Mets Promote RHP Lugo, Send Conforto Back Down
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) — The New York Mets have recalled right-handed reliever Seth Lugo from Triple-A Las Vegas.
The Mets made the move before Friday night's game against San Diego.
Earlier in the day, Mets manager Terry Collins said lefty Jon Niese "has got a little bit of a knee issue."
"We wanted to protect our pitching, so Lugo's here," he said.
Outfielder Michael Conforto was optioned to Triple-A. After a successful rookie campaign last year, he has hit just .218 with New York this year.
"I think he's pressing. I think he's starting to expand the zone too much," Collins said.
It marks the second time this season Conforto has been sent down. In 19 games since returning from his last stint in Las Vegas, he's batting .200 with one home run and three RBIs.
The Mets also said right-hander Zack Wheeler, who began a rehabilitation assignment with Class A St. Lucie on Saturday, is scheduled to see noted orthopedist Dr. James Andrews. Wheeler complained of elbow discomfort following a recent rain-shortened start in which he threw 17 pitches over one inning.
Lugo made his major league debut on July 1. This is his third stint with the Mets.
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