The Mets received good news on the pitching front on Tuesday, as Noah Syndergaard took a big step towards a return by throwing off a mound for the first time since his setback from Tommy John surgery.
"I've been looking forward to this day, and he has too," manager Luis Rojas told reporters on Tuesday. "He's been pumped up. He's been working hard and doing everything. So we'll find out how that went."
Syndergaard also threw in the outfield at Citi Field prior to Tuesday night's game against the Braves.
The righty was on his way back from Tommy John surgery, which kept him out of the entire 2020 season, before elbow inflammation in late May led to a six-week shutdown. But throwing off a slope is a significant step towards returning to action, which could come in early September.
Mets acting general manager Zack Scott said Monday that Syndergaard could be used in a starter or reliever role when he is able to return.
Carlos Carrasco appears set to make his own reintroduction, as Rojas said Tuesday the veteran righty has a good chance of making his Mets debut on Friday against the Reds at Citi Field.
"He threw a side [Tuesday]," Rojas said. "Yesterday, I think I said Rich Hill might be our Friday pitcher, but Cookie might be our Friday pitcher now. There's a big chance now, I'd say a bigger chance. He threw the side here and he feels great. We are pretty optimistic that he's gonna make that start for us Friday."
Carrasco was initially expected to start on Saturday after pitching in another rehab assignment this past weekend. He has been out all season due to a hamstring tear.
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
Follow WFAN on Social Media
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Twitch
