Mets' Piazza has a severe groin injury, will go on disabled list

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- New York Mets catcher Mike Piazza has a severe right groin strain and will spend a "significant" amount of time on the disabled list.
An MRI performed Saturday revealed the severity of the injury. Piazza hurt himself Friday while trying to avoid an inside pitch from San Francisco's Jason Schmidt.
Piazza will be reevaluated by doctors in New York on Monday or Tuesday. Saturday's exam was performed by Giants team doctor Gary Fanton.
"He feels there's no need for surgery," Duquette said. "It's not completely torn."
Piazza said he originally injured the groin during the Mets series against the Montreal Expos in Puerto Rico, April 11-14.
Piazza was placed on the 15-day disabled list. He joins seven teammates on the DL. Shortstop Rey Sanchez went on the list Wednesday with a sprained left thumb.
Jason Phillips was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk to replace Piazza, and was in the starting lineup at first base. Vance Wilson started at catcher.
Phillips, who was on the Mets opening day roster, hit .360 with four home runs and 20 RBI with the Tides.
Piazza jumped out of the way of a 1-2 pitch, then fell to the ground. He needed help walking off the field from Howe and Mets trainer Scott Lawrenson.