Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 9, 2024 1:11 am GMT
Jeff McNeil Suffers Fractured Wrist, Out for Remainder of Season
In a significant blow to the New York Mets as they chase postseason glory, second baseman Jeff McNeil has been diagnosed with a fractured wrist after being hit by a pitch during Friday night’s game against the Cincinnati Reds. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed the injury on Saturday, stating that McNeil will likely miss the remainder of the regular season.
Details of the Injury
The injury occurred during the fifth inning of a dramatic 6-4 victory that saw the Mets extend their winning streak to nine games. McNeil was batting when he squared up to bunt against reliever Brandon Williamson’s inside pitch, which struck him on the wrist. Initially, McNeil appeared unfazed, even staying in the game to play defensively and run the bases. However, he later realized the extent of his injury when warming up to bat again.
“I thought nothing of it really, it was a breaking ball: 95 percent sure it hit the guard I was wearing,” McNeil explained to reporters after the game. “It didn’t hurt that bad running the bases, and then I started to feel it a little bit warming up the next inning, just throwing the ball to first base.” Unfortunately, an MRI the following day confirmed McNeil’s worst fears: a fracture that could sideline him for four to six weeks.
Impact on the Team
McNeil’s injury comes at a pivotal time for the Mets, who have enjoyed a resurgence since the All-Star break. Although McNeil’s overall season stats reflect a struggle with a batting average of .238, he has been a crucial player in recent weeks, hitting .289 with a .923 OPS since the break. His contributions include 12 doubles, seven home runs, and 20 RBI during that span, showing his importance to the team’s success.
“The way he’s been playing the past two months all the way to this point, he’s been a huge reason, one of the reasons, why we got to this position,” Mendoza noted, acknowledging the significant impact McNeil had on the team’s performance.
Who Will Fill the Void?
With McNeil out, the Mets will have to adapt quickly. Veteran infielder Jose Iglesias is expected to take over as the starting second baseman. Iglesias has impressed this season and will aim to maintain the team’s momentum. Additionally, the Mets may consider calling up prospect Luisangel Acuña to add depth to the infield.
Pursuit of the Playoffs
The Mets are currently in a tightly contested race for the National League wild card, tied with the Atlanta Braves for the third spot at 77-64. The team has shown considerable improvement in the second half of the season and will need all hands on deck as they approach the final stretch. With only weeks left in the regular season, the Mets must navigate the challenges of McNeil’s absence strategically to solidify their playoff standing.
Final Thoughts on McNeil’s Recovery
As for McNeil, he remains hopeful about a potential return should the Mets advance deep into October. “It’s a really small fracture,” McNeil remarked, leaving the door open for a possible postseason comeback depending on his recovery trajectory and team performance.
The loss of McNeil is a setback for the Mets, but his resilience and determination might serve as inspiration as the team continues to fight for a playoff spot. As for now, the Mets will have to adapt without one of their key hitters, hoping to keep their winning streak alive in the chase for postseason glory.
- MLB.com Mets News
- ESPN Mets Team Page
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