STRIKE JUAN
Hurting Uribe could miss start of playoffs
CINCINNATI — Juan Uribe’s aggravated chest injury could affect his postseason roster status with the Mets.
The veteran infielder was “hurting” on Saturday, according to manager Terry Collins, and there is concern his injury will extend beyond the regular season.
“He’s not going to be available certainly on this trip,” Collins said before the Mets faced the Reds. “Reports from the doctor [Friday] night weren’t all that favorable.”
Uribe, who suffered a chest contusion diving for a ball last weekend, was removed from his pinchhitting appearance on Friday because of discomfort.
The Mets not only value Uribe’s bat off the bench, but his leadership — he’s played for two World Serieswinning teams.
“Not only did he come here to help us offensively, but he brought a presence in the clubhouse of a guy who knows how to win,” Collins said. “Him not being available, we’re going to make sure he stays around, because his influence is going to be huge.”
Bartolo Colon and/or Jon Niese could be skipped in the rotation this week to acclimate in the bullpen for potential postseason roles, according to Collins.
“I haven’t talked to them yet, but there is a possibility we might alter some things,” Collins said.
Collins isn’t concerned about resting players once the Mets clinch and expects the Mets make a push toward home field in the NLDS, presumably against the Dodgers.
“We’ll move forward and make sure guys stay healthy, but they’ve got to play,” Collins said. “You’ve got to keep them in a groove and keep them ready, so we’ll just pick our spots and our focus will then be on home field advantage, there is no doubt.”
Matt Harvey will make another start before the regular season concludes, according to Collins. That last start likely will push Harvey’s innings count into the 185 range.