Mets update

Mets place Francisco Alvarez on the injured list with a right thumb sprain, prompting a temporary reshuffle behind the plate.

Mets Put Francisco Alvarez on Injured List

The Mets announced that catcher Francisco Alvarez has been placed on the injured list with a right thumb sprain. Hayden Senger was recalled and Luis Torrens will handle the catching duties until Alvarez is cleared for a return, with the club saying he will be evaluated in 10 to 14 days.

Alvarez has been the Mets hottest hitter since his recall on July 21, posting a .323/.406/.645 line with four homers in 71 plate appearances. The team will lean on Torrens (.214/.280/.301) and rookie Senger (.174/.208/.196) behind the plate during his absence. The injury adds to a rough stretch that has left the Mets 11-16 since the All-Star break, including 4-11 in August. Alvarez has missed time before, including a 2023 thumb injury, and his return timing remains uncertain.

Alvarez’s absence removes a key element from a line that has struggled to sustain momentum. The shift to backups elevates the importance of bench depth and the ability of Senger and Torrens to hold the fort while the offense tries to generate runs. If the Mets cannot stabilize behind the plate, the gaps in the lineup could widen during a difficult slate of games.

This injury also tests the club’s development plan. Senger gets a chance to show he belongs in the majors, while Torrens must adapt to increased responsibility with limited offensive contributions. The Mets may need to rethink how they balance offense and defense as they chase wins during a tight stretch of the schedule.

Highlights

Fans will watch how the Mets adjust as they chase a needed win streak.