Full Breakdown
Marcus Semien’s Hip Flexor Strain Lands Him on the 10-Day Injured List
6/26/2026, 12:34:16 AM
Semien’s Hip Flexor Strain Lands Him on the 10-Day Injured List
On June 25, 2026 the New York Mets placed second baseman Marcus Semien on the 10-day injured list, citing a left hip flexor strain. The designation followed his participation in both games of a June 24 doubleheader against the Chicago Cubs, where he recorded two of the team’s six errors.
Trade Background and Season-Long Performance
Semien arrived in New York in November 2025 when the Mets sent outfielder Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers for the veteran second baseman, assuming a three-year, $26 million contract would bolster David Stearns’ “run-prevention” plan. In 80 games he has posted a .214/.271/.341 line, .613 OPS, nine homers, 29 RBIs and a –0.6 WAR, while his defense shows a –3 defensive run value, –3 OAA and six errors.
Official Announcement and Roster Adjustments
The Mets confirmed Semien’s IL placement in a club statement, noting the left hip flexor strain as the medical cause. The release also announced the recall of infielder Ronny Mauricio and right-hander Daniel Duarte from Triple-A Syracuse, and the option of right-hander Jonathan Pintaro back to the minors.
Doubleheader vs Cubs: Errors and Losses
In the June 24 doubleheader the Mets fell 10-3 in Game 1 and 10-5 in Game 2, surrendering 20 runs. Semien’s two errors contributed to the six-error total, the highest single-day error count for the club this season, extending the team’s losing streak to five games and leaving them 34-46, 14.5 games behind the NL East leader.
Criticism and Questions About Timing
Analysts have called the IL move “odd” because Semien appeared in post-game interviews without mentioning pain, and his errors occurred hours before the designation. Critics also point to his –0.6 WAR output versus a $26 million salary, labeling the deal a financial burden on a roster already hit by multiple injuries.
Conflicting Defensive Metrics and Injury Timeline
Reports differ on Semien’s error count—one cites six errors in 80 games, another six in his last 33 games. Defensive analytics also vary, with Baseball-Savants listing a –5 DRS rating while other outlets report –3 DRS. The club has not indicated whether the hip flexor strain will exceed the standard 10-day IL period.
Verbatim Quotes
“Mets are expected to place Marcus Semien on the injured list this afternoon, according to a person familiar with the situation,” — Chelsea Janes, SNY reporter
“Marcus Semien goes on the Injured List with a hip flexor strain, Mets announce,” — Jon Heyman, New York Post
“Just attention to detail,” — Marcus Semien, SNY interview
“— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) June 25, 2026 The move comes off as odd, as Semien was seemingly in zero pain or discomfort Wednesday night when speaking to the media.” — Jason Petrucci, Sports Illustrated
What’s Next for the Mets
The Mets will start the next game of the Cubs series with Ronny Mauricio assuming the second-base role. Managerial staff will monitor Semien’s hip flexor and may adjust the lineup if the injury lingers. The club also faces a crowded injury list, making the upcoming stretch against the Philadelphia Phillies critical for any postseason hopes.
