Mets rumors: Rafael Montero called up

According to Adam Rubin of ESPN, the Mets have called up right-handed pitching prospect, Rafael Montero. After Steven Matz was knocked out of his 2016 debut on Monday, New York's bullpen had to cover 7 1/3 innings. As a result, the Mets have recalled Montero, who may or may not make an appearance.

"The Mets will keep Montero in limbo on a taxi squad and consider activating him on Wednesday -- or not at all.

Conceivably, the Mets could use Logan Verrett on Tuesday night if Noah Syndergaard is knocked out early, then have Montero start on Wednesday. If Syndergaard pitches deep into the game, Verrett can proceed with Wednesday's start as planned and Montero can return to Vegas, having gone unused.

The correspond roster move if Montero ultimately is activated is unclear, but could affect Jacob deGrom."

Montero's addition is more so for depth than anything else, although his stay with the big league club could be prolonged if deGrom needs a stint on the DL.

In 54.1 innings at the major league level, Montero hasn't yet proved himself. He's posted a K/9 of 9.11, but his BB/9 of 4.64, his HR/9 of 1.33, and accompanying 4.14 ERA and 4.57 FIP haven't been encouraging. Montero only managed to throw 18.2 innings last season between rookie ball and AAA, as he was placed on the DL on April 29th for rotator cuff swelling, and never taken off.

His future with the Mets' is unclear at this point, as Zack Wheeler will take over the fifth spot in New York's rotation once he's healthy, and Montero has been a starter throughout his minor league career.