Mets’ Francisco Alvarez Injury Raises Major Concerns for Team
UPDATE: The New York Mets are facing a potential crisis as catcher Francisco Alvarez is sidelined with a thumb injury, raising urgent questions about his availability for the remainder of the season. Alvarez suffered the injury during a crucial play on August 12 against Seattle, diving into second base. As of Monday, the results of his MRI have not been disclosed, but team officials are bracing for the worst.
Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed serious concern over Alvarez’s condition, referencing the young player’s troubling history with injuries. Last year, Alvarez underwent surgery on his left thumb and has previously dealt with a fractured hamate bone earlier this season. This latest setback could severely impact his momentum, which had recently surged following a productive return from Triple-A Syracuse.
Alvarez’s performance since being recalled has been nothing short of impressive, boasting an OPS of 1.054 with 11 extra-base hits over just 21 games. He had notably been on fire, going 9-for-20 with six extra-base hits in his last five starts. However, the fear is that this injury could derail his progress, as it has in the past. A National League scout commented, “Whatever he did in the minors — or whatever they did with him — worked. But something like this could throw him off for the rest of the year.”
If Alvarez is unable to play, the Mets will likely rely on backup catcher Luis Torrens, who has struggled significantly this season. Among 36 catchers with at least 220 plate appearances, Torrens ranks near the bottom with a dismal OPS of .581. Without Alvarez, the Mets’ playoff aspirations could be in jeopardy as they currently sit in second place in the NL East and are in a competitive wild-card race.
The Mets have a crucial series ahead, starting with a three-game matchup against the last-place Nationals in Washington on Tuesday. Following that, they will face challenging opponents, including the Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies, and Miami Marlins. Each game will be critical as the Mets seek to maintain their standing and push for postseason play.
In other news, Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor was named NL Player of the Week on August 12, rebounding from a frustrating 0-for-21 slump to achieve five consecutive multi-hit games, going 13-for-21 with three doubles and three homers. Lindor’s performance could be pivotal in the coming games, especially if Alvarez’s absence lingers.
Additionally, the Mets announced they have requested waivers to grant Paul Blackburn his unconditional release, clearing a roster spot for Nolan McLean. Blackburn, who struggled with a 6.85 ERA in seven games this season, had been sidelined by right knee inflammation.
As the situation develops, Mets fans and officials alike are left anxiously awaiting updates on Alvarez’s condition and the implications for the rest of the season.
