Francisco eyeing weekend return to Mets

SAN FRANCISCO -- A new timetable is taking shape for Mets closer Frank Francisco, who could make his return from the disabled list as soon as this weekend in San Diego.

Francisco, who threw Sunday after scratching himself from Saturday's rehab appearance with soreness in his left side, is scheduled to pitch Tuesday and Wednesday for Double-A Binghamton. If he comes out of those appearances without issue, Francisco could return in time for Friday's series opener against the Padres.

That much, however, is far from certain. Francisco has been on the disabled list since June 23 with a strained left oblique that the Mets initially expected to take two weeks to heal. In addition to suffering multiple setbacks in his rehab, Francisco has also received an injection for an unrelated knee issue.

Prior to his injury, the closer saved 18 games in 21 chances with a 4.97 ERA. Bobby Parnell is 3-for-5 in save opportunities in Francisco's absence.