Bay feeling better, but no date set for return from DL

ATLANTA - Jason Bay reported some improvement in his concussion symptoms during an exam Monday with the Mets' medical staff. But it is still too early to determine if the leftfielder will be ready to return from the disabled list when he is eligible for Tuesday's game against Colorado.

According to a Mets spokesman, Bay is "feeling better" after not playing since July 25, the final game of the club's West Coast trip. Bay complained of a persistent headache during the Mets' overnight flight home, a direct result of his face-first crash into the bullpen gate at Dodger Stadium two days earlier.

Two years after the Ryan Church controversy, the Mets will take their time with Bay, especially if they continue their downward spiral.

But the Mets could use the help. With Bay sidelined, Jeff Francoeur has seen more playing time. He hit the game-winning home run last night off Billy Wagner but entered the game batting .083 (2-for-24) with one home run and three RBIs in Bay's absence.

Big test for Big Pelf

Mike Pelfrey may be pitching for his job tonight after Jerry Manuel suggested that his start against the Braves could determine whether he stays on turn the next time through the rotation. With two off days coming up, the Mets' plan is to keep Hisanori Takahashi in the bullpen for the immediate future.

But with Pelfrey's struggles of late - he's 0-3 with a 9.59 ERA in six starts since his last win on June 25 - Manuel is giving him some extra scrutiny these days. The manager planned to talk to him in the outfield during batting practice Monday - and he was bringing his fungo bat.

"Young pitchers need prodding every once in a while," Manuel said.

There has been a noticeable shift in Pelfrey's attitude this week. Usually, he's hanging around the clubhouse, joking with teammates or reporters. But he's barely been around the past few days, either working out on the field or watching video in a back room.