Barajas Heading To DL, Hessman Gets Nod Over Turner

The New York Mets have put catcher Rod Barajas on the 15-day disabled list and promoted infielder Mike Hessman from Triple-A.

Barajas had an MRI exam Monday that showed a mild strain on his left side. The move was retroactive to Sunday.

A Mets press release on Mike Hessman reads as follows:

Hessman will join the team in time for their home game against the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday night.

Hessman hit .274 (68-248) with 20 doubles, 18 home runs and 56 RBI in 64 games. The slugger missed 33 games from June 10 – July 19 with a right hand injury. At the time of his injury, Hessman was leading all of baseball with 57 RBI.

Hessman leaves the Bisons with 329 career minor league home runs, most among active players.

The 32-year-old Hessman was a surprise move over the more versatile infielder Justin Turner, but considering the Mets recent lack of punch, they opted for offense over defense.

By the way, the Mets reported that R.A. Dickey has no soreness in his hip area, but will be re-evaluated Tuesday.