Mets put Sanchez on DL, call up phenom SS Reyes

NEW YORK -- The New York Mets called up prized shortstop Jose Reyes from the minors Tuesday to replace Rey Sanchez while he recovers from a strained left thumb.

The Mets bought Reyes' contract from Norfolk of the International League. Sanchez was placed on the disabled list, retroactive to June 6.

Reyes, who will be 20 on Wednesday, was batting .269 and leading the IL with 26 steals in 31 attempts. Sanchez was batting .225 and had been on the DL from May 10-27 because of his thumb.

General manager Steve Phillips expects Reyes to have a short stay with the Mets.

"With Rey going on the disabled list, we thought this would be the perfect opportunity for Jose to get his first big league experience," he said. "We expect Jose to go back to Norfolk when Rey returns."

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