NEW YORK — The New York Mets have suffered a significant blow to their lineup as second baseman Jeff McNeil has been ruled out for the remainder of the regular season due to a fractured right wrist. The injury occurred when McNeil was struck by a pitch during the Mets’ 6-4 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Friday night.
In the fifth inning of the game, McNeil was hit on his right wrist by a 74.3 mph curveball thrown by Brandon Williamson of the Reds. The pitch struck a protective guard on McNeil’s wrist, but the impact was still severe enough to cause a fracture. Despite continuing to play the field in the sixth inning, McNeil experienced swelling in his wrist, which hampered his ability to swing a bat effectively. Consequently, he was replaced by Harrison Bader as a pinch hitter later in the inning.
An MRI conducted on Saturday confirmed that McNeil had sustained a small fracture in his wrist. The diagnosis means that McNeil will not return to action for the remainder of the regular season. The injury is particularly disheartening for McNeil, who expressed his frustration and disappointment with the situation. “Frustrated – this is not how you want to kind of end the season,” McNeil said. “I want to be out there with the guys.”
McNeil’s surprise at the injury was palpable, as he noted that the impact of the pitch felt minimal. “It barely hit me. Didn’t even hurt,” he remarked. “So definitely shocked.”
Both McNeil and Mets manager Carlos Mendoza have indicated that the recovery period for the wrist fracture is expected to be between four to six weeks. This timeline potentially allows McNeil a chance to return should the Mets advance deep into the postseason. However, with the regular season concluding soon, his availability for any potential playoff games remains uncertain.
The Mets will need to navigate the remainder of the season and any potential playoff series without one of their key players. McNeil’s absence will be keenly felt as the team looks to maintain their performance and secure a strong finish to the season.
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https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2024/sep/7/new-york-mets-jeff-mcneil-breaks-his-wrist-and-wil/
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