Ian Desmond (back) is in the lineup for Thursday's game against the Mets.

Desmond (back) is in the lineup for Thursday's game against the Mets.

Analysis:

As expected, Desmond will return for the opener against the Mets after missing the finale against Atlanta with a lower-back issue. The 28-year-old Desmond is 4-for-9 with two homers in his career against Thursday's starter Bartolo Colon.