Mets Star Jeff McNeil Removed From Thursday's Game With Abdominal Tightness

The New York Mets already struggle to score runs, which is why they can't afford to lose any of their core pieces. That includes utility man Jeff McNeil, who unfortunately left Thursday's game against the Washington Nationals with an undisclosed injury.

McNeil started in left field and hit leadoff. Juan Lagares has entered the game in his place.

McNeil is out of the game. Lagares enters.
— Matt Ehalt (@MattEhalt) May 16, 2019

It appears the injury could've happened in the top of the third innings after singling off Nats pitcher Erick Fedde. McNeil was ruled out on a fielder's choice, and didn't return to the field when it was their turn to play defense.

Jeff McNeil, who singled and was thrown out on a fielder's choice in the top of the third inning, did not return to the field defense for the bottom of the third. Will keep you posted on the reason.
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) May 16, 2019

Turns out, it's an abdominal issue.

Abdominal tightness for Jeff McNeil, per SNY
— Mike Mazzeo (@MazzYahoo) May 16, 2019

At this point in the season, the one guy the Mets couldn't afford to lose was McNeil, who entering Thursday's contest was slashing .352/.440/.483 with 14 extra-base hits (two home runs) and 14 RBI.

McNeil has been New York's most consistent player all season. You have to hope this was precautionary and he'll back in the lineup real soon.