Semien goes deep in 1st rehab game with Double-A Binghamton

NEW YORK -- Second baseman Marcus Semien continues to progress rapidly in his rehab from a left hip flexor strain, beginning a Minor League rehab assignment on Sunday and homering in his third plate appearance. Due in large part to the All-Star break, however, Semien’s return is not imminent.

How did Semien perform?

In his first game for Double-A Binghamton, Semien hit a three-run homer off Rockies right-handed pitching prospect Cade Denton. Semien also struck out and singled in three plate appearances.

What’s next

Due to the All-Star break, the only Minor League games taking place early next week are in the Florida Complex League. The pitching in that league is raw enough that Mets officials don’t want to put Semien’s health at risk by having him take at-bats at that level.

Instead, Semien will take live at-bats against rehabbing teammate Clay Holmes, who is due to throw a simulated game early next week. Semien will have what interim manager Andy Green called a “practice day” on Thursday before returning to the Minors for additional Minor League games beginning Friday. He’s unlikely to return to the Mets before the week of July 20.

What they’re saying

“He looked like Marcus.” -- Green after Semien took some live at-bats late last week.

What else

Even after Semien returns, he may cede some playing time to Brett Baty, who’s been one of the Mets’ hottest hitters as Semien’s fill-in at second base. Baty entered Sunday’s play with a .317/.333/.488 slash line over his last 11 games, and he no longer has an easy path to playing time at other positions.

Though A.J. Ewing has also filled in at second base on multiple occasions, Mets officials want Ewing to concentrate on center field and do not expect to use him regularly as an infielder.