Parnell to have surgery for herniated disk in neck

NEW YORK -- Mets closer Bobby Parnell will undergo surgery for a herniated disk in his neck, manager Terry Collins said Monday.

Parnell first experienced neck stiffness during the team's series in Miami in late July. Over the course of the following week, he received anti-inflammatory injections and an epidural procedure. But the Mets then placed Parnell on the disabled list on Aug. 6, retroactive to July 31.

At the time, he said he wanted to get back on the mound again this season.

"I don't want the season to end like this," Parnell said when he went on the DL. "I want to get back. But I've got to be smart about it, too."

Parnell emerged as a reliable closer for the Mets, converting 22 saves in 26 opportunities before going on the DL. The right-hander was 5-5 with a 2.16 ERA in 49 total appearances. The 29-year-old had 44 strikeouts and 12 walks in 50 innings.

With Parnell on the disabled list, LaTroy Hawkins has been given the bulk of the save opportunities.