MRI reveals continued healing of New York Mets ace Jacob deGrom's shoulder blade injury

The New York Mets announced Tuesday that an MRI performed Monday on Jacob deGrom's right shoulder blade revealed continued healing of a stress reaction that has sidelined him all season.

"He will continue to build distance and velocity in his throwing program, and we will provide an update on his progress when appropriate," the team said in a statement.

Mets general manager Billy Eppler told reporters,"He's going to move back further and throw harder, and those are good things.''

The expectation has been that deGrom, who is on the 60-day injured list, will be sidelined until at least June.

The two-time National League Cy Young winner got hurt late in spring training, leading the Mets to shut him down after an elbow sprain in his pitching arm sidelined him after July 7 of last year.

The Mets, who are 23-13 entering Tuesday's games, are atop the National League East even with their ace sidelined. Offseason additions Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt have led a pitching staff that is ranked third in the NL with a 3.40 ERA.

The Mets also announced Tuesday that starting right fielderStarling Martewas placed on the bereavement list Mondayfollowing the death of his grandmother, which came nearly two years to the day after his wife, Noelia, died of a heart attack.

Mets manager Buck Showalter said Tuesday that Marte's grandmother, Ponga Brigida, died unexpectedly. Marte was raised by his grandmother in the Dominican Republic after his mother died when he was 9.

"It was heart-wrenching talking to him yesterday,'' Showalter said. "I don't think most people realize, he's had a tough go. "He's home for as long as he needs to be there,'' he added.

Marte can stay on the bereavement list for three to seven days after being added Monday. Showalter said the team would figure out a way to let him grieve longer if needed.

Marte signed a $78 million, four-year deal with the Mets as a free agent last offseason. He is hitting .266 with three homers, five stolen bases and a .714 OPS in his first season in Queens.

Right-hander Steve Nogosek was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse and righty Adonis Medina added as the 27th player for a doubleheader Tuesday against St. Louis.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.