Wright gets a rest in finale against Nationals

WASHINGTON -- David Wright received a routine day off Sunday against the Nationals, his first since sitting out a makeup game in Denver more than a month ago. With Wright on the bench and Justin Turner still recovering from minor shoulder and leg injuries, Josh Satin made his first appearance of the season at third base.

Though manager Terry Collins admitted that Wright "needed" the day off, he also knew his regular third baseman might make a late-game appearance anyway. Currently proceeding with a four-man bench as opposed to the usual five, Collins understands that he must be prudent in making in-game substitutions.

Because of their desire to use a six-man starting rotation, the Mets will play with a short bench for as long as they are able.

"It makes a little difference," Collins said. "One thing you can't do is burn players too early. Right now when you have a four-man bench, it's tough. Where in the past you might be able to pinch-hit for somebody, you're not going to do that right now, especially early in the game. You've got to save your guys, so late in the game, you've got bullets to use."