DENVER - The Mets placed Lucas Duda on the disabled list Saturday for what they hope will be only a 15-day stay to relieve his recurring back stiffness. The team may not know for sure, however, until Duda's scheduled visit Monday with Los Angeles-based back specialist Dr. Robert Watkins, who recently has treated David Wright's spinal stenosis.
Assistant GM John Ricco said the Mets and Duda want to take advantage of the team's current proximity to Watkins to have the first baseman stop by before returning east to begin his rehab. Duda missed six games earlier this month with the same condition, then played only three -- and had to leave Friday's 14-9 win in the seventh inning due to the discomfort.