Mets Injury Updates: Key Players Out
The Mets are set to be without Jesse Turniker for some time. Coach Carlos Mendoza announced on Friday that the designated hitter is on the injured list due to reverse inflammation and will be sidelined for at least a week or so, around 7-10 days.
Turniker had just returned to play after being out for over two months because of oblique tension, which the team insists isn’t related to his current back issue.
On a brighter note, Sterling Marte seems to be on his way back from a right knee bruise. Mendoza noted that the 36-year-old was running at full speed during practice on Friday and could rejoin the team next week.
With Turniker unavailable, Mark Bientos stepped back into the lineup but struggled, going 0-for-4 during an 8-4 loss to the Reds. Mendoza expressed confidence in Bientos, mentioning, “He’s going to play a big role in this team.”
The Mets are still looking to see the power-hitting version of Vientos, who had 27 home runs last season. “When he’s making good swing decisions, he’s a really good hitter, and we need him,” Mendoza added.
In the absence of the designated hitter, Ronny Mauricio started at third base, contributing against left-handed pitchers. Mendoza is optimistic about Mauricio’s potential impact, stating, “He’s going to have an impact on baseball from both sides.”
Turning to pitching news, Mendoza confirmed that Max Cranick is set to undergo Tommy John surgery, marking the second time for the right-hander. “You feel for the guy, it really sucks for him and for us,” Mendoza commented.
With Jose Boto sidelined by illness and his rehab assignment now at Triple-A Syracuse, the Mets are eyeing additional help. Paul Blackburn is slated to start a rehabilitation assignment with the Florida Complex League Mets.
Meanwhile, Francisco Alvarez hit another home run in Triple-A Syracuse. Mendoza is hopeful that the organization’s catchers will “continue doing the same thing,” highlighting their competitive nature: “He makes it difficult for us, and that’s what we want.”
As for pitching, Kodai Senga won’t face the Dodgers until Monday. Mendoza outlined plans for the next “three or four weeks,” considering potential use of a sixth starter to maintain the rotation’s strength. There’s no immediate return for Jose Ciri, though Mendoza mentioned that the center fielder might start running again soon.
