URGENT UPDATE: New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso has been held out of the starting lineup today against the visiting Cincinnati Reds, putting his franchise-record 353 consecutive games streak at risk. Alonso is nursing a right-hand contusion, following discomfort that led him to undergo X-rays on Saturday.

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed the situation earlier today, stating, “He felt it the first couple of at-bats [Saturday]. He’s day-to-day. He’s getting treatment, and he says he’s a lot better this morning.” This news comes as a shock to fans, as Alonso has played in all 99 games this season, with his streak dating back to June 18, 2023.

The timing couldn’t be more critical for the Mets and Alonso. The five-time All-Star is currently struggling, hitting just 2-for-30 with eight strikeouts over his last seven games. Despite this rough patch, he boasts a season batting average of .276, with 21 home runs and 77 RBIs.

In Alonso’s absence, Mark Vientos will take over at first base for today’s series finale against the Reds. Alonso, who has captured the Home Run Derby title twice, has made a significant impact in his career, with a total of 247 home runs and 663 RBIs in 945 career games with the Mets.

As fans hold their breath, the Mets are set to face the Reds at 1:10 PM ET. The team’s performance in this game could hinge on Alonso’s swift recovery. Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.