Mets see positives from Ryan Helsley as reliever searches for his game

He gave one run back to the Tigers and was removed with two outs in the inning.

“I actually thought he was better [than previously],” manager Carlos Mendoza said following the Mets’ 10-8 victory at Comerica Park. “They came out aggressive swinging.”

Helsley allowed a leadoff double to Riley Greene and with two outs Zach McKinstry delivered an RBI single. Brooks Raley then entered to record the inning’s final out.

“The fact that [Helsley] threw strikes and challenged hitters is a positive there,” Mendoza said.

Helsley, who has allowed at least one run in seven of his past 10 appearances, in recent days indicated he’s working to correct what he believes is a pitch-tipping issue.

“I just think it comes down to execution,” Mendoza said, when asked if Helsley had worked out his possible pitch tipping. “Today they were aggressive and got him.” 

After the game Mendoza hinted that Kodai Senga will remain in the rotation after earlier in the day indicating a decision hadn’t been reached on how the team will proceed with the struggling right-hander.

“They are part of the rotation,” Mendoza said, responding to a question about Sean Manaea and Senga.

The Mets have a day off on Thursday — their first in a stretch of 16 scheduled games — which gives them multiple options for the weekend in Cincinnati. As it stands, Mendoza has Nolan McLean, Clay Holmes and David Peterson aligned over the next three games.

Tylor Megill is slated for a potential final rehab start with Triple-A Syracuse on Tuesday and could figure into the equation as either a starter or reliever. The Mets also have pitching prospect Brandon Sproat as a consideration. 

Tyrone Taylor has dealt with left hamstring tightness in recent days, according to Mendoza, but was showing improvement on Monday. The outfielder last played on Friday.

Cedric Mullins started a third straight game in center field.

Francisco Alvarez will catch in consecutive games for Syracuse beginning Tuesday as he continues his minor league rehab assignment.

Alvarez is rehabbing a ligament sprain in his right thumb and broken left pinkie. 

Luisangel Acuña and Justin Hagenman were recalled from Syracuse, as rosters expanded to 28 players for the final month.

Acuña is an option to play center field if needed, according to Mendoza, and will be utilized as a pinch runner and defensive replacement. Hagenman gives the team another length option in the bullpen.