Memo to Mets: Extra Caution with Johan

By now we've all heard the reports that triceps tendinitis is the culprit behind Johan's tender throwing elbow.

The news is enough to send Met nation into a tizzy, and rightfully so.

As reported on ESPN, Johan himself is saying that his opening day could be in jeopardy.

"We have 162 games," Santana said on Saturday. "What we have to accomplish takes 162 games. Everything starts April 6, if it's going to be me or somebody else. It's tough to say right now."

Santana met with Mets general manager Omar Minaya and manager Jerry Manuel for about 40 minutes Saturday morning to discuss a plan of action for his ailing elbow.

The left-hander said doctors have told him an irritated triceps tendon is causing the discomfort in his throwing elbow.

While I think that is a stretch, it would behoove Mets management to take an ultra-cautious approach with their Ace.