Michael Conforto’s season debut is on deck.

The Mets outfielder is expected to rejoin the starting lineup Thursday, his date of eligibility for removal from the disabled list after spending the last seven months rehabbing from left shoulder surgery.

Conforto traveled with the team to Washington on Wednesday, after manager Mickey Callaway — staying somewhat noncommittal about the Mets’ plans — said it was “likely” he would be activated from the disabled list. Phil Evans was informed after the Mets’ 4-2 victory over the Phillies that he was headed to Triple-A Las Vegas, clearing roster space for Conforto.

In recent days Conforto has worked out with the Mets at Citi Field, after spending last week in extended spring training. The club had set May 1 as the initial timetable for Conforto’s return, but the player arrived at spring training on a fast track, which included appearing in three exhibition games before the Mets broke camp.

The Mets spent the first five games of the season rotating Brandon Nimmo and Juan Lagares in center field. Conforto would reclaim the position and likely the leadoff spot in the Mets’ batting order.

Conforto underwent surgery in September after a shoulder dislocation, which occurred on a swing, caused a tear in the joint’s posterior capsule.

Jason Vargas will throw a second simulated game on regular rest this weekend, according to Callaway, as he prepares for a potential return to the rotation next week. The lefty began the season on the disabled list after undergoing surgery to remove the hamate bone in his non-pitching hand.

Seth Lugo initially replaced Vargas in the rotation, but Monday’s postponement allowed Callaway to skip the right-hander, who has entered the bullpen mix. And Callaway indicated he won’t hold back Lugo from pitching in relief to keep him rested for a potential start.

“We are already thinking about what is going to happen when we need that fifth starter again if Vargas isn’t ready,” Callaway said. “I would like to take the approach we are not going to worry about that day until it comes and we are just going to try to win every game leading up to that day. Then we’ll figure out who is going to pitch that day. The worst thing to do is hold back somebody just so they can start a game.”

Mets pitchers have struck out 61 batters through five games, the highest total in franchise history. Last year, Mets pitchers established a club record with 50 strikeouts in five games to start the season.