NEW YORK -- A day after Rafael Montero lasted only three innings in a 4-3 loss to the Padres, the Mets are tapping a measure of pitching depth.
Right-hander Tyler Pill was called up from Triple-A Las Vegas on Friday, the team announced. In corresponding moves, Montero was optioned top Las Vegas and Seth Lugo was transferred to the 60-day disabled list to make room for Pill on the 40-man roster.

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Pill, 26, was the Mets' fourth-round Draft pick in 2011. His career 4.01 Minor League ERA includes a 1.96 mark this season at Las Vegas, with 23 strikeouts and 14 walks in 46 innings.
The Mets next need a fifth starter Tuesday against the Brewers, and Pill would be a candidate for that start. They also need bullpen help; the team has used three or more relievers in a franchise-record 26 straight games, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.