Nick Madrigal’s 2025 season is over before it even began. The Mets’ utility infielder will need shoulder surgery after a nasty injury during a spring training game against the Nationals.
It’s a tough break for Madrigal, who just signed a $1.35 million deal with the Mets this winter. He’ll turn 28 next week.
The timing couldn’t be worse for both player and team. Madrigal was looking to bounce back from a rough 2024 with the Cubs, where he hit just .221 in 51 games.
He’s been a solid backup at both second and third base throughout his five years in the majors, though he’s never quite lived up to his early promise.
The Mets will need to shuffle their infield plans now. Luisangel Acuña is likely to get more playing time as the team’s utility guy.
There are other options in the mix too. Brett Baty, Ronny Mauricio, Donovan Walton, and Jared Young could all get their shot at making the roster.
Some fans are already calling for the return of Jose Iglesias. The veteran infielder – who’s also made headlines lately for his musical career – played really well for the Mets last year, appearing in 85 games.
It’s not the start the Mets were hoping for after spending big this offseason. They dropped $765 million on Juan Soto alone, showing they’re serious about getting back to the playoffs.
The injury bug has hit the team hard already this spring. Their pitching rotation is dealing with several injuries too, making their path back to contention that much tougher.
