Mets’ Cespedes exits game with left hamstring injury again, to have MRI

Mets star outfielder Yoenis Cespedes has left the club’s game Thursday against the Braves with a left hamstring injury, the team announced on Twitter. Mets manager Terry Collins told reporters, including Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, that Cespedes will have another MRI on Friday and that there is “no indication” as to how long the injury will sideline the All-Star slugger.

Cespedes doubled in the bottom of the fourth inning, and as he approached second base, he pulled up and bent over in pain. The Mets had Juan Lagares replace Cespedes after he hobbled off the field alongside Mets trainer Ray Ramirez. Cespedes finished the game 1-for-2 at the plate for the Mets, who had scored two runs in the inning to tie the Braves at 2. The Mets went on to lose, 7-5.

This is the second time in a week that Cespedes had to leave a game for this left hamstring injury. Cespedes exited last Thursday’s game against the Phillies. Cespedes missed three games against the Nationals before returning to the lineup Wednesday against Atlanta. This season, Cespedes has hit six home runs and has 10 RBI while slashing .270/.373/.619, with his six homers tied for first on the team along with Jay Bruce.

Cespedes’ injury came only a few hours after the Mets had to scratch ace Noah Syndergaard from starting Thursday’s contest with the Braves due to him having “a tired arm.” Though Syndergaard said his injury was “very minor” and may return as soon as Sunday, Cespedes will probably not be rushed back to play since his injury has reoccured and he may even require a stint on the 10-day disabled list.

Unfortunately, the Mets are in a tough spot. Just like with Syndergaard, they can’t afford to see Cespedes miss any more time. The Mets are in last place in the NL East after going 8-13 and having lost six games in a row.