SAN FRANCISCO — The next time the Mets’ lineup cards are submitted, J.D. Martinez’s name is expected to be included.
The veteran DH played his final game against Triple-A Syracuse on Wednesday, going 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs.
He will join the Mets on Friday against the Cardinals to open a new homestand, manager Carlos Mendoza said.
Martinez, 36, has spent the past month preparing for the season after arriving late to spring training on a one-year deal worth $12 million, including deferrals.
Martinez’s preparations were also delayed by lower back tightness and he had to undergo cortisone injections.
“It’s no secret, he’s a player who’s had a great career and what he offers offensively and the impact he has on the ball club,” Mendoza said before the Mets play the Giants at Oracle Park. said before. “He’s a pretty smart hitter, has his own ideas and is very influential. I’m really looking forward to him joining this team.”
Mendoza’s plan before the season was to hit Martinez cleanup behind Pete Alonso.
The manager said Wednesday that he wants Martinez to bat behind Alonso, but he could be the No. 5 hitter.
Martinez hit .271/.321/.572 with 33 home runs and 103 RBIs for the Dodgers last season.
“I’m not going to start running this guy or play DH every day,” Mendoza said. “He’s going to need a few days, so he’s an important guy, so it’s one of those days where I sit down with him and put together a game plan.” He’s too valuable to this team, so we must be careful. ”
Colton Ingram was claimed off waivers by the Rangers.
The left-handed pitcher was drafted by the Mets this week.
The Mets are scheduled to have Thursday off and play for the 13th straight day.
Pitching coach Jeremy Hefner said the possibility of introducing a sixth starting pitcher during that period is being considered, but no decision has been made.
