Jesse Winker taking next step in rehab in optimistic Mets sign

Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features, including real-time texting with Mike Puma about the inside buzz on the Mets.Mark Vientos is slated to be activated from the injured list Friday, and Jesse Winker should not be too far behind. Winker, who has been out since early May with a right oblique strain, took batting practice before Thursday’s 4-0 win over the Braves.

Carlos Mendoza said the plan is for Winker to start a minor-league rehab assignment, probably for Single-A Brooklyn beginning Sunday. “Good, he looks normal,” Mendoza said after watching Winker’s BP session.“No hesitation, just going through his normal routine, and again, conviction, he’s not favoring anything.

So talking to him, he’s on schedule to start [playing games] on Sunday, most likely here in Brooklyn.” Mendoza added that Winker will continue taking batting practice the next two days before progressing to game action. The lefty-swinging Winker, who has been limited to 67 at-bats this season, would give Mendoza another option at designated hitter or for situational pinch-hitting duties. Vientos (hamstring) is expected to return to the active roster Friday in Pittsburgh for the first time since he was injured June 2.  Sign up for Inside the Mets by Mike Puma, exclusively on Sports+ Please provide a valid email address.By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Enjoy this Post Sports+ exclusive newsletter! Left-handed pitcher Sean Manaea was slated to play catch Thursday after he was shut down earlier in the week from his rehab assignment due to elbow discomfort that an MRI showed to be a loose body in the elbow.He also received a cortisone injection Monday. “If everything goes well, he’s scheduled to throw a bullpen by the weekend, and then, step-by-step, day-by-day, but hopefully he’s making that next rehab start early next week,” Mendoza said. The 33-year-old Manaea ...