It was only about a week ago that the Mets feared that they might be losing Francisco Alvarez for the remainder of the season to yet another hand injury. On Monday, the talk was about how quickly he might return.

Alvarez was on the field taking batting practice and looking good doing it before the Mets opened their three-game series against the Phillies at Citi Field. He also caught a bullpen session and manager Carlos Mendoza said he could be on a minor-league rehab assignment as early as Wednesday. Alvarez will again take BP Tuesday and, if he feels no discomfort, will be playing in a game one of the two following days.

It’s potentially a major development for the Mets in their stretch run for a playoff spot.

Alvarez got hurt diving into second base late in the Aug. 17 win over Sea

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