Montero optioned to make room for deGrom

LOS ANGELES -- Rafael Montero's second big league stint was even shorter than his first.

The Mets optioned Montero back to Triple-A Las Vegas after Friday's loss to the Dodgers, clearing roster space to activate Jacob deGrom from the 15-day disabled list. DeGrom will start Saturday at Dodger Stadium.

Montero, the Mets' sixth-ranked prospect, posted a 4.87 ERA in two starts and one relief appearance, actually reducing his season ERA to 5.23. He had produced a 5.40 mark over his first four career starts in May, originally receiving a big league callup before deGrom.

The latter has leapfrogged Montero on the depth chart, leaving him to work out his kinks in the Minors. Montero has had few issues there this season, going 6-3 with a 3.28 ERA in 15 starts for Las Vegas. The Mets could call him back up as a reliever once rosters expand in September, hoping to keep his innings total around 185-190.