Steven Matz approved for Friday’s start after successful bullpen session

After over a month on the disabled list, Steven Matz will retake the mound on Friday during the Mets’ series against the Phillies.

The Mets flew Matz back to New York this week for a bullpen session in front of manager Terry Collins and pitching coach Dan Warthen yesterday. According to MLB’s Anthony DiComo, the test verified that Matz is well enough to start at the end of the week.

Matz has not pitched since August 14, and it’s unlikely his start will stretch more several innings. Reportedly, the Mets organization hopes that two more starts in the regular season will allow the rookie to regain his strength and abilities just in time for the team’s possible postseason run.

Before this injury, the 25-year-old pitcher was 9-8 with a 3.40 ERA in 22 starts. While one recovering starter doesn’t fill the gaping holes left by Jacob deGrom and Matt Harvey, the return of Matz to the rotation definitely strengthens it and increases its reliability. With Noah Syndergaard, Bartolo Colon, and Robert Gsellman all suffering depressing losses against the Braves this week, the Mets really can use all the help they can get.