The New York Mets will welcome back a familiar face on Monday as they continue to expand their lead in the National League East.
Longtime third baseman David Wright, who has been out of action since April with spinal stenosis, will return to play against the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday.
"It almost feels like Opening Day," Wright told reporters. "You have some butterflies, kind of nervous excitement."
New York activated the face of its franchise from the 60-day disabled list on Monday.
Wright will hit fourth in a now potent Mets lineup, that has dished out 33 runs in their last three games.
"It almost feels like you've never left," Wright said. "It's great to be back. There was a lot of hard work. There was a lot of time that people put into me to get to this point."
In a corresponding move, the Mets placed left-hander Jack Leathersich on the 60-day DL.
The seven-time All-Star hit .321 with five walks and six strikeouts during his recent rehab assignment and should get regular days off to ease him back into the lineup smoothly, according to manager Terry Collins.
Prior to his long-term injury, Wright hit .333/.371/.424 with one home run and four RBIs in 35 plate appearances.
