Jose Reyes has hit zero triples and attempted just one stolen base in 16 games since returning from the disabled list late last month and the Mets shortstop admitted to Adam Rubin of ESPN New York that his injured hamstring is not at full strength:
Earlier in the season it was healthy. It’s not the same now because I just come off of the disabled list. I don’t want to blow out my leg running like crazy out there. If I feel good, I’ll run like crazy. But right now my leg is not where it needs to be. It’s good enough to play, to be on the field. So I give you everything that I have.
Much of Reyes’ value comes from his outstanding speed, as he stole 34 bases and hit a league-leading 16 triples in 98 games before the injury, but it’s tough to fault him for being cautious with the Mets out of the playoff picture and free agency right around the corner. Plus, he’s generally played well since coming off the DL, hitting .308 with a .366 on-base percentage and limited power.