Mets sign former Tampa Bay closer Al Reyes

The Mets announced that they’ve signed the former Tampa Bay closer Al Reyes. The right-hander, who was released 10 days ago, has been assigned to Double-A Binghamton. The goal is to get him sharp after the time off since his release. Should he be promoted to the big league club, he would be the active member of the bullpen with the most career saves - 32. Reyes had 26 saves last season for the then-Devil Rays. This season he was 2-2 with a 4.37 ERA in 22 games. He was never the Rays closer because they acquired Troy Percival.


On the topic of closers, the Mets are giving no timetable for a possible return of closer Billy Wagner from elbow inflammation. His agent, however, told 1050 ESPN that after a doctor’s appointment Tuesday the pitcher was "surprised it will take three weeks." In other injury news, Ryan Church (concussion) and Luis Castillo (hip flexor) will both play tonight for Binghamton. It’s the last rehab game Castillo is permitted, but that doesn’t mean he rejoins the team automatically. He could return to Florida to work on his swing.