PHILADELPHIA — Jeurys Familia described his shoulder ailment as more fatigue than pain, as he moves closer to a minor league rehab assignment. The righty has thrown “a couple” of bullpen sessions in recent days at Citizens Bank Park, under the watch of interim pitching coach Phil Regan and bullpen coach Rickey Bones.
Earlier this season, Familia was diagnosed with a Bennett lesion — a form of bone spur — on his shoulder.
“I don’t think it will need surgery,” Familia said before the Mets’ 5-4, 10-inning loss to the Phillies on Wednesday night. “Just work hard and strengthen the muscles around it and I think it will be OK.”
Familia has been a major disappointment, pitching to a 7.81 ERA in 29 appearances after returning to the team last winter on a three-year contract worth $30 million. He said he’s recently made an adjustment in his delivery that he believes will be beneficial.
“I am just getting a little longer in my stride in my delivery,” Familia said, noting he had shortened up this season and noticed it on video. “That is a big difference.”
The restocking of the Mets’ farm system received a significant boost Wednesday, when third-round pick Matthew Allan agreed to terms, an industry source confirmed.
Allan, a right-handed pitcher who had committed to the University of Florida, had been passed on by teams over concerns whether he would sign. Entering the draft, he was ranked as the No. 13 prospect overall by MLB Pipeline.
Allan joins two other high-school draftees, third baseman Brett Baty and right-handed pitcher Josh Wolf, atop the Mets’ draft. Based on expert predictions, the Mets now have three of the top-50 players from this month’s draft.
Noah Syndergaard is on track to start Sunday night against the Braves following his minor league rehab start for Single-A Brooklyn earlier this week. It’s expected the righty will be allowed to throw 90-95 pitches.
As part of their celebration of the 50th anniversary of the 1969 World Series winning team, the Mets have giveaways scheduled. On Friday, all fans will receive a replica 1969 jersey. On Saturday, the first 15,000 fans will receive a 1969 pennant. On Sunday, the first 15,000 fans will receive a 1969 replica ring.
