NEW YORK -- Once considered a minor bout of back stiffness, Lucas Duda's injury has lingered for the better part of a week. On Friday, Duda downgraded his diagnosis from a stiff back to a lumbar strain, while continuing to express hope that he can return to the Mets' lineup soon.
Manager Terry Collins also said that Duda, who sat out his fourth consecutive game on Friday, could return as soon as Saturday against the Pirates. But the Mets are facing a left-handed pitcher on Sunday and have an off day on Monday, so if their first baseman is not fit enough to play by then, the club will likely hold him out until Tuesday's series opener in Baltimore.