Frank Francisco on road back from oblique injury
Frank Francisco pitches during the ninth inning of a game against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field. (April 7, 2012) Credit: Jim McIsaac
As the Mets look elsewhere for bullpen help, at least Frank Francisco appears to be making progress. Francisco, who has been on the disabled list since June 23 with a left oblique strain, is scheduled to throw off a mound Saturday. Terry Collins said he'll need a minimum of four rehab appearances before rejoining the team.
In the meantime, the Mets recalled Pedro Beato from Triple-A Buffalo, and he retired his only batter to end the eighth inning Thursday night against the Phillies.
The Mets are likely to make another internal move for relief help if outfielder Andres Torres (back pain) goes on the disabled list.
Beato had a 1.16 ERA in 16 games for Buffalo and seems to have recovered from the shoulder problems that landed him on the DL before Opening Day.
"I had a couple of three-inning outings and my velocity was steady for the most part," he said.
Five weeks after designating him for assignment, the Mets claimed Chris Schwinden off waivers from the Yankees.
Amaro: No fire sale
Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. insisted his team is not ready to hold a fire sale despite recent trade speculation involving Cole Hamels and Shane Victorino.
"We plan on being contenders in '13, '14, '15 and '16, so we're not blowing this team up," he said. "That's not going to happen regardless of what happens over the next couple of weeks. It's more about retooling than it is redoing."
Amaro said Roy Halladay (back strain) will throw another bullpen session Saturday. He also said Ryan Howard, rehabbing from Achilles tendon surgery, likely will play Friday.
