MET NOTES
The Grant Roberts verdict is finally in: The right-hander will undergo arthroscopic surgery.
The news capped a bizarre sequence for Roberts, who asked to have surgery a week ago but was denied permission by the Mets. Following three medical opinions, Roberts finally was diagnosed with a slight tear of the labrum.
“All the doctors agreed on the diagnosis,” GM Jim Duquette said. “The difference was in the course of action.”
Roberts, who was designated for assignment on May 4 and cleared waivers, will go on the disabled list. Duquette said there is a chance Roberts could pitch this year, depending on the injury’s extent.
The surgery will be performed by Dr. George Paletta, the Cardinals’ team doctor.
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James Baldwin, who had been designated for assignment May 16, cleared waivers and elected to become a free agent. The Mets are not obligated to pay his salary . . . Al Leiter (shoulder tendinitis) saw a doctor yesterday for a strength test; the results will not be in until today. Said Duquette, “We’re not expecting anything.”
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Mike Piazza started at catcher last night for the first time in a week, following five straight games at first base. To clear up any confusion, someone placed a piece of tape with the letter “C” for catcher on the lineup board next to Piazza’s name prior to the game with the Rockies. The board does not have a spot to list positions. Art Howe said when Piazza catches will be random.
Rockies OF Jeromy Burnitz returned to Shea last night tied for the MLB lead with 13 homers. Burnitz told the Denver Post, “New York is a whole different place. I really struggled there, and they were booing me. I was able to turn it around, and they were cheering. When I left New York, I had a lot of good things said about me. I appreciated that.”
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Tyler Yates is expected to be recalled today to start for Leiter . . . Scott Strickland, rehabbing from Tommy John surgery in Port St. Lucie, pitched two simulated games and one bullpen session last week and said the best-case scenario for his return is late June. Said Strickland, “Some days I feel like I can pitch right now. Other days I feel like it’s still messed up” . . . Last night at Shea was Jeep Owner Appreciation Night, whatever that means.
Additional reportingby Brian Costello