Mark Vientos getting nearer to returning from his injury with the Mets

Philadelphia – Mets Lineup Could See Some Changes Soon

The struggling Mets might receive some help on Monday. Mark Vientos, who has been sidelined with a right hamstring strain since June 2nd, is slated to play with Triple-A Syracuse until Sunday. After that, the Mets will assess whether he’s ready to return.

If Vientos checks off all the right boxes, he could be back in time for the Braves series at Citifield on Monday, according to coach Carlos Mendoza. He recently participated in his third rehab game, playing at third base and hitting a three-run double. However, his overall performance in the minors has been a bit underwhelming—just 10 hits and one RBI in 53 games so far this season.

Vientos will take at least two days to work on his timing at the plate. Admittedly, his .678 OPS this season hasn’t been impressive, especially following a standout 2024 campaign with a notable postseason. Still, one can see the potential he brings.

Whenever he’s ready, it’ll be up to the Mets to make a call on his position at third base.

Brett Batty had cooled off recently due to a groin injury that sidelined him for the entire Braves series; however, he returned to play at third base during the series kick-off at Citizens Bank Park.

Ronnie Mauricio hasn’t made much of an impact either, currently underperforming with a .591 OPS in his first 13 games.

Meanwhile, there are no updates on reliever Max Kranick, who landed on the injured list with a right elbow strain on Thursday. He returned to New York for an MRI exam, and as of Friday afternoon, Mendoza was still waiting on the results.

To make space for starting pitcher Blade Tidwell, the Mets have designated Justin Hagenman from Syracuse as an option. Hagenman was supposed to pitch on Friday, although he was called into action for a scoreless 2⅔ innings on Thursday.

Lastly, Brooks Raley was set to appear in his second rehab game against Low-A St. Lucie on Friday. The left-hander, recovering from Tommy John surgery and signed during the season, allowed just one hit in a scoreless outing on Tuesday. “His first outing was solid,” said Mendoza, noting Raley’s fastball reached between 88-89 mph, even touching 91 mph at times.