Céspedes set to DH for Mets; Braves add Chacín

Yoenis Céspedes expects to be the designated hitter for the New York Mets on Friday when they open the season against the Atlanta Braves.

It will be his first major league game in more than two years. Injuries to his feet and legs have sidelined him since July 20, 2018.

Céspedes said he’s feeling good and is confident that he’ll also play left field at some point this season. But he told reporters through a translator Tuesday that “at least for the first game, for opening day, I’ll be the DH.”

The 34-year-old slugger, an All-star in 2014 and 2016, had surgery on both heels and then broke his right ankle in a nasty fall at his Florida ranch. Now he’s healthy and eager to help the Mets.

“I think the strongest part of me is my mind, is my mentality,” Céspedes said. “I think whether it’s a

good day or a bad day, my mentality has always been strong. I’ll be ready to play once the time comes.”

BRAVES ADD VETERAN

The Atlanta Braves signed right-hander Jhoulys Chacín, who pitched for Milwaukee and Boston in 2019, to a one-year contract.

Chacín was 1-2 with a 5.40 ERA in five games with Atlanta in 2016 after signing a minor league contract with the team. Chacín was released by Minnesota on Sunday.

The 32-year-old Chacín could provide depth as lefthander Cole Hamels recovers from left triceps tendinitis. Hamels won’t be ready for Friday’s season opener at the Mets.

Chacín was a combined 3-12 with a 6.01 ERA with the Brewers and Red Sox last season. For his career, he has a 77-87 record and 4.03 ERA.

IN THE BOOTH

Astros television play-byplay announcer Todd Kalas will miss the start of the season after testing positive for the coronavirus. Kalas is asymptomatic but is quarantining as part of MLB’S health and safety protocols.

Kevin Eschenfelder will fill in for Kalas until he can return.

The Braves are also without one of their announcers after former Atlanta outfielder Jeff Francoeur also tested positive for the virus. Francoeur said on Twitter he is asymptomatic.

Francoeur’s 12-year career as a player from 200516 included five seasons with the Braves.

AP - Alex Brandon, file Veteran starter Jhoulys Chacín, who pitched briefly for the Braves in 2016, was re-signed Tuesday as the team looks for depth with Cole Hamels injured.