MIAMI — Adrian Houser is buried in the Mets’ bullpen, but not forgotten.
The beleaguered right-hander, who was removed from the rotation in recent weeks because of persistent struggles, will return to a starting role Tuesday in Cleveland, as a sixth starter for the club, according to manager Carlos Mendoza.
Houser was scheduled to start last Wednesday in Philadelphia, but after he warmed up twice in the bullpen the previous day, was removed from consideration.
The Mets instead recalled Joey Lucchesi for the start, in which Houser was used in relief.
In eight appearances this season (six as a starter), Houser has pitched to a 7.44 ERA.
Sean Manaea is the Mets’ scheduled starter for Sunday, with Tylor Megill set for removal from the injured list the following day to start against the Guardians.
Carlos Quintana is scheduled for the series finale Wednesday in Cleveland.
Brandon Nimmo returned from a stomach bug that sidelined him for two days, but lower-body cramping forced his departure from the Mets’ 10-9 loss to the Marlins in 10 innings.
Tyrone Taylor, who had entered the game as a pinch-runner for J.D. Martinez in the top of the ninth, remained in the game as the left fielder.
Nimmo’s spot in the batting order arose in the 10th and the Mets used DJ Stewart to hit for the pitcher (the DH spot was lost when Taylor entered to play defense). Stewart struck out.
Kodai Senga is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Sunday, according to Mendoza, as the Mets await the right-hander’s giving his approval to begin a minor-league rehab assignment.
On Thursday, president of baseball operations David Stearns indicated there was optimism Senga had found a comfort level with his mechanics that would encourage him to move forward in his rehab.
Senga last threw a bullpen session on Wednesday and Mendoza admitted the four days between sessions is longer than most pitchers take.
“He’s a unique personality,” Mendoza said. “He’s a player that knows himself better than anybody and we’re going to continue to give him time and whatever he needs to get back on the mound.”
Drew Smith remains scheduled to throw a bullpen session Monday, after which he will be evaluated for a minor league rehab appearance.