The John Delcos New York Mets Report Featuring Mets' commentary, analysis and news.

Jose Reyes returned to camp today, but couldn’t guarantee he’d be ready for Opening Day. And, Reyes said his leg won’t enable him to go all out anytime soon, so he’s got to take it easy.

Jerry Manuel said he doesn’t expect Reyes to be playing by this weekend, telling reporters: “I couldn’t give you a timetable, but it sure is good to have him back.’’

Reyes didn’t run at full speed, but participated in workouts and said he expects to feel sore tomorrow. Reyes said doctors told him he had a virus that elevated his levels and he has diet restrictions, such as not being able to eat seafood.

* Johan Santana gave up two runs on eight hits and one walk in 5 2/3 innings.

* Doc Gooden was arrested Tuesday morning for driving under the influence. Is he ever going to get it together?

* It appears the fifth starter job is Jon Niese’s to lose with Fernando Nieve and Hisanori Takahashi trying to earn spots in the bullpen.

* Several reports have the Mets trying to deal outfielder Gary Matthews for pitching. But, considering where Matthews is in his career, what could he bring in return?

Posted under Mets News

With his thyroid With his thyroid levels having stabilized, the Mets cleared Jose Reyes to resume baseball activities this afternoon. The Mets expect him on the field tomorrow, but have not said when he’ll play in an exhibition game.

General manager Omar Minaya wouldn’t discount either Reyes being ready for Opening Day or on the disabled list. Bet the latter.

General manager Omar Minaya said the team still isn’t sure if Reyes will be ready for Opening Day. He didn’t discount the possibility that Reyes might have to begin the season on the disabled list.

“Right now let’s just get him here,” Minaya said. “The good thing is we still have close to two weeks to go. I can’t tell you if he’s going to be ready for Opening Day. But the reality is, we’re happy to get him back. All the players are excited, and he’s excited.”

Reyes was diagnosed in early March with a hyperactive thyroid, and originally he was to be out two to eight weeks. The doctors prescribed rest and a change of diet (cutting back on seafood).

Posted under Mets News

Word is Jerry Manuel is saying “no” to John Maine and won’t let him pitch again this season. Manuel said his conscience won’t let him use Maine, who will undergo shoulder surgery on his right shoulder.

The doctors said Maine can’t reinjure himself, but they really don’t know. Should Maine try to overcompensate with his delivery, it could place stress somewhere else. That’s what the doctors ARE NOT taking into consideration.

That Manuel won’t risk Maine’s health with the season being on the line, and consequently possibly his job, shows his integrity. He’s doing the right thing.

Martinez: Pitching for October.

Should they somehow squeeze their way in, I can still see Manuel giving Martinez the ball by citing his experience.

That said, I don’t have faith that experience will last long then, or tonight. Not with these numbers: In his last three starts, Martinez has worked 16 innings and given up 14 earned runs on 24 hits and eight walks.

Posted under New York Mets 2008-09