Mets' McNeil goes down with hamstring in loss to Braves
ATLANTA (AP) — A tough night for the New York Mets got even worse when All-Star second baseman Jeff McNeil trudged off the field in the ninth inning with a hamstring injury.
McNeil was hurt while trying to beat out a grounder in a 5-3 loss to the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday.
McNeil said he felt "a little snag" in his left hamstring as he approached first base. He slammed down his helmet after crossing the bag in obvious frustration and, after a brief delay, walked gingerly back to the Mets' dugout accompanied by a trainer.
"It didn't feel great, but I don't think it's terrible," McNeil said. "We'll see what it feels like in the morning."
An MRI was scheduled for Wednesday in Atlanta to determine the extent of the injury.
McNeil said he hopes it's not serious enough to send him to the injured list.
"I didn't feel it pop," he said. "Just a little snag. Nothing crazy."
One of the NL's top hitters with a .332 average, McNeil made the All-Star Game for the first time. He has 15 homers and 55 RBIs out of the leadoff spot, helping spark the Mets on a run of 15 wins in 18 games.
"The team is playing well," he said. "I just want to contribute. Hopefully this is something real short and I can get right back on the field."
