After avoiding a potential injury scare, New York Mets star Juan Soto returned to the lineup for Thursday’s matchup against the Detroit Tigers, while the club also shared important updates on injured teammates Francisco Lindor and Francisco Alvarez.
Soto exited Wednesday’s extra-inning 3-2 victory after fouling a pitch off his foot in the third inning. Despite clearly being in pain, the slugger stayed in the game long enough to finish the at-bat and later returned for another plate appearance in the sixth before eventually being replaced by MJ Melendez. Fortunately for the Mets, postgame X-rays came back negative, and Soto being back in the starting lineup less than 24 hours later was viewed as a very encouraging sign.
The Mets have been dealing with a growing list of injuries across the roster, making Soto’s quick recovery especially important. Although the superstar outfielder has yet to fully regain his usual offensive form since returning from the injured list in April, the team remains optimistic he will soon rediscover his rhythm at the plate. Over his last 19 games, Soto has posted a .221 batting average with a .333 on-base percentage, a .412 slugging percentage, and six RBIs.
Meanwhile, the Mets also received mixed news regarding Lindor and Alvarez. According to SNY’s Steve Gelbs, a recent MRI on Lindor’s injured calf showed continued healing progress, though the club still has not established a timetable for his return. Manager Carlos Mendoza added that the veteran shortstop will now continue advancing through the strength-training phase of his rehabilitation process.
As for Alvarez, MLB reporter Anthony DiComo revealed that the young catcher underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. The Mets reportedly expect Alvarez to miss closer to the longer end of his recovery timeline, which could keep him sidelined for roughly eight weeks.
Despite the injury concerns, New York enters Thursday’s game with an opportunity to complete its first series sweep of the season against a struggling Detroit squad that has managed just three wins in May.
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