Mets' Williams Expected Back This Weekend

Mets reliever Devin Williams is nearing a return from a right shoulder strain that has sidelined him since Aug. 7. After completing his third mound session and facing live hitters Monday, Williams is scheduled to face batters again Thursday and could be activated as soon as this weekend without a rehab assignment, provided he clears the remaining evaluations. Williams said finishing the season healthy and entering a normal offseason are his priorities after a difficult first year in New York, in which he has posted a 4.66 ERA and 1.655 WHIP in 42 appearances. Kodai Senga has performed well as the Mets’ interim closer, going 7-for-7 in save opportunities, and could retain a late-inning role even if Williams returns. The Mets are out of the postseason race, but Williams hopes to make several appearances before the season ends and contribute to a reshaped bullpen.