Marcus Semien Returns, Yet Remains on the Bench

PHILADELPHIA — Marcus Semien was activated from the 10-day disabled list just in time for the second half of the season during Thursday’s 4-1 victory over the Phillies. However, he found himself not in the starting lineup.

Interim manager Andy Green’s decision to start left-hander Brett Batty along with Philadelphia’s right-hander Aaron Nola highlights just how rough Semien’s first season with the Mets has been.

Batty made an impact with two hits, including a home run.

“When my name is called, I’m ready to go. I’m ready to play every day,” Semien commented before the game. That’s what I told Andy,” he added.

When asked about the duo of Semien and Batty, who both performed well before the All-Star break, Green mentioned that the team wanted to ensure Semien was fully prepared since he hadn’t played in any minor league rehab games during the break.

Green expects Semien to be in the lineup on Saturday against left-hander Jesus Luzardo of the Phillies. “He’s going to play a key role for us moving forward,” said Green about Semien.

Semien was sidelined since June 24 due to a strained left hip flexor but had already been struggling before the injury. This season has arguably been the toughest of his 14-year career, with diminishing offensive output for three consecutive years. Defensively, his performance at second base has also been less than stellar.

Batty’s versatility allows him to play either second or third base, but Green noted Batty might get the nod first as another left-handed hitter, Jared Young, has been seeing more time. “This is who he is as a hitter and what he can do,” Green remarked, praising Batty’s recent performance and defensive flexibility.

Batty himself has felt somewhat underwhelmed this year but maintained, “I think I’ve been more like myself the last few weeks. I’m hitting the ball hard, playing solid defense. That’s what I can control.”

Zach Short, who filled in at second base prior to the break, was designated for assignment to make room for Semien. Meanwhile, shortstop Bo Bichette returned to the lineup despite dealing with some right ankle soreness.

On Thursday, Bichette was back at third, and Batty took over at second. Green acknowledged, “We definitely could have used his bat in the last series,” referring to the Mets’ recent home sweep by Boston.