Ike behind schedule; Wright doing well
Ike Davis returns to the dugout after flying out against the Los Angeles Dodgers. (May 8, 2011) Credit: Jim McIsaac
CHICAGO -- The Mets received mixed reports Thursday on Ike Davis and David Wright but still expect Angel Pagan to be ready for Friday night's series opener against the Phillies at Citi Field.
Perhaps most alarming is the slow progress of Davis, who had boldly predicted that he would be back from a sprained and bruised left ankle as soon as he was eligible. That date is Friday, and Davis still is incapable of side-to-side movement.
Terry Collins said Davis, who had been taking batting practice and fielding ground balls, was limited to indoor treatment during the last two days. He described Davis' status as "somewhat not positive."
"This is not the rate he had hoped, for sure," Collins said.
The manager was more optimistic about Wright, who began physical therapy Thursday for the stress fracture in his lower back. Collins spoke to Wright Wednesday night.
"They think the back is healing very well," Collins said. "He's actually started some core exercises, which I think is a step forward."
Pagan finally is coming off the DL, where he has been since April 22 because of a strained left oblique. Pagan was supposed to play for Triple-A Buffalo Thursday but the game was rained out. He still is expected to rejoin the Mets Friday.
F-Mart likely demoted
With Pagan ready to return, the Mets are expected to option Fernando Martinez to Buffalo. Without consistent playing time available, it doesn't make sense to keep him in the majors.
"I think this guy is one of our top prospects in our organization," Collins said, "and to have him sitting on the end of the bench doesn't benefit him or us."
