Steven Matz calls it a flexor tendon strain. The Mets call it elbow inflammation.
Whatever exactly is wrong with the lefty, Matz hasn't thrown a pitch yet this season. That won't change fast, but Matz will take a first step toward returning to the mound on Wednesday when he begins a throwing program.
Matz will begin by long-tossing at 75 feet, general manager Sandy Alderson said on Tuesday. Seth Lugo, who has right elbow inflammation, will begin the same program on Wednesday. At least Lugo and the Mets agree on what is wrong with him.
Asked if the team has an exact diagnosis on what is ailing Matz, Alderson said: "No."
But the difference of opinion doesn't change the timetable for Matz's possible return. It's the same for both pitchers, Alderson said.
"I think this is going to take a while," Alderson said. "The purpose of the rest is to let everything quiet down and then crank it back it up and see how it responds."
