Alex Cora gets thumbed from lineup

WASHINGTON - Alex Cora's right thumb, which is expected to require surgery after the season to repair a torn ligament, kept him out of the lineup for Wednesday night's series finale against the Nationals.

Cora tweaked the thumb Tuesday while bracing himself as a throw from Jeff Francoeur came in from right field, Jerry Manuel said. The manager indicated that he saw Cora wince while swinging during his final at-bat in that game.

Angel Berroa made his first start as a Met last night, replacing Cora at shortstop. He went 0-for-3. Former Rockie Cory Sullivan also started for the first time with his new team, in left field, and went 0-for-4.

Cora has started 42 games at shortstop this season, seven more than Jose Reyes, and has begun to wilt in the everyday role while dealing with the hand issue. He's hitting .211 in 35 games since June 11.



(nydailyneww.com)