The Mets put infielder Jose Reyes on the 15-day disabled list Saturday because of a strain in his left ribcage and filled the roster spot by signing free agent outfielder Justin Ruggiano.
Ruggiano was in Triple-A when he was released by the Texas organization on Tuesday. Several hours after catching a flight to New York, he was in the starting lineup in center field Saturday night against Colorado.
"Here I am," the Mets newcomer said.
Reyes hurt himself taking a swing during the first game of a doubleheader Tuesday. The third baseman had missed four straight games since the injury.
"Disappointing," Reyes said. "I want to be on the field, I want to play."
The 33-year-old Reyes was hitting .239 with three home runs, eight RBIs and three stolen bases in 16 games for the Mets. He signed a minor league contract last month after being cut by Colorado.
