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If Jeff McNeil is deemed physically ready, a spot on the Mets’ NLCS roster will belong to him.
But at whose expense?
Among the possibilities team officials were discussing Friday, according to manager Carlos Mendoza, was whether the Mets might subtract a pitcher to create space for McNeil.
The alternative would be to omit Luisangel Acuña from the NLCS roster, but the rookie has a niche as a speed threat off the bench.
The Mets had Danny Young and Adam Ottavino on the NLDS roster but did not use either reliever.
If the Mets were to omit Young, it would leave them without a lefty in the bullpen, but the team has received plenty of mileage from David Peterson, who has shifted to relief in the postseason.
“We are considering every scenario,” Mendoza said. “We’ll make that final call, what’s best for the team, whether it’s to carry that extra position player or just keep it as is and go with the arms that we have got.”
Mendoza was hoping McNeil, who is rehabbing from a fractured right wrist, would play at least seven innings Friday in the Arizona Fall League and repeat the process Saturday.
The utilityman rejoined the team last week and participated in full pregame workouts, but hadn’t faced live pitching since suffering the injury.
The Mets will welcome a left-handed bat that can contribute off the bench and play as needed at second base and in the outfield.
“He’s really adept at what the playoffs are good for, and that’s when you get runners in scoring position, getting a base hit is the biggest thing,” Brandon Nimmo said. “Not trying to do too much, and he’s somebody who is experienced with that — a good left-handed bat that we could add to the lineup.
“We are all going to be asked to do our part, and I think he is ready to do that, as well. I’m excited for him, and he’s feeling better and possibly being able to add to this lineup and to this team. … I’m anxious to see how this goes with the Arizona Fall League and how he is feeling there.”
Francisco Lindor was named as a finalist for the Hank Aaron Award, which is given to the top overall offensive performer in each league.
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