Daniel Murphy returns to Mets camp
Photo credit: Newsday/Alejandra Villa | Mets infielders Daniel Murphy and Ike Davis take ground balls at spring training. (Feb. 11, 2013)
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PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- Second baseman Daniel Murphy could be back on the field within a week.
"This guy will be back pretty fast," manager Terry Collins said of Murphy, who received a cortisone shot on Tuesday to help him deal with the effects of a strained right intercostal muscle.
Murphy returned to camp Wednesday after flying to New York to be examined by team doctors. He is listed as day-to-day though Murphy said he would not rush a comeback.
"Hopefully, it shouldn't take too long before I start swinging the bat," said Murphy, whose activity Wednesday was limited to riding the exercise bike and icing his sore rib cage.
Last spring, both third baseman David Wright and former Mets outfielder Scott Hairston dealt with similar ailments, though both recovered quickly enough to begin the season with no issues. It's an encouraging sign for Murphy, who acknowledged battling rib cage issues late last season.
Mejia to report soon
The Mets expect righthander Jenrry Mejia to report to camp in a few days after authorities completed an age and identity verification. The 23-year-old had been working out at the team's complex in the Dominican Republic.
Leadoff for Nieuwenhuis
While the Mets may still be unsettled on a leadoff man, outfielder Kirk Nieuwenhuis will get the first chance to audition for the role. Nieuwenhuis will lead off on Saturday against the Nationals.
Francisco to throw in week
Reliever Frank Francisco said that some inflammation remains in his right elbow. But he expects to begin throwing again sometime next week.
