Add Todd Frazier to the list of injured Mets infielders.
Frazier has been diagnosed with a strained left oblique and is heading back to New York for a cortisone shot, the team said Tuesday, with GM Brodie Van Wagenen saying the MRI wasn't "overly alarming."
Speaking with reporters Tuesday, Frazier said he felt tightness in his left side during his live batting practice session on Monday. An MRI later revealed the strain.
"It was just tight," Frazier said. "It wasn't just one swing. ... I'm frustrated. I'm very frustrated with myself."
Adding that this is an injury he has never had before, Frazier said he was unsure how long he would be out -- putting his Opening Day status in doubt, just as Jed Lowrie's status for the opener is in doubt.
"No. It's just day-to-day," Frazier said about when he would return, saying he couldn't put a timetable on it yet.
With Frazier and Lowrie hurt, the Mets are down to two of their expected Opening Day infielders -- Robinson Cano (second base) and Amed Rosario (shortstop).
Video: Brodie Van Wagenen gives an update on Todd Frazier
Fortunately, the Mets have the infield depth to handle it if one or both of Frazier or Lowrie isn't ready for Opening Day.
If both of them aren't ready, one would think Pete Alonso has a very good chance to make the team out of camp and be the everyday first baseman.
As far as third base, depending on how long Lowrie and/or Frazier are out, the Mets could temporarily shift Jeff McNeil back from the outfield. They could also go the simpler route and turn to J.D. Davis or another infielder on the 40-man roster.
Speaking on Tuesday afternoon, Van Wagenen said McNeil could be an option to replace Frazier, but that the plan for now was for him to continue to get reps mostly in the outfield, while Adeiny Hechavarria gets more reps at third base.