The New York Mets prospect Matt Allan has overcome a long road of surgeries and setbacks on his journey back to his dream, the mound. Selected in 2019, Allan was once a promising player, but his path has been scarred by multiple operations, including Tommy John surgeries and nerve transposition. Despite fighting the adversity, Allan returned stronger, with his spirit unbroken and filled with determination. Now, with renewed energy and clear focus, he is geared up for his comeback, reflecting both hope and hard-won wisdom.
Matt Allan reveals his learning from Tommy John Rehab amidst anticipated comeback
Allan's rehabilitation taught him a lesson beyond the physical toll of the injuries. “Definitely, the dream is there,” Allan remarked. He acknowledged that while his aspirations are the true drivers for him, his real breakthrough came with his learning to be present.
"It’s easy to get caught up in where I want to go, but the biggest thing I learned from rehab is I just have to be where my feet are. I have to be present and grounded and where I am today. … Stack as many of those days as possible, and then we’ll see that dream lived out." Allan's candid words echoed his sentiment that success gets built day-by-day, irrespective of one's past setbacks.
Matt Allan plans to look beyond scars as he steps towards the future
Etched across Allan's body are marks of struggles— one visible scar on his right forearm from the previous operation, another along the elbow from the ligament surgery, and the third on the hamstring from the tendon harvesting. Despite all the physical reminders of the challenges, Allan is focused on the future.
Allan is already throwing bullpen sessions and continuing live batting practice. With it, he is steadily preparing for Minor League action. While reflecting upon his journey, he said with a wry smile, "It’s long, man. It’s long, but she’s pretty." Such a resilient attitude, together with the unwavering support from teammates and his family, underscores his rightful determination to overcome adversity as he makes his comeback a reality.