Jason Bay back in the lineup for the first time since concussion

There are lineup cards being tweeted left and right this morning, but one of the more overlooked names is Jason Bay. As noted by Adam Rubin of ESPN New York, Bay is in the Mets’ lineup today for the first time since suffering a concussion last July in Los Angeles.

We haven’t heard as much about Bay as his friend and fellow countryman Justin Morneau this offseason, but that’s because the 32-year-old outfielder has actually felt symptom-free for a while now.

“I don’t feel any different,” Bay said. “I really haven’t thought any differently. It’s just another game. I’ve felt good for a while. Spring training has been normal. I kind of expect the first game to feel normal, too.”

Signed to a four-year, $66 million contract last January, Bay struggled miserably in his first season with the Mets, batting just .259/.347/.402 with six home runs, 47 RBI and a .749 OPS over 401 plate appearances. The Mets probably won’t contend this season, but rebound seasons from players like Bay and Carlos Beltran could at least give them one of the more potent offenses in the National League.