The New York Mets could use a mix of Pilates, bubble wrap, and a heavy dose of top star to help prevent more names from being added to their growing injured list. While Jesse Winker’s upcoming 6–8 week absence isn’t directly tied to McNeil, his value becomes even more crucial with multiple outfielders already sidelined. Manager Carlos Mendoza is calling on everyone to step up.
Of course, that’s easier said than done. Starling Marte may get more time as the designated hitter if he performs well, and others, like Brett Baty and Mark Vientos, can rotate through the DH spot as well. Players such as Brandon Nimmo, Juan Soto, or anyone needing a defensive rest could also see time at DH.
At the center of this shifting puzzle is McNeil. His ability to play multiple positions is proving vital in helping the Mets avoid even more injury issues—figuratively, of course, as players aren’t literally stacked in a single recovery room.
McNeil’s importance has grown significantly
He’s no longer the everyday second baseman, but the Mets aren’t tied to a single starter there either. Luisangel Acuña has impressed with his all-around play, yet McNeil continues to see action at second. He started at the position in the series opener against the Diamondbacks.
Since coming off the IL, McNeil has started three games at second base, three in center field, and one in left, with a brief appearance in right during the team’s 19-5 blowout loss to the Nationals. His versatility has been the defining feature of his season so far, and his offense has justified keeping him in the lineup—he’s reached base in every game he’s played, collecting at least one hit in all but one.
The Mets have taken a cautious approach with defensive assignments. Winker was rarely used in the field, and even Marte’s return to the outfield on Sunday ended prematurely. To preserve his health, the team has mostly kept him out of the field.
McNeil has filled in at center field but has shown it’s better suited as an emergency role for him. His skills are more reliable in left and right field. When the Mets started Acuña at third base recently, it gave insight into how they view McNeil’s value on the diamond.
With Baty back on the major league roster, the Mets now have more infield options. McNeil remains the most flexible and arguably most trusted utility player on the team. The fact that they quickly slotted him into center field speaks to their confidence in him—and possibly their uncertainty with Acuña and some reluctance to use Nimmo there full-time.
As injuries pile up, the Mets will need to be cautious with how they manage players’ workloads. Jeff McNeil may be the key to maintaining balance across the roster.
