NEW YORK -- Right-hander Chris Flexen was recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas prior to Sunday's game to make his first Major League start of 2018 against the Rays. The corresponding roster move was to option rookie righty Drew Smith to create room on the 25-man roster.
Flexen is 0-1 with a 10.80 ERA in three games at relief for the Mets this season. He has made 13 starts for Triple-A Las Vegas this year.
Smith made his Major League debut with a scoreless inning against the Dodgers on June 23. He has made two appearances since, allowing only one run through three total innings.
The Mets are allowed a 26th man on Monday for their doubleheader against the Phillies. With this rule, Smith could technically be allowed to be recalled under the section that states, "A player can be added to a club's Active List as a '26th man' even if he has not spent the minimum required 10 days on optional or outright assignment prior to being added." But this seems highly unlikely, according to a source who said Smith would be leaving to go back to Las Vegas on Sunday.
The Mets still have not listed a starting pitcher for Tuesday against the Phillies as of Sunday. They plan to get through the doubleheader on Monday against the Phils and then re-evaluate the bullpen to see what kind of shape they are in.
Jacob deGrom is the listed starter for Wednesday in the series finale against Philadelphia.