Mets left-handed reliever Brooks Raley is about to take a huge step toward his return.
Raley, who underwent Tommy John surgery last May that also included an internal brace, is set to begin a rehab assignment on Tuesday for A-ball St. Lucie.
Given the length of Raley's absence and the need to get fully into game shape, his rehab assignment could last the full 30 days or close to it, president of baseball operations David Stearns said last week.
Once Raley returns, the Mets could be getting a key cog to help fill the lefty relief hole that was left by season-ending injuries to A.J. Minter and Danny Young.
New York has been relying heavily on Jose Castillo lately in that role.
Raley, 36, had a tremendous season for the Mets in 2023 after being acquired from the Rays.
In 54.2 innings over 66 appearances, he posted a 2.80 ERA and 1.26 WHIP with 61 strikeouts.
He was off to a strong start in 2024, tossing 7.0 scoreless innings, before his season ended due to the Tommy John surgery.
Raley re-signed with the Mets this April on a one-year deal with a team option for 2026.