| Analysis: Maine, who has been on the DL since June 12, is expected to pitch a short simulation Thursday as the final tuneup before his start on Sunday. He will be on a pitch count on Sunday, expected to be in the 60-70 range, and will be backed up by Tobi Stoner. Rest and a program implemented by the Mets' training staff strengthened Maine's shoulder to the point where he claims he has not been this strong since spring training 2008. Off the field, after earning $2.6 million this season, Maine is likely headed for a salary of roughly $3 million next year. There is always the possibility the Mets could non-tender Maine, though that is unlikely. A more realistic possibility is for the Mets to offer Maine arbitration, and if he struggles next spring, release him and only be on the hook for one-sixth of his salary. The Mets employed this strategy with Duaner Sanchez last season. |