The Mets activated second baseman Marcus Semien from the injured list on Thursday ahead of their series opener against the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. Semien was not in the starting lineup and instead rode the bench during the first game back from the All-Star break. He is expected to return to the lineup on Saturday.
Interim manager Andy Green explained the decision to hold Semien out of the starting lineup. The team wanted him to complete an intensive workout on Thursday before facing left-hander Jesús Luzardo. Green said Semien will figure prominently into the mix going forward.
Semien had batted .214/.271/.341 in 80 games this season before straining his left hip flexor in late June. He returned in just over three weeks despite initial estimates of four to six weeks. "When we looked at the MRI, it looked scary," Semien said. He credited quick recovery and the team's physical therapists for the fast return.
To make room on the roster the Mets designated infielder Zack Short for assignment. With Semien back the team now has its full Opening Day lineup healthy again including Francisco Lindor at shortstop and Bo Bichette at third base.