SAN FRANCISCO — Zack Wheeler may throw a full bullpen session as early as Sunday, possibly the final step before he is considered for activation from the injury list.
The right-hander has not pitched in two weeks because of an impingement in his right shoulder. If the Mets are going to deal Wheeler by the July 31 trade deadline, he will need to get on the mound for at least one start this month to show he is healthy. Wheeler could conceivably pitch twice before the trade deadline if he is slotted into the rotation by Thursday.
A club source indicated there is belief within the organization that despite the injury setback, the Mets can still get a solid return for Wheeler — who is eligible for free agency after the season.