New York Mets center fielder Harrison Bader sustained a neck and upper back injury after colliding with the outfield wall while attempting to make a catch on Tuesday night against the Washington Nationals.
Manager Carlos Mendoza categorized Bader as day-to-day after removing him from the game in the fourth inning. Brandon Nimmo took over for Bader and contributed two RBIs in the Mets’ 7-2 win in 10 innings. Nimmo had just returned to action following an incident where he cut his forehead after fainting in his hotel room on Sunday night.
Mendoza expressed confidence in Nimmo’s readiness to play, saying, “After completing his pregame routine, he came into the office and said he was good to go. When he saw Bader’s play, he immediately started warming up, showing he was prepared.”
Bader collided with the video screen in right-center field while attempting to catch a ball hit by Jacob Young in the third inning, using his left arm to absorb the impact. Although he initially remained in the game, Mendoza opted to remove him due to lingering discomfort.
Additionally, the Mets were missing designated hitter J.D. Martinez due to a sore left ankle.
Mendoza mentioned Bader had felt something the previous night but didn’t think much of it. However, discomfort persisted during batting practice, prompting caution. The hope is that Bader’s injury is minor, with further evaluation planned for the next day.
Bader, 30, has been productive for the Mets this season, batting .273 with six home runs and 31 RBIs after joining the team on a one-year, $10.5 million contract in January. He previously played for the New York Yankees, Cincinnati Reds, and spent several seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals.
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