The commencement of the 2024 season has not been favorable for the New York Mets. Despite it being only spring training, they’ve been plagued by injuries. Initially, starting pitcher Kodai Senga suffered an injury, sidelining him for at least the first month of the season. Now, utilityman Jeff McNeil has also been affected. Fortunately, McNeil’s injury appears to be less severe, with biceps soreness being the primary concern. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza mentioned that McNeil is expected to resume swinging a bat as soon as Saturday, indicating a swift return to the field.
Carlos Mendoza says that Jeff McNeil will start swinging a bat on Saturday: pic.twitter.com/aQIF9mmSIa
— SNY (@SNYtv) March 7, 2024
McNeil’s role in the Mets lineup this season is anticipated to be crucial, given his prowess as a contact hitter and his defensive flexibility. Maintaining a healthy roster will be paramount for the Mets if they aspire to contend in the competitive NL East. While losing Senga is undeniably a setback, the team must adopt a “next man up” mentality from within their clubhouse to compensate. In the context of a lengthy 162-game season, the focus cannot linger on the absence of a single player.
The Mets’ response to early-season challenges will be closely observed, particularly as they face formidable opponents like the Milwaukee Brewers and Atlanta Braves, both playoff teams from the previous year. The upcoming series against the Braves holds particular significance, potentially setting the tone for the season ahead. While the Mets may not be viewed as direct contenders against the Braves in the NL East, a victorious series in April could instill the confidence needed to pursue a playoff berth.
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