Bruce may have seen last of first

WASHINGTON — Jay Bruce is hoping he can shelve his first baseman’s mitt for the remainder of the season.

With Lucas Duda likely nearing a return from the disabled list and T.J. Rivera expected to play first base the entire weekend for the Mets to receive at-bats, Bruce has been told he can plan on playing right field for the foreseeable future.

Bruce has started six games at first base, the most extensive work of his major league career at the position.

“It was something I felt like I held my own at,” Bruce said before the Mets beat the Nationals 7-5 Friday night. “Playing first base is not my preference after playing the outfield my whole career, but it was something the team needed at the time.

“I kind of took it head on, the best I could. Hopefully, I don’t have to go back over there, because everybody is healthy, but if I do I will be ready.”

Rivera finished 2-for-4 and reached base three times to help spark the Mets.

“He’s going to get some playing time right now,” manager Terry Collins said. “If he starts swinging the bat, that’s a nice factor in this lineup.”

Duda, who was placed on the disabled list last week with a hyperextended left elbow, played in a minor league rehab game for Single-A St. Lucie. Wilmer Flores (knee infection) has started baseball activities, according to Collins, but is further from a return than is Duda.

The Mets made their annual visit to Walter Reed Medical Center, where they spent time with wounded military members and their families.

Sean Gilmartin was recalled from Las Vegas to give the Mets an extra arm in the bullpen after Yoenis Cespedes was placed on the disabled list.