Church Makes His Return for the Mets

Outfielder Ryan Church returned from the disabled list yesterday and was put right into the Mets' starting lineup against the Yankees.

Church had not played since June 6 because of the effects of his second concussion this year. He was activated from the disabled list and recently acquired outfielder Trot Nixon went on the 15-day DL with a strained groin.

Church batted sixth and played right field against the Yankees, going 2 for 4 to raise his batting average to .304. Over the last month, he had been slowed by dizziness, had trouble with bright light and felt uncomfortable on team flights.

Obtained from the Nationals in an offseason trade, Church had been among New York's best players before his injury, with 10 home runs and 35 RBI.

Church was hurt in a spring training collision with teammate Marlon Anderson. Then on May 20 at Atlanta, he was accidentally kneed in the head by Braves SS Yunel Escobar while trying to break up a double play.

Church pinch hit on May 22, but did not start again until June 1. Still not feeling 100 percent, he went 0 for 4 with three strikeouts on June 6 at San Diego.

After that game, the Mets put him on the DL with post-concussion syndrome.

· BREWER ACTIVATED: Milwaukee activated RHP Eric Gagné from the 15-day disabled list, but Manager Ned Yost wasn't ready to give him back his closer's role.

With Salomón Torres12 for 12 in save opportunities since taking over as closer, Gagné is likely headed for a setup spot after missing more than a month because of rotator cuff tendinitis.

Gagné, who signed a one-year contract for $10 million, is 1-2 with a 6.98 ERA. He has 10 saves, and five blown save chances.

-- From News Services