New York Mets second baseman Neil Walker is off to a strong start this year, but a back injury will momentarily derail that momentum.
Walker Exits Saturday’s Game
Saturday, June 11
After two plate appearances against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday, Walker left the game with tightness in his lower back, according to Marc Carig of Newsday.
Manager Terry Collins was worried about Walker after the game, according to ESPN New York’s Adam Rubin, who added he won’t play Sunday.
Walker went 0-for-2 before leaving in the fourth inning.
Kelly Johnson replaced him in the lineup, per the Mets.
After losing Daniel Murphy in free agency, the Mets have banked on Walker producing at second base. So far, he’s done more than expected with 13 home runs on the year while batting .271. Those 13 homers are good for second on the team, and he’s third in RBI.
New York came into Saturday two-and-a-half games behind the Washington Nationals for first place in the National League East. The Mets have played well in part thanks to Walker’s production.
If Walker heads to the disabled list, that could open up some big league playing time for 22-year-old Dilson Herrera. The Colombia native is batting .299 and has hit 10 home runs for Triple-A Las Vegas.
Walker needs to be healthy if the Mets want to compete this year. He’s given them extra power they didn’t have last year, and his production will be key for the Mets going forward.
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