Atlanta Mets Updates
ATLANTA – The Mets are in the middle of a streak, but manager Carlos Mendoza hasn’t sensed any signs of an impending issue.
Jeff McNeill, Brandon Nimmo, and Lewis Torrens all missed the starting lineup for the second consecutive day as the Mets edged out the Braves 12-7 in their series opener on Friday.
Mendoza confirmed that McNeill had an MRI on his right shoulder, which revealed no serious damage.
He was available as a pinch hitter but served in that capacity, having played part of a game in left field on Thursday.
The discomfort McNeill is feeling is primarily due to throwing.
His shoulder issues began about a week ago. Mendoza had suggested using him as a designated hitter in back-to-back games over the weekend.
“He just needs to manage it,” Mendoza said, noting that McNeill is now on medication for his shoulder. “He’s just in a tough spot right now. We’re giving him a little extra time for the medication to take effect.”
Nimmo, who left Wednesday’s game due to neck stiffness, has shown signs of improvement and was expected to engage in baseball activities, though he didn’t play in Friday’s win.
Torrens is dealing with pain in his left hand, which he injured while catching interference during a swing he took on Wednesday.
“Every team is facing something right now,” Mendoza commented. “We need to figure it out, just like everyone else.”
The Mets have struggled with a 5.21 ERA to start August, significantly contributing to their 5-13 record this month.
On a brighter note, offensively, they’ve been performing with a .263/.334/.472 batting line, resulting in an OPS of .805, which ranks third in the National League for the month.
In other news, the Braves were celebrating the 30th anniversary of their first World Series title in Atlanta. Prior to Friday’s game, many former players from that championship team attended a parade and festivities at Truist Park.
The 1995 Braves, with legends like Chipper Jones and Greg Maddux, topped Cleveland to bring home the title.
Hall of Fame manager Bobby Cox, who’s been in declining health, made a rare appearance at the event.
