Santana began the season 7-2 with a 1.77 ERA and averaging nine strikeouts per game. He was the rock every five days during a season where starting pitching has been more than suspect.  However, since the beginning of June, Santana’s numbers fell off dramatically posting a 6-7 record with a 4.02 ERA.

The Mets did not seem to be aware of the southpaw’s growing injury. “It really didn’t bother him,” pitching coach Dan Warthen said. “He was able to pitch a couple of different times. The last few, you could see the velocity going down and you’re starting to concern yourself. Johan never ever says anything about his own physical pain, but he finally came clean and said, ‘This thing is kinda bugging me.” Warthen added.

Mets pitcher Mike Pelfrey, who had noticed Santana icing his elbow more than in the past, thought it to be nothing more than the typical soreness of a long and grueling season. He did say, “Him (Johan) being such a gamer, if he says ‘Hey, something’s wrong,’ then there’s definitely something wrong with him.”

Manager Jerry Manuel, who was “terribly concerned” even before receiving the news from Dr. Altchek, said “He never really complained until that last game.” Manuel added, “It was manageable, and he managed it very well until he mentioned it. And then he said, ‘Well, let’s make sure, let’s take a look.”

During the All-Star break it was determined that the bone chips were not in a “dangerous area,” so the team opted to let Santana pitch. However, with his numbers on the mound decreasing and the pain in his elbow increasing, the Mets needed to take action to protect their prize pitcher. “I think it’s the right decision,” said Santana. “I’m going to try and do my best to recover, and believe me, I’m going to be ready to go for 2010.”