Baseball notebook: Mets drop like flies

The banged-up New York Mets put All-Star shortstop Jose Reyes and outfielder Ryan Church on the disabled list Tuesday, the latest setbacks for a team hobbled all season by injuries.

The Mets also said All-Star center fielder Carlos Beltran would sit out until the weekend because of a bone bruise below his right knee.

To fill the spots, the Mets promoted touted outfielder Fernando Martinez from Triple-A Buffalo and acquired journeyman infielder Wilson Valdez from Cleveland for cash.

“We’ve got to get back to being healthy,” Mets manager Jerry Manuel said.

The Mets are a half-game behind N.L. East-leading Philadelphia. New York has managed to stay close despite a string of injuries – first baseman Carlos Delgado, catcher Brian Schneider, pitcher Oliver Perez and infielder Alex Cora already were on the DL.

The 20-year-old Martinez is considered the jewel of the Mets’ farm system. He went 0 for 3 with an RBI and two strikeouts in his debut.

“When I get a young player, I like to put him in the lineup right away,” Manuel said.

O’s Wieters ready

It’s time for Matt Wieters to take his act to the big leagues.

Wieters, the top prospect in the Orioles’ organization, will be promoted from the minor leagues to Baltimore on Friday, team president Andy MacPhail said.

The 6-foot-5 catcher was batting .285 with five homers and 26 RBIs with Triple-A Norfolk.

Smoltz rehabs

John Smoltz took another step toward returning to the Boston Red Sox.

The 42-year-old tossed 31/3 innings for the Double-A Portland Sea Dogs. He gave up one run and three hits while striking out two and throwing 60 pitches.

Ortiz will bat sixth

David Ortiz has been dropped down three spots in the Red Sox’s batting order as the slumping Boston designated hitter tries to get back on track.

Ortiz will bat No. 6, while J.D. Drew takes over Big Papi’s usual No. 3 spot. Ortiz is hitting .195 on the season with one homer and 18 RBIs.