--Manager Jerry Manuel assigned Fernando Tatis to left field and Gary Sheffield to right field on Friday, when the Mets opposed a left-handed starter for the first time this season (Washington's Scott Olsen). Manuel reasoned that Sheffield is a better thrower, with Tatis' arm strength having not fully returned since separating his shoulder last Sept. 16. Tatis bypassed surgery in order to play in winter ball and be ready for spring training.
--ABC television's "Ugly Betty" filmed scenes for its May 21 season finale at Citi Field before Friday's Mets-Nationals game. One scene included character Daniel (actor Eric Mabius) doing several takes of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch to Mets catching instructor and former big leaguer Sandy Alomar Jr. --The Padres filed a complaint with Major League Baseball over the visitors' bullpen at Citi Field, the Mets' new home, the New York Daily News reported. A Mets official acknowledged the view of the field is obstructed by the home bullpen and several fences and suggested the organization is working with Major League Baseball to remedy the issue.
--Several Mets could be back in St. Louis for the July 14 All-Star Game. At least, Major League Baseball seems to think so. LHP Johan Santana teamed with RH closer Francisco Rodriguez to film one promo. SS Jose Reyes and 3B David Wright teamed for another.
BY THE NUMBERS: 500 -- Home runs hit by Gary Sheffield in his career, after his pinch-hit homer off Milwaukee's Mitch Stetter in the seventh inning April 17. Sheffield became the 25th member of the 500-homer club.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "Everything happens for a reason. There was a reason I hit 19 home runs instead of 20 last year. I could have did it then. There was a reason for me getting released and coming here and doing it on the biggest stage." -- Gary Sheffield, on his 500th career homer coming on his first longball as a Met.
