The surging New York Mets will be without one of their key players for the remainder of the season. Second baseman Jeff McNeil is expected to miss the rest of the year due to a broken wrist, as announced by manager Carlos Mendoza on Saturday. McNeil sustained the injury from a pitch during Friday’s walk-off victory against the Cincinnati Reds (NYM 6, CIN 4 in 10 innings). He was officially placed on the injured list on Sunday, and outfielder D.J. Stewart was called up from Triple-A to fill his spot on the roster.
“Not good. The MRI this morning revealed a wrist fracture, so he’s likely out for the season,” Mendoza said regarding McNeil’s injury. McNeil mentioned to reporters, including the New York Post, that he has a “really small fracture” and could potentially return if the Mets advance deep into the postseason.
McNeil was struck by a 74 mph breaking ball while attempting to bunt in the fourth inning on Friday. Despite staying in to run the bases and play defense, he was removed from the game when his turn to bat came up again in the seventh inning.
Despite a less-than-impressive .238/.307/.384 batting average for the season, Jeff McNeil has been one of New York’s most productive hitters in the second half. He has been hitting .289/.376/.547 since the All-Star break, including seven of his 12 home runs. McNeil attributed his recent success to a shift in approach—focusing on making solid contact rather than aiming for base hits.
Primarily a second baseman, McNeil has also played some left and right field this year, so his absence will impact the Mets’ defensive versatility. Jose Iglesias, who has been a pleasant surprise this season, is expected to step in as the full-time second baseman.
New York’s victory on Saturday marked their ninth consecutive win. The Mets have now secured sole possession of the third and final National League wild-card spot, with the Atlanta Braves just a game behind. The season series between the two teams is tied 5-5, with three crucial games scheduled at Truist Park from September 24-26, the penultimate series of the regular season.
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