Mets still ‘hope and anticipate’ for Devin Williams to return this season

Devin Williams hasn't started a throwing progression yet, but interim Mets manager Andy Green said prior to Friday's opener with the Astros that the closer is getting close to doing so.

Green added the team still hopes and anticipates getting him back before the end of the regular season.

That is definitely where his head is it," he said. That is the work he's going to put in to try to get back to that spot -- we'll make the prudent decision when we get there if there is any reason to hold him back or not."

Green sees value in Williams returning and finishing the year strong.

The right-hander has battled through a bit of an up-and-down first season as Mets closer, pitching to a 4.66 ERA and 1.65 WHIP while converting 16 of his 19 save opportunities.

He allowed in his each of his last two appearances before hitting the IL with a shoulder strain earlier this month.

Kodai Senga has slid nicely into the ninth-inning role in his absence.

With Williams expected back before the end of this season, and under contract next year, Green says the team is simply targeting a leverage-role for Senga.

That is not defined by a specific inning type or anything," he explained. We've had several leverage relievers thrown in the ninth inning this year, so if he's in that bucket we feel that it is really helpful for us."

Senga has allowed just two runs while striking out nine batters across his eight appearances in August.