The New York Mets faced another health setback on Wednesday when Brandon Nimmo exited the game against the Washington Nationals with neck stiffness. This injury update on Nimmo complicates matters for a Mets squad already dealing with setbacks, including Francisco Alvarez’s recent placement on the injured list with a thumb sprain.
During the opening inning, Nimmo grounded into a double play but showed signs of discomfort as he cautiously jogged down the first-base line. Although he remained on the field briefly, he was replaced by Starling Marte before the second inning because of neck issues.
Background on Nimmo’s Neck Problems and Previous Occurrences
The 32-year-old outfielder’s neck stiffness is a recurring ailment stemming from an incident in 2019 when he collided with a wall. Nimmo has managed the condition with assistance from the Mets’ training staff, aiming to keep the symptoms under control.
“It’s from 2019 when I ran into the wall and we’ve been really good with the training staff and myself about keeping it under control and at bay,”
Nimmo said after being removed from a May game vs. the Dodgers due to the same issue.
“Sometimes with the travel and just everything, it pops its ugly head and it takes a few days to deal with it.”
—Brandon Nimmo, Mets Outfielder
Consequences for the Mets’ Roster and Offensive Production
Though Nimmo’s injury has required minimal absences in the past, the Mets cannot afford to be without him during this critical stretch. He has been one of the team’s most consistent players, appearing in 122 of 126 games this season and maintaining a solid .254/.325/.438 batting line with 20 home runs and 68 RBIs.
His previous neck flare-up in late May caused him to miss two games, and a similar recovery timeline is expected now, potentially allowing Nimmo to return for the upcoming series against the Atlanta Braves. In the meantime, players like Starling Marte and Jeff McNeil will likely assume his duties in left field.
“Brandon Nimmo came up on first base gingerly after grounding into this double play He took the field for the bottom of the inning and was later removed from the game, per @SNYtv pic.twitter.com/EQZEkZgaDg”
—Shea Station, Reporter
Mets Struggle with Roster Depth Amid Multiple Injuries
Nimmo’s potential short-term absence adds pressure to a Mets club thin on outfield depth. Although there was encouraging news regarding Jose Siri’s injury status, he remains weeks away from returning, while Jesse Winker continues to battle back inflammation, keeping him sidelined.
Every player on the Mets’ roster must contribute during this stretch as they chase a postseason berth. Currently, New York just holds a narrow one–game advantage over the Cincinnati Reds for the final National League Wild Card spot, making health the greatest challenge facing the team.
The Importance of Player Health for the Mets’ Postseason Aspirations
The Mets’ outlook heavily depends on maintaining the health of key contributors like Nimmo, whose leadership and offensive ability have been vital. For a team already grappling with injuries, keeping the core lineup intact will likely determine whether they compete in October or fall short.