Jordany Valdespin appears headed back to the Mets, team sources told ESPNNewYork.com.

Valdespin followed a four-steal game Monday with a homer and two RBIs in Triple-A Buffalo's 5-4 win against Durham on Tuesday.

It was not immediately clear what roster spot Valdespin might claim, assuming he is activated for Wednesday's game against the Phillies.

Kirk Nieuwenhuis was scratched Tuesday with a bruised right hand, which he suffered during batting practice. Because Nieuwenhuis has not appeared in a game since Saturday, and with a four-day All-Star break coming up, Nieuwenhuis would only miss eight additional games if he were placed on the DL. And the Mets do see a bevy of left-handers to close the first half, beginning with Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels the next two games, followed by Cubs southpaw Travis Wood on Friday -- games Nieuwenhuis would be less likely to start anyway.

Alternatively, given the length starting pitchers have been going, it is not unreasonable for the Mets to shed a reliever, either, for the remainder of the half.