PHILADELPHIA — Pitcher Mike Pelfrey started Friday as scheduled against the Phillies, despite battling sickness for over a week.
Catcher Ronny Paulino joined the Mets after being activated from the 15-day disabled list, but didn’t start.
Since signing with the Mets, Paulino has finished a 50-game suspension for testing positive for PEDs last year, battled anemia then an oblique injury.
He will replace Mike Nickeas, who was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo.
Paulino hit .190 (8-for-42) with two doubles and four RBI in 12 major-league rehab games before being recalled. The 30-year-old is expected to play against most lefties.
He could make his debut with the team filling in behind the plate for Josh Thole either Saturday, in a day game after a night game, or Sunday against lefty Cliff Lee.
Here’s the Mets’ lineup Friday at Citizens Bank Park:
Reyes SS
Murphy 2B
Wright 3B
Beltran RF
Bay LF
Davis 1B
Thole C
Pridie CF
Pelfrey P
