Mets' Carlos Mendoza provides injury update on Jesse Winker

It has been a frustrating season for Winker, who quickly became a fan favorite in Flushing after coming over from the Washington Nationals last season during the trade deadline. The 31-year-old re-signed with the New York on a one-year, $7.5 million deal during the offseason, with the expectation of being the team's primary designated hitter this year.

In what was his lone start in the outfield this season, Winker suffered an oblique strain on May 8 during a game against the St. Louis Cardinals, attempting to throw out Brendan Donovan at home. He was diagnosed with a Grade 2 strain of his right oblique and subsequently ruled out for six to eight weeks. Winker was later transferred to the 60-day IL on June 23.

Despite looking like his old self during his rehab assignments, Winker's anticipated return to the Mets was short-lived when they activated him off the IL on July 8. He appeared in just two games for the Amazins' before landing back on the shelf; Winker left in the middle of his second game back against the Baltimore Orioles on July 10 due to back tightness, which was later revealed to be inflammation.

While it's still unclear when Winker could return to the Mets this season, Mendoza still expects Winker to return at some point, saying, "Yes. That's what the trainers are telling us."

In only 26 games for the Mets this season, Winker is slashing .229/.309/.400 with one home run, 10 RBI and a .709 OPS.