The New York Mets face a crucial decision regarding their Friday night starting pitcher, as they are opting against using a bullpen game amidst a grueling stretch of 13 consecutive games. Manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the need for a pitcher who can provide length, particularly following the injury to Tylor Megill, who is now on the 15-day IL due to a right elbow strain, expected to sideline him for over a month. The Mets will evaluate Frankie Montas after his rehab start, pondering whether to reinstate him into the rotation or utilize him in another capacity.

Additionally, Brett Baty's ongoing groin issue keeps him out of the lineup, while Mark Vientos is on a rehab assignment as the Mets navigate their roster challenges. The team's approach to managing pitching depth is vital as they prepare for their series against the Atlanta Braves, where strategic pitching usage could determine their success in this stretch.

Francisco Lindor is making waves in the latest All-Star voting, leading as the top shortstop in the National League. His campaign comes after years of being overlooked despite strong performances. Alongside teammates Pete Alonso and Juan Soto, who also rank in the top-5 for their positions, Lindor's resurgence could finally secure him a spot in the upcoming All-Star Game after years of near misses. His current stats, including a 3.0 fWAR, reflect his elite capabilities, which have been consistently undervalued. Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed pride in Lindor’s achievements, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum.

Meanwhile, the Mets are keeping a close eye on player health, with Brett Baty sidelined temporarily due to groin soreness, although the injury is believed to not be severe. Mark Vientos is on a rehab assignment, and the Mets hope to have him back soon. Additionally, two Mets prospects shone brightly, with Jett Williams earning Player of the Week honors and Brendan Girton achieving Pitcher of the Week, showcasing the depth of talent within the organization. The Mets aim to leverage this talent as they push for a competitive season.

The New York Mets are facing another potential injury setback as third baseman Brett Baty exited Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays due to right groin tightness. Manager Carlos Mendoza reported that Baty is considered day-to-day, with further evaluations planned after the team's off day. Baty expressed optimism, recalling a similar injury from two years ago that he managed well. His departure came as the Mets also announced that Mark Vientos is set to begin a rehab assignment, adding to the team’s concerns about its infield depth.

Carlos Mendoza, the manager of the New York Mets, is managing Francisco Lindor's ongoing recovery from a fractured pinky toe by having him serve as the designated hitter (DH) instead of playing shortstop. This strategy aims to reduce Lindor's physical strain while maintaining his presence in the lineup, especially with an off day following the game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Lindor has shown resilience despite the injury, continuing to produce at the plate with a .282 batting average, 14 home runs, and 38 RBIs this season.

In addition to Lindor's adjustments, Mendoza shared positive news regarding Kodai Senga's recovery from a Grade 1 hamstring strain. Senga is set to remain active in some capacity, suggesting he might return sooner than expected. The Mets are optimistic about their pitching depth, especially with Frankie Montas and Tyler Megill facing challenges recently. Furthermore, Mark Vientos is beginning his rehab, and the team has called up Tyler Adcock to bolster their bullpen.

Frankie Montas, the Mets' right-hander, reports feeling physically fine despite recent struggles during his rehab assignment from a strained right lat. His performance has been disheartening, yielding eight runs in just 1.2 innings with a staggering 13.17 ERA over his last 13.2 innings across Triple-A Syracuse and High-A Brooklyn. Montas is focused on adjusting his mechanics as he prepares for a potential return to the major leagues.

Although Montas was initially expected to throw 80-85 pitches in his last outing, he managed only 53 pitches before being pulled. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza indicated that further innings may risk injury. Despite the disappointing stats, Montas claims his arm feels strong, emphasizing his desire to contribute to the team. The Mets are still determining whether he will return as a starter or reliever after one final rehab appearance.