Mets' NLCS Roster: McNeil Returns, Ottavino Excluded
The New York Mets have announced their 26-man roster for the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the Atlanta Braves. The news comes after a tense, nail-biting Game 5 against the San Diego Padres.
McNeil Back in the Fold
The biggest headline is the return of infielder Jeff McNeil. The 2022 batting champion missed the final two games of the Padres series due to a lingering groin injury. McNeil, who has been a key cog in the Mets' offensive success, will be back to help fill the void left by the injured Francisco Lindor.
Ottavino Left Behind
The biggest surprise is the exclusion of relief pitcher Adam Ottavino. The right-hander struggled mightily in the Padres series, giving up 6 runs in 3.1 innings, including two home runs. While Ottavino has been a reliable presence in the Mets' bullpen throughout the season, his recent struggles clearly cost him a spot in the NLCS.
Rest of the Roster
The rest of the roster remains largely intact, with the Mets carrying their usual pitching core of Max Scherzer, Jacob deGrom, Chris Bassitt, and Carlos Carrasco. The team also retains their offensive firepower with Pete Alonso, Starling Marte, and Brandon Nimmo leading the charge.
Braves Showdown
The NLCS will be a tough battle for the Mets. The Braves have proven to be a formidable opponent, having already won the NL East division. The series kicks off on Friday in Atlanta, with the Mets aiming to keep their World Series dreams alive.
Key Takeaways:
- Jeff McNeil's return bolsters the Mets' lineup.
- Adam Ottavino's exclusion signals a vote of confidence in other bullpen arms.
- The Mets are facing a formidable Braves team in the NLCS.
Stay tuned for the latest news and updates as the Mets prepare for their showdown with the Braves!
