The Mets relented, finally did the right thing and sent Zack Wheeler for a MRI on his tender right elbow.
Wheeler was scratched from Saturday’s start and instead went for the MRI. The results were not immediately announced, but should be released by Sunday.
Wheeler underwent two MRI exams in the offseason, which is why the club said GM Sandy Alderson initially indicated there would be no pictures.
“We’ll see how the results are,’’ manager Terry Collins told reporters. “He had two this winter. They were clean as heck, so we don’t expect any damage. A little rest won’t hurt.’’
The rest also allowed Wheeler extra time for blister on his right index finger to heal.
The team hasn’t said when Wheeler will pitch next.
DUDA RETURNS: First baseman Lucas Duda, who hadn’t played because of a strained left intercostal muscle, returned to the lineup and went 1-for-4 in Saturday’s 13-4 rout of Washington.
“I felt good,” Duda told reporters. “The timing is a little bit off. But, for the most part, my body feels great and I’m happy with what happened.’’
Duda is expected to start Sunday against Tampa Bay, and have Monday off.
METS ROUT NATS: David Wright hit a three-run homer – his first since last July – and Michael Cuddyer and John Mayberry Jr., also homered to lead the Mets.
The Mets have scored 37 runs in their last three games.
EXTRA INNINGS: The MRI on Vic Black’s right shoulder was negative. There is weakness but no structural damage. … Prospect Tyler Pill, who started in place of Wheeler, threw 2.1 scoreless innings. … The Mets travel to Port Charlotte Sunday to play Tampa Bay, with Bartolo Colon starting. They will stay over on the Gulf side of the state and play Boston in Fort Myers on Monday, with Matt Harvey starting.