Back spasms sideline leadoff man Pagan

The Mets may be forced to find yet another leadoff hitter.

Centerfielder Angel Pagan left last night's game in the fourth inning with lower back spasms. He was pinch hit for by Jason Pridie.

Pagan said hopefully he'll be back by today. His back started getting tight after he swung at a pitch and he said it feels worse when he tries to throw. "My second at-bat after I swung -- a foul ball to leftfield -- after that it started tightening up on me."

Pagan's injury could be a serious issue, since Jose Reyes (hamstring) is already out. Pagan had led off the past three games in the shortstop's absence.

Rooting for Izzy

In his mind, Jason Isringhausen has already reached the 300-save plateau. But his teammates and coaches nevertheless are looking forward to seeing him officially attain the milestone. Terry Collins said Isringhausen, who entered Wednesday night with 299 regular-season saves (plus 11 in the postseason), would be available despite pitching in two straight games. His services weren't needed, however, in the Padres' 9-5 win.

But whenever that next save opportunity arises, Collins and his players will be ready to congratulate Isringhausen. "Everybody's excited about it," the manager said. "I've heard people talk about it. I think it's something he should be very, very proud of."

September headaches

With so many rookies on the team already, Collins isn't eager about bringing in reinforcements. "There's a fine line [with] September call-ups," he said. "The position some of these players are in -- they're fighting, they're trying to prove they belong. Do you sit those guys in September? I don't know if it's fair.