NEW YORK -- Mets outfielder Luis Robert Jr. is headed to the 10-day injured list with lumbar spine disc herniation. Robert underwent testing on his back on Wednesday, five days after first complaining of discomfort in the area.
In a series of corresponding moves, RHP Carl Edwards Jr. was designated for assignment, RHP Austin Warren was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse and INF Eric Wagaman was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse.
Initially, the Mets labeled Robert as day-to-day, with hopes that he would only miss a game or two. But Wednesday marked the third consecutive game out of the lineup for Robert, who “didn’t improve much after treatment” on Tuesday, according to Mets manager Carlos Mendoza. That prompted the team to send him for an MRI.
It’s a disappointing development for Robert in part because the Mets have spent significant energy trying to keep him healthy during his first year in New York. This spring, the Mets placed Robert on a slow progression, pushing back his Grapefruit League debut to allow him to strengthen his legs. Even as Robert enjoyed a hot start to the regular season, Mendoza gave him occasional rest days, keeping him out of the starting lineup five times in the Mets’ first 26 games.
The 28-year-old Robert, who has made nine trips to the IL over seven Major League seasons, had cooled significantly following his hot start, with a .922 OPS over his first 12 games and a .405 mark over his next 12. He is batting .224/.327/.329 with two homers and eight RBIs in 24 games.