Mets Lose Star Utility Man For Season Due To Unfortunate Injury
The New York Mets got some bad news Thursday afternoon.
New York has dealt with a plethora of injuries this season and got bit by the injury bug once again as star utility man Jeff McNeil was placed on the injured list due to a left elbow sprain effectively ending his 2023 season, according to the club.
"(Infielder) Jeff McNeil has been placed on the 10-Day IL with a left elbow sprain," the club said. "(Infielder) Danny Mendick has been recalled from Triple-A Syracuse. (Left-handed pitcher) Joey Lucchesi has been optioned to Triple-A Syracuse. (Right-handed pitcher) Denyi Reyes has been recalled from Triple-A Syracuse."
McNeil struggled at points this season but had started to look more like himself recently before suffering his elbow injury. The 2022 National League batting champion finished the 2023 season slashing .270/.333/.378 with 10 home runs and 55 RBIs in 156 games for the Mets.
New York has had an underwhelming season this year, to say the least. The Mets entered the 2023 campaign with World Series aspirations but instead will finish the season below .500. New York currently is 72-86 with just four games left this season. McNeil's injury likely isn't too concerning in the long run but with just a few games left this year, it makes sense that he has been shut down. There's no reason to risk further injury.
The 31-year-old likely will play a major role with the club once again in 2024 as the Mets look to get back to the postseason so it makes sense to not rush him back.
Update
McNeil told reporters that he has a partial tear of the UCL in his left elbow and received a PRP injection on Wednesday. Both McNeil and the Mets aren't considering surgery at the moment, and manager Buck Showalter believes the All-Star utility man will be ready for spring training.
While the Mets are optimistic about McNeil's injury, it is concerning since he is coming off a down season. Time will tell how he is able to recover, if he is able to avoid surgery, and if the injury will affect his performance next season.
