PHOENIX (AP) -New York Mets outfielder Moises Alou was in the lineup for the first time this season, batting fifth and playing left field Friday night against Arizona.
Alou was placed on the disabled list March 23 following hernia surgery. The 41-year-old appeared to suffer a setback late last week when his right ankle swelled, but an MRI exam conducted Tuesday indicated only a bruise.
Alou hit .341 last year for New York, but missed much of the season because of injuries.
To make room for Alou, the Mets optioned catcher Gustavo Molina to Triple-A New Orleans. Molina, whose contract had been selected April 24 by New York, was 1-for-7 in two games.