The Mets are scrambling to figure out a pitching plan.
Once it became obvious that Drew Smith was going to be suspended for 10 games due to violating MLB’s rules on foreign substances, team officials began trying to assemble a plan that will keep the bullpen fully stocked.
The Mets are not allowed to substitute another player for Smith on their roster during his suspension, which began Wednesday night after he chose not to appeal.
One idea removed from consideration by team officials was condensing to a four-man rotation — a possibility because of days off — and reallocating a pitcher to the bullpen.
Team brass preferred to remain with the five-man rotation, allowing Kodai Senga to receive an extra day of rest following his scheduled start Saturday against the Cardinals.
Tylor Megill remains the scheduled starter for the series opener against St. Louis on Friday.
With Smith suspended, Megill went into Wednesday as the Mets’ long man in the bullpen, to be utilized if Justin Verlander had to leave his start against the Yankees.
Megill was not needed Wednesday in what became a 4-3, 10-inning win, but if he had been, the Mets would have recalled a starter from Triple-A Syracuse to pitch Friday.
Megill, Josh Walker, John Curtiss and Jeff Brigham all have minor league options, so the Mets could shuffle in fresh pitchers as needed during Smith’s suspension.
“There’s ways to maneuver around it, but you can only carry 12 pitchers,” manager Buck Showalter said. “Fortunately the front office put us in a position to have optionable people. The tough thing is when you have to send down people that are performing well. We’re going to take it each day.”
Stephen Nogosek rejected the Mets’ outright assignment to Triple-A Syracuse and elected free agency, according to the team.
The right-hander was designated for assignment on Saturday.
Elieser Hernandez had a setback in his minor league rehab assignment and reported side discomfort.
The right-hander is back in throwing and mound progression.
Hernandez, who arrived with Brigham in a trade with the Marlins last winter, was previously rehabbing a right shoulder strain from spring training.
The Mets have 23 straight stolen bases without getting caught.
That streak contributed to an 89.1 percent success rate overall that ranked first in the major leagues. Starling Marte’s 19 stolen bases were tied for fifth-most in the majors entering the game.