Manuel finds defense offensive, promises work
The Amazin' 1969 Mets
Mets 2009 season, game by game
Citi Field construction
Relief role for Redding? Tim Redding used the Mets' visit to Dolphin Stadium as a good excuse to get out of Port St. Lucie for the weekend, and it appears he could be ready to rejoin the team at the end of the month. Redding, who is on the 15-day disabled list with a right rotator cuff strain, expects to pitch to hitters this week, then start for Class A St. Lucie next Monday.
When Redding does make it back, he's sure to be slotted for the long-relief role as long as the current rotation stays healthy. The Mets aren't about to pull Livan Hernandez after his impressive 6 2/3-inning stint on Saturday, easily the best outing by a Mets starter this year.
"If Livan continues to throw well, it would be difficult to take him out of the rotation,'' Manuel said. As for Redding, he added, "We'll use him accordingly.''
Redding certainly is being paid like a starter with his $2.25-million contract for this season. But after spending most of spring training on the sideline, he's in no position to complain.
"I just want to get here,'' Redding said. "I can't worry about whether I'm going to be starting or relieving. I'm no good unless I'm 100 percent, so that's what I need to do first and foremost. I'm between 90 and 100 percent. The only reason I wouldn't be ready to go right now is because I don't have the repetitions off the mound."
