'Bored' Syndergaard's return delayed at least another week

With each passing day, it becomes less likely that New York Mets right-hander Noah Syndergaard will make his long-awaited return this season, and this weekend, manager Terry Collins admitted the team wants to take it slow with their staff ace.

"We're just trying to make sure we do it the right way, without rushing," Collins said Saturday, according to Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News. "There is no reason to rush so, we're just going to make sure we take baby steps."

Syndergaard hasn't pitched in the big leagues since April 30 due to a torn lat muscle. The Mets originally said he wouldn't have to throw a simulated game before making an MLB start, potentially putting him on track to take the mound this weekend.

After a discussion between Collins, general manager Sandy Alderson, and the team's pitching coach, however, the Mets changed course. Syndergaard's simulated game is scheduled for early next week.

"I am not too concerned me coming back and not being able to get big-league hitters out, I am pretty comfortable with that," Syndergaard said. "I am just getting bored. It's been four months since I’ve competed in a game, I am getting personally anxious to get out there."

He pitched in two rehab games in September, but following the second one, Syndergaard was shut down due to "general soreness." That's one reason the Mets are hesitant to rush him back.

"Of course, just with all the injuries throughout this year, they probably want to be extra careful," Syndergaard admitted. "But like I said, for me personally, it’s important that I get back out there."