BREAKING: New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez faces another injury setback, diagnosed with a fractured pinkie finger on his left hand. This news comes just after Alvarez was hit by a pitch during a game for Triple-A Syracuse on August 16, 2023, according to manager Carlos Mendoza.
Alvarez’s injury is particularly concerning as he was already on a rehab assignment due to an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) sprain in his right thumb. Mendoza stated that Alvarez will need to wait two to three days for the inflammation to subside before resuming baseball activities, emphasizing the fragile nature of Alvarez’s current condition.
This latest injury marks the 23-year-old’s fourth hand injury in two years, raising alarms about his durability. Last season, Alvarez underwent surgery to fix a torn ligament in his right thumb, sidelining him for nearly two months. Earlier this spring, he fractured his left hamate bone, delaying the start of his season. His recent UCL sprain occurred on August 17 while sliding into second base, the same thumb he previously injured.
“This should be relatively short,” Mendoza reassured. “But it’s a little bit of a setback compared to what the original plan was.”
The Mets are hopeful Alvarez can avoid surgery on his UCL, which would require an eight-week recovery and potentially end his season. Doctors have permitted him to play if he can manage the pain in his throwing hand, but a complete tear would necessitate immediate surgery.
Now, with this latest fracture, Alvarez’s role as a catcher is further complicated. “We’re not going to put him in a position where he’s very uncomfortable,” Mendoza added. “As tough as he is, he’s human.” The urgency for Alvarez to return is critical for the Mets, who will now rely on veteran Luis Torrens and rookie Hayden Senger to fill the gap behind the plate.
Just yesterday, Alvarez made his first rehab appearance since his UCL sprain, going 1-for-2 with a walk while catching five innings. Mendoza noted, “The ball was coming out fine,” indicating some positive signs despite the ongoing injury concerns.
Alvarez’s recent struggles were evident earlier this season, where he was batting just .236 with three home runs and a .652 OPS in 35 games before being sent down to Syracuse. However, he returned to form with a .323 average and four home runs in 21 games prior to his thumb injury.
As the Mets grapple with these injuries, fans and players alike are left anxious for Alvarez’s speedy recovery and return to form. The team continues to face challenges as they navigate this tumultuous season without their promising young catcher.
Stay tuned for updates on Alvarez’s condition and the Mets’ lineup adjustments as this situation develops.
