TORONTO _ Noah Syndergaard and Jason Vargas took an important step forward Tuesday, throwing a simulated game in Port St. Lucie.
Syndergaard (strained right index finger) tossed 50 pitches in three innings. Vargas (strained right calf) threw 65 in four.
"Both came out of it really good," manager Mickey Callaway said.
Neither pitcher will be ready, however, when the Mets next need a fifth starter, Monday's doubleheader against the Phillies. Callaway didn't rule out right-hander Seth Lugo making a spot start, but stressed his preference to keep Lugo in the bullpen.
Syndergaard's next step could be a minor-league rehab start on regular rest. Vargas' path back is a bit more complicated, as he hasn't yet tested his calf by running or fielding his position.
