The Mets lost both of their catchers in a span of three days last week, but help is on the way.
There is “optimism” that Tomas Nido could be activated in time for Friday’s game against the Nationals, manager Luis Rojas said Thursday. Nido went on the 10-day injured list on Aug. 15 with a left thumb sprain, but has been taking batting practice on the field and throwing to bases in recent days.
“He’s been doing everything in the book and the thumb is feeling better,” Rojas said before the Mets’ 3-2 loss to the Giants.
James McCann joined Nido for batting practice on Thursday and is feeling better, but still experiencing some back tightness in certain movements after going on the IL on Aug. 17.
Patrick Mazeika, meanwhile, started for the eighth time in the past nine games Thursday night and went 0-for-3, with Chance Sisco backing him up.
“He’s done a good job,” Rojas said. “He’s received really well, he’s followed the plan really well. … He’s kept us in the game along with the pitchers.”
Luis Guillorme started a rehab assignment Thursday night with Triple-A Syracuse. The infielder, who has been on the injured list since Aug. 1 with a left hamstring strain, played five innings and went 1-for-3 with a strikeout.
Joining Guillorme in the Syracuse lineup was Jose Martinez, who has been on the IL since spring training after tearing the meniscus in his left knee. The veteran first baseman/right fielder was on the 19th day of a 20-day rehab assignment clock, but exited the game in the fourth inning after appearing to hurt his arm on a swing.
Jacob deGrom (elbow inflammation) came through his first day of playing catch Wednesday feeling good and did it again Thursday, extending to about 50 feet. “No complaints,” Rojas said.
RHP Robert Gsellman (torn lat) is scheduled to throw off a mound this weekend, according to Rojas. … RHP Stephen Nogosek (shoulder inflammation) gave up one run in one inning of a rehab outing with Low-A St. Lucie.
Rojas said he spoke with Taijuan Walker after the right-hander was unhappy upon being pulled from Wednesday’s loss to the Giants — a decision that immediately backfired.
“Guys are always going to show their emotions out there when they’re in the middle of competition. I want that,” Rojas said. “We’re on the same page with things. I have great respect for Tai. He’s a great pitcher, we trust him and he threw the ball great [Wednesday].”