ANAHEIM, Calif. — A.J. Minter returned to Queens during the Mets’ last homestand to work out in front of team officials. The next time his teammates see him, he is expected to be an active player.
The lefty reliever’s minor league rehab assignment is set to expire Thursday, so Minter will join the team on this road trip no later than the series that begins in Arizona next Friday, barring a physical setback.
Minter, who is rehabbing from surgery to repair a lat tear, was scheduled to pitch Friday for Triple-A Syracuse and may then be utilized pitching twice in three days as the final test before his return.
The Mets will welcome that presence to a unit that has underperformed lately.
Most notably, Luke Weaver and Devin Williams — the team’s two biggest offseason relief acquisitions — have struggled in big spots.
Minter arrived before last season on a two-year contract worth $22 million, but appeared in only 13 games before tearing the lat. His velocity has sat in the low 90s in his rehab outings.
“I feel for the guys here and I want to do my part, whatever that role may be,” Minter said during his visit to Citi Field. “I am confident with myself and know I can get big league hitters out. I just might have to pitch a little bit more rather than throw 97 down the middle and get swings and misses.
“I am confident I can help this team.”
Infielder Andy Ibanez reported to the Mets and was activated Friday. Eric Wagaman was optioned to Syracuse. Ibanez was claimed off waivers from the Athletics.
Juan Soto had reached base in 16 straight games entering play. It was his longest streak reaching base to begin the season in his career.
