WASHINGTON — The Mets are getting a rotation boost.
Steven Matz is scheduled to return from the injured list Saturday, giving the team 80 percent of its Opening Day rotation. The left-hander missed the past two weeks with nerve irritation in his left forearm that necessitated a cortisone shot.
Matz was cleared to pitch against the Marlins after meeting with manager Mickey Callaway prior to the 7-6 loss to the Nationals on Thursday. A day earlier, Matz threw a bullpen session and reported that he was fine to proceed.
Even with Matz’s return the Mets won’t be at full strength: Jason Vargas remains sidelined with a strained left hamstring and is scheduled for a rehab start Sunday with Double-A Binghamton.