Mets’ Cano says he’ll be cautious coming off IL

NEW YORK — Mets second baseman Robinson Cano plans to be cautious as he plays his first games since straining his left quadriceps May 22.

Cano was activated from the injured list Wednesday prior to New York’s game against the San Francisco Giants. He was set to bat third and play second, but said he’ll be careful about pushing his leg too hard.

“I have to for the first couple of games,” he said.

Acquired last offseason from Seattle, Cano is hitting .241 with three homers and 13 RBIs for New York. He has been criticized for failing to hustle on a few groundball outs this season, then was injured running hard on a groundout.

Cano ran the bases and did other exercises Monday and Tuesday and was cleared after waking up feeling well Wednesday.

“I hate to be watching from the sideline,” Cano said. “I’m looking forward to going back today.”

Outfielder Aaron Altherr was designated for assignment to open a roster spot.

YANKEES BETANCES THROWS SIMULATED GAME

TAMPA, Fla. — New York Yankees reliever Dellin Betances faced hitters for the first time in almost three months, throwing 20 pitches to minor leaguers in a simulated game Wednesday.

Betances has not pitched in a game since March 17, his fourth and final spring training appearance, because of a right shoulder impingement

“It felt good,” Betances said. “Nice to face hitters. It's been a while. Nice to be out there again and not feel what I was feeling last time. I think that's a positive.”

Betances expects to throw a bullpen session in a couple of days and then face hitters again.

Slugger Giancarlo Stanton, sidelined since March 31, progressed to an extended spring training intrasquad game and went 1 for 5. Stanton didn't run out of the batters' box in any of his at-bats. He had nine plate appearances in a simulated game Tuesday

Stanton originally strained his left biceps, then his left shoulder. He played in one game for Class A Tampa on May 20, then was told to rest because of left calf tightness.