Looks like Dillon Gee will be out several more weeks

Dillon Gee's absence from the starting rotation appears likely to drag on for several more weeks. Mets manager Terry Collins said Wednesday that since going to the team's complex in Florida last Friday to continue his rehab from a strained right lat muscle, Gee has yet to pick up a baseball.

"This obviously was more than we thought it was going to be," Collins said. "So, when his body tells him it's time, that he's OK, he'll resume. When that it is, I don't think anybody knows for sure."

Once he resumes throwing, Gee would need a few more weeks to get himself ready for game action. He has been on the disabled list since May 11.

With Gee out, Daisuke Matsuzaka will likely remain in the starting rotation, though he has excelled as a reliever.

"We have no date set, no time frame set," Collins said. "But [Gee's situation] will determine a lot."

Making a move

Outfielder Andrew Brown joined the Mets from Triple-A Las Vegas Wednesday in anticipation of being activated, thus restoring some balance to the Mets' 25-man roster. Three consecutive extra-inning games in Philadelphia forced the Mets to carry an extra arm in the bullpen at the expense of losing some flexibility on the bench. Following Wednesday night's game, the Mets designated pitcher Buddy Carlyle for assignment.

Extra bases

Jeremy Hefner is scheduled to throw off the mound on Tuesday for the first time since undergoing Tommy John surgery. Hefner will hit the milestone in his rehab one day after Matt Harvey is also expected to throw off a pitcher's mound for the first time since surgery.