Mets tab Kelly Johnson as DH for Game 1 of World Series

Kelly Johnson hasn't made much of a contribution to the New York Mets this postseason, but he'll get a prime opportunity to rectify that in Game 1 of the World Series.

Manager Terry Collins announced on Monday that Johnson will serve as the Mets' designated hitter for Game 1 of the World Series in Kansas City on Tuesday.

Johnson has one hit in six pinch-hitting at-bats this postseason, but has yet to start a playoff game.

"I think the adrenaline of this World Series is going to be enough," Johnson said. "I'll obviously be able to have an at-bat to build on to the next one, rather than just to pinch-hit where you have to just throw it away. We'll see what happens. The game will play out, whether there's guys on when I come up or a situation to be had, I'll be ready."

The 33-year-old utility man hit .250/.304/.414 with five home runs and 13 RBI in 49 regular-season games after being acquired by the Mets in late July.

Collins wouldn't commit to penciling in Johnson at DH beyond Game 1, and explained that the Royals' decision to throw Edinson Volquez in lieu of Johnny Cueto in Game 1 was a major factor in his decision.

"We looked at all the possibilities," Collins said. "And if Cueto was starting, we were looking at perhaps somebody else, because his numbers against lefties are pretty good. We thought tomorrow night that Kelly gave us our best opportunity and if we need to make changes, we will."