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Mets Await Returns of Injured Hitters Alvarez and McNeil
The New York Mets, a team looking to bolster their offense, are anticipating the potential returns of two pivotal bats to their lineup in the near future. Injuries sidelined both Francisco Alvarez and Jeff McNeil during the early weeks of the season, but recent developments suggest their comebacks are on the horizon.
Rehabilitation Progress for Alvarez and McNeil
Francisco Alvarez, recovering from a hamate bone injury, and Jeff McNeil, nursing an oblique strain, both traveled to Port St. Lucie on Tuesday. This followed their participation in outdoor batting practice at Citi Field prior to the Mets’ 10-5 victory over the Marlins on Tuesday.
Alvarez Commences Rehab Assignment
Manager Carlos Mendoza announced that Alvarez was slated to initiate a rehabilitation assignment with Low-A St. Lucie starting Wednesday. This step marks a significant advancement in his recovery process.
McNeil Enters Extended Spring Training
McNeil, while not yet ready for a rehab assignment, will participate in extended spring training. A rehab assignment for McNeil could commence later this week, according to Mendoza.
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Uncertain Timetable for Mets’ Injured Players
Mendoza refrained from specifying a definitive timeline for either player’s return to the Mets’ major league roster. However, he indicated that both Alvarez and McNeil are demonstrably progressing in their respective recoveries.
Alvarez’s Rehab Focus
Regarding Alvarez’s rehabilitation, Mendoza explained, “The crucial aspect will be his ability to participate in consecutive games behind the plate, completing nine innings and accumulating four or five at-bats per game.”
The commencement of this progression on Wednesday is viewed as a promising indication.
“The fact that he will be competing in games against actual opposition is a positive sign,” Mendoza stated prior to the Mets’ game.
McNeil’s Oblique Strain Presents Complexity
Mendoza highlighted that McNeil’s oblique strain could present a more intricate path back to the Mets.
“Obliques are challenging,” Mendoza remarked regarding the strain. “We will continue to closely observe and evaluate his response in game situations, particularly when facing fastballs and breaking balls and making swing decisions.”
Mets’ Performance Amidst Injuries
The Mets have maintained a competitive level despite the absence of Alvarez and McNeil. Hayden Senger has been substituting for Luis Torrens at catcher, with Torrens also sidelined due to a forearm contusion.
Luisangel Acuña and Brett Baty have filled in for McNeil at second base. While their defensive contributions have been adequate, their offensive output has been limited.
Impact of Alvarez and McNeil’s Return
“They are integral components of our everyday lineup,” Mendoza emphasized regarding Alvarez and McNeil. “Their return will significantly enhance the depth of our lineup, adding a right-handed power hitter in Alvarez and a left-handed hitter in Jeff, known for his bat-to-ball skills and ability to hit for average and drive the ball. This will contribute to a more balanced offensive approach.”
Moment of Silence for Octavio Dotel
The Mets observed a moment of silence in remembrance of Octavio Dotel, the former long-tenured MLB pitcher who tragically passed away in the Dominican Republic roof collapse.
Dotel, 51, originated within the Mets organization, making his debut in 1999 before being traded to the Astros in a deal that brought Mike Hampton to Queens.
Prior to the game, Mendoza conveyed his condolences for the numerous individuals who perished in Santo Domingo.
“Thinking about our people in the Dominican Republic,” Mendoza expressed. “This tragedy has deeply affected many there. We have extensive Dominican communities within the baseball world. Our prayers are with their families.”
Siri’s Defensive Substitution and Soto’s Rest
Jose Siri entered the game as a defensive replacement in the ninth inning, taking over center field and shifting Tyrone Taylor to right field.
Mendoza indicated his intention to occasionally provide Juan Soto with brief respites from fielding duties, particularly on inclement days.
“This is a measure I plan to implement periodically,” Mendoza explained.
Earlier in the game, during a Mets pitching change, Soto briefly exited the field and sat in the bullpen, presumably to utilize available heaters for warmth.
“I enjoy being with those guys back there,” Soto quipped, eliciting laughter.
Game Notes
- Hayden Senger (2-for-4, two runs) achieved his first career multi-hit game.
- Starling Marte (2-for-3, two RBIs, one stolen base) reached base four times.
- Pete Alonso’s bases-clearing double increased his career RBI total to 601, joining a select group of six players in franchise history with 600 or more RBIs.