The loss of closer Edwin Diaz for the entire season was a serious blow, but the Mets now face the possibility of being without center fielder and leadoff hitter Brandon Nimmo as the season begins in two weeks.
During a Grapefruit League game against the Marlins on Friday night, Nimmo sustained an injury while sliding awkwardly in the fourth inning. It appeared he hurt his right ankle as he slid into a double play. Nimmo hobbled off the field, clearly in pain.
The Mets released a statement noting, “Brandon Nimmo left tonight’s game with right ankle soreness. He will undergo imaging tomorrow, and updates will be provided as necessary.”
Earlier this week, Diaz injured his knee while celebrating Puerto Rico’s victory over the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic. He was carried off the field and underwent surgery the following day. GM Billy Eppler later revealed that Diaz had a full-thickness tear of the patellar tendon in his right knee.
In a twist of irony, when asked if the WBC should be reconsidered due to Diaz’s injury, Nimmo remarked, “No. This happens every time. It’s part of playing high-level games. The unfortunate part is that it occurred during the celebration.”
With Diaz out, the Mets are focusing on strengthening their bullpen. According to John Harper of SNY, the Mets plan to observe Zack Britton’s simulated game in California. If Britton proves to be healthy, he could be a key addition to the bullpen. “Showalter loves him,” Harper noted.
On Friday, Diaz’s wife shared a message on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the support and well wishes: “To all my beloved fans, especially Mets fans, I want to let you know I’m doing well and healing. Thank you for your messages and prayers! I can’t wait to see you in NY again and hear those trumpets.”
However, the trumpets might now play a somber tune for Nimmo.