Mets' Mauricio expected to miss 8-12 months following knee surgery

NEW YORK (AP) — New York Mets infield prospect Ronny Mauricio will miss most or all of the 2024 season following surgery to repair a torn right ACL.

Mets medical director Dr. David Altchek operated Tuesday at the Hospital for Special Surgery, the team said Wednesday. New York said the typical return to play from the surgery is eight-to-12 months.

The 22-year-old Mauricio, who made his major league debut Sept. 1, was hurt while playing for Tigres del Licey in the Dominican Winter League on Dec. 10. Mauricio was on first base and started for second in what appeared to be a stolen base attempt, then stopped, fell and grabbed his right knee. He walked gingerly off the field.

Mauricio hit .248 with two homers, nine RBIs, seven steals and a .643 OPS for the Mets in September after batting .292 with 23 homers, 71 RBIs and 24 steals for Triple-A Syracuse. The switch-hitter was batting .433 (13 for 40) in seven games for Licey this offseason.

Mauricio was expected to compete in spring training for regular playing time at second base, third base or both. He made 21 starts at second for the Mets last season and five at third.

Fellow youngsters Brett Baty and Mark Vientos remain likely to compete for the third base job this spring. New York can play versatile Jeff McNeil at second, which would open room in the outfield. The team also signed veteran utility infielder Joey Wendle this offseason.

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