The New York Mets have had a promising start to the MLB season, with a record of 7 wins and 3 losses in their first 10 games. However, the team has had to cope with the absences of key players, including Juan Soto’s teammates, second baseman Jeff McNeil and catcher Francisco Alvarez, who suffered injuries during spring training. Fortunately for the Mets and their fans, positive news has emerged regarding the recovery of both players.
According to Anthony DiComo, MLB.com’s Mets reporter, both McNeil and Alvarez have begun taking batting practice on the field for the first time since their respective injuries. McNeil, the 33-year-old veteran second baseman, is recovering from an oblique strain, while the 23-year-old Alvarez is rehabilitating from a hamate bone injury in his hand.
“Further update on Jeff McNeil (oblique) and Francisco Álvarez (hamate): They’re both taking batting practice on the field this afternoon for the first time since their respective injuries. Previously, they’d been limited to indoor work,” DiComo reported through his X account.
Imminent returns: McNeil and Alvarez advance in rehabilitation
DiComo also reported that McNeil will begin his rehab assignment later this week, while Alvarez is scheduled to start his on Wednesday. This suggests that the Mets could have both players back in the lineup in the coming weeks, possibly before the end of April. This news is a significant boost for a team that has started the season strong despite the absences.
McNeil has been a consistent and valuable asset for the Mets over the past seven seasons. In 2024, the two-time All-Star hit .238 with a .308 OBP, belting 12 home runs and driving in 44 runs across 424 at-bats. Álvarez, who made his MLB debut in 2022, has taken on an increasingly important role in the team. The promising catcher finished the 2024 season with a .237 batting average and a .307 OBP, hitting 11 home runs and driving in 47 runs in 308 at-bats.
What’s next for Juan Soto’s teammates?
With McNeil and Alvarez sidelined, the Mets have relied on Brett Baty at second base and Luis Torrens behind the plate. The team has performed relatively well at the start of the season, which bodes well for long-term success once the squad is fully healthy.
The Mets will look to extend their winning streak to five games when they face the Miami Marlins on Tuesday in the second game of a three-game series. The imminent return of McNeil and Alvarez will further strengthen a team that aims to compete at the top of the National League.