Robinson Cano was shielded from the wrath of Mets fans Monday night.
The reason the veteran second baseman took a seat on the bench for the series opener against the Nationals at Citi Field was three-pronged, according to manager Mickey Callaway, including his not running out a double play twice in the last three games. The Mets were also facing lefty Patrick Corbin — Cano has struggled against southpaws — and he “needed a day off,” Callaway said, with the club playing 20 games in 20 days.
Callaway disclosed he and bench coach Jim Riggleman notified Cano of the decision Sunday night.