Some choice cuts from Jerry Manuel‘s news conference before tonight’s game with the Cubs at Shea Stadium, including late news on John Maine and Brian Schneider: — Brian Schneider was a late scratch due to back stiffness. Robinson Cancel will catch for the Mets instead.

— Ramon Martinez will start at second base tonight over Luis Castillo and Argenis Reyes. Manuel said the decision was based largely on Martinez’s performance Wednesday night (1-for-2 with a double and an RBI).

— Along those lines, Damion Easley told Manuel he feels strong enough to pinch-hit tonight without the aid of a pinch-runner and then play in the field with no limitations on Friday.

— Manuel still hasn’t decided on a starter for Saturday’s game against the Marlins. Assuming there aren’t rainouts tonight or Friday, Manuel is likely to start Brandon Knight or Nelson Figueroa over Jon Niese.

— Despite activating John Maine on Wednesday, Manuel said he will be reluctant to use him at all out of the bullpen the rest of the way because Manuel doesn’t want to risk further injury to Maine’s shoulder.

— Ryan Church is staying in the lineup, despite hovering around .200 since coming back from the concussions last month.

— Closer Luis Ayala is probably unavailable tonight after pitching in the past three games.