Duda diagnosed with stress fracture in lower back

The New York Mets will be without Lucas Duda after the club announced the first baseman has a stress fracture in his lower back.

Duda was placed on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 21.

Although there isn't an exact timetable for his return, the injury is expected to keep the slugger out of the lineup for a stretch of at least 4-6 weeks.

"It'll probably be a long period before he can return," manager Terry Collins told reporters.

Duda's injury was the same one teammate David Wright - who has a history of back injuries, including spinal stenosis - had a few years ago.

In Duda's absence, Eric Campbell will get playing time at first base, although the team is discussing other options including Michael Conforto, Wilmer Flores - when he returns from injury - and Ty Kelly, who was called up to take Duda's spot on the roster.

One player who will not be considered is Wright, who told Collins he would be able to handle a shift to first base if the team needed it.

"Whatever the team needs. I'm willing to try it," Wright said.

Prior to his injury, the 30-year-old Duda was hitting .231/.297/.431 with seven home runs and 19 RBIs.

He owns a career slash line of .247/.343/.451 with 108 home runs and 337 RBIs across seven big-league seasons, all with the Mets.