Beltran decides against surgery

NEW YORK (AP) — Carlos Beltran decided Tuesday he would not have surgery to repair a minimally displaced facial fracture he got last week in a violent outfield collision with New York Mets teammate Mike Cameron.

Instead, Beltran will try to play and the Mets will attempt to design some protection, perhaps a mask, for the injury.

''The doctors gave me options,'' he said. ''I decided not to have the surgery. I want to be out there. I feel good. Nothing bothers me right now.''

Beltran planned on going through a full workout before Tuesday night's game against Pittsburgh and if he feels no ill effects, he could return to action later this week.

''I just feel that I feel good,'' Beltran said. ''I want to play. I don't feel scared.''