MLB teams
Adam Rubin, ESPN Staff Writer 10y

Curtis Granderson likely back Friday

MLB, New York Mets, Atlanta Braves

PHOENIX -- New York Mets outfielder Curtis Granderson is expected to return to the lineup for Friday's game against the Atlanta Braves, manager Terry Collins said Wednesday.

The Mets should get another outfield jolt from the return of Chris Young, who rejoined the team Wednesday in Arizona and is eligible to be activated from the disabled list Friday.

Also rejoining the Mets prior to Wednesday's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks was right-hander Daisuke Matsuzaka, who displaced left-hander John Lannan on the roster.

Granderson departed Monday's series opener against Arizona with left forearm, rib-cage and knee bruises after crashing into the outfield wall. The three-time All-Star underwent X-rays, which were negative, but he will miss his second straight game Wednesday.

Young, who played three rehab games with Triple-A Las Vegas, has missed the entire season with a right quadriceps injury.

Matsuzaka, who was beaten out for the fifth starter's role out of spring training by Jenrry Mejia, will serve in long relief for now, although minor injuries to two starters could affect that role.

Bartolo Colon has been dealing with back spasms but pledges to make his scheduled start Saturday. Mejia departed Tuesday's start against the Diamondbacks after five scoreless innings because of a blister issue on his right middle finger.

Lannan had signed an advance consent agreement before Opening Day, allowing the Mets to demote him during the season's first 45 days without being responsible for his full $1.5 million big league salary. Lannan has the option to declare for free agency in the next 72 hours. He indicated he will consult with his agent before making a decision.

The Mets will need to clear a roster spot for Young's return from the DL. General manager Sandy Alderson said that neither Ike Davis nor Lucas Duda likely would be demoted.

Collins has been juggling giving starts at first base between the lefty-hitting Davis and Duda and righty-hitting Josh Satin.

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