Scary Collision at Citi Field: Jared Young Carted Off After Knee to the Head from Nolan McLean; CT Clear but ‘

With two outs in the sixth, a slow roller down the first‑base line left both Young and McLean scrambling for the ball. In the scramble McLean’s knee connected with Young’s head. Trainers and paramedics responded quickly; Young lay still for an extended stretch while his neck was stabilized before he was removed from the field.

McLean recorded the final out of the inning but was removed after that frame. Both teammates and staff described the scene as frightening and said care for Young was the priority.

Club officials said the CT scan was negative — a meaningful immediate check for serious structural injury — but emphasized that Young was experiencing concussion symptoms, which are managed differently and can last beyond the initial game. The Mets have not provided a timeline for testing or return.

Mark Vientos replaced Young defensively that inning and figures to receive more first‑base opportunities against left‑handed pitching if Young is unavailable. The Mets also have Brett Baty and other options who could shift depending on matchups and how the team chooses to protect Young’s recovery.

Collisions at first base between pitchers and position players are not common, but this incident underscores how even routine coverage can produce head trauma. The play raises practical questions about communication between fielders, habit‑driven positioning, and whether teams—or the league—need to revisit guidance to lower the risk of similar injuries.

It also has human consequences: Nolan McLean was visibly shaken and removed after the inning, which could affect a young pitcher’s short‑term usage. For the Mets, the priority will be Young’s health; for the rest of the league, the moment is a reminder that concussion protocol must be followed precisely and that a negative CT is only the start of evaluation.