MLB sets COVID makeup dates for Mets-Nats METS NOTES
PHILADELPHIA — June just got busier for the Mets.
MLB announced Wednesday that two of the three games postponed in the scheduled season-opening series between the Mets and Nationals in Washington have been rescheduled for June. The other has been rescheduled for September.
The initial series was postponed after Nationals players tested positive for COVID-19 heading into the scheduled opener on April 1.
A split doubleheader has been scheduled for June 19 — during the Mets’ next trip to Washington — to make up one game. The Mets will then return to Nationals Park on June 28, which was a mutual off-day for the teams, to play another makeup. The Mets are home the previous day against the Phillies before starting a series in Atlanta on June 29.
The final makeup is set as part of a split doubleheader on Sept. 4, during the Mets’ final scheduled trip to Washington this season.
➤ Follow-up X-rays on J.D. Davis’ left hand were negative. Davis departed the previous night’s game with what was initially diagnosed as a contusion, after he was hit by a pitch (initial X-rays were negative). The Mets wanted him to receive further testing to ensure nothing was missed.
Luis Guillorme (2-for-3) started at third base in Davis’ spot during the Mets’ 8-2 loss to the Phillies on Wednesday.
➤ Jonathan Villar (3-for-5) started at second base as part of a plan to keep the veteran infielder involved. Jeff McNeil was on the bench as a result.
“There’s depth on this team,” manager Luis Rojas said. “Guys can come in and start a game and help us win.”
Rojas said he preferred Guillorme at third base over Villar because of Guillorme’s experience at the position. He noted the fact the Phillies are a predominantly right-handed lineup.
Villar saw action at third base in spring training, but hasn’t played the position in the regular season since 2015.
➤ Rojas still has not finalized his starting pitching plans beyond Sunday. Taijuan Walker, Jacob deGrom and Marcus Stroman are the next three scheduled pitchers for the Mets, with Friday an off day following the home opener.