The New York Mets solidified their position at the top of the National League East with a convincing 9-3 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals, pushing their record to 22-11. The team is thriving despite significant injuries to key players, including ace pitcher Sean Manaea, who has been sidelined with a right oblique strain and recently transferred to the 60-day injured list.

Manaea's absence has not deterred the Mets, who currently boast a league-leading 2.69 ERA. The Mets' success story continues with exciting personal news as both Manaea and fellow teammate Pete Alonso anticipate the arrival of their children, signaling positive developments both on and off the field.

The New York Mets have signed left-handed pitcher Brooks Raley to a one-year contract worth $1.85 million, following his recovery from elbow surgery last May. The 36-year-old veteran had appeared in just eight games for the Mets last season before being sidelined. His career spans seven years across several MLB teams, including the Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, and Tampa Bay Rays, boasting a 4.04 ERA and a 6-10 record. The contract includes a $1.5 million salary for this year and a $4.75 million team option for 2026 with a $350,000 buyout. Raley stands to earn performance bonuses based on the number of games pitched, potentially adding millions to his earnings. Meanwhile, the Mets have made other roster adjustments, including placing Sean Manaea on the 60-day IL and recalling Kevin Herget from Triple-A Syracuse.

As we dive into Week 4 of the 2025 MLB season, savvy fantasy managers can look towards injured players for potential stashing opportunities. Notable names on the injured list include Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider, two high-impact players who, when healthy, can significantly boost any fantasy roster. Meanwhile, young talents like Ezequiel Tovar and Jackson Merrill are also worth monitoring for their potential returns. With strategic planning, these injured players can provide an edge in competitive leagues.

Addressing the injuries, Spencer Strider's recent hamstring issue is a significant concern as he was already recovering from elbow surgery. His high strikeout potential makes him a prime buy-low candidate if you can afford to wait. Ezequiel Tovar's hip injury has slowed his promising start, but owners should consider acquiring him for his potential power output. Stashing under-the-radar players like Ivan Herrera and Tyler Stephenson can also yield dividends upon their returns, particularly in leagues with deep rosters.

The New York Mets face a challenging period without center fielder Jose Siri, who has been placed on the injured list with a fractured left tibia. Manager Carlos Mendoza indicated that Siri could be sidelined for around three weeks. In the interim, Tyrone Taylor is set to take over the bulk of the center field duties, while other outfield configurations are expected to be explored, utilizing Brandon Nimmo and several infielders as potential alternatives.

Jeff McNeil, currently recovering from an oblique strain, may also be called upon to play center field, as he is being prepared for outfield duties. The Mets are not overly concerned about McNeil's transition, given his experience in the outfield. Meanwhile, the team works with their injured pitchers, including Paul Blackburn and Sean Manaea, who are progressing in their rehab as the Mets navigate this tough stretch without Siri.

The Mets face challenges heading into a 13-game stretch without off days, further complicated by injuries to key pitchers Sean Manaea, Frankie Montas, and Paul Blackburn. Blackburn, who was poised to step into the rotation, is sidelined with a sore knee, while Manaea and Montas are expected to be out for the foreseeable future. This situation places increased pressure on the Mets' bullpen, which has performed admirably thus far with a 1.70 ERA but now must sustain that level of excellence during a demanding schedule.

Mets' manager Carlos Mendoza is counting on starters like Griffin Canning, David Peterson, and Kodai Senga to pitch deeper into games, a necessity as they battle through back-to-back series against the Athletics and other competitive teams. The trio isn't known for long outings, raising questions about how to maintain pitching efficiency, especially with the hitter-friendly environment of Sutter Health Park. The potential for early deficits could put the Mets' bullpen in a tough spot moving forward.