The New York Mets might be gaining a key player back later in October.
Second baseman Jeff McNeil, who has been sidelined since September 8 due to a fractured right wrist, has received the green light to start baseball activities. According to Mets’ beat writer Anthony DiComo, McNeil’s recent X-ray showed positive progress.
McNeil’s 2024 season has been challenging, as he posted a .238/.308/.384 batting line with 38 extra-base hits and a 97 wRC+. Much of this struggle stemmed from a poor first half; he entered the All-Star break hitting just .216 with a dismal .590 OPS.
In contrast, McNeil experienced a resurgence in the second half, batting .289/.376/.547 with 12 doubles, seven home runs, 20 RBIs, and a 156 wRC+. He started the post-All-Star break by hitting four home runs in his first five games, bolstering New York’s already strong lineup, and added three more home runs in August while regaining his consistent contact hitting and improved plate discipline.
Despite DiComo’s optimistic update, there is no set timeline for McNeil’s return, and the Mets have two additional considerations.
Firstly, Jose Iglesias has excelled in McNeil’s absence, posting an impressive .388/.424/.463 line with a 156 wRC+ after McNeil’s injury. This outstanding performance means that if McNeil returns, he may have to settle for a bench role. However, with the postseason at stake, having McNeil available as a depth option would be incredibly valuable.
Secondly, for McNeil to be in play, the Mets need to make a deep playoff run. They began strongly by defeating the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series, and another victory would advance them to the NLDS.
The Mets are playing with great momentum at the right moment, and if they can add another bat during the playoffs, they will be in an even better position to face any challengers.
Leave a Reply