Mets Add Jeff McNeil to NLCS Roster as Dodgers Make Roster Changes
ICARO Media Group
**Jeff McNeil Joins Mets for NLCS, Dodgers Revamp Roster**
Jeff McNeil has been confirmed on the New York Mets' roster for the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers after recuperating from a broken right wrist. McNeil's injury occurred on September 6 when he was struck by a pitch thrown by Cincinnati's Brandon Williamson. Demonstrating his readiness, McNeil participated in the Arizona Fall League with Scottsdale, registering a hit in each of his appearances over the weekend.
The Dodgers made notable changes to their lineup for the upcoming series, which kicks off on Sunday. Pitcher Alex Vesia and infielder Miguel Rojas were omitted from the team's roster. Vesia began experiencing rib cage cramps while warming up for the eighth inning during Friday's victory over the San Diego Padres in Game 5 of the Division Series. An MRI revealed that he had sustained an intercostal injury. Meanwhile, Rojas, who has been dealing with a left-thigh strain, missed the last two games of the Division Series but was effectively substituted by Kiké Hernández. Hernández made an impact by recording three hits across the two games, including a solo home run in Game 5.
In contrast, outfielder Kevin Kiermaier and pitcher Brent Honeywell were added to the Dodgers' roster. Both players were inactive during the NLDS. Kiermaier joined the Dodgers following a trade from Toronto on July 30, while Honeywell was claimed off waivers from Pittsburgh on July 13.
The Dodgers will be competing with a balanced roster comprising 13 pitchers and 13 position players. Meanwhile, the New York Mets have included rookie infielder Luisangel Acuña, the brother of Atlanta star Ronald Acuña Jr., and will be using 12 pitchers for the series. The decision to drop right-handed reliever Adam Ottavino further marks the adjustments made by the Mets as they prepare to battle the Dodgers in the quest for a spot in the World Series.