Jose plays OF in ugly Mets loss

CINCINNATI — Jose Reyes is still game enough to try something new.

Since returning to the Mets last year, that has included learning to play third and second base. And Tuesday he took an even more radical step, starting in left field for the first time in his major league career.

Reyes played into the sixth inning in left field in the Mets’ 14-4 loss to the Reds and endured a growing pain, misplaying Billy Hamilton’s fly ball in the second that went for a double. Reyes started in on the ball and watched it sail over his head.

“My mistake was my first step was coming in,” Reyes said. “Other than that, everything was good on that play. But that play is even difficult for a regular left fielder. Next time I have a better idea what I can do better.”

With Reyes headed to free agency after this season — he still could be an option for the Mets — the ability to play outfield would likely be beneficial to his job prospects.

“I feel like a lot of teams this year, they have used a lot of versatility players who can play a lot of positions,” Reyes said. “That is going to be a plus for me, if I can do a very good job in the outfield. I don’t know how it’s going to be, but I am still a very good athlete. I feel like I can play the position, so we will see what happens.”

Chris Flexen surrendered a grand slam to Scott Schebler in the first inning to sink the Mets. The righthander lasted 4 2/3 innings and allowed seven earned runs on seven hits and four walks. Flexen gestured in disgust after Reyes’ misplay, but said he later apologized to Reyes.

“You don’t want to do it to your teammates, no matter who it is and especially a guy like that,” Flexen said.

Catcher Kevin Plawecki was summoned for his second relief appearance of the season and pitched a scoreless eighth, allowing one hit.

Michael Conforto received a second opinion on his left shoulder, but the Mets did not provide any information on his situation. Conforto, who has been diagnosed with a separated shoulder and tear in the posterior capsule, could be facing surgery and a potential lengthy rehab.

The Mets are operating under the assumption they will be facing the Astros at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Fla., this weekend, but are awaiting official conformation from MLB.