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As the Mets await Mark Vientos’ return from a hamstring strain, they decided not to wait to get Luisangel Acuña more playing time. 

While Vientos was eligible to return from a right hamstring strain, manager Carlos Mendoza said before Monday’s 3-2 loss to the Braves that the third baseman would likely play at least two more games with Triple-A Syracuse, on Tuesday and Wednesday, before a potential call-up later in the week. 

Vientos is 2-for-17 with a double in four minor league rehab games. 

Acuña had been expected to be among the young players considered to be optioned back to Syracuse whenever Vientos got back. 

Instead, he was sent down following Sunday’s game in Philadelphia. He was replaced on the roster Monday by veteran Travis Jankowski. 

Mendoza explained the organization wants Acuña to get more playing time, since it’s largely dried up in Queens. 

Although Acuña started at second base in Sunday’s loss to the Phillies, but it was the first in a week for the 23-year-old. 

Mendoza noted Jankowski could serve as a pinch-runner if necessary. And the Mets still have Ronny Mauricio and Brett Baty as infield options. 

“I feel like, at this point, we need to get him going and get him some everyday at-bats,” Mendoza said of Acuña, whose playing time decreased as the season progressed. 

“He had a really good April, when he was getting consistent playing time,” Mendoza said. “He helped us win a lot of baseball games and then it was a combination of some other guys producing. He became a role guy.” 

Left-handed reliever Richard Lovelady was signed to a major league contract and activated.

Lovelady, who opted out from his minor league deal with the Twins, gives the Mets a second lefty in the bullpen, joining José Castillo. 

Mendoza was asked about the Braves’ dominance of the Mets: Atlanta is now 27-10 against the Mets dating to 2022. That included a three-game sweep by the Braves last week at Truist Park. 

“They’re good, but we also clinched a playoff spot at their place last year,” Mendoza said. “They are good and we are good. They have dealt with a lot of injuries, but they have got a lot of star power there, too. We have got four games at home and have to take care of business.” 

The Mets are taking steps to ensure their players are ready to deal with the high temperatures this week. Players had a later report time on Monday and shorter rounds of batting practice were planned. Mendoza was also preaching hydration.