Mets Activate Francisco Alvarez, Jeff McNeil from Injured List

The New York Mets have activated catcher Francisco Alvarez and second baseman Jeff McNeil from the injured list ahead of their four-game series against the Washington Nationals. Alvarez returns after recovering from a fractured hamate bone in his left hand, while McNeil comes back from a strained right oblique. Their return provides a boost to a Mets team that has excelled in their absence, currently holding the best record in the National League at 18-7. To make roster space, Brett Baty and Hayden Senger were optioned to Triple-A Syracuse. McNeil is expected to reclaim his role as the everyday second baseman, though his presence complicates playing time for younger infielders like Baty and Luisangel Acuña. Both players' returns are anticipated to further strengthen the Mets as they look to maintain their strong start in a competitive NL East.