Put him on the DL immediately.
Calf injuries are one of the toughest injuries to overcome. Even when they feel healed, the slightest over-exertion will bring the pain right back.
Jose Reyes will travel with the team to Boston, then he and trainer Ray Ramirez will fly to New York City for tests. Reyes, without a doubt in my mind, will end up on the disabled list and will be there for more than 15 days.
The question for the Mets is: Who will take his place?
- Ramon Martinez. Called up to take Alex Cora’s spot on the roster, but has gone 0-12 with three strikeouts. He also has committed two errors in the three games.
Verdict: Not the answer. - Argenis Reyes. Mostly a second baseman, Reyes is hitting .272 with Triple-A Buffalo. He has played only 20 games at SS in his pro career.
Verdict: A possibility. - Jose Coronado. Recently demoted to Double-A Binghamton after hitting just .141 with Buffalo. He’s hitting .500 with Binghamton in four games, if that means anything to you. Most importantly, he’s actually a shortstop.
Verdict: Probably the best option. - Jonathan Malo. Another second baseman that would have to be converted. A Jerry Manuel favorite who is batting .290 with Binghamton and .174 with Buffalo in ‘09.
Verdict: Another possibility.
Obviously, there is also the possibility of a trade. Mark DeRosa would probably be the best option for the Mets and is available.
The Mets need to make a move to fill in the hole that will be vacated by Reyes. He needs to spend enough time on the DL to fully heal before he comes back. Reinjuring the calf is way too easy to do.