The New York Mets are already off to an unfortunate start to the 2024 season.
Even though it is only spring training, they have been bitten by the injury bug.
First, it was starting pitcher Kodai Senga, who will miss at least the first month of the season.
Now it is utilityman Jeff McNeil.
Fortunately for the Mets, it seems like McNeil’s injury will not keep him out much longer.
McNeil has been experiencing biceps soreness, but he should return to the field soon.
According to SNY, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said McNeil should start swinging a bat on Saturday.
Carlos Mendoza says that Jeff McNeil will start swinging a bat on Saturday: pic.twitter.com/aQIF9mmSIa
— SNY (@SNYtv) March 7, 2024
McNeil is expected to be an integral part of the Mets lineup this season.
He is a great contact hitter and has defensive versatility.
If the Mets want any chance to compete in the NL East this season, they need to be healthy.
Losing Senga is a major blow, but it should be the next man up in their clubhouse.
Across a 162-game season, you cannot worry about losing one player.
It will be interesting to see how the Mets respond early in the season.
In the first month of the regular season, the Mets have to face the Milwaukee Brewers and Atlanta Braves, both of which were playoff teams from last year.
Also, that series with the Braves can set the tone for the season.
The Mets are not expected to compete with the Braves in the NL East.
But, winning that series in April could give them confidence that they can compete for a playoff spot.
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