didn't notice it during Sunday's game against the Dodgers, Newsday's Marc Carig reports.The tightness apparently wasn't much of an issue, as Matz was brilliant in the second start of his career, striking out eight batters over six scoreless innings, with just two hits and two walks allowed. He even added another RBI, though he couldn't match last weekend's heroic 3-for-3, 4-RBI effort at the plate. The lat tightness is worth keeping an eye on, but Matz should be fine to make his final start before the All-Star break, scheduled for Sunday against the Diamondbacks at Citi Field.
Jun 28 2015Matz had a major-league debut to remember Sunday, giving up two runs on five hits and striking out six in 7.2 innings to get the win. At the plate, he went 3-for-3 with four RBI, a feat no other pitcher has ever done in his MLB debut in the last 100 years.Matz picked up a tired bullpen, who went seven innings earlier Sunday, in the completion of Saturday's suspended game. He threw 110 pitches, his most of the season. Matz was 7-for-23 at the plate in Triple-A but no one could have imagined him being that good of a hitter Sunday. With the Mets using a six-man rotation, Matz's next start will come against LA next weekend.
Jun 28 2015Matz was formally recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas on Sunday, MLB.com reports.As was reported Friday, Matz will make his MLB debut Sunday against the Reds following a dazzling showing at Triple-A this season. The 23-year-old has compiled a 2.19 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and 94:31 K:BB ratio over 90.1 innings at one of the Pacific Coast League's harsher environments, creating plenty of optimism about his chances of finding success right away in the majors. Matz will have a good shot at capturing the win in his first start, as the Reds will counter with long-time minor-league journeyman Josh Smith, who was tacked for four runs in three innings in his big-league debut last Tuesday.
Jun 26 2015Matz will get the start for the Mets on Sunday for his major league debut, Adam Rubin of ESPN New York reports.Matz has been dominant at Triple-A this season with a 2.19 ERA and 94 strikeouts in 90.1 innings of work. The lefty prospect will join a very talented and young rotation that also features the likes of Matt Harvey, Jacob deGrom, and Noah Syndergaard. Matz should stick with the big league club for the time being as the Mets are reverting to a six-man rotation.
Jun 25 2015The Mets appear to be on the verge of recalling Matz from Triple-A Las Vegas, Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reports.The Mets haven't confirmed the move, but it's been rumored for a while and may finally be materializing. Matz has pitched extremely well in Triple-A, posting a 2.19 ERA and 1.11 WHIP with 94 strikeouts over 90.1 innings this season. The Mets would have to make a corresponding move to add him, as they have five healthy starters right now, but have been in the midst of trade talks recently.
Jun 25 2015Matz is expected to be called up to start Sunday against the Reds, Newsday's Marc Carig reports.Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports had the initial report, and while the Mets still have yet to confirm, sources tell Newsday that Matz will indeed come up for his major league debut Sunday. Simply put, Matz has nothing left to prove at Triple-A, having posted a 2.19 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 94:31 K:BB in 90.1 innings with Las Vegas to begin the year. It sounds like he will get an extended run with the big club, as the Mets are reportedly moving back to a six-man rotation.
Jun 17 2015Mats threw seven shutout innings, allowing just four hits while walking one and striking out five Wedensday.Matz rebounded from a rough outing to have what has become for him a normal day in the office. With Dillon Gee designated for assignment, the path for Matz to get called up got a bit clearer and easier. The expectation is that his first game in the majors will come sometime before the All-Star break.
Jun 14 2015The Mets have recently discussed moving Noah Syndergaard to the bullpen and calling up Matz, Mike Puma of the NY Post reports.Syndergaard would be used to set up Jeurys Familia while Matz would slide into Syndergaard's rotation spot. The Mets have struggled to find a bridge to Familia and Syndergaard's high-90s fastball and 'hook from hell,' could fill that spot. This is from a done deal, as both Syndergaard and Matz profile starting pitchers, so view this as an outside possibility for the time being.
Jun 7 2015Matz may be up shortly before the All-Star break, the NY Post reports.The Mets are also trying to manage Matz's innings to hold around 180-185 and have him pass the expected June 20 Super-2 cutoff for arb-eligibility before he is promoted. In addition, they would have to find a taker for Jon Niese or move him to the bullpen as they did Dillon Gee to make room. Despite all those hurdles, Matz likely should make his major-league debut around the All-Star break. but I would expect him shortly thereafter.
Jun 6 2015Matz struggled with his stuff Friday, allowing seven hits and four walks in six innings, but allowed just one run.Matz struck out five while lowering his ERA to 1.94 on the year. It's only a matter of time before he gets called up to the majors, as the Mets are looking to deal Jon Niese and Dillon Gee to open a spot for Matz.
Jun 1 2015Matz has thrown only 77 and 79 pitches his last two starts, as the Mets are intentionally limiting his innings and pitches, possibly to use him a starter later in the season, Mike Puma of the NY Post reports.Matz is clearly next in line to be called up now that Noah Syndergaard is in the rotation. If Jon Niese continues to struggle or Dillon Gee fails to pitch well when he is activated Tuesday, Matz may be promoted sooner rather than later.
May 23 2015Matz, 23, has a 2.24 ERA and 61:20 K:BB through 56.1 innings for Triple-A Las Vegas.Matz now appears to be next in line after the promotion of Noah Syndergaard to the big club. He has vaulted up the prospect charts over the last year or two. Something to bear in mind, though; the Mets are flush with starting pitching right now and could use either Matz or Syndergaard as trade bait to acquire a top-flight hitter should they stay in the playoff hunt.
May 7 2015Noah Syndergaard's experience at Triple-A gives him the edge over Matz to be called up the next time the Mets need a spot-starter, Newsday reports.Matz is only on his first year at Triple-A while Syndergaard pitched there last year, giving him an edge, Matz, who tossed six innings, allowing two runs on nine hits, with seven strikeouts and one walk Tuesday, is now 4-1 with a 2.04 ERA and 38 strikeouts over 35.1 innings in six starts this season. He has struck out 24 and walked only four in his last 20 innings, relying on three plus-pitches - his fastball, change up and curve ball - to retire hitters..
May 1 2015Matz allowed one run on five hits and two walks while striking out 12 in seven innings Thursday for Triple-A Las Vegas.Matz is 3-1 with a 1.84 ERA and 1.091 WHIP in five appearances this season with the 51s, Opponents have a .184 batting average against him while Matz has struck out 31 in 29.1 innings. Matz could get a call up to make a spot start between May 8 and 27 when the Mets have a stretch of 20 games in 20 days.
Mar 21 2015Matz was optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas on Saturday, Newsday's Marc Carig reports.This was in the cards for Matz from the get go, but his strong showing while with the major league team this spring figures to put him near the top of the list of in-season replacement options. Dillon Gee was moved back to the rotation after Zack Wheeler went down with a torn UCL, leaving Matz behind perhaps only Rafael Montero and Noah Syndergaard. Matz gave up just one earned run on three hits and one walk with three strikeouts over six Grapefruit League innings.
Mar 16 2015Matz is still ticketed to open 2015 in the minors, even with the loss of Zack Wheeler (torn UCL) for the season, ESPN New York reports.Dillon Gee will replace Wheeler in the rotation, which allows Matz to get some experience at Triple-A Las Vegas. In addition, if Matz is down just a few weeks, the Mets get one more year of control. If Matz is down until the summer, the Mets delay his arb clock by one year. Matz is expected to be up sometime this year, the only question is when.
Mar 7 2015Matz threw two scoreless innings in his start Saturday.Matz is viewed by many at the same level as Noah Syndergaard, the Mets' best pitching prospect. He is expected to start the season at Triple-A Las Vegas, but if he pitches like he has the past two seasons, he will force the Mets' hands into an early promotion.
Mar 2 2014Matz pitched in his first ever spring training game, striking out two while allowing a hit in a scoreless frame Sunday against the Cardinals.Matz will likely start the year at High-A St. Lucie and many believe he can progress quickly up the ladder. While he is not a candidate for the majors in 2014, if he continues to improve, 2015 would not be out of the question.
Feb 24 2014Matz revealed on Monday that he underwent a knee procedure during the offseason, ESPNNewYork.com's Adam Rubin reports.Matz isn't on the radar for most fantasy owners this season, but deeper dynasty formats may want to take note of the news. Although the 22-year-old was recently added to the Mets' 40-man roster, he's expected to open the season in Single-A ball, after posting a 2.62 ERA for low-A Savannah over 21 starts in 2013.