Mark Vientos inching closer toward his Mets injury return — with rivalry series still a possibility

PHILADELPHIA — A needy Mets lineup could receive a boost as soon as Monday.

Mark Vientos, who has been sidelined since June 2 with a right hamstring strain, is expected to play with Triple-A Syracuse through Sunday before the Mets decide whether to activate him.

If Vientos checks off every box and feels good, he could rejoin the team in time for the start of the Braves series at Citi Field on Monday, manager Carlos Mendoza said.

Vientos played in his third rehab game Friday, started at third base for a second time and ripped a three-run double, though statistically he has not started strong in going 1-for-10 in his first minor league at-bats.

Mark Vientos reacts after hitting a double during the Mets’ June 1 game. Robert Sabo for the NY Post

He will get at least two more days to find his timing at the plate.

He did not start this season hot, with a .678 OPS in his first 53 games, though his upside is obvious after his breakout 2024 campaign and remarkable postseason.

Whenever Vientos is ready, the Mets will have a decision to make at third base.

Mark Vientos homers during the Mets’ May 11 game. Robert Sabo for the NY Post

Brett Baty had cooled off before his groin forced him to miss the entire Braves series, though Baty returned to the lineup and played third as Friday’s series began at Citizens Bank Park.

Ronny Mauricio has not run with an opportunity.

The talented 24-year-old entered play with a .591 OPS in his first 13 games.

There was no immediate update on reliever Max Kranick, who was placed on the injured list Thursday with a strain in his right elbow.

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He had returned to New York for an MRI exam, and as of Friday afternoon, Mendoza said he was still waiting to learn the results.

To make roster space for starting pitcher Blade Tidwell, the Mets optioned righty Justin Hagenman to Syracuse.

Hagenman had been expected to start Friday until he was needed Thursday for 2 ²/₃ scoreless innings in relief.

Brooks Raley was expected to pitch in his second rehab game with Low-A St. Lucie on Friday, Mendoza said.

The lefty, recovering from Tommy John surgery and signed in-season, on Tuesday threw a scoreless inning while allowing one hit and striking out two.

“The first outing was good,” Mendoza said, adding that Raley’s fastball was 88-89 mph and touched 91 mph.