Alvarez started at catcher in the seventh spot in the order. McNeil hit behind him and started at second base.

The Mets activated Jeff McNeil, who hasn't played this season because of a right oblique strain, from the injured list Thursday night.

The Mets used Jeff McNeil in center field Saturday against the Washington Nationals, marking the fourth time the second baseman has played at that spot in the major leagues (three starts). Often used as an outfielder, McNeil typically plays in one of the corner spots, but he has long been asking the Mets for an opportunity to play center.