New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez was accidentally struck in the elbow by teammate Ronny Mauricio's practice swing while warming up in the on-deck circle during Monday night's 2-1 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. Despite the mishap, Alvarez stayed in the game and doubled before being replaced by a pinch runner.
How the Incident Unfolded
As Mauricio prepared to pinch-hit for Eric Wagaman at the start of the eighth inning, he swung his weighted warmup bat backward and connected with Alvarez's arm. Alvarez had stepped up behind Mauricio near the visiting team's dugout, apparently thinking Mauricio was about to approach the plate. Mauricio immediately turned to check on his teammate before heading to the plate.
Video of the incident quickly circulated on social media, with Mets fans expressing relief that Alvarez was not seriously hurt. The catcher, who has a history of hand and arm injuries, was able to complete his at-bat, hitting a double to centre field. He was then removed for a pinch runner, likely as a precaution.
Alvarez's Injury History
Alvarez's injury history added to the concern. Over the first four years of his five-year MLB career, he has suffered four different hand injuries, including a fractured thumb, a fractured hamate bone, and a fractured left pinky finger last year. He also missed a month of action earlier this season after suffering a torn meniscus.
According to Mets beat reporters, the team did not immediately provide an update on Alvarez's condition after the game, but his ability to double and stay in the lineup initially suggested the impact was not severe.
More Misery for the Mets
The on-deck circle incident was not the only low point for the Mets in Monday's loss. In the first inning, Blue Jays leadoff hitter George Springer hit a lazy fly ball to left field that Mets superstar Juan Soto misplayed, allowing it to roll to the wall. Soto, who signed a record $765 million contract, jogged after the ball as centre fielder A.J. Ewing came over to cover but lost his grip, sending the ball back toward Soto. Springer scored on what was ruled a triple plus an error.
“If I don’t laugh, I’ll cry,” Mets fan Cousin Sal posted on social media. Another fan replied, “You expected defence for your $765,000,000.00!” The miscue added to the Mets' frustrations in a season marked by high expectations and inconsistent performance.
Looking Ahead
The Blue Jays and Mets continue their series on Tuesday night at 7:07 p.m. ET. Kevin Gausman is scheduled to start for Toronto against Mets rookie Nolan McLean. The Mets will hope to rebound from the loss and avoid further injury setbacks as they push for a playoff spot.
