What's Happening?
Brandon Nimmo, the New York Mets outfielder, is expected to return to the starting lineup on Monday against the Philadelphia Phillies after being sidelined due to neck stiffness. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that Nimmo, who has been out since Wednesday, will be available off the bench for Sunday's game against the Atlanta Braves and is likely to start on Monday. Nimmo's absence was due to neck stiffness that he experienced after a game against the Washington Nationals, which he attributed to an old injury from 2019.
Why It's Important?
Nimmo's return is crucial for the Mets as they face a challenging series against the division-leading Phillies. His presence in the lineup could provide a much-needed boost to the Mets' offense, as he has been performing well this season with a .761 OPS, 20 home runs, and 68 RBIs. His recent form, including a .320 batting average over the last seven games, indicates that he could play a key role in the Mets' efforts to close the gap in the NL East standings.
What's Next?
As the Mets prepare for their series against the Phillies, Nimmo's performance will be closely monitored. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively will be vital for the Mets as they aim to improve their standing in the division. The team's management will also be cautious about managing his workload to prevent any recurrence of his neck issues.