New York Mets Bench Bo Bichette, End 94‑Game Starting Streak

New York Mets sat down Bo Bichette on Friday, July 10, 2026, ending his 94‑game run of starts and marking the first time he missed a lineup card this season. The move came as the Mets, 40‑54 and 13th in the National League, tried to keep the spark from a 7‑3 win over Kansas City on July 9.

Why did the Mets drop Bichette?

The decision surprised many because Bichette had been batting .303 with five RBIs and four runs in his first eight games in New York. Yet the veteran infielder tweaked his leg late in the Kansas City finale, prompting the coaching staff to err on the side of caution. Manager Mickey Callaway opted to give the shortstop a day off, hoping to avoid a lingering issue that could affect the upcoming series against Boston.

How does this affect the Mets’ lineup?

With Bichette out, Jeff McNeil shifted to shortstop, while J.D. Davis stayed at third. The change forced the Mets to shuffle the lower‑middle of the order, but the team still fielded a solid defensive alignment. The move also gave rookie Jordy Mercer a chance to see action at second base, adding a fresh bat that could help sustain the offensive surge that produced 25 runs in three games against the Royals.

What does this mean for the Mets’ push toward the second half?

The Mets are trying to ride a two‑game winning streak into the All‑Star break. Their 40‑54 record places them near the bottom of the NL, but the recent offensive outburst suggests they can compete in short bursts. By resting Bichette, the club hopes to keep him healthy for the crucial stretch against the Red Sox, who sit just 2.5 games out of an AL wild‑card spot.

What’s next for Bo Bichette and the Mets?

Bichette is expected to return to the lineup on Saturday, giving the Mets a full‑strength infield as they face Boston at Citi Field. If he stays healthy, his .303 average could provide the consistency the Mets need to climb out of 13th place. The upcoming series will test whether the Mets can translate their recent run production into wins against a hot Red Sox club.

The Mets’ decision to sit Bichette underscores a broader strategy: protect key assets while chasing momentum. As the team looks to add another win to its W2 streak, every lineup tweak matters. Fans will be watching closely to see if the short‑term rest pays off in a longer‑term push toward the postseason.