Mets' Wright could begin some baseball activities next week

When New York Mets general manager Terry Collins spoke with David Wright earlier this week, the beleaguered third baseman - hampered by spinal stenosis - was the most upbeat he's been "in a long time."

Wright, after all, continues to make progress in his recovery, and could be cleared this weekend to begin running and fielding grounders sometime next week, according to Mike Puma of the New York Post.

Confined to the disabled list since April 15, the 32-year-old may be able to return to the lineup shortly after next month's All-Star break should he receive clearance to resume baseball activities next week.

Wright, who was diagnosed after first suffering a hamstring strain during the nascent stages of the season, has spent the last month undergoing physical therapy with noted back specialist Dr. Robert Watkins.

Before landing on the disabled list, Wright hit .333/.371/.424 with one home run and a pair of stolen bases in eight games.