Why Keith Hernandez will miss upcoming Mets games on SNY

ST. LOUIS — A back issue has landed SNY's Keith Hernandez on the injured list at the start of the 2026 season.

Hernandez, who cited a slipped disc in his back during the broadcast during the team's series with the Cardinals for excruciating pain, will miss the upcoming five games on the Mets' road trip to receive treatment.

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Todd Zeile arrived in St. Louis on Wednesday afternoon to do color commentary alongside Gary Cohen for the Mets' series finale against the Cardinals at Busch Stadium.

Hernandez's back issue will force him to miss Wednesday and the entirety of the team's upcoming four-game series against the Giants at Oracle Park, beginning on Thursday.

The 72-year-old Hernandez, who had his No. 17 retired by the Mets in 2022, agreed to a three-year deal to help broadcast games on SNY and PIX11 for the next three seasons.

Hernandez has long suffered from back issues. He underwent surgery in 2019 to help alleviate pain from a ruptured disc and has stenosis in his lower back.