McNeil stays hot as Mets, Thor hold off Reds

McNeil's solo homer in the 6th NEW YORK -- Speaking about his young second baseman a few hours before Monday's 6-4 win over the Reds at Citi Field, Mets manager Mickey Callaway noted, in rather stark terms, that Jeff McNeil's performance down the stretch may determine whether the team looks to replace him during the offseason.

"I think we need to, first and foremost, evaluate ... is this guy going to be a kid that we might not have to go find a second baseman over the winter?" Callaway said. "That's kind of where we're at right now."

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Ultimately, that decision will not be up to Callaway. It may not be up to anyone currently employed in the Mets' front office. All McNeil…