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.

Kipp Heisterman highlights key injured players to stash for fantasy baseball as the 2025 season progresses. Notable mentions include Max Scherzer, who, despite his injury, remains a valuable asset due to his strikeout potential when healthy. Also on the radar is Lucas Giolito, who posted 204 strikeouts in 2023 and is set for a rehab assignment with the Boston Red Sox. Andrew Abbott of the Cincinnati Reds is another intriguing option, expected to return soon after a solid 2024 season.

Other players worth considering are Ha-Seong Kim from the Tampa Bay Rays, providing speed and on-base skills, and Jeff McNeil of the New York Mets, set to rejoin a strong lineup. Lastly, Brooks Lee from the Minnesota Twins has shown promise as an infielder and could contribute upon his return. These players, with low roster percentages, could be key additions as the season unfolds.

Francisco Alvarez and Jeff McNeil are poised to enhance the New York Mets’ lineup as they near returns from their injuries. Alvarez, recovering from a fractured left hand, is set to start a rehab assignment, while McNeil is expected to begin his rehab soon after dealing with a right oblique strain. Both players were seen taking batting practice, signaling their progression toward a comeback.

Manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the importance of monitoring McNeil's recovery, particularly as he faces live pitching. With both players out for a significant part of the season, their return represents not just a personal victory, but a crucial boost for a struggling Mets lineup, which has been missing their offensive prowess.

The New York Mets are counting on young infielders Brett Baty and Luisangel Acuña to step up as they fill in for the injured Jeff McNeil at second base. Both players have shown promise defensively but struggle at the plate, with Acuña hitting just 2-for-14 and Baty 2-for-21. President of Baseball Operations David Stearns emphasized the need for improved performance to allow one of them to solidify a utility role as the team approaches a healthier lineup.

Despite their batting woes, both players have exceeded expectations defensively. Baty's shift to second has been smoother than anticipated, while Acuña's defensive skills have been his hallmark. The Mets hope to see more production from the bottom of their lineup, especially with stars like McNeil and Francisco Alvarez potentially returning soon. The Mets' pitching, particularly their bullpen, has been integral in keeping the team competitive, which stands at 6-3, buoyed by a strong 1.29 relief ERA.