Noah Syndergaard, once the formidable "Thor" of the New York Mets, is actively pursuing a return to Major League Baseball, driven by a desire to reclaim his identity and prove he can still compete. Now 33, Syndergaard acknowledged in a recent interview that his current motivation is not financial but rather a deep-seated yearning to re-establish himself in the sport.
His last MLB appearance was on August 27, 2023, with the Cleveland Guardians, where he allowed five runs over six innings. The season concluded shortly before his 31st birthday, and his performance that year — a 6.50 earned run average across 88 2/3 innings — has led many to question his future on the mound. Despite these statistics, Syndergaard draws inspiration from former teammate Jacob deGrom, who continues to pitch effectively at 38.
"That gives me hope," Syndergaard told GQ. "I still have intentions probably. Maybe it's just delusion."
The pitcher's career trajectory shifted significantly after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2020. While he posted a 3.94 ERA in his first full season back in 2022 with the Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Angels, his struggles continued. A 7.16 ERA in just 12 starts with the Dodgers in 2023 further highlighted his difficulties. Even the Guardians, known for developing pitching talent, could not help him overcome his challenges.
Syndergaard has spoken about developing a "minor form" of the yips, a condition that has impacted other athletes, causing a sudden loss of ability. He attributes the onset of these yips to a setback during his recovery from elbow inflammation in 2021. Despite trying various methods, including meditation, reading, and hypnosis, to combat the issue, he found no relief.
"I'd be mid-delivery, and I'm like, 'Whoa, what's going on right now?'" Syndergaard recalled, describing a feeling of disconnection from his past performance.
In recent years, Syndergaard has also been involved in health initiatives and has been noted for his public engagement with figures in conservative circles. His current focus, however, remains on a potential return to the baseball diamond, aiming to write a new chapter in his career.