MLB

Tyler Pill a front-runner to start despite bullpen implosion

PITTSBURGH — Despite the fact he took the loss in the 10th inning of the Mets’ 5-4 loss to the Pirates on Saturday, rookie Tyler Pill remains the front runner to start Tuesday for the Mets against the Brewers at Citi Field.

Collins said part of his rationale in using Pill in relief was to get him into a game before potentially starting Tuesday.

Pill’s last appearance came Sunday for Triple-A Las Vegas.

“I thought, get him an inning, maybe two, get him through those right-handers just to make him feel like he belongs out there,” Collins said. “Instead of just running him out there on Tuesday with 10 days off since he pitched.”


Steven Matz and Seth Lugo will make what could be their final rehab starts Sunday before rejoining the Mets.

Matz is scheduled to pitch for Triple-A Las Vegas and Lugo for Double-A Binghamton.

Both have struggled in their minor league appearances and have to show club officials they are ready from a pitching standpoint, not just physically, according to Collins.