Jay Bruce

Jay Bruce (back) returns to Mets' lineup on Thursday

New York Mets outfielder Jay Bruce (back) is in the starting lineup on Thursday night against the San Diego Padres.

What It Means:

Bruce left Tuesday's game early with back stiffness and missed Wednesday's game as well. The Mets were likely playing it safe as the outfielder is back out there on Thursday, batting third and playing right field.

Bruce owns a .844 OPS with 11 home runs, 30 RBI's, and 25 runs scored in 181 plate appearances this season.