BOSTON – Jeff McNeil has become a favorite of Mets fans since making his debut on July 24. The infielder his batting .335 and is an old-school number two hitter, putting the ball in play and making productive outs.
His single off Rick Porcello was one of two hits the Mets would collect in Saturday’s 5-3 loss to the Red Sox. He also robbed J.D. Martinez of a hit with a full extension diving catch.
McNeil homered in Friday night’s win although it didn’t reach the lone red seat in the Fenway bleachers where Ted Williams once hit a 502 foot home run.
McNeil spoke with NY Sports Day on Saturday.
NYSD: How much do you like Fenway?
JM: It’s awesome here. The history and everything, I mean it’s pretty exciting to play in this ballpark.
NYSD: Have you ever been here?
JM: I was here in 2012 for the Cape Cod workout day, so I’ve taken batting practice here but never played a game here.
NYSD: Is that Pesky Pole really tempting?
JM: Yeah. I mean, it gets deep real quick. You’ve got to really put it around the pole but it’s real short over there.
NYSD: Do you have a favorite stadium?
JM: Probably Dodger Stadium just because I grew up going there. This is up there though.
NYSD: Are you going to hit one to the red seat?
JM: I’m gonna try.