It may be a while longer before Luis Robert Jr. returns to the New York Mets’ lineup.
Manager Carlos Mendoza said Tuesday that the outfielder is “not progressing the way we would like” after landing on the injured list on April 30 with a back injury.
“There’s nothing new, but he continues to present some discomfort on that area,” Mendoza said via SNY. “Obviously, he’s going to take some time.”
Robert, 28, was off to a slow start prior with his new team, slashing .224/.327/.329 with two home runs and eight RBI in 24 games.
Robert’s Absence Longer Than Expected
Robert’s injury is an ominous sign for the Mets, owners of the major’s worst record at 15-25. The former All-Star and Gold Glove winner had shown flashes earlier in the season and was key expected to play a key role in the lineup. But after initially complaining of discomfort in his lower back, Robert has not shown any signs of getting better.
“(The doctors) are telling us it should be a short stint on the IL,” Mendoza said initially via MLB.com.
Robert’s absence has exacerbated the struggles for the Mets, who entered the homestand tied for last in runs scored, last in OPS, and 27th in homers.
Mets Juggling Options to Replace Robert
With Robert sidelined, rookie Carson Benge and Tyrone Taylor have shared time in center field. Benge has begun to heat up after a slow start, recording an .867 OPS in May, while Taylor is still batting just .197 with a .529 OPS for the season.
The Mets also called up top prospect A.J. Ewing, hoping the 21-year-old can provide a youthful spark. Ewing was scheduled to play center field and bat eighth in Tuesday’s series opener against the Detroit Tigers and right-hander Jack Flaherty.
As for the club’s offensive woes, president of baseball operations David Stearns said he still has faith in a turnaround.
“I do believe that,” Stearns said, via SNY, when asked if he believes the club is still capable of making a run. “We have not shone that yet, but I do believe that.”
Mets Give Concerning Injury Update on Luis Robert Jr.