The New York Mets have avoided a major setback regarding their star outfielder Juan Soto just before the trade deadline, providing some relief to the team and fans. However, Jesse Winker‘s injury troubles continue to worsen, casting a shadow over the Mets’ outfield depth as the season progresses.

Challenges Mount for Jesse Winker’s Recovery

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza offered a grim update on Jesse Winker’s condition, confirming the former All-Star is still far from returning to play. Winker has appeared in only 26 games this season due to persistent injuries. He initially suffered an oblique strain in May, which sidelined him for several weeks. Following a brief comeback, he was again sidelined by a back injury that placed him on the injured list earlier this month.

Mendoza emphasized the severity of Winker’s situation, explaining that Winker is currently “not doing much” and has yet to participate in baseball activities, signaling little progress toward a return. This ongoing absence is a significant challenge for the Mets as they struggle to maintain a competitive lineup during a critical stretch of the season.

Mets Confront Key Decisions Ahead of Trade Deadline

With the midseason trade deadline approaching, the Mets are under pressure to reinforce their roster amid injury setbacks. While Juan Soto’s status is reassuring, Jesse Winker’s lack of recovery forces the team to reconsider its outfield options and overall strategy. The Mets hope for Winker’s eventual return, but recent updates suggest adjustments in roster planning are necessary to navigate the second half of the season successfully.