Tejada impresses Friday, Cora starts today vs. Cardinals

Despite the Mets' leaning toward Alex Cora as the short-term replacement for Jose Reyes, Ruben Tejada had another impressive game Friday against the Twins -- and is making fans of his teammates. Even Cora, his own job threatened, praised Tejada, comparing him to former Dodger teammate Cesar Izturis, who won a Gold Glove in 2004 as Cora's double-play partner.

After speaking briefly with Tejada on Friday, I have to say I'm thinking more about him as a better option than Cora. He's a confident 20-year-old, despite having only a season of Double-A experience under his belt. Maybe another two weeks will convince the Mets to go with Tejada as well - despite paying Cora $2 million for this year.

Cora is starting at shortstop today against the Cardinals. Here's the complete lineup:

Matthews - cf

Castillo - 2b

Tatis  - 3b

Jacobs - 1b

Martinez - rf

Cora - ss

Pridie - lf

Coste - c

Maine - sp