Another good start for Zack Wheeler

Zack Wheeler may not be on the doorstep of making his major-league debut, but the Mets' top pitching prospect appears to be moving closer with every start.

Wheeler turned in his third straight impressive start with Triple-A Las Vegas on Saturday, allowing two runs and six hits in 71/3 innings against Albuquerque. He walked just one and struck out seven, an indication he might be past the command issues that plagued him earlier in the year.

Mets manager Terry Collins received positive scouting reports regarding Wheeler's composure.

"I heard earlier in the season the opposite," Collins said. "Now, he's obviously happy with what his mechanics are, where he's at, so that confidence is building."

Wheeler, who turns 23 later this month, has a 2-1 record with a 3.74 ERA in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League. However, it's unlikely that the Mets will promote him before the Super Two arbitration deadline, which is projected to fall sometime in early June.

Familia placed on DL

The Mets placed Jeurys Familia (right biceps tendinitis) on the disabled list, retroactive to Thursday, and recalled submariner Greg Burke from Las Vegas.

The Mets will send Familia to Florida to begin rehab. Familia reported improvement but Collins said the Mets made the move to help his overworked bullpen.

Burke, 30, begins his second stint on the roster after breaking camp with the team. He posted a 1-0 mark with two saves and a 4.66 ERA in eight appearances with Las Vegas.

Setback for Francisco

Reliever Frank Francisco (right elbow inflammation) suffered a setback in his rehab. He will be sent for a medical exam this week after complaining of discomfort in his elbow.