Mets’ Jeff McNeil (2B) to Open Season on Injured List
In his pregame media availability on Thursday, Mets’ Manager Carlos Mendoza announced that Jeff McNeil would begin the season on the injured list due to an oblique strain. The injury is expected to sideline him for three to four weeks, creating an early-season challenge for the Mets as they adjust their infield alignment.
Jeff McNeil has suffered a low-grade right oblique strain and will not participate in baseball activities for 7-10 days
Carlos Mendoza says that McNeil could be sidelined 3-4 weeks pic.twitter.com/e7Ai3wBI5y
— SNY (@SNYtv) March 13, 2025
Big League Baty
Brett Baty is the leading candidate to replace McNeil at second base. Baty has been one of the Mets’ most productive hitters this spring, posting a .375 batting average with two home runs, 12 hits, and a 1.100 OPS across 35 at-bats.
Brett Baty joined @mmargaux8 to discuss his Spring Training, adjusting to playing second base, and how his new car is from Juan Soto pic.twitter.com/naZ9PJ5sX5
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) March 15, 2025
While primarily a third baseman, he gained experience at second base last season, playing 27 games at the position for Triple-A Syracuse. His strong offensive performance in camp positions him as a logical option to fill the void left by McNeil’s absence.
Acuña’s Versatility and Power
Luisangel Acuña will also receive opportunities at second base. Acuña, who made his MLB debut last season, demonstrated power at the plate while filling in for Francisco Lindor at shortstop. With his defensive versatility and offensive potential, he provides another viable infield option for Mendoza and the Mets’ coaching staff.
As with any non-starting player, the potential for a regular major league role comes with concerns, and something for the Mets’ coaching staff to consider is whether getting everyday reps in Triple-A Syracuse could be better suited for the 23-year-old utility player rather than rushing the development to fill a significant gap in the middle infield.
Mendoza, who is confident in the depth of the organization’s options, can also call on Donovan Walton and Luis De Los Santos to potentially fill in as well.
Bounce-Back Mets
While McNeil’s absence is a setback, the Mets have depth to weather the early-season challenge. Baty’s impressive spring performance and prior experience at second base make him a strong candidate to step in, while Acuña’s versatility and offensive upside provide another dynamic option.
Both young players are eager for everyday roles, so this stretch presents an opportunity for the Mets to showcase their infield depth and develop long-term contributors. If Baty continues his hot hitting and Acuña capitalizes on his reps, the team could emerge from this situation even stronger once McNeil returns.
