The Mets’ playoff push just took a major hit. Outfielder Jesse Winker, who was working his way back from a back injury, has been shut down from all baseball activities. With only weeks left in the regular season, his 2025 campaign is likely over. After weeks of speculation around his future in New York, the 32-year-old resigned with the Mets in January.
Jesse Winker had been rehabbing at Low-A St. Lucie and was expected to return in September. But after just two rehab games, the discomfort in his back returned, forcing the Mets to halt his progress.
Manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed the news before Tuesday’s game. “He’s back in New York, and he’s shut down from baseball activities. “He’s scheduled to see a doctor [Wednesday] and we’ll go from there.”
Mendoza also admitted that Jesse Winker’s injury and the timing was tough.
“We are probably running out of time. We gotta get him right. He plays a game or two, and he continues to feel discomfort. We have to make sure we’re not missing anything,” the Mets manager added.
A Stop-And-Start Year For Jesse Winker
It’s been a stop-and-start year for Winker, and he has struggled this season. The veteran outfielder went on the IL in May with an oblique strain, came back briefly in July, then suffered the back issue that sidelined him again. In 26 games for New York this season, he hit .229 with one home run and 10 RBIs over 81 plate appearances.
New York sits at 75-64, holding on to a Wild Card spot but with little margin for error. Losing Jesse Winker for the season leaves the roster thinner as they fight through what Juan Soto earlier called a crucial September. The Mets will conclude their series against the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday.
The post Carlos Mendoza Drops “Crucial Update” On Jesse Winker’s Injury Ahead Of Playoffs originally published on Total Pro Sports.