Francisco Alvarez needs surgery for a sprained ulnar collateral ligament in his right thumb. But New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza says there's a chance the slugging catcher can play through the pain.

The New York Mets will be without catcher Francisco Alvarez for the time being as they attempt to maintain a hold on a playoff spot, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post. The Mets are expected to place Alvarez on the injured list on Tuesday with a right thumb injury,