New York Mets right-hander Bobby Parnell (elbow) is not expected to return for the start of the 2015 season, ESPN's Adam Rubin reports. "Right now I think we're projecting sometime after the season starts," GM Sandy Alderson said. "But that's just an educated guess right now."
Analysis:
Parnell underwent Tommy John surgery back in April and is currently throwing on flat ground at 120 feet at the team's facility in Florida. The team hopes to have him throwing off of a mound by Christmas, but they certainly won't rush his progress after such a major operation. At this point, it's difficult to see Parnell opening the year as the Mets' closer, though a more accurate return timetable will be available in the coming months.