Francisco Alvarez was “sore” but not headed for X-rays after the latest bit of pain was added to a painful season.

Alvarez was removed from the game in the eighth inning of the Mets’ 8-3 win over the Padres on Tuesday night at Citi Field after a 99.8 mph fastball from Bradgley Rodriguez struck him around the tricep, Mendoza said.

New York Mets' Francisco Alvarez reacts after being hit by a pitch during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres, Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025, in New York. Francisco Alvarez reacts after being hit by a pitch during the eighth inning of the Mets’ 8-3 win over the Padres on Sept. 16, 2025 at Citi Field. AP

“Got him pretty good,” acknowledged Mendoza, who was relieved the ball did not hit his elbow.

Alvarez, who was replaced by Hayden Senger, returned to the dugout while icing his arm.

Francisco Alvarez #4 of the New York Mets reacts after getting hit by a pitch during the eighth inning against the San Diego Padres at Citi Field on September 16, 2025 in the Queens.Francisco Alvarez reacts after getting hit by a pitch during the eighth inning of the Mets’ win over the Padres. Getty Images

Alvarez already is playing with a right thumb that requires UCL surgery and a broken pinkie on his left hand.