New York Mets

Mets: Juan Lagares returns in limited role

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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The Mets got a bundle of great injury news on Friday

The New York Mets have announced some positive news, with outfielder Juan Lagares getting activated prior to Friday night’s game against the Twins.

The 27-year-old has been recovering from surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left thumb. The injury stems back to a catch he made on June 4.

The outlook seemed positive but it eventually landed Lagares on the disabled list just two weeks later. He returned on July 2 to a dreadful run where he was batting .180. That led Lagares to the decision of surgery on July 29.

By no means is Lagares 100 percent He is unable to swing a bat but he will be utilized in defensive situations and as a pinch runner initially.

His return will help to give manager Terry Collins room to rest the veteran starting outfielders late in a game, and get Lagares’ Gold Glove in there.

“I’m here to help and do anything I can,” said Lagares to SNY, “Noting that he plans to try again to swing a bat next week. “If we get into the playoffs, I want to be ready to play.”

The role for Lagares will eventually be extended as the thumb strengthens.

Yoenis Cespedes, Curtis Granderson, and Jay Bruce have been the predominant starters in the outfield as of late.

Bruce hasn’t been exactly what the Mets were expecting. He arrived at the trading deadline as the league leader in RBI. For the Mets, he’s batting .192 with 11 RBI in 36 games. If Bruce doesn’t start to find his way, it will be a clear spot for Lagares.

Meanwhile, Cespedes and Granderson have both have been a huge part of the Mets recent offensive onslaught.

First baseman Lucas Duda will be activated on Saturday following a back injury and starter Jacob deGrom will return to the mound Sunday. The returning Mets are healing and it couldn’t be a better time as they sit in the second wild card spot, gearing up for the playoffs.