LOS ANGELES — Wilmer Flores’ big chance of making an impression on the Mets might have hit a glitch: a potential disabled list stint.
The rookie infielder was absent from last night’s starting lineup against the Dodgers, after twisting his right ankle running the bases on Monday. Manager Terry Collins said Flores will be reevaluated today, and the DL can’t be ruled out.
“He’s pretty stiff,” Collins said before the Mets’ 4-2 loss. “In this world we live in, there’s always the possibility he can be on the DL, but we certainly won’t know anything for a day or so.”
Flores twisted the ankle in the first inning on Monday, but remained in the game after receiving a visit from Collins and trainer Ray Ramirez. Between innings, Flores had the ankle taped, and he later made a diving play at third base to rob Mark Ellis of a hit.
“I think the fact he had it taped up might have kept it a little bit intact,” Collins said. “But after the game he was very uncomfortable and [yesterday] he was even worse.”
Collins said he was hoping to have Flores as a pinch-hitting option, but he didn’t play. Flores has nine RBIs in seven games since being called up from Triple-A Las Vegas.
Justin Turner started at third. He went 1-for-4 and was robbed of a hit in the ninth.
Flores has been replacing David Wright, on the DL with a strained right hamstring.
Collins said he will start Josh Satin at third base tonight. Ike Davis is expected to play first base, getting his first start against a lefty pitcher since his recall from Triple-A Las Vegas on July 5.
* Jeremy Hefner is scheduled to undergo further evaluation today in New York.
The righty, who has battled elbow discomfort, was examined by doctors on Monday at the Hospital for Special Surgery and told to return today.
Hefner either will be placed on the DL or head to Las Vegas, pending the diagnosis.
* Travis d’Arnaud entered last night’s play 16-for-49 (.327) with two homers and 11 RBIs in 16 games since returning to Las Vegas.
The top catching prospect is still expected to join the Mets for three days, once John Buck is placed on paternity leave. Buck and his wife, Brooke, are awaiting the birth of their third child.