CINCINNATI — Former closer Billy Wagner, sidelined since last August by Tommy John surgery on his left elbow, will travel to Port St. Lucie next Monday to begin a week of evaluation and some throwing. Wagner, who will have completed 12 weeks of his throwing progression since the surgery when he arrives in Florida, expects to pitch off the mound Tuesday and Thursday in PSL. He will then be re-evaluated by Mets rehab officials.

Wagner is excited about his recovery and keeps predicting he could pitch in the majors by July, although the Mets privately say September is more likely.

The Mets also don’t appear to be in much hurry to get Wagner back after signing Frankie Rodriguez and trading for J.J. Putz in the offseason to handle the closing duties.

Jerry Manuel, however, put an upbeat public spin on Wagner coming back when asked about that prospect this morning.

“That would be an excellent addition to the team,” Manuel said. “When you have three guys that have closed at this level with that kind of success, and one of them being left-handed? That would be a big plus for us.”