The Mets are set to activate catcher Francisco Alvarez and utility player Jeff McNeil from the 10-day injured list on Friday, according to manager Carlos Mendoza (via SNY). Both players will be making their first appearances of the 2025 season after completing one final rehab game today.
Alvarez, 23, has played in nine rehab games and logged 40 plate appearances. Though his results have been modest so far, that’s not uncommon for players returning from a fractured hamate bone, which often impacts power early in the recovery.
Over the past two seasons, Alvarez has been the Mets’ primary catcher, posting a .222/.294/.422 slash line with 36 home runs in 765 plate appearances. Defensively, he’s excelled as a pitch framer, though his blocking and throwing still need improvement.
In Alvarez’s absence, the Mets have relied on journeyman Luis Torrens and homegrown catcher Hayden Senger. Torrens started strong but has slumped recently, going just 3-for-27 in his last nine games.
With Alvarez returning, Torrens may stay on as the backup due to his lack of minor league options, while Senger — who still has minor league options — could be sent to Triple-A Syracuse without needing to clear waivers.
McNeil has been sidelined all season with an oblique strain. During his rehab assignment, he even saw some action in center field, although that likely won’t be a regular spot for him. With Jose Siri out for about 10 weeks due to a leg fracture, the Mets used McNeil’s versatility to try him in center during his rehab.
McNeil is expected to see time at second base, designated hitter, and possibly in the corner outfield upon his return. The Mets have been using Luisangel Acuña and Brett Baty at second base. Acuña has performed well, hitting .275/.351/.373 and playing strong defense.
Baty, after a hot spring, had a rough start to the season but has been improving. The 25-year-old recently homered off Zack Wheeler and entered today’s game with a .280/.357/.440 line over his last eight games. Despite the hot stretch, he’s still working back from a tough beginning, where he hit just .111/.111/.148 in his first 27 plate appearances.
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