Mets second baseman Jeff McNeil is set to sit out for the rest of the season due to a fractured right wrist sustained during Friday night's game against the Cincinnati Reds. The injury occurred when McNeil was hit by a pitch on his wrist while evading a bunt attempt in the fifth inning. Initially diagnosed as a wrist contusion, further imaging revealed the fracture, dealing a blow to both McNeil and the team.

Expressing his frustration, McNeil remarked, "This isn't how you want to end the season. I ended the season last year hurt as well, so it is kind of unfortunate. I want to be out there with the guys, this team has done so much and I just want to help contribute, but we have a good group of guys in there who can get it done."

While the recovery period is estimated to be four to six weeks, McNeil did not rule out the possibility of a return if the Mets make a deep postseason run. However, he emphasized that the healing process will determine his comeback potential.

McNeil, who had a slow start to this season, made adjustments during the break and demonstrated remarkable improvement in the second half. In his final 41 games, he recorded 12 doubles, seven home runs, a.290 average, and an impressive.920 OPS, becoming a key player in the Mets' recent success. Additionally, McNeil's exceptional defensive skills at second base and both corner outfield positions have been invaluable to the team.

Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed his disappointment, stating, "It's a huge blow for us. He's been one of the reasons we're in the position we are. It's a tough loss, but everybody deals with injuries, and guys will continue to step up."

In the absence of McNeil, veteran Jose Iglesias is expected to take on the majority of second base responsibilities, with his workload being monitored closely. To bolster the roster, the team is considering adding top prospect Luisangel Acuna, who has showcased his speed and versatility in the minor leagues. Acuna's recent performance in Syracuse has been impressive, with a.326 batting average, a double, a triple, a home run, seven RBIs, and six stolen bases over his last ten games.

The Mets will not make any immediate call-ups due to the timing of the news, but Manager Mendoza anticipates adding another bat prior to Sunday's series finale. The team will continue to adapt to the challenges posed by injuries as they strive to maintain their strong position in the league.