The New York Mets received a brutal Francisco Alvarez injury update, but if forced to make a move, David Stearns has an easy option.
The New York Mets received disappointing news on Sunday morning regarding former top prospect Francisco Alvarez. According to manager Carlos Mendoza, Alvarez will undergo surgery to repair a fractured left hamate bone and is expected to miss 6 to 8 weeks.
This marks the second consecutive season Alvarez has been sidelined for an extended period due to an injury to his left hand, which seems almost typical for the Mets. Last spring, he tore a thumb ligament, also requiring surgery. He made his return in June, posting a .237/.311/.411 line as the Mets pushed for a postseason spot, ultimately losing to the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS.
According to MLB Trade Rumors, Alvarez has posted a near-league average 99 wRC+ in his early career and is regarded as one of the top pitch framers in the National League. His absence will be felt by New York.
The Mets have some options to replace Francisco Alvarez, but they may have to contend with the Atlanta Braves in the process. Currently, Luis Torrens is the backup catcher, though he doesn’t seem like the ideal everyday option. Former Mets catcher James McCann is still available in free agency and could step in as a temporary solution until Alvarez returns, allowing Torrens more playing time.
McCann had been linked to the Braves just this past week, as their starting catcher, Sean Murphy, will be sidelined for at least a month. The Braves also recently traded backup catcher Travis d’Arnaud to the Los Angeles Angels, where he’ll get a starting role.
McCann played for the Mets in 2021 and 2022, but his time in New York was less than stellar, combining for -0.4 WAR in 182 games.
If the Mets front office is hesitant to bring McCann back, Yasmani Grandal remains a free agent and has some prior connections with David Stearns from their time together in Milwaukee. However, it’s worth noting that Grandal has also been linked to the Braves by MLB Insider Jon Heyman. Both teams are vying for similar solutions, given the significant injuries to both Murphy and Alvarez.
Stearns commented on Alvarez’s injury Sunday afternoon, noting that it’s too early to consider external replacements. However, with mounting expectations from fans, the Mets could soon face a pressing need to make a move.
