Mets Infielder Grae Kessinger Sidelined 8-12 Weeks

Hamstring injury could require surgery, team says

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

New York Mets reserve infielder Grae Kessinger is expected to miss at least 8 to 12 weeks due to a left hamstring injury sustained during a spring training game. The team says surgery is a possibility for the 28-year-old, who last played in the majors in 2024 with the Houston Astros.

Why it matters

Kessinger was signed to a minor league contract by the Mets last month, hoping to earn a spot on the major league roster. This injury setback could jeopardize his chances of making the team and getting back to the big leagues.

The details

Kessinger left Friday's spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals after grounding into a force play in the eighth inning. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said Sunday that surgery is a possibility for the injured hamstring, which will sideline Kessinger for at least 8-12 weeks.

  • Kessinger left the game on Friday, March 1, 2026.
  • Mets manager Carlos Mendoza provided the injury update on Sunday, March 3, 2026.

The players

Grae Kessinger

A 28-year-old reserve infielder who was signed by the Mets to a minor league contract last month, hoping to earn a spot on the major league roster.

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets.

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What they’re saying

“Kessinger is expected to miss at least 8 to 12 weeks because of a left hamstring injury.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager (MLB.com)

What’s next

The Mets will wait to see if Kessinger requires surgery on his hamstring, which could further extend his recovery timeline and impact his chances of making the major league roster.

The takeaway

This injury is a setback for Kessinger, who was looking to revive his MLB career with the Mets after last playing in the majors in 2024. The Mets will have to adjust their roster plans while Kessinger recovers, potentially opening opportunities for other infield prospects in spring training.