Rickey Henderson was scratched from the starting lineup for yesterday’s victory over the Expos with a tender hamstring. Bobby Valentine says it’s “not a big problem.” Because of the play of backup Roger Cedeno, it really isn’t.
Cedeno, the other player acquired in the three-team trade involving Todd Hundley, is also paying dividends. While Armando Benitez wowed Shea Stadium with another BB session in the eighth inning, running his season scoreless streak to 62/3, Cedeno quietly had three hits in four at-bats filling in for Henderson.
Cedeno ripped a double in the fifth and scored the winning run after some textbook offense. “We didn’t get him because we thought he was a stiff,” Valentine said. “We thought he had a lot of talent.”
Cedeno also started Friday and had two hits. He’s batting .368 (7-19) on the year with two doubles and two RBI. “The key is always being ready,” he said. “When they give me an opportunity [to start], I must jump on it. I just want to contribute anyway I can.”
With the club being careful with Henderson, Cedeno will likely play today in the series finale with the Expos. Henderson, who sustained the mild injury while running out a pinch-hit single on Friday, will probably use today and tomorrow’s off day to rest it.
“It’s just a knot,” Valentine said. “If he feels anything [this morning], we’ll keep him out one more day.” *Todd Pratt extended his career-best hitting streak to eight games with a single in the second. He’s batting .321 over the streak … The Mets are off tomorrow before beginning a six-game road trip in Cincinnati and Chicago. Pitching matchups for the Reds series: Orel Hershiser vs. ex-Met Pete Harnisch Tuesday, Masato Yoshii vs. Denny Neagle Wednesday and Al Leiter vs. Bret Tomko Thursday.