Mets get 'favorable' report on Duda's back
First baseman diagnosed with small thoracic disk herniation
PHILADELPHIA -- A second opinion on first baseman Lucas Duda's balky back was "favorable," according to Mets general manager Sandy Alderson, and the team now expects Duda back from the disabled list as soon as he is eligible on Sept. 6.
Dr. Robert Watkins, the same California-based specialist who choreographed David Wright's rehab program from spinal stenosis, diagnosed Duda with a small thoracic disk herniation.
"I think a little bit of rest, and basically core and back exercises, he should be back when the DL time is over," Alderson said. "It's not a bad injury."
Duda missed six starts due to back discomfort earlier this month, before experiencing a recurrence of the pain in his third game back. He is hitting .247 overall this season with 21 home runs in 113 games, a year after setting career highs with 30 homers and 92 RBIs.