SAN FRANCISCO -- Terry Collins said on his weekly radio show that it was likely R.A. Dickey would begin pitching on short rest once the Mets return home next week. That would afford extra rest for Johan Santana and Chris Young between starts. Each is returning from surgery to a repair torn anterior capsule in his pitching shoulder and has slowed of late.

Collins added that Jason Bay, who sat out Tuesday's game with a calf injury, is back in Wednesday's lineup against Matt Cain. Andres Torres (right thumb) remains out. The manager cited Bay's solid career numbers against Cain -- 4-for-10 with three walks.

Confirming what has been previously reported, Collins said Frank Francisco is expected to join the Mets in San Diego this weekend, after pitching for a second straight day with Double-A Binghamton on Wednesday night.