WASHINGTON — Opposing pitchers have been unable to slow down Jeff McNeil, but an injury did Thursday against the Nationals.

The Mets’ best hitter left the game after the top of the third with abdominal tightness, the team announced, adding that it was a precautionary move.

McNeil had singled in the top of the third inning, improving his batting average to .354, before getting thrown out at second on a fielder’s choice. He was seen talking with trainers upon returning to the dugout and did not take the field for the bottom half of the inning.

Juan Lagares replaced McNeil, entering the game in center field with Brandon Nimmo moving over to left.