'Spring training' in sight for Santana

Johan Santana took a significant step forward Wednesday by throwing a bullpen session without discomfort in his surgically repaired left shoulder.

General manager Sandy Alderson said Friday that the two-time Cy Young Award winner could begin a spring training-type program if he clears another side session without difficulty. Under that plan, Santana likely would need another four to six weeks.

"It's a fairly amorphous situation," Alderson said. "His schedule has been somewhat unpredictable."

To the GM, the only way to measure Santana's progress is by how his shoulder feels, which is why the Wednesday session was viewed as positive.

"I didn't ask him about the intensity, but there were no complaints about his shoulder," Alderson said.

Wright after break?

David Wright advanced to hitting off a tee Friday, as well as soft toss, and Alderson reinforced that the third baseman could be back for the first series after the All-Star break, when the Phillies visit Citi Field on July 15.

"I think that's realistic, but that's still two weeks away," Alderson said. "I think we're all encouraged by what he's doing; he hasn't run into any rough patches to this point."

Davis waiting

Ike Davis is getting a second opinion for the bone bruise in his ankle, but the plan is for him to try to run next week. The Mets have sent the MRI and case file to another specialist and Alderson said the true test will be if he can run.

"I hate to characterize it as better -- it's certainly not worse," Alderson said. "I think the real issue is how he's going to feel when he runs."

Buchholz battles anxiety

The Mets announced Friday that Taylor Buchholz, who was placed on the DL on May 30 with shoulder fatigue, will remain on the DL for the "foreseeable future" because of depression and anxiety. In a statement, Buchholz said he battled the same conditions last season before returning from Tommy John surgery. He has been advised not to pitch while he adjusts to new medications.