Mark Vientos wasn’t in the Mets lineup on Sunday after tweaking his groin during Saturday’s game against the Cardinals. He made a slick leaping grab before exiting in the fifth inning. Manager Carlos Mendoza said Vientos felt better and might be available off the bench, but they’re taking it day by day.

In his place, Brett Baty got the start at third base. Vientos, 25, hasn’t been lighting it up this season—he’s batting just .167, though he did hit his first two home runs on Thursday and Friday. Last year was a different story, with Vientos putting up strong numbers and setting a Mets playoff record with 14 RBIs.

As for injuries, there’s better news on catcher Francisco Alvarez and second baseman Jeff McNeil. Both are working their way back and will be evaluated at Citi Field on Monday. Alvarez (out since early March after hand surgery) and McNeil (recovering from an oblique strain) are currently playing rehab games in Double-A Binghamton. McNeil even homered for the second straight day.

Mendoza said they’ll likely stay in the minors for a bit longer to keep getting reps, but their returns are getting closer.

Also of note: pitcher Paul Blackburn threw two innings in a rehab outing Saturday and came out feeling good. The Mets start a three-game series against the Phillies on Monday night.

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