Outfielder Drew Gilbert, the New York Mets’ No. 2 prospect, is expected to miss approximately four more weeks as he continues to deal with a strained right hamstring.
Tim Britton of The Athletic first reported on Monday that the 23-year-old’s stay on the injured list would meander for four more weeks after he landed on the shelf on April 6. That places a return to action more toward the latter portions of May.
Gilbert began the season in Triple-A Syracuse, going 6-for-25 with a home run across seven games before suffering the injury.
Hopes have been high for the center fielder since he was acquired from the Houston Astros in the Justin Verlander deal at last year’s trade deadline. He slashed .289/.381/.487 in 116 minor-league games with Houston and New York affiliates, adding 18 home runs, 59 RBI, and 12 stolen bases.
Getting the green light to begin 2024 in Triple-A, Gilbert is expected to make his major-league debut at some point this season as president of baseball operations David Stearns continues to stress the importance of allowing younger players and prospects to see the big leagues.
Manager Carlos Mendoza even lauded the young outfielder during spring training, seemingly putting him on the fast track to the big leagues.
“He can play anywhere. He’s got speed, he’s got the arm, and he’s a gamer,” Mendoza said in February. “This is a guy that’s going to get the baseball and run through walls. Special player, special talent. He’s capable of playing all three positions in the outfield.”
