Mets Catcher Francisco Alvarez Cleared for Rehab Assignment, Reports Thumb is Pain-Free

New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment on Wednesday, signaling a potential return from a UCL sprain in his right thumb. Alvarez confirmed that his thumb is "pain-free" while swinging, expressing confidence in playing through the injury this season before eventually requiring surgery. Since his late July demotion, the 23-year-old had been performing well, batting .323 with four home runs in 21 games.