Manager Willie Randolph said the conservative approach was the only way to go in announcing the Mets’ decision today to place pitcher Brian Bannister on the disabled list with a strained right hamstring.
“There was no question he wouldn’t make his next start,’’ Randolph said of Tuesday’s game against Washington at Shea Stadium. “Hamstrings are very mysterious injuries. Feasibly, there was no way he’d be ready.’’
To replace Bannister on the 25-man roster, outfielder Victor Diaz was recalled from Class AAA Norfolk. As to who will replace him in the rotation is speculative at this point, although Randolph discounted lefty Darren Oliver, saying the Mets need the bullpen depth. Jose Lima and John Maine have been mentioned, but either one would necessitate making another roster move.
It is possible that could be Diaz depending on how Carlos Beltran’s strained right hamstring is progressing. Beltran took batting practice before tonight’s game and said he wasn’t ready to play.
Had Beltran been placed on the disabled list originally, he would be eligible to come off on Monday. Instead, because he played April 20 and 22 in San Diego, if he goes on now it would be retroactive to April 23.
