PHOENIX — Wilmer Flores is back with the Mets, perhaps with new opportunities for playing time.
The Mets activated Flores from the disabled list Friday, and manager Mickey Callaway said the versatile infielder could be headed toward increased playing time at first base.
He went 1 for 2 as a pinch hitter with an RBI double in the ninth inning of the Mets’ 7-3 loss to the Diamondbacks at Chase Field.
Flores, who missed the past three weeks with back soreness, was playing first base against lefty pitchers before hitting the DL.
But with Dominic Smith now the first baseman following veteran Adrian Gonzalez’s release, Flores may have additional chances to contribute.
Flores played three innings at first base after coming on in a double switch in the sixth.
“I think [Flores] can handle both righties and lefties,” Callaway said. “He’s got that short, quick, swing that is able to cover [the plate], especially against guys who make mistakes.”
Flores entered play batting just .174 against lefties. He was batting .299 against righties.
Ty Kelly was optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas to clear roster space for Flores.
Jay Bruce was given a second straight night off to rest his sore hip/upper buttocks. Callaway said Bruce would not be used to pinch hit. If the Mets needed a fourth outfielder, Flores and Smith were the options. Bruce’s discomfort is a muscle injury, according to Callaway.
Noah Syndergaard remains inactive as he rests his sore right index finger. The right-hander has been told not to throw until he is asymptomatic. He will then most likely need a minor league rehab start before rejoining the team. Friday marked three weeks since Syndergaard’s last appearance for the Mets.
Brandon Nimmo’s seven homers since May 23 entering play were the sixth-most in the major leagues over that stretch. Nimmo hit six homers combined in his first two seasons with the Mets.