Mets' Jose Reyes Eyeing Tuesday Return; First, Rehab Game For Brooklyn Cyclones
NEW YORK (WFAN/AP) — Jose Reyes will play ball in New York City on Monday, but it won't be for the Mets.
The red-hot Brooklyn Cyclones, in the midst of a four-game winning streak, will play host to Reyes as he rehabs from a strained left hamstring.
"I don't know if I can fit him in the lineup," ribbed Cyclones manager Rich Donnelly, according to the New York Daily News. "He might have to bat ninth."
Reyes will have to travel just one borough north when he comes off the disabled list, likely on Tuesday for the opener of a three-game series against St. Louis at Citi Field.
"I anticipate one rehab game," said manager Terry Collins. "Hopefully he'll come out of it feeling good."
When asked what he would do if he hits a ball into the gap, Reyes said only, "Triple."
Reyes tested his injury by running the bases Sunday before New York lost to the Philadelphia Phillies 8-5.
With general manager Sandy Alderson looking on, the All-Star ran from home to first three times, first to third, second to home and home to second.
"I think we did enough running," Reyes said. "I tested my legs in a lot of different ways. It is a relief. In the past I've had setbacks. I didn't expect to run this quickly, but I've been working hard and doing treatment."
Fans who arrived early chanted Reyes' name as he ran all out, a big grin on his face.
"I feel very good," Reyes said. "I'm happy that I don't feel anything in my leg, so I was able to test it out with no problems. So that's a good sign."
Leading the majors with a .354 batting average, Reyes has been out since July 3 and is eligible to come off the disabled list Monday — but the Mets want him to test his leg in a game. Collins apparently wanted Reyes to skip the rehab game but was overruled.
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