if it is a really expensive battery that goes to a really expensive gadget, then I would use a LOT of caution if you do decide to use the battery. I once accidentally put 4 double A batteries in my brother's new christmas Robot backwards, and the robot fried and we couldn't return it. I would just say, If they look messed up/ are easily replaceable/ are alkaline batteries, I would be safe rather than sorry and just toss them.
OH, sorry to ramble, but if the water was hot water, then I would say that they are not messed up.