65 Zack Wheeler, SP

It can probably go without saying, but now is absolutely the time to make a move for Zack Wheeler.

Even before Wheeler's return from shoulder inflammation Wednesday, Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said he hoped to see the top prospect in the big leagues 2-3 starts after that. A Mets official confirmed that timetable Thursday, not that he needed to. Alderson is the one and only person who gets to decide when Wheeler arrives. Rarely is there so much clarity for a prospect with so much upside.

That's why you shouldn't hesitate to act. Wheeler has an ace pedigree and would be the highest-profile pitching prospect to reach the majors this year. Plus, the Mets wouldn't be calling him up as an injury fill-in or spot starter. Once he's here, he's here for good.

Mets pitching prospect Zack Wheeler will make 2-3 starts in the minors before making his big-league debut, a team official told The New York Post Thursday.

Wheeler allowed three earned runs on five hits and two walks over five innings in his first start Wednesday since being skipped in the rotation with soreness in the AC joint in his right shoulder. He clocked in at 100 mph, but was mostly in the 95-97 mph range in his last start.

Wheeler is 3-1 with a 3.91 ERA in nine starts with Triple-A Las Vegas. Barring any setbacks, he could make his debut at some point between June 6-11.

Mets pitching prospect Zack Wheeler admitted Thursday that he was not at his best in his return from shoulder inflammation Wednesday. Wheeler, who admitted to being rusty, had his turn skipped in the rotation due his shoulder issue.

"Honestly, nothing was working real well for me today," he said to the New York Post. "Taking 10 days off and missing a start this late in the season and coming back as sharp as you were is tough."

Wheeler hit 100 mph on the radar gun, but reportedly saw his velocity dip as the start went on. He allowed two home runs among his five hits, surrendering three runs in five innings of work.

Wheeler expects to be fine for his next turn in the rotation. 

Mets pitching prospect Zack Wheeler was back on the mound Wednesday for Triple-A Las Vegas after being skipped in the rotation with inflammation in his right shoulder.

Wheeler pitched five innings against the Iowa Cubs, allowing three earned runs on five hits and two walks. He hit a batter and struck out two, while being held to 67 pitches. 

Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said during a television interview Tuesday he hopes pitching prospect Zack Wheeler will be in line for a promotion to the majors after two or three more starts for Triple-A Las Vegas, according to the New York Post. Wheeler is returning to action Wednesday for the first time since May 11 because of mild inflammation of the AC joint in his right shoulder.