Rafael Montero has been idle for the better part of a month as he recovers from a strained right rotator cuff.

But on Tuesday, Terry Collins said Montero threw on flat ground for a third time on Tuesday, and is expected to throw off a mound at the team’s minor league complex in Port St. Lucie tomorrow.

Collins did not offer a timetable for Montero to return, nor did he say if Montero would join the big league club or return to the minor leagues once he’s activated.

Montero made one start for the Mets on April 28 against the Marlins – he has been on the disabled list since April 29.

Meanwhile, Collins said Vic Black’s progress has been encouraging, and hopes he can re-join the Mets soon.

Black pitched a scoreless inning for the Binghamton Mets yesterday – he is expected to pitch again today, marking the first time he has pitched in back-to-back games during his rehab assignment.

Black has been on the disabled list all year with right arm weakness resulting from a herniated disc in his neck.

Lastly, Collins said Buddy Carlyle remains idle as he recovers from a sore back.

Carlyle has been on the disabled list since May 13.