Mets' Rice to have season-ending surgery

New York Mets left-hander Scott Rice, who leads the majors with 73 appearances, will have sports hernia surgery and miss the remainder of the season.

The 31-year-old Rice finally reached the majors this season after spending 14 years in the minor leagues. He's 4-5 with a 3.71 ERA and has held left-handed batters to a .174 average with one home run in 121 at-bats. In 51 innings, Rice has allowed 42 hits, struck out 41 and walked 27.

Rice is expected to have surgery next week. Manager Terry Collins says the pitcher has been dealing with the injury for several weeks and getting daily treatment. Collins indicated Rice would be in the team's plans for next season.