Duda activated, available to pinch-hit for Mets

WASHINGTON -- The Mets activated first baseman Lucas Duda from the disabled list prior to Monday's series opener against Washington, but the team did not expect him to arrive at Nationals Park until shortly before first pitch. Though Duda was not in the starting lineup, he was available as a pinch-hitter.

Sidelined since Aug. 22 with a small thoracic herniation in his back, Duda went 3-for-6 on a two-game Minor League rehab assignment with Double-A Binghamton. He was originally scheduled to appear in a third rehab game on Monday, but the Mets shifted his schedule to have him available for one of their most significant series in years.

"I'm just feeling good, ready to get back," Duda told the Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin on Sunday. "I feel great right now. I'm ready to contribute to the big club."

In 113 games for the Mets this season, Duda is batting .247/.346/.472 with 21 home runs and 56 RBIs. In his absence, the Mets have used mostly Daniel Murphy and Michael Cuddyer at first base.