Gary Sheffield is not the Mets’ lineup again tonight, and the 40-year-old slugger is trying valiantly to avoid a trip to the disabled list despite what he described as an inflamed bursa sac in his right knee. Sheffield has not started since last Sunday against the Rays and will not be allowed to make another start by Jerry Manuel until at least Friday against the Yankees when the Subway Series moves to Citi Field.

Sheffield received a cortisone shot today and said he is confident he can stay off the DL, although the Mets’ recent history with their other stars isn’t promising in that regard.

The club began the night with nine players on the DL, and Sheffield admitted he is also bothered by a hamstring problem similar to what has sidelined Jose Reyes indefinitely.